Hertha BSC have announced that Rune Jarstein has extended his contract beyond the end of this season until June 2019. The goalkeeper, who looked set to move on for free at the end of the campaign, has been a major part of the capital club's recent success.

A stark contrast to last campaign

After playing just once following his January arrival from Viking Stavanger, the Norwegian looked to be on his way out after a short stint in the Bundesliga. Fast forward a few months to Thomas Kraft getting injured and the situation couldn't be anymore different. The 31-year-old has gone from strength to strength; making some remarkable saves, conceding just 13 goals in 12 games and keeping five clean sheets in the process.

Thanks to the Norway international and the entire team playing out of their skin, Hertha are on-course to finish the Hinrunde in third spot. If they pick up a point at home against 1. FSV Mainz 05 on Sunday, Pal Dardai's side will be assured of their current position - a world away from the relegation battle that he brought them out of last term.

Jarstein's performances have been a key part of Hertha's success this season. (Image credit: BZ.de)
Jarstein's performances have been a key part of Hertha's success this season. (Image credit: BZ.de)

Hertha's new number one "proud" of new deal

"I am very happy and proud that I'm going to play another three and a half years at Hertha BSC - I am looking forward to the coming years," said Jarstein. He added, "It's an incredible feeling when you make a save before our Fankurve - you can feel the power that emanates from our fans - madness!"

Previously, Dardai had said: "Rune is a competitive person. I really want to keep him, so he should extend his contract. Michael Preetz has done this with Marvin Plattenhardt already. Therefore, I am hopeful." Now he has his wish, and an early Christmas present.

Quotes via Hertha BSC's official website.

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Jonathan Walsh
SoccerSight IFA commentator. VAVEL deputy editor-in-chief/VAVEL Bundesliga editor-in-chief and writer. Email: [email protected]