Daniel Farke is delighted he has another season to work with ‘role model’ Alex Tettey, after Norwich City’s longest-serving player signed a new deal.

The Norwegian midfielder was out of contract this summer but has now extended his Carrow Road contract by a further 12 months as he closes in on a decade of service.

Tettey forced his way into Farke's early plans, when the German head coach first arrived in England, and the 33-year-old is now indispensable.

"Alex is a bit like a good red wine," he said. "The older he gets, the better he gets.

"When I arrived, there was a thought that with both he and Wes Hoolahan over 30, Wes would be available for the home games and Alex for the away games to share the load.

"People thought Alex had to do one or two sessions less than the others because of his age, but I got the feeling he's doing one or two more than all the others per week.

"He's always angry when I don't allow him to have three games in seven days, so that says a lot about his development.

"Alex is in top-class shape physically, and better than ever. He's improving in many topics, including his passing quality and in possession.

"His tactical understanding was always top-class.

"He's unbelievably important for us and it's no coincidence he's worn the captain's armband."

Farke insists Tettey's influence on his younger prospects is also invaluable. City signed French midfielder Melvin Sitti in the closing days of the January transfer window, before loaning him back to Sochaux.

"Alex is a fully accepted leader in our group and a role model for our younger players, and the quality of his performances have been really important," said Farke, speaking to the club's site. "We're totally delighted and happy that Alex has committed himself to be a part of our group.

"It's a great decision for both parties."

The 33-year-old has made 228 appearances since Chris Hughton signed him from French club Rennes in 2012.

The midfielder had been widely tipped for a return to first club Rosenborg but made it clear earlier this season his focus was playing a leading role in the club's Premier League battle.