Zoltan Gera has denied that he was forced out of Fulham – saying that it was his choice to leave the London club and return to West Brom.
The Hungarian midfielder left Fulham on a free transfer at the end of June, rejecting a new contract offer tabled by Martin Jol. Gera says he had already given his word to Roy Hodgson, who had taken him from West Brom to Fulham in 2008, that he would return to the Hawthorns.
There was a chance of me staying at Fulham but I had already made a verbal agreement with West Bromwich Albion. After I spoke to Roy Hodgson, the Fulham manager changed. They wanted me to stay but I didn’t want to break my agreement (with West Brom).
I’m grateful to Fulham for the years I spent there. I’ve received only good things from them. I felt good and they wanted me to stay. It’s not true that they told me to go. It was my own decision. I considered it to be the best thing for me
I remain disappointed that Gera has left as he has shown throughout his Fulham career just what quality he can bring to the side. We certainly won’t forget those special goals he scored – not least the winner against Hamburg – and wish him all the best with the Baggies.
