Chris Lepkowski in Slovenia: West Brom skipper sets the record straight

Jul 16 2009 by Chris Lepkowski In Ptuj, Slovenia

Speaking from the club’s hotel in Ptuj, the 30-year-old, who has 12 months left on his current deal, said: “I had a very amicable meeting with chairman Jeremy Peace, Dan Ashworth (sporting and technical director) and Roberto Di Matteo last week, at which I handed in a transfer request.

“I explained that, at my age, I want to be playing in the Premier League because I may not get too many more chances.

“The club agreed that if an acceptable offer comes in for me, he will let me talk to the bidding club.

“But I made it clear to the chairman that I in no way want to rock the boat and that if a suitable offer doesn’t come in for me, I’ll be more than happy to knuckle down, fight for my place and try and get this club back in the top flight.

“I really want to clear this up because some of the things that were written in the media yesterday, about me being ‘furious’ with the club, and that the situation had gone ‘sour’, are just not true.

“It has also been wrongly reported that I have rejected the club’s contract offer.

“I’ve had five great years here and the club has been brilliant to me.

“If I do leave, I want it to be in the right way.

“If I don’t, I’ll keep giving my all every time I pull on an Albion shirt.

“I think it’s important the fans know this. I’ve always had a great relationship with them and I really appreciated the positive reception they gave me at last night’s game.”