Modibo Diakité has signed a new deal with Lazio through to 2013.

Diakite admits he chose to extend his stay due to the relationship he has with coach Delio Rossi.

"For me, Rossi is more than a coach," said Diakité. "He is the person who taught me the important values of this world, the sense of the group and the value of respect for my comrades.

"He always believed in me and I hope to repay him on the field when I have the opportunity ..."