‘I turned down Roma for the Premiership’

By European Football
September 5 2005

Abel Xavier has admitted that he turned down the chance to remain with Roma for a crack at the Premiership with Middlesbrough. Having enjoyed previous spells in England with Everton and Liverpool he was keen to return for some more:

"Roma offered me an additional season but it was more exciting for me to return to England," said Xavier.

"The Premier League is where a player is most respected in the world and I say this as I've had experience at a lot of clubs.

"I'm sure I'll be successful in England. This Boro side can go far this season."