Odemwingie joined Lille from the Belgian side La Louviere

Nigerian striker Osaze Odemwingie has signed a contract extension with Lille to end speculation about his future with the French first division club.

The 24-year-old's new deal lasts until June 2010, with Lille having the option of extending that for a further season.

"This will motivate me a lot and help me to work harder as I have made a quick progress with the team," Odemwingie said.

Lille had been determined to hold on to the striker who has scored eight goals for the club this season.

But negotiations had appeared to break down and Odemwingie was linked with clubs in the English Premiership.

"I feel very good here and I am happy to go on at Lille. To me, Lille is one of the greatest teams in France," he said.

The Nigeria striker, who was born in Uzbekistan, joined Lille from the Belgian side La Louviere in August 2004 .