1860 Munich center back Gregg Berhalter has signed a one-year extension to his current pact, a deal he says gives him extra time to reach his goal of helping return the Lions to the top flight.

The 34-year old was rewarded for a rich vein of form this season that has seen him score four goals and earn the sixth highest 2.Bundesliga player rating for defenders.

"I am happy because I think we have a good group of players and I am looking forward to seeing how far we can take it," Berhalter told American Soccer Daily. "1860 is a big club and it would be huge to help take them back to the Bundesliga."

"The extension gives us a little room for error, but having said that, I still believe we can challenge this year."

The club have entered the winter break in sixth place, but stand only two points behind third place FC Cologne. The Lions return to action when Augsburg visit Allianz Arena on February 3rd.