Huntelaar lauds Raul

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has hailed Schalke team-mate Raul for his contribution to the club and praised the fitness of the evergreen striker.

The 34-year-old has enjoyed a fine season, scoring 18 goals in all competitions, but his future is up in the air. Raul’s contract expires at the end of the season, but Huntelaar feels the attacker still forms an integral part of the team.

“He has had a super career, and he still performs week-in, week-out. He is still enjoying his football,” Huntelaar told DPA.

“But most importantly, he is still fit from head to toe. The will and the strength are still there.”

Huntelaar has also been in rich goalscoring form during 2011/12 for Schalke, but his future at the club is also uncertain. The former AC Milan star said he will make his decision known soon.

“I have received a good offer from Schalke,” he said. “I will make a decision in the coming weeks.”

Schalke host Hannover in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday.