The Boston Bruins' season ended earlier this week, when they were knocked out of the Stanley Cup playoffs by Tampa Bay.

Many then wondered if it meant the end of the 43-year-old team captain Zdeno Chara's career, as the full-back's contract expires now.

"Physically strong"

But that does not seem to be the case.

He announced last night, at a press conference, that he wants to continue playing - and that he wants to do so in the Boston Bruins.

- I feel physically strong.

I'm positive and I think I can still play this sport and contribute to the team and I want to stay in Boston.

I want to continue to be a Boston Bruins player.

I want to continue to lead by example and share my experience and skills with the young players and my teammates, said Chara, and continued:

- It has not changed.

I'm devoted.

We'll see what happens next.

"Dedicated"

Chara made his NHL debut as early as 1997 and won the Stanley Cup in 2011, but is still determined to succeed with the team - despite turning 44 next season.

- I'm devoted to the Boston Bruins.

I'm devoted to Boston's supporters and Boston as a city.

I think I have said it several times.

I'm excited about the team's future.

We'll do what we can to win another Stanley Cup.

"Want to play on"

The Slovak says he is convinced that the parties can agree on a new contract, but does not want to think about what would happen if they do not agree.

- I am convinced that it can be solved, but on the other hand - when you have been in the industry and around hockey for so long - you know that there are different circumstances and opportunities.

But as it is right now, I'm charged.

I want to continue playing in the Boston Bruins.

But as I said: We will see what decisions are made, he says, and adds:

- This is something that my agent and the team management can negotiate.

But if it should be that I have to play somewhere else, we'll talk about it then.

I love Boston.

I love the city.

I think we have the best fans in the world.

I have no plans to move anywhere else.

We will see what the future has to offer.