The 34-year-old Australian international's contract at Basel was set to expire at the season's end, sparking speculation he could be set for a return to Australia to play in the A-League.

The player himself told the Illawarra Mercury just last month he was open to offers from Australian clubs.

But Basel have announced Chipperfield has opted to sign a new one-year deal with Rot-Blau keeping him in Switzerland until mid-2011.

Chipperfield told the club's official website: "It is a special feeling. I came to Basel in 2001 and have had a great time and a lot of success with FCB. I hope it continues as I enter my final stage.

"I have seen many players come and go here and I am pleased that the club always decided to keep me longer.

"Today we have a lot of young players, so I feel a bit old," he laughed. "I actually had a lot more hair when I got here. But I enjoy it."

Chipperfield, who has played over 300 games for the Swiss giants, has scored nine goals this season and five in a purple patch since returning from injury in mid-February.

Asked about his form and ability to be in the right place at the right time, Chipperfield responded: "There is no secret - it's pretty easy if you play with top players like Marco Streller.

"I hope it can continue because I want to win more titles with FCB and play in the Champions League."

Basel are currently second in the Swiss Super League, six points behind leaders Young Boys with five games to play, but have just reached the domestic cup final where they'll face second division Lausanne.

The Swiss club also announced new deals for players Valentin Stocker and Pascal Schurpf who've been secured until 2014.