Two players extended contracts with Bilbao "Athletic" © EuroFootball.com

Defender Francisco Yeste and goalkeeper Inaki Lafuente have extended their contracts with Athletic Bilbao until 2010, the Spanish club announced on Wednesday.

Yeste, 25 years old, was one of the best players for Athletic last season, but did not make an appearance for the Spanish national team despite being called up once. The Basque club finished in ninth place in the Spanish championship.

Yeste's contract was set to expire next summer.

Midfielders Pablo Orbaiz, Tiko and Andoni Iraola only extended their contracts with Athletic Bilbao after the end of the 2004-2005 season.

Athletic Bilbao stands out from other clubs by relying on players with Basque citizenship who desire independence from Spain.