Roman Pavlyuchenko has hinted he needs to be assured of more first-team football if he is to sign a new contract at Tottenham.

The Russia international has endured a difficult time at White Hart Lane since joining the club two years ago, failing to secure a regular starting spot since Harry Redknapp took over as manager.

The 28-year-old has strongly been linked with a return to Russia in every transfer window since his arrival, while Birmingham were reportedly close to signing him in January.

However, Pavlyuchenko has impressed this season, scoring eight goals in all competitions and featuring regularly for Spurs.

He has made made eight of his 13 Premier League appearances from the bench and while he says he would like to stay he firstly wants some assurances over his first team place.

"I definitely want to stay here," Pavlyuchenko said in the Daily Mail. "But, nevertheless, before I actually sign a new contract I need to consider the situation. Sitting on the bench, even at a club as strong as Tottenham have become, is not good."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email