Fulham have confirmed that Mark Schwarzer has put pen to paper on a contract extension.
Fulham goalkeeper agrees to stay at Craven Cottage
Fulham have confirmed that Mark Schwarzer has put pen to paper on a contract extension.
The Australia international goalkeeper was keen to leave Craven Cottage over the summer after being linked with a move to Arsenal.
But the Gunners failed with a £4million bid as Fulham were desperate to keep hold of one of their most experienced players.
The decision not to accept Arsenal's offer opened up the possibility of Schwarzer leaving on a free transfer at the end of the season when his current deal expires.
Moving forward
However, Hughes was always confident that Schwarzer would opt to stay with Fulham and he has now committed his future to the club.
The Welsh manager is delighted with the news and happy to put any lingering uncertainty over the 38-year-old's intentions to bed.
"He was obviously very flattered by the interest," said Hughes.
"We're delighted that he's decided to stay here and we can move forward now."
Schwarzer will have the chance to show Arsenal what they are missing when Fulham travel to Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
Hughes continued: "It's something we've wanted to do for quite some time.
"I think Mark was keeping his options open and he had every right to do that. He's very happy to sign."
The deal is for a further two years, meaning Schwarzer will turn 40 as a Fulham player.
Memorable
Schwarzer told the club's
official website: "I'm delighted to have finally signed a contract extension with Fulham after a great deal of speculation surrounding my future in recent months.
"The club, manager and team have all highlighted their desire to see me stay at the Cottage and, after successful negotiations, I can confirm that my future is with Fulham.
"Since I joined the club in 2008, we have enjoyed a great deal of success and I believe Mark Hughes and the team will build on this success over the forthcoming seasons and continue the club's progress.
"I have enjoyed two memorable years at the club so far and I am now looking forward to many more."
