Riise: I'm not leaving

Reds full-back rejects Villa speculation

Last updated: 13th November 2007

riise john arne liverpool

Riise: Wants to stay with Reds

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Liverpool full-back John Arne Riise says he has 'no intention' of joining Aston Villa in January.

Reports have claimed that Villa are lining up a New Year swoop for the Norwegian, who has spent over six years at Anfield.

But, rather than seek a move when the transfer window reopens, Riise revealed his wish to finish his career with Liverpool.

"There was a story about me moving to Aston Villa in January," Riise told the club's official website.

False

"I was away with the national team at the time and Liverpool are quite big in Norway, so a lot of people were asking me about it. But it's completely false.

"I have 18 months left on my contract here and I have no intention of leaving. Liverpool is the club closest to my heart and it's where I belong.

"If it wasn't for Liverpool, I wouldn't be the player I am today and there is no chance that I'm going to ask for a transfer. I want to finish my career here and hopefully I can do that."

Not happy

However, Riise, who has made in excess of 300 appearances for The Reds, acknowledged he has not been playing at his best this season.

He added: "I was happy with my performances in pre-season, but when the season started I felt I wasn't reaching my true level.

"I've noticed the fans haven't been too happy with my form and rightly so.

"I'm my own biggest critic and I know when I haven't performed well. Now I think I'm getting my sharpness back and hopefully returning to my real level."