Hammers deny Bellamy link
26 Aug 2008 - 12:18:49
West Ham United have released an official statement denying that there is any truth in the rumours linking striker Craig Bellamy with a move to Manchester City.
Morning press reports had suggested that the Hammers could consider selling the 29-year-old Wales international, although boss Alan Curbishley strenuously denied such talk.
Now Irons chief executive Scott Duxbury has made it absolutely clear that Bellamy is not about to depart Upton Park.
A statement on the club's official website read: "West Ham United have absolutely no intention of selling Craig Bellamy.
"He is under contract and is committed to the club. Craig remains a very important part of our plans for the future.
"The club is being run on sound football and business principles in order to develop a squad which can deliver success this season. No player would be bought or sold unless that helped to achieve that aim.
"We are not interested in selling players who are committed to the club and essential to our first-team squad.
"If a player refuses to sign a new contract, or is not crucial to the manager's plans, then we will look at offers on a case by case basis. It is the only sensible way to build for the future."