Park eager to prolong United stay

28 July 2011 18:00

South Korean star Park Ji-Sung says he is keen to stay at Manchester United for as long as possible.

The 30-year-old, who retired from international duty earlier this year, has become a highly valued member of the United squad and scored in the English champions' 4-0 defeat of the MLS All-Stars in a friendly on Wednesday.

His current deal runs until the end of next season, but Park says he hopes to extend his contract after United coach Sir Alex Ferguson revealed last week that the player had been offered a two-year extension.

"Why not?" Park told United's in-house television channel, MUTV.

"I keep saying I want to stay here for more years to win things at Manchester United. Hopefully, one day we will get together."

Park's solo goal in the defeat of the All-Stars took his tally in United's pre-season tour of the United States to three goals in four games.

The hard-working midfielder is not renowned for his goalscoring qualities but he said he was hoping to hit the net more regularly in the coming campaign.

"It's quite a surprise to me!" he said. "I try to help the team to win but I know I have to score more goals, and hopefully I'll get more than last season.

He added: "I enjoyed the game. We won 4-0, our fitness levels have increased and there were some good performances, so I'm happy."

United conclude their US tour in Washington on Saturday with a game against Barcelona, who outclassed them 3-1 in last season's Champions League final at Wembley in May.

Source: AFP