Fabian Broghammer has revealed that he decided to stay at Bristol Rovers to continue his development as a footballer.
The 23-year-old winger moved to the Memorial Stadium from German lower league side FC Bayern Alzenau last summer.
Broghammer has opted to extend his contract with the League Two club for another year, despite being offered the chance to return to Germany.
"It was a tough decision but I know the football here will give me a better opportunity than in Germany," he told BBC Sport.
"I spoke to my girlfriend and my family, as I had another option which would have made it easier to be around my family, but I think it was the right decision in the end.
"Last season was good for me as an experience."
Broghammer made 37 appearances for Rovers last season.