Liverpool
midfielder Patrik Berger has confirmed he will leave
Anfield at the end of the season after failing to
agree a long-term deal.
The
Czech international has become a peripheral figure
in recent seasons at Anfield after struggling with
his form and fitness. He was linked with pre-deadline
day moves to Sunderland and Celtic but has decided
instead to see out the remaining year of his contract
before leaving next July.
He told Czech daily Sport: "It's definite that
I'll go somewhere else, but it will be in July next
year when my contract with Liverpool runs out. I won't
go earlier than that. I'm not even considering a winter
move."
He added: "Why would I extend a contract at a
club where I don't play and I'm not even on the substitutes'
bench?"
Berger, however, may well not be granted his wish
of staying until July. Manager Gerard Houllier has
often stated that players who are not happy at the
club will be asked to leave and it would be no surprise
to see the 29-year-old shown the exit door when the
transfer window reopens in January.
