Smertin: I could go to Pompey

Chelsea midfielder Alexei Smertin says he could return to Portsmouth.

Chelsea's out-of-favour midfielder Alexei Smertin says there is a slim chance he could return to Portsmouth.

The former Russia captain enjoyed a productive season on loan at Fratton Park for the 2003/4 campaign as he acclimatised to English football following his move from Bordeaux in the early stages of the Roman Abramovich revolution.

After being recalled back into the Stamford Bridge first team fold in August he has failed to hold down a regular place under Jose Mourinho with Chelsea rich in midfield talent.

Smertin could be allowed to leave the London side, and is reportedly at the top of Portsmouth's transfer shortlist with talks potentially beginning this week over a deal.

The 30-year-old admitted that he will either stay in his current surroundings or move to the South Coast outfit, enthusing over his close relationship with the Pompey fans.

"I will either stay at Chelsea or go back to Portsmouth where I had a season on loan, the fans love me there and I love them," said Smertin.

"I was moved to tears by a standing ovation when I was subbed there in December playing for Chelsea."

Pompey chairman Milan Mandaric has expressed his admiration for Smertin's talents in the past, with manager Alain Perrin looking to improve the depth of his squad following the departures of Steve Stone and Patrik Berger.

However the urge to stay at Stamford Bridge remains strong for the former Lokomotiv Moscow star, and he admitted in a later interview in his homeland that he is erring towards continuing his stay in London.

Smertin insisted that he would be prepared to fight for his first team place if he was considered an important part of Mourinho's ideal squad of 24.

"I made up my mind a long time ago where I want to be next season," said Smertin.

"I was told that Jose Mourinho has a list of 24 players who he wants to see in his team next season and that I'm one of them.

"So I'm prepared to give it my all and fight for a place on the team on a regular basis, that's my aim.

"I think I have adjusted well to the English game and I think it should only get better for me there.

"I have a great respect for Mourinho, I trust his decisions and I think he respects me as well.

"I also have a great relationship with all the other players at Chelsea and I'm already looking forward to next season."