Monday Oct 24 2005 11:25
Chelsea midfielder Alexei Smertin has refused to rule out the possibility of turning his loan spell with Charlton in to a permanent deal.
The Russian star, who is with the Addicks for the season, insists he will delay making a decision on his future until next summer.
He told The Times: "It's too early to decide. I want to do my best until the end, and then we will see."
The Addicks take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Carling Cup this week, but Smertin will be forced to watch from the stands under Premier League rules.
Smertin made just 11 Premiership appearance for the Blues last season after spending his first season in England on loan with Portsmouth.
The 30-year-old has been an important figure in the Charlton midfield so far this term and has already starred in eight Premiership games for the second-placed club.
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