Bender remains loyal to Bayer

Lars Bender has extended his contract at Bayer Leverkusen until 2017, the club revealed on their official website.

The midfielder, who signed for the North Rhine-Westphalian outfit in 2009 from 1860 Munich, recently was said to have taken the option to prolong his five-year stay for an extra season. But now, the 22-year-old has taken a further step in his commitment to Bayer.

“I am happy and satisfied. Bayer Leverkusen are the right club for my further sporting development,” he said.

Coach Robin Dutt was thrilled to announce the Germany international’s extension, and praised his star midfielder.

“Lars Bender is a model professional with great potential. At his young age he is already a top performer and leader among the Bayer players,” he said.

Bender, who won the Under-19 European Championship with Germany in 2008, has earned four senior international caps.