Michael Laudrup signs one-year contract extension at Swansea

Michael Laudrup has signed a one-year contract extension at Swansea City - and will stay at the club until the end of the 2014-15 season.

The Dane had been linked to Chelsea but has put pen to paper on a new deal which will see him lead the Swans for the next two campaigns.

Laudrup has been an inspiration since taking over at the helm in the summer, guiding the Swans to eighth in the Premier League and ensuring the club lifted their first major trophy in their centenary season with a crushing 5-0 win over Bradford in the Capital One Cup final at Wembley.

Swans chairman Huw Jenkins claims he is delighted to secure the 48-year-old's services beyond his current contract, which was due to expire at the end of next season.

“This is a major boost for everyone involved with Swansea City, from the players, staff and Board of Directors through to the most important people of all, our supporters,’’ declared Huw.

“You can never guarantee how things will work out when you employ a new manager, especially after the success we’ve had in recent seasons, but I think everyone has seen for themselves that Michael has helped take this football club to another level.

“He is a pleasure to work with because he shares the same philosophy as everyone at this football club. He has ensured that we have progressed again this season and I am convinced his knowledge, experience and expertise will ensure we keep moving forward for the next few years.’’

Laudrup was delighted to sign the new deal, stating: “We’ve started something this season that I want to continue.

“I know there has been a lot of speculation (about my future), but I’ve always said that I am happy here and I never had any doubts I would stay.

“I am delighted to sign the new deal and I’m already really looking forward to next season. I hope there will be some very exciting things happening with the team and with the club in Europe.’’