Pogatetz's displays on Teesside have steadily improved since his switch from Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen in 2005, with the Austrian largely impressive last term.

The 25-year-old has two years remaining on his current deal, but is hopeful of putting pen-to-paper on a longer contract.

"We have been talking about it [a contract] for a short period now," Pogatetz said.

very good

"I have said that I really want to be here as long as possible and there are signals from the club that they want to keep me here, so I think we will reach an agreement. I don't know when, but it looks very good. There's no pressure.

"I still have two more years to go and I'm very confident I can extend my contract and be here as long as possible.

"There is no rush, we're in talks and that's a good sign. Like I said, the club wants to extend my contract, I want to be here, so I'm sure we will reach an agreement at some point."