Jonjo Shelvey insists that he never once thought about joining West Ham United last summer, in an interview with Sky Sports.
West Ham were thought to be keen on signing the Newcastle United midfielder ahead of the season, but could not agree a fee.
And Shelvey, who grew up supporting West Ham, insists that his head wasn’t turned by the Hammers’ interest in him.
“I didn’t really have an opinion on it,” the £12 million man (Sky) said.
“I was under contract at Newcastle and it was just a matter of what would be would be. If they wanted to move me on or sell me, then that was their choice. But I was more than happy to stay. I never once thought about leaving.
“Obviously, I grew up as a West Ham fan and I’ve got a place back home right next to their training ground.
“It would have been an easier choice, in that sense, but I’ve always been away from home. It’s sort of become the norm. You just get used to it. Now, even when I get time off, I tend not to go back. I just stay up here and enjoy it. It’s a lovely place to live.”
West Ham have been long-term admirers of Shelvey, but have never managed to get a deal done.
Newcastle boss Steve Bruce will be glad that Shelvey stuck around now.
Shelvey has been an important player for the Magpies this term, with his goalscoring threat proving crucial.
The England international has netted five goals for the season, which puts him second in Newcastle’s scoring charts.
West Ham, meanwhile, could have done with a player with Shelvey’s passing ability in the middle for them, as they have struggled this term, and remain locked in a relegation battle.
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