I want to stay forever – Jose Enrique

Dec 20 2009 by Steve Brown, Sunday Sun

JOSE ENRIQUE wants to extend his Newcastle contract to finish his career at St James’ Park.

The United star arrived on Tyneside in a £6 million move from La Liga club Villarreal two and a half years ago.

He has a further two seasons left on his existing deal.

Yet, despite last season’s relegation to the Championship, the Spaniard is so content with life at Newcastle he is keen to lengthen his stay.

The 23-year-old Enrique has told the Sunday Sun he would be happy to remain at the club until the end of his playing career.

“I am very happy here,” said Enrique, who has been the subject of speculation linking him with a move to bitter Tyne-Wear rivals Sunderland.

“I have this year and another two. I hope to stay here, my family is very happy here and if it is possible to finish my career at Newcastle I would be very happy.”

Enrique would be happier still if United dip into the transfer market when the window re-opens in January.

Chris Hughton has already parted company with Zurab Khizanishvili after the Blackburn Rovers defender’s loan spell ended.

Similar temporary agreements with Manchester United’s Danny Simpson and Marlon Harewood of Aston Villa come to a close on January 18 and December 26 respectively.

Hughton is understood to be keen to retain Simpson but remains undecided over Harewood’s future at the club.

While Matthew Kilgallon seems likely to be recruited from Sheffield United, Enrique would like to see United’s small squad strengthened further.