Ramelow looks to the future

Lengthy stay
The former German international's contract was due to expire in the summer but both club and player were keen to prolong a partnership which has seen him represent Leverkusen for nine years. Ramelow was signed from Hertha BSC Berlin and has since played 275 games in the German top flight for the Ruhr side.

'Important signal'
His influence is such that Leverkusen have also promised Ramelow a position within the coaching team when he calls time on a career which has yielded 46 caps and an appearance in the 2002 FIFA World Cup final. General manager Wolfgang Holzhäuser said of the player: "Carsten's decision to extend his contract here at Bayer is an important signal for the future."

Liverpool next
The 30-year-old was an integral member of the Leverkusen side that so nearly won the UEFA Champions League in 2002. Their attempt to repeat those heroics of three years ago, when they were beaten 2-1 by Real Madrid CF in a thrilling final in Glasgow, continues with a last-16 match against Liverpool FC. The first leg is at Anfield on 22 February.