Ibisevic extends Hoffenheim deal

Injured striker Vedad Ibisevic has extended his contract with Hoffenheim until 2013.



The 24-year-old Bosnian, who scored 18 goals in 17 matches before the winter break to help his team top the standings, ruptured cruciate ligaments in January and has not played since.

"He is a crucial part of our team. His extension is a signal that we will continue down the path we have followed until now," manager Jan Schindelmeiser said.

Meanwhile, Bundesliga champions Wolfsburg have a good chance of keeping key players and building on this season's surprise success according to new coach Armin Veh.

Former VfB Stuttgart boss Veh, who has signed a two-year deal, said he was relishing the task of replacing Schalke-bound Felix Magath.

"It is important... to hold on to the most important players. I am convinced this will happen," Veh said during his presentation. "The team played attractive football... we want to continue that. I think this is possible."

Strikers Grafite and Edin Dzeko scored a combined record 54 goals and are being courted by several major European clubs.

While top scorer Grafite could stay on, reports have suggested Dzeko will leave.

Veh, who led VfB Stuttgart to their 2007 title, was sacked in November 2008 after a poor run of results.

"I am very happy sitting here," Veh said. "Taking over the champions is a hard but challenging task. I have the experience of what can come after the championship."

Veh's appointment was hours after Wolfsburg secured their first Bundesliga title with a 5-1 demolition of Werder Bremen on Saturday.