Hyypia - I could have quit Reds

06 February 2009 17:48
iverpool defender Sami Hyypia has revealed he could have quit Anfield in the winter transfer window had the club not made it clear he was part of their plans.[LNB] Newcastle and Sunderland were both strongly linked with the veteran centre-back, who is out of contract in the summer and is no longer guaranteed first-team football on Merseyside.[LNB]However, Reds boss Rafa Benitez has added the Finland international to his squad for the UEFA Champions League knockout stages.[LNB]And Hyypia admits the club left him in no doubt regarding their feelings, saying: "There were a lot of rumours, and a few offers as well. Newcastle and Sunderland were both really interested in signing me.[LNB]Options"But Liverpool made it clear that they were not willing to sell me. That was it, although I might have considered another option.[LNB]"The club decide these things, Liverpool didn't want to sell me. So I will spend the rest of the season in Liverpool, this is my 10th season and it is a great achievement."[LNB]The 35-year-old does, however, confess that he will look at his future at the end of the campaign.[LNB]"I will consider my options again in the summer when my current Liverpool contract expires," added Hyypia.[LNB]"It is too early to say what will happen then. It is not my style to worry about these things in advance. Now I will concentrate on helping my team to win trophies in a role the manager decides, whether it is on the bench or on the pitch."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports