Vladimir Tarasenko is staying home. The St. Louis Blues prospect has decided to spend the 2011-12 season with Siber Novosibirsk, the team he has played the last three seasons with.

Tarasenko, who made the announcement on the club’s website Tuesday, was the Blues’ first pick, 16th overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Many speculated he would push for a roster spot in St. Louis in September.

“Dear Sibir’s fans, I decided to spend a further year with the club. I hope to please you with my play. Thank you for the support,” Tarasenko said in the video translated by RussianProspects.com.

In 42 games this season, the 19-year-old had nine goals and 19 points in 42 games.

In January, Tarasenko helped Russia to its first gold medal at the World Junior Championship since 2004.

Aaron Vickers is the managing editor of Future Considerations and can be found on Twitter. For all the latest Future Considerations news and posts, follow FC’s Official Twitter Feed, on YouTube and on Facebook!