Hughes hopes Schwarzer stays

Mark Hughes remains optimistic regarding Fulham’s chances of getting Mark Schwarzer to sign a new contract.

The veteran goalkeeper looked set to be on his way out of Craven Cottage over the summer, with Arsenal having chased his signature throughout the transfer window.

Schwarzer recently admitted that he ‘pushed hard’ for a move to Emirates Stadium, giving him the chance to compete in the UEFA Champions League.

In the end he was forced to stay put, with Fulham’s failure to bring in an adequate replacement leaving them with little choice but to play hardball.

Reports continue to suggest that the Australia international could be off to the Gunners sooner rather than later, with transfer speculation refusing to go away.

Hughes, though, believes Schwarzer can be convinced to pen fresh terms at Craven Cottage, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season.
Discussions

He said: “Mark is just stating what went on. We’re hopeful he will commit to Fulham very soon.

“We have had some good talks with his advisor. He knows my thoughts, I want him to stay.”

While keen to see Schwarzer stay, Hughes is set to be without his No.1 for the whole of January as he competes in the Asia Cup with his country.

The Welsh coach admits he is disappointed to be losing such a key player at a crucial stage of the season, but accepts there is little he can do about it.

“From our point of view we will look at it purely selfishly and we will lose an important player,” Hughes continued.

“Mark is a proud Australian and we would never try to stop him. We can’t anyway. These fixtures have to take place sometime.”