Pires in talks to extend Arsenal contract

France midfielder Robert Pires is in talks with Arsenal today about extending his Highbury contract until 2006.

France midfielder Robert Pires is in talks with Arsenal today about extending his Highbury contract until 2006.

The 29-year-old's current deal with the club expires at the end of the 2003-04 season.

"I would like to extend my contract for two or even three seasons because I feel good here. It's a city that suits me," said Pires. "What strikes me here is the respect the public have for the players.

"Now the ball is in Arsenal's camp. I've told them what my intentions are and I'm waiting for their response."

READ MORE

Having returned from a seven-month layoff in October following a career-threatening knee injury, Pires has set his sights on recapturing the form that earned him the English football writers' Player of the Year award last season.

"I've still got some work to do but I'm confident in my ability and that is the most important thing," he said.