Accra, Sept. 14, GNA - Premier league campaigners, Accra Hearts of Oak has extended the contract of their German coach, Siefried Banher, despite the continuous criticisms against the coach for what is described as his under performance by a section of the fans.

Information gathered by the GNA Sports reveals that the coach has been given an additional six months mandate to handle the technical affairs of the club, as such he would be in charge for at least till the end of the on-going 2005 Premier League and beyond.

According to the information, the coach signed the contract on Tuesday with the Management Board of the Club and this thus puts to rest speculations that he might be on his way out following some unimpressive results recorded at the early stages of his probation. Banher has been under probation since July when he took over the Club but had to battle with continuous calls from sections of the supporters' body for his removal from office.

His endorsement by the management therefore confirms the confidence of the team in the German trainer.

A member of the Management Team told the GNA Sports that the decision of the management was to ensure consistency in the technical direction of the club as the coach has gradually improved on the style of the play of the team.

The source revealed that the German is entitled to a weekly allowance of 1.5 million cedis and a monthly salary of 3000 dollars. He would also be provided with a decent accommodation and a car to ensure smooth execution of his job.

The Management Member expressed the hope that the coach would be able to turn things around by the close of the season and build a formidable team for the next season.