Kanoute Staying at Upton Park

Last updated : 01 April 2002 By Mike Reich
Freddie: Staying put
It would seem that Freddie has been subjected to transfer speculation ever since he was signed by Harry Redknapp for a bargain £3.6m a couple of seasons ago. He has constantly denied them, and turned down the chance to join Fulham last summer in favour of staying at West Ham.

The latest rumour doing the rounds is that he is off to Paris St Germain this summer. It was most likely thought of due to the fact that Liverpool seem set to purchase Nicolas Anelka from PSG this summer, and therefore they will look to replace him. And perhaps Freddie seemes a good target, seeing as he is, erm, French. That's probably all there is to it. Said the 24-year-old striker on his icons site:

"The latest club that I've heard have been linked is Paris St Germain. I have no idea where these rumours have started but once again I must restate my commitment to West Ham. I have never expressed any dissatisification with the club and although PSG are one of the most famous teams in my home country, I wish to stay in the Premiership.

"I am very happy in London and have no wish to return to France. I read this week that Glenn Roeder said he would not sell me at any price and I was pleased by his comments.

"I turned down the chance to sign for Fulham last summer and if PSG were to make a firm offer, I would also reject it. I would only leave Upton Park if I felt the club did not want me here but at the moment that is not the case."

He admits his disappointment in not making the French squad this week, but cites the fact that there are other great strikers ahead of him in the pecking order at the moment. And he is not convinced by arguments that say he is excluded due to him remaining at West Ham.

"People often suggest that I must leave West Ham if I am ever to gain international recogonition but I do not agree. Of course, I was disappointed not to be included in the French squad for the game against Scotland but I did not have high expectations and accept my place in the pecking order behind great strikers like Henry and Trezequet."