Cologne’s Hector extends contract despite likely relegation

COLOGNE, Germany (AP) Germany defender Jonas Hector has shunned reported interest from Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund by extending his contract with Cologne - despite the club's almost certain relegation from the Bundesliga.

Cologne, eight points from safety with three games remaining, says its 27-year-old captain has signed a two-year extension to 2023 instead of using a release clause in his contract.

Hector, who has been at the club since 2010, says, ''It wouldn't have been a problem to switch to another club after this season but it didn't feel right for me . I belong to Cologne and want to tackle the new season with the team and the fans behind us.''

Cologne sporting director Armin Veh says Hector's decision is, ''a great signal for the team, the club and our fans.''