Atsuto Uchida signs contract extension with Schalke

Schalke have succeeded in extending the contract of Japanese international Atsuto Uchida until the summer of 2015.

The former Kashima Antlers player has been a consistent performer in Huub Stevens' side, making 26 appearances last season as Schalke achieved a respectable third-place finish.

General manager Horst Heldt was thrilled that the right-back had committed to a new deal, praising Uchida's passion for the game.

"Atsuto loves playing the game," he said. "We're delighted he's signed a new deal because he's a very dependable player who identifies 100% with FC Schalke 04."

Uchida is not the only player to have renewed his contract at the club. Talented goalkeeper Lars Unnerstal also pledged his future to the club after breaking into the first-team last season.

Uchida has made 50 appearances for his country and is set to be included in his team's trip to FC Saarbrucken in the first round of the DFB Pokal on Sunday.