Arsenal target commits future

Brede Hangeland Happy To Commit To Fulham

The towering defender is looking to commit to a new deal at Craven Cottage.

Apr 30, 2009 9:40:05 AM

Photo Gallery

Zoom

EPL: Brede Hangeland - Jeremie Aliadiere, Fulham - Middlesbrough (PA)

Brede Hangeland was of the utmost importance to Fulham's Premier League survival last season and has once again proved to be an influential character in a rearguard that has conceded fewer goals than Champions League hopefuls Arsenal.

His prominent role has reportedly attracted the interest of other clubs, but the Norwegian international has today told the club's official website that he intends to sign a new contract with the Craven Cottage outfit.

"I’ve never made any comments about the negotiations - and I never will," Hangeland began. "So if you read something about me having said something, it's not true.

"I've said all along I'm happy at Fulham and I believe we can reach an agreement. They've said they're happy with what I've done and I'm happy with the club. There's no reason to think otherwise that I'll be leaving."

Regarding the club's fixture this weekend, a west London derby against rival neighbours Chelsea, Hangeland added, "Normally, you would say you're in for a particularly difficult game when you go to Chelsea. But considering our recent form I think we can go there and get something."

On the proposition of qualifying for next season's inaugural UEFA Europa League via a seventh placed finish in England's top flight, he said, "We still have a lot to play for, although at the beginning of the season we were hoping to avoid having to play for anything at this time of year because it might have been another relegation battle.

"But now we have a great chance of Europe. How many points do we need to get there? Who knows?

"One of the reason's we've got this high is not looking very far forward."

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

MY REACTION.

This is a defender that I would love to wear the colours of Arsenal.A very fine defender although 27 and the Arsene might not favour this as usual but let us consider his ability and technique, modest transfer cash that Arsenal can afford, premiership experience and all other unique abilities, here is one player that will fit in perfectly with ANY of Arsenal’s back four.

I hope Wenger can sign this player as rumours have that he admires him a lot. Imagine this guy in Arsenal’s back four this season and probably they will still be serious contenders for the league trophy, champions league and FA cup.