Mark Schwarzer has signed a new contract at Fulham and ended the flurry of transfer speculation surrounding his future.
The Australian veteran has put pen to paper on a two-year deal at Craven Cottage – which means he will turn 40 as a Fulham player. Schwarzer, who joined the Whites on a free transfer from Middlesbrough in 2008, starred in Fulham’s run to the Europa League final last season and had been Arsenal’s number one summer transfer target.
Fulham manager Mark Hughes said: “He was obviously very flattered by the interest. We’re delighted that he’s decided to stay here and we can move forward now. It’s something we’ve wanted to do for quite some time. I just sat him down and said in black and white terms that Fulham and I need him at the club to be successful.
“I think Arsenal’s interest has always been there but we have had long talks with Mark and told him that we want him to be here.” He is an outstanding keeper and has been in the Premier League for many years. He understands what it’s all about and we are a better team when he is playing.”
Schwarzer added: “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 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.”
In his first season with the Cottagers, Schwarzer was named the club’s player of the year as then manager Roy Hodgson took Fulham to seventh, their best finish in the Premier League.
The keeper has also played for Australia 82 times, including at both the 2006 and 2010 World Cup finals.
