Mark Hughes reaffirms stance on Mark Schwarzer
Fulham manager Mark Hughes is determined to keep goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer at the club.
The 38-year-old Australian has been in fine form for the club over recent weeks and it's clear Hughes does not want Schwarzer to reignite a possible move to Arsenal during the January transfer window.
Arsenal tried to sign the goalkeeper over the summer, but the deal could not be finalised (the move fell through at the final moment). Hughes has confirmed that the club are sorting out a new deal to try
and get Schwarzer to commit the rest of his career to the club.
"If we're going to be successful, we need a quality keeper and that's certainly what Mark is.
He knows what we provide and knows the environment very well. He's not just got good players on the field of play, but a huge support staff behind him," Hughes told
Sky Sports.
Hughes suggests that it would be more beneficial and comfortable for Schwarzer if he stayed at a club he's familiar with, as opposed to moving elsewhere. However, a move
to Arsenal would not mean a huge geographical shift in Schwarzer's life. He could commute from West to North London.
"He knows that the environment which has been created at Fulham is second to none.
What Mark has got is a real presence. With all the top keepers they have a presence, and that permeates towards their team-mates."
If Schwarzer does leave Fulham in January, then it would be a huge blow to the team. The club does have a good back-up goalkeeper in David Stockdale, but ultimately it
would force the club to hunt for a new number one who may not have half of the quality that Schwarzer possesses.
Betting advice
Schwarzer is a great goalkeeper who is a solid shot-stopper and commands the defence well. This helps to keep the back of the team organised and means Fulham stands a better
chance of conceding fewer goals. If he leaves, then back off from backing Fulham, albeit temporarily.
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