Roger Schmidt extends Bayer Leverkusen deal

Coach Roger Schmidt has signed a three-year extension at Bayer Leverkusen after securing another top-four finish for the club.

Schmidt, whose new deal runs until 2019, was appointed at the BayArena 13 months ago and has since led Leverkusen into the Champions League playoff places in his first full season.

The 48-year-old's brand of attacking football has won over his doubters after his surprise appointment, and CEO Michael Schade is delighted to see him commit to the club.

"Roger Schmidt managed in the very first year of our cooperation to meet our sporting hopes and expectations," said Schade in a statement.

"The open, attractive game of our team has his handwriting. Leverkusen now represent a style that is noticed nationally and internationally."

Leverkusen, who are guaranteed to finish fourth in the Bundesliga, face Eintracht Frankfurt on the final day of the season on Saturday.