Leverkusen - Bayer 04 Leverkusen winger has committed his future to the club by signing a new five-year contract, valid until 30 June 2020.

'I've become a better player'

The 24-year-old, who was already tied to the Werkself until 2017 after agreeing to a new deal in December 2014, has been rewarded for his consistently impressive displays this season, during which time he has become a first team regular, as well as making his full international debut for Germany.

"I've taken a massive step forwards in my development under coach Roger Schmidt this term," Bellarabi told the official Leverkusen website. "I've become a much better player under his guidance and in his system. Even in previous years, when I had to battle against persistent injuries and was on loan at Eintracht Braunschweig, I always felt that Bayer 04 believed in me and that I was needed here. I've never experienced the kind of trust Roger Schmidt has placed in me, though. I'll give my all to pay both him and the club back for that."

Sporting director Rudi Völler was effusive in his praise Bellarabi and the recent progress he has made: "We brought Karim here as a very young third-division player from Braunschweig, and although he was injured for a long time at the beginning, he never lost sight of his goal of establishing himself here with us. When he returned here at the start of the season [from a loan spell at Braunschweig], he surpassed all our expectations. It's no coincidence that he's become a full international under Roger Schmidt this season. Karim Bellarabi's outstanding ability has helped him become a top player here in Leverkusen."

Bellarabi also shared his delight on Twitter, writing this message to his followers:

"I'm delighted to have signed a five-year contract extension at Leverkusen. Here's to a successful future together!"

Relive Bellarabi scoring the fastest goal in Bundesliga history, courtesy of the league's official YouTube channel:

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