Ertl Wants England Stay

Last updated : 09 July 2012 By @blades_mad1889

Johannes ErtlErtl, 29 was released by Danny Wilson's Blades after a two year spell at Bramall Lane, he had been signed by Kevin Blackwell on a free transfer after being released by Crystal Palace in July 2010 - he made his debut in a 1-1 draw with Cardiff City on the opening day of the season and went onto made 30 (+9) appearances for United without scoring.

Despite searching for a new club having being released by the Blades he is keen to stay in England, though has been offered deals in both homeland Austria and Germany. "That is the intention because I've already spent such a fantastic time in England and I definitely want to stay," he told SkySports.com.

"It has always been my aim to continue playing football in England and hopefully that will be the case this year. There has been interest from both Germany and Austria, but the thing is that because their pre-season started earlier than English clubs I needed more time to weigh things up. I've come to the conclusion that if possible I want to stay in England, but it was great to get interest outside of the country too."

"It was League One football for me last year, but before that I played in the Championship for three years. "I definitely want to play at Championship level again because I really enjoyed my time at Crystal Palace for two years and then the year there with United. My goal is to play at that level again because I feel that I am good enough to be playing in the Championship."

"Pre-season is just around the corner, but I will keep myself fit and ready to go for when I join a new club. The injuries are in the past now and I feel great, but also refreshed and I just can't wait to get playing football again. Of course I would like to get into a new club as soon as possible, but it also has to be the right choice of club as well.

"There's no immediate rush and I am keen to play for a club that want me and that I can give my utmost, so everything should fit well. I need to find a club where I feel that I can play my football and enjoy settling in the area."