Norwich's preparations for their return to the Premier League have taken another step forward, after midfielder Marco Stiepermann signed a new three-year deal with the club.
Stiepermann, who joined The Canaries from German side Bochum in the summer of 2017, has made a 73 appearances and scored 11 goals in all competitions during his two years with The Canaries, playing a key role in Norwich's title win this season, with the opener in Norwich's 2-1 win over Blackburn that secured promotion one of nine league goals he scored for the club this season.
The German had been set to enter the final year of his contract at Carrow Road next season, but the new deal will keep him with the club until the summer of 2022.
Speaking to Norwich's official website after confirming his new deal, Stiepermann said: “It is a great honour to be asked to stay at this Club. It’s always a very proud moment for me to pull on the shirt every week.
“I’m happy that I’ve been able to help the team a lot this season. There was no doubt in my mind to sign this new contract and I’m looking forward to three more years here."
Reflecting on his time at the club so far, and the change to his game since arriving at Carrow Road, the 28-year-old added: “I feel so happy in Norwich and my family does too. It was a tough first season but the manager [Daniel Farke] spoke to me and just wanted me to be a midfield player.
“That was a sign of a new chapter for me. I gave my best in the attacking position and did quite well so I’m very happy.”
The verdict
This is a big boost for Norwich.
Stiepermann has had an impressive year during Norwich's promotion campaign, and could have a big part to play if Norwich are to stay in the Premier League next season.
Keeping him at the club also means there is no longer any pressure on Norwich to sell should an offer come in during the summer, as they would previously have had to do if they had wanted to receive a fee for the midfielder.