Mathijsen extends Hamburg association

Netherlands international Joris Mathijsen has underlined his commitment to Hamburger SV after signing a new deal that ties him to the Bundesliga outfit until summer 2012.

'An asset'
The 28-year-old defender has become a fixture at Hamburg since joining from AZ Alkmaar in 2006, scoring three goals in 75 Bundesliga appearances. "HSV are a great club and I am proud to play for this team," Mathijsen said after signing on for another two seasons with the side. Hamburg sporting director Dietmar Beiersdorfer added: "In his time with the club Joris has shown that he can always be relied on. He is an asset to the club, not only as a footballer, but also as a person. We are looking forward to the next years with Joris."