The winter transfer window almost eleven years ago was certainly a tumultuous one for Fulham boss Chris Coleman. With star striker Louis Saha having bagged 15 goals during the first five months of the season, the club were dealt a blow when he signalled his desire to leave for the interested party that was Manchester United. However, the club was adamant that the 25 year old would be going nowhere, with Fulham owner Mohamed Al-Fayed stating that he was not for sale. The sentiments were echoed by Coleman, claiming that there was absolutely no way Louis Saha will leave this club in January. As always, however, when a player turns to the press to throw a few toys out of the pram in a bid to force through a move, he more often than not gets his way.
''I was told they didnt want to let me to go. Im really disgusted, stunned. My transfer to Manchester United would have been a good deal for everybody. United were offering £8 million for me which was very good business for Fulham - I am not Ronaldo after all. It was the chance of a lifetime for me. United will not come back for me in six months time, that is a certainty. They will have signed another striker between now and then. I truly dont understand the stance taken by Mohamed Al-Fayed. - Louis Saha, January 2004.
Inevitably the Cottagers stance relented and the Frenchmans £12 million move to Old Trafford was swiftly wrapped up.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
