Bergkamp considers future

Dennis Bergkamp is considering the option of playing beyond this season.

The mercurial Dutchman has begun the new campaign in an imperious fashion and is now questioning his plans to quit football at the close of this season.

Bergkamp expected to play more of a peripheral role this term but his superb early season form has made him an integral player for Arsene Wenger.

Indeed, such is the player's form and fitness that tests undertaken at the club have indicated that Bergkamp is infact quicker this season than last.

''Mr Wenger does a lot of statistics, and the Prozone stats do show that this year in a few games I was faster than last year,'' Bergkamp told the Sunday Mirror.

''If I can still play at this level then it's going to be a pity to say no to this sort of football.

''When I signed this contract I thought this would be my final year.

''I mean, I will be 36 at the end of the season - and you don't see yourself playing another year at this stage of your career.

''But this team is improving and it's hard to stop. Right now I think I can continue.''