Schulz keeps Werder waiting

German Under-20 international Christian Schulz has stressed that he is in no rush to extend his contract with Bundesliga leaders Werder Bremen before he has established himself as a regular choice at the Weserstadion.

The talented 20-year-old is the latest talent emerging from Bremen's excellent youth academy and has filled the gap left by the injury-related absence of Turkish international Umit Davala (pictured) by displaying a maturity far beyond his young age.

Bremen have already signalled that they are keen to renew his contract, which ends in 2005, but the youngster is keeping the runaway leaders waiting for his signature.

"I won't prematurely extend my deal, but will wait until next season. I want to play on a regular basis and if I should fail to do so, I'll have to make up my mind," said Schulz.

He is concerned that he might have to leave the Weserstadion if he should be forced to play understudy to Davala again.