Defender Tomas Kalas extends his contract at Schalke

“After Kenan Karaman, we’re now pleased to have agreed to extend the contract of another one of our leaders and key players,” said sporting director Marc Wilmots on behalf of the management. “Tomas’ strength in the tackle and energy played a big part in stabilising the team last season. The team appreciates how he leads from the front with his performances and drives his teammates on.”

Tomas Kalas is pleased to have put pen to paper: “The club put their faith in me throughout the whole of last season, even though very few people in Germany knew much about me. When the club decided they wanted to keep me here for longer, I knew that I wanted to stay as well. I’m more than happy to be able to now help the team achieve our targets over the coming three years.” The centre-back added a message for the fans: “Glück auf to everyone! I’ll see you all on Saturday.”

The defender made 26 appearances for the Royal Blues last season after signing in August. On the back of his performances and work off the pitch, head coach Karel Geraerts has named him as a vice-captain during pre-season. Kalas played in several different leagues before arriving in Gelsenkirchen, having spells at Vitesse Arnhem in the Eredivisie, Chelsea in the Premier League and with Fulham and Bristol City in the Championship. The right-footed centre back began representing his nation Czech Republic at the U17 age group and worked his way up to the senior side, winning his maiden cap in 2012. He has appeared 31 times in total for his country.