Pires sets sights on English return

16 October 2010 12:25
Veteran French winger Robert Pires has set his sights on earning a contract with an English club after starting to train with Arsenal.[LNB] Pires has been a free agent since being told in May that his contract with Villarreal would not be extended.[LNB]Having spent six successful seasons with the Gunners earlier in his career, he was invited to train with his former club earlier this month.[LNB]The French midfielder, who turns 37 later in October, is grateful for the chance and hopes to find a new club in the near future.[LNB]"I spent six beautiful years at Arsenal. London became my home and I knew I would come back," he told L'Equipe Mag. [LNB]"On a professional level, I can imagine continuing my career here. [LNB]"Arsenal have offered me the opportunity to train and I can't thank Arsene Wenger enough."[LNB]"I am working with the reserves and sometimes with the professional group, which is perfect."[LNB]While admitting he will retire in January if he is still without a club, Pires insists he could play on for a couple more years.[LNB]"England is probably the place where I have the more chances to find a club," he explained.[LNB]"In England, people don't look at your age. In Spain it was not the case, which is why I had to say goodbye.[LNB]"Even for a club like Birmingham or Stoke City? Of course, if I have an opportunity from Aston Villa, I will rush. [LNB]"But I will analyse any proposition. I don't want to go anywhere and fight every weekend for salvation. [LNB]"QPR? I would be attracted. I am not necessarily looking for a six-month contract. I could imagine myself playing much longer.[LNB]"I will give myself until January 31. If at the end of the winter transfer market I have not found a club, I will hang up my boots."

Source: Team_Talk