Mark Schwarzer gives up on Arsenal move and agrees new Fulham contract

Mark Schwarzer has committed his future to Fulham by signing a newtwo-year, £70,000- a-week deal, with the option of an additional 12months at the club. Arsenal made two £2million bids for the goalkeeper last summer andSchwarzer, who would have been a free agent in June, was heavily linkedwith a January move to the Emirates. Enlarge Staying put: Schwarzerlooked like he was on his way out in the summerBut Fulham boss Mark Hughes, whose side meet Arsenal in the PremierLeague on Saturday, said of the Gunners' interest: 'Mark understood it wasan opportunity and he wanted to investigate it but it wasn't possibleto allow it to happen. I think now it's all been concluded he'sabsolutely happy and we can all move on. 'For myself and for Fulham to be successful I need Mark Schwarzer.He's an outstanding keeper, he understands the Premier League and we'rea better team when Mark Schwarzer's playing.' Hughes believes the 38-year-old could now finish his playing career at Craven Cottage before potentially moving into coaching. The manager said: 'He's a very fit guy and we would like to thinkhe would (finish his career here). We've given him a decent length ofcontract and he could go on for many more years. That's credit to himand that's why he's a good professional - he's looked after himselfand, if you do that, then you can be rewarded into your 30s and 40s asa keeper. 'I would certainly be receptive to him possibly starting his coaching career and see how it develops.' Schwarzer, who has 82 Australia caps, joined Fulham in 2008 after 11 years at Middlesbrough. He said: 'I'm delighted to have finally signed a contract extensionafter a great deal of speculation. I have enjoyed two memorable yearsat the club and I am looking forward to many more.'  Senderos set to make January debut for Fulham as defender steps up rehabFulham take case against Sir Dave Richards to Court of AppealLeo's London: Fulham may be falling but Hughes remains the SparkFULHAM FC

Source: Daily_Mail