O'Neill slams Defoe rumours
19 Jan 2008 - 10:34:07
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has angrily denied that his club have opened talks with Tottenham Hotspur and England striker Jermain Defoe.
The 25-year-old frontman has grown frustrated by a lack of first-team starts at White Hart Lane and was reported on Friday to be heading to Villa Park for talks over a possible transfer.
However, O'Neill told reporters: "It is simply untrue, absolutely and utterly untrue, it couldn't be any clearer than that.
"I think that sort of statement, if you're talking about a player at another football club where the two haven't talked to each other, is grossly unfair."
Meanwhile, Villa central defender Martin Laursen is delighted to have signed a new two-year contract with the club, who he thinks are going places.
He said: "I am glad the contract is all sorted out. This is what I wanted the most from the very beginning and it has caused me a few sleepless nights.
"I am pleased to have sorted out everything and am delighted to have committed myself to this club for another two and a half years.
"I am really happy to be a part of this squad and to remain at Aston Villa because I really think the future is bright."
