Bergkamp to put off retirement plans

The Dutchman admitted at the start of the season that he was likely to hang up his boots at the end of the current campaign, but now he is having second thoughts.

The 33-year-old is now considering playing on for another year and he revealed he will end his career with The Gunners as he does not want to take a step down.

Bergkamp is out of contract in the summer and he revealed that his fitness will determine whether or not he continues playing.

"I said at the start of the season that I would make my decision about my future at the end of it," Bergkamp told France Football magazine.

"But at this moment I feel that I can continue, I feel good.

"I love football and it will be difficult to say goodbye to it - and I don't feel ready to say goodbye at this moment.

"I will finish at Arsenal. I want to stop at the highest level and I don't want to drop down to a lower standard.

"I will listen to my body. I will see what it says. If it says carry on, I will obey it."