Future clear for Mauro Silva

Birthday present
The Brazilian international, who played in three UEFA Champions League group stage games this season, helping Deportivo to a last 16 meeting with Juventus FC, agreed the extension until June 2005 on Monday as he celebrated his 36th birthday. He said: "It is a very special day and I have the chairman to thank for allowing me to continue for another year at the club."

Tough decision
Mauro Silva revealed that, during negotiations, he almost decided to quit Deportivo. "Over the last few days, I have contemplated the possibility of moving to another, smaller club," he explained, "but I realised that this is really what I wanted, to stay here and try and win titles."

Retirement plan
The 1994 FIFA World Cup winner added that he would hang up his boots once the new deal expires, bringing to an end what will have been a 13-year association. "Once my contract with Depor ends I will not wear the shirt of any other club," he said. "It is a huge honour for me to close my career at this club."