Tugay hoping for Ewood deal

Midfielder wants to end his career at Blackburn

By Laura Slatcher   Last updated: 11th May 2008

Tugay Kerimoglu

Tugay: Blackburn respect

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Veteran midfielder Tugay is refusing to concede that Blackburn's game at Birmingham could be his last for the club.

The 37-year-old sees his contract run out at the end of the season and Blackburn manager Mark Hughes is yet to make a decision on a new deal.

The Turkish midfielder has been a popular figure at Ewood Park since his £1.3million move from Rangers in 2001 and he has hopes of penning a new deal with the club.

"I haven't given up on getting another contract so I hope it isn't my last game," Tugay told the Daily Star on Sunday.

Respect

"But if I had to leave it would be like leaving home and part of my family. I want to stay. The club is very special to me.

"It's like my second family and I have tremendous respect for everyone associated with it but especially the fans as I feel we have a special relationship."

Despite turning 38 in the summer Tugay has played more than half of Rovers' games this season and scored two league goals.

But the former Galatasaray man sees his future at Blackburn insisting he can help to nurture the young talent at the club.

Development

"I haven't played as much as I would have liked this year," he added.

"But I still feel fitter than ever and know I have a lot to offer the team - not only on the field but as a senior player I feel it is important to help the younger players.

"I feel very happy here and in an ideal world I would finish my career as a Blackburn player.

"I have seen this club grow a lot and would like to continue to help with this development."