Atletico extends Lopez's contract until 2018

Madrid: Atletico Madrid striker Adrian Lopez has agreed to a contract extension until the end of the 2017-18 season.

The 25-year-old Lopez arrived at Atletico from Deportivo La Coruna in 2011. He has helped the club win the Europa League in 2012 and the Copa del Rey last season.

Adrian has struggled to find playing time for the past two seasons after the emergence of Diego Costa and the arrival of David Villa last summer to replace Radamel Falcao.

Adrian says "I am happy for the extension. Staying on at Atletico was always my goal."

Atletico is co-leader of the Spanish league with Barcelona.