Thursday Sep 13 2007 12:13
Fulham midfielder Alexei Smertin says he would like to finish his career at Craven Cottage.
The 32-year-old former Chelsea, Portsmouth and Charlton Athletic schemer is happy with the way things are going with the Cottagers, having moved back to England in January from Dinamo Moscow.
"I'm very happy," he told the club's official website.
"After playing for Charlton I decided to go back to Russia to settle down with my family, but I was disappointed with the level in the Russian Premier League.
"Compared to English football it's not the same, even though there are many good Russian players.
"I would love to finish my career at Fulham. It's a good team and I feel very comfortable here and I'm very happy.
"I would love to get into Europe, but I know it's difficult because the Premier League is getting better and better every season and it's less predictable."
Smertin has scored twice in 14 appearances for the Cottagers, having become a key figure since Lawrie Sanchez succeeded Chris Coleman as manager.
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