The Crystal Palace defender says that not being able to leave Sunderland initially made him angry.
Crystal Palace defender Patrick van Aanholt
Patrick van Aanholt has told The Sun how he forced through his move from Sunderland to Crystal Palace.
The former Chelsea defender returned to the capital in a £10 million deal in January [Transfermarkt], linking up with former Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce at Selhurst Park.
And it seems Van Aanholt couldn’t wait to escape Allardyce’s replacement, David Moyes, at the Stadium of Light.
“I did not enjoy David Moyes’ training sessions,” the Dutchman revealed. “Eventually I lost my love for the game, and went into the dressing-room feeling annoyed every day.
“When Sunderland turned down an offer for me from Crystal Palace I went to see Moyes in his office three or four times.
“I was angry. I told him: ‘Accept Palace’s bid and just let me leave – it is the best thing for all concerned.’
“But he said that he wanted to keep hold of me.”
Van Aanholt’s decision looked to have backfired early on when Palace were beaten 4-0 by Sunderland at home.
However, the Eagles, who found themselves joint bottom of the Premier League afterwards, have since climbed to 16th in the standings and are four points clear of the relegation places.
The Mackems, meanwhile, remain rooted to the foot of the table, picking up just one point since then, and are eight adrift of 17th-placed Swansea City.
Sunderland manager David Moyes
Moyes’ recent comments to a female reporter caused controversy this week, although Sunderland have since released a statement reiterating their support for the Scot, despite condemning his remarks.
Should Moyes stay on if Sunderland go down?
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