Lyon tie down Toulalan until 2015

French international midfielder Jérémy Toulalan professed himself "very happy" after extending his contract with Olympique Lyonnais until June 2015.

The 27-year-old, whose previous deal was due to expire in 2012, has become a key player for Les Gones since joining from FC Nantes in 2006, making 146 league appearances. "I'm very happy with this," he said. "After playing for Nantes in a side with a family atmosphere, I appreciated it when I found that again in Lyon. I definitely feel good in the city and Lyon have helped me get into the national team."

"I'm delighted with the news," said coach Claude Puel of the new deal for Toulalan, who has won two Ligue 1 titles and the 2008 Coupe de France with Lyon. "Jérémy is an exemplary player with a very good spirit. Technically he's improved a lot and hopefully he can add to his trophy collection here." Lyon travel to Real Madrid CF next week with their UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie level at 1-1.