Pires hoping to play on

Robert Pires is hoping to extend his playing career in Qatar or Russia and insists he still has plenty to offer. The French midfielder, who will turn 38 on October 29, was released by Aston Villa in the summer after a six-month spell with the club. Pires claims there was English lower-league interest in signing him at one stage, but he is now looking elsewhere. However, should he not receive an appealing offer, Pires has confirmed he will retire. The former Marseille, Arsenal and Villarreal player told Marseille's official website: "I had interest from the English second division. "I'm waiting to see if those from Qatar or Russia materialise, and if there is nothing I feel ready to stop. "I know that the new buzz phrase is that a player is 'burnt out' but I know I'm not."