Klose confirms he will stay on at Lazio

Posted Tuesday, June 09, 2015 by ESPN

Miroslav Klose has confirmed he will remain at Lazio next season.

Klose's contract was automatically extended until 2016 after he made over 20 appearances in Serie A this season, but the former Germany striker has only now confirmed he will be seeing out his deal and not seeking a return to the Bundesliga, as had been widely reported.

In a letter published on Lazio's official Facebook page, Klose explained his decision to the club's fans.

"To play another season with Lazio is a decision I have taken with my heart," Klose said. "My family and I feel really happy in Rome and with Lazio. The fans are fantastic and they make us feel all of their love and warmth every single day.

"They are truly unique. I also want to give my personal support to our coach, who is a truly special person, and the whole Biancocelesti club, to continue to help their image grow via a positive and winning path."

The 36-year-old netted 13 goals this season, including an injury-time strike in the 4-2 victory over Napoli last week that saw the club finish in the Champions League qualification places.

Former Kaiserslautern, Werder Bremen and Bayern Munich star Klose has scored 56 goals in 140 appearances for Lazio.