Hannover hang on to Schmadtke

Hannover have convinced their director of sport Jorg Schmadtke not to leave the club this summer, although they have accommodated his wishes to take a break from the game. Schmadtke asked to be released from his contract a few months ago, citing personal reasons for his decision to walk away from the club during the most successful spell in their history. He was recently linked with the vacant director of sport job with Cologne, a move which would have allowed him to be closer to his family in Dusseldorf, but a compromise has now been reached which means Schmadtke will remain in the north of Germany. He will tie ends up this season, which involves wrapping up contracts and transfers for next year, and then he will be given leave. His family will then move from Dusseldorf to Hannover, allowing him to continue his job with the Bundesliga club as and when he feels ready. "The challenge was to resolve an extraordinary situation," said Hannover president Martin Kind. "The solution we have found is perfect because it supports Jorg Schmadtke and his family and is also good for Hannover." Schmadtke expressed his delight in finding a compromise which he himself never thought possible. "From the talks we have had, I have realised how important the club values the private happiness of its employees," he said. "I would like to express my thanks to all of my colleagues for their support in recent weeks." Even coach Mirko Slomka, who was rumoured to have a difficult relationship with Schmadtke, has welcomed the compromise which will extend the club's most successful ever partnership. The pair have led Die Roten into the UEFA Europa League for two consecutive seasons, taking them to the last eight this term - their best ever result in Europe. "We have worked together successfully for two and a half years and Jorg Schmadtke is an important factor in the success of Hannover," he said. "It is good that he is staying."