Schalke midfielder Julian Draxler extends contract

Schalke announced the extension of the contract of rising star Julian Draxler on truck-mounted panels driven through the city on Thursday.

The 19-year-old attacking midfielder is considered one of Germany's most promising players. Draxler extended his contract prematurely by two seasons until 2018. He recently dismissed reports that he would move to Borussia Dortmund.

The panels showed a photo of Draxler, along with the text: ''With pride and passion until 2018.''

Schalke still has not said whether coach Jens Keller will retain his job next season, when Schalke is expected to be playing in the Champions League.

Former Germany international Stefan Effenberg has been mentioned as a possible successor in what would be his first coaching job.