Stefan Kierling extends contract with Leverkusen

Berlin, July 27 (IANS)

Stefan Kiesling of Bayer Leverkusen

German football side Bayern Leverkusen have extended Stefan Kierling’s contact until 2017, the club announced on its official homepage.

Last season’s Bundesliga top scorer put pen to paper on his current deal to stay with the “Werkself” until 2017 Friday. The 29-year-old striker scored 25 goals in 34 matches, reports Xinhua.

“Stefan Kierling is our key player, leader and the face of the club. I hope that he will finish his career with us,” said Leverkusen chief executive Wolfgang Holzhaeuser.

“I am really delighted. Bayer Leverkusen is my club. I feel really comfortable here. The city became my home, where my wife and children are happy. Now I want to make my contribution to ensure a successful future for Leverkusen,” Kierling said.

The Leverkusen veteran joined the “Werkself” in 2006 from Nuremberg to score 98 goals in 220 appearances. Last season Kierling had a large share of the club’s success, as they finished third to qualify for next seasons UEFA Europa Champions League.

Leverkusen already received an offer for the striker by Italian side Fiorentina but the Germans rejected due to the departure of Andre Schuerrle who joined Chelsea.