Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp is hoping midfielder Alexei Smertin will change his mind about returning to Chelsea, reports BBC Radio Solent.
The Russian skipper became a key player for Pompey during his season-long loan spell last season.
But after talks with Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, Smertin wants to go back to Stamford Bridge to fight for his place.
However Redknapp remains hopeful, saying: "We want to keep him, but it's up to Alexei what he does."
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