Saha extends Man Utd contract until 2010

LONDON, Dec 20 (Reuters) France striker Louis Saha has signed a contract extension that will keep him at Manchester United until 2010, the club said today.

Saha, 28, joined United from Fulham in January 2004 for 12.8 million pounds (25.23 million dollar) and his initial contract ran until the end of the 2008/09 season.

His first two years were hampered by injuries but since the departure of Ruud van Nistelrooy to Real Madrid he has become a regular strike partner for Wayne Rooney and is United's leading scorer this season with 12 goals in all competitions.

''I'm delighted that we have extended Louis's contract,'' United manager Alex Ferguson told the Premier League leaders' official Web site (manutd.com).

''We are happy to see Louis here until at least 2010 and to add him to the other players who have recently signed new contracts like Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney... It bodes well for the future.

Saha added: ''It's great news, I'm really enjoying my time here and I wanted to show my commitment to Manchester United, but also repay the faith that Sir Alex has shown in me.

''Hopefully, we will have an exciting end to the season and add some silverware to the trophy room.'' REUTERS PDS BD1927