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EHRET AGREES NEW COLOGNE DEAL

Cologne midfielder Fabrice Ehret has extended his contract with the Bundesliga club until 2011.

The 29-year-old became a first-team regular under former coach Christoph Daum last season and, regardless of who is eventually appointed as the club's new boss, Ehret knows that Cologne is the only place for him.

"I am delighted that I will continue playing for Cologne," he said.

"I am very happy in Cologne and want to make my contribution to ensuring the club continues to be successful in the coming years.

"I was glad to win a regular starting berth last season and would like to continue impressing with my performances."

Ehret's contract was due to expire at the end of the month, but general manager Michael Meier claims it was never their intention to let him leave on a free transfer.

"We are very happy to have been able to extend Fabrice Ehret's contract by a further two years," he said on the club's website.

"Fabrice Ehret has shown, particularly last season, that, with his qualities, he is an important component within the team."

Ehret played every game for Cologne last season from December onwards and scored three goals.