Nou way! Belhadj reveals that he turned down Barcelona to stay at Portsmouth

05 February 2009 16:50
Portsmouth defender Nadir Belhadj has revealed that he turned down the opportunity to sign for Barcelona during the January transfer window.[LNB]Strange decision: Nadir Belhadj turned down Barcelona.[LNB] The Algerian international arrived at Fratton Park on loan at the start of the season, and was contacted about a move to the Nou Camp last month.[LNB]However, he instead opted to complete a permanent deal at Fratton Park in the hope of playing first team football on a more regular basis.[LNB]'Barcelona? My agent was contacted during the winter transfer window,' the 26-year-old told Aujourd'hui Sport. [LNB]'They wanted to prepare for the departure of Sylvinho and (Eric) Abidal was injured.[LNB]'It was very attractive, but I want to play. I don't want to experience a substitute situation again. I suffered at Lyon. [LNB]'It made me mad when Fabio Grosso was not good, but remained in the starting XI. I could do my best, but that didn't change anything.'[LNB] Down and out: We're heading for relegation fears Portsmouth defender Distin[LNB]HATCHET MAN: Adams' family is falling apart as Pompey head for the Championship[LNB]Hey big spenders - Sportsmail's guide to what your team's squad costs[LNB][LNB] [LNB]  

Source: Daily_Mail