Martin Skrtel repelled rumors of his impending departure from Liverpool the same way he thwarts opposing teams’ attacks on his team’s goal: with no nonsense.
Skrtel forcefully responded to rumors of interest from German club Wolfsburg and Italian club Napoli on Tuesday, telling the Liverpool Echo he doesn’t want to leave Anfield anytime soon.
“I am not leaving anywhere,” Skrtel said. “Not to Wolfsburg nor to Naples.”
Doubt about Skrtel’s Liverpool future arose earlier this month after revealed he would table negotiations over a new contract until this summer. Skrtel’s current contract expires after the 2015-16 season, and clubs in England and abroad might try to sign the 30-year-old center back.
However, Skrtel’s agent said the Slovakian likely will sign a new contract with Liverpool.
“The only offer which is lying on Martin Skrtel’s table right now is the extension of his contract from Liverpool. We have been working on the details, and we will be finalizing it soon.”
Skrtel joined the Reds from Russian club Zenit St. Petersburg in 2007. He immediately became a regular on Liverpool’s back line and has been ever-present since the 2010-11 season.
Skrtel likely will extend his Anfield career beyond the 10-year mark if he signs a new contract. Skrtel’s talent and toughness already have made him a hero to a generation of Liverpool fans. His longevity with Liverpool ultimately could cement his status as a club icon.
Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@LFC
