Former Liverpool defender John Arne Riise: I am happy at Roma

Krasic & Riise – Juventus-Roma (Getty Images)

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Roma defender John Arne Riise has dismissed suggestions that he longs to return to his old club Liverpool in the summer.

Recent reports have linked the Norwegian left-back with a move back to England and he himself hinted on Wednesday that he could sign for the Reds again, saying: “Liverpool are close to my heart. They are a great club and I have some good memories. I have a contract here until June 2012, so you never know.”

However, the 30-year-old has now stated he is happy to remain at the Serie A outfit.

“I do many interviews in a week and I do not remember what I say, and I often mention Liverpool,” he said, according to Sportal. “I spent seven wonderful years there and I have happy memories of my experience.

“However, the fact is that I like playing in Rome and my agent has spent a lot of time in contact with the club about a renewal. Now, with the new owners who will arrive in a few weeks, we can see if we can find an agreement for a contract of four or five years.

He continued: “All the Giallorossi fans know that my heart is in Rome. This is a fantastic city, a great club which has passionate fans and fantastic players.

“I know that Roma have the ability to win something and I’ve always wanted to be a part of that.”

Riise signed for Roma from Liverpool in 2008 and has established himself as one of the first choice players for the former Italian champions.