Fighting for my place - 25/08/2002

One man picks the team and I've got to impress him

After getting the call against West Ham, I was very disappointed not to make the bench against Man City and Zeljeznicar games. Especially with the Champions League game having seven substitutes, I thought Id’ be in with a chance. But that’s football, it’s all about opinions, and in this case the opinion of the gaffer.

I could get upset and shout my mouth off, but that’s not my style. I’m well paid as a professional and I believe that I should turn my frustration into something positive – determination, and show it on the training field. I just signed a new contract in the summer and the club wouldn’t have kept me if they had no intention of playing me. So, all I ask for is a chance and I’ll do my best to turn in another performance like I had against Arsenal. I realise that with so many cup games this year, the squad system will be used more than ever, so I’ll be ready and waiting next time I get the call.

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