Premier League football swayed Reid's decision

13 July 2010 13:45
Midfielder also quits international scene Steven Reid has revealed the chance to feature in the Premier League again was one of the main reasons why he signed for the Baggies instead of Scottish giants Celtic.  The former Blackburn man was a free agent and explored both moves before making a decision on his future.  Reid admits the temptation of featuring in an Old Firm game was appealing but the standard of the top flight football in England helped make up his mind. "I would be lying if I said there wasn't an interest there (from Celtic) and I went up and had a look around," Reid said. "With my Irish connection, there was an affinity with Celtic and it was a big pull. "Had West Brom not been promoted, that could have made a difference and you want to play in Old Firm games. "But I weighed everything up, looked at the standard of the two leagues and signing for West Brom was a much better move. "The Premier League is the best league in the world and I'm glad I've got at least another year at that level." The 29-year-old has also made the decision to call time on his international career after winning 23 caps for the Republic of Ireland.  The versatile midfielder made his bow in 2001 against Russia and feature for the ROI in the 2002 World Cup in Japan and South Korea.  "I've taken this decision to prolong my club career," he continued. "Having weighed everything up, I know this is the right decision. "The injuries I've had over the past couple of years have been well documented. "It's a decision I came to after lengthy discussions with the club's medical staff and my family. "I've had some unforgettable times with Ireland, the highlight being making two appearances at the World Cup Finals in Japan and South Korea in 2002 and it has always been a huge honour for me to wear the Irish jersey. "It's just a shame my injuries cut short the number of caps I possibly could have won over the past few years."

Source: FOOTYMAD