Joachim Loew has signed a new contract to remain Germany's coach until the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The 55-year old's previous deal was due to expire at the end of next year's European Championships.

But Loew will stay on to lead Germany's defence of the world title they won under his stewardship last July by beating Argentina -0 in the Maracana final.

Germany are second in Euro qualifying Group D, but on the same points total as the Republic of Ireland.