In-form striker seeks PL move before Euros

Pavel looks for long PL stint

By Zain Alvi | 7th June 2012

Free agent striker Pavel Pogrebnyak is looking to cash in on his recent Premier League form by informing Fulham and other potential suitors that he wants to remain in the English top flight next campaign. And he wants a transfer completed before the European Championship is in full swing.

Pogrebnyak, 28, scored only 15 goals in 68 goals for German side Stuttgart before completing a January loan move to the Cottagers, for whom he had a far better scoring return of six goals in eight appearances.

Having been capped 32 times by Russia, Pogrebnyak offers a rare combination of size and mobility up front, which explains why Fulham boss Martin Jol is keen to negotiate a permanent deal with the striker.

Russia kick-off their Euro 2012 against the Czech Republic tomorrow but unlike many other footballers focused solely on their national duties, Pogbrenyak is open to discussing his club future during this busy period and he has good reasons for it too.

“After three or four months, I feel that I have found my place in England and I want to play in this league. I feel great desire and strength inside me and my age will not work against me,” Pogrebnyak was quoted recently.

He added: “We couldn’t agree anything with Fulham so far, but I hope everything will be alright. If I don’t play for Fulham, I hope to find another team.

“It would be good to sort this out before the European Championship, because there is a risk there. Anything could happen, and if you get injured then no-one will want to sign you.”

When asked why he is so committed to finding a new home in England, Pogrebnyak was quick to describe the Premier League as the best place to be.

“Last year, I said I didn’t want to go back to Russia and since then Russian football hasn’t really progressed. If you play in England, that’s the best thing that can happen to you. You have to take this chance,” he concluded.