BERLIN, Feb. 18 (Xinhua) -- Bremen's defender Theodor Gebre Selassie extended his current contract ahead of schedule, the "Green-Whites" confirmed in an official statement on Wednesday.

The Czech Republic international put pen to paper on a contract extension, which keeps him at the "Weser" until June 2018.

"Theo is a very important player for us and an exceptional person who enjoys great confidence within the team. We are looking forward to working with Theo on a long term," Bremen manager Thomas Eichin told the clubs official homepage.

The 28-year-old defender joined Bremen in the summer 2012 from Czech first division side Slovan Liberec. He scored overall five goals in 72 appearances for Bremen and made 27 international caps for the Czech Republic.

"I feel very well in Bremen and I am delighted to be part of the team," Gebre Selassie said.

Werder Bremen sit currently on the 8th position of the standings. They face fourth placed Schalke at the 22nd round of German Bundesliga on Saturday.