I've always said I think he was pushed out of the door. Whether all that is true you've printed, who knows, I take it all with a pinch of salt I've heard so many versions! What I do know is that in modern day football if a player is told the club have accepted a bid and they want to sell him, the player never stays unless it represents a step down in wages. (a la Smith). You don't stay where you're not wanted. The club wanted shot, he had no choice. He probably thought "well **** them, I get to quadruple my wages and play for a bigger club who are better equipped" Can't blame him.
