Gary Cahill of Bolton Wanderers has stated that the constant speculation surrounding his future during the final days of the recently concluded transfer window have affected his game to a considerable extent. Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur were reportedly trying to make a last-ditch transfer for the highly-rated Premier League defender.
Gary Cahill admits loss of focus due to transfer speculation
The 25-year-old defender is currently on International duty for England and claimed that he was not able to fully focus while preparing for the Euro 2012 qualifier against Bulgaria, which England won as Cahill opened the scoring in a 3-0 victory.
Talking to reporters, Cahill said, “I’ve not experienced that on a deadline day before. But to be honest it was different from what you saw on the TV as there wasn’t a decision for me to take.
“It was just a matter of me thinking of what was happening, wondering if [Bolton Wanderers] were going to accept a bid or not.
“It was obviously a bit mentally tiring and then when the window was shut it was a question of focusing on the job in hand [England’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Bulgaria].”
Cahill continued, “There were lots of thoughts and I’m not going to lie as it affected me a little bit. But I’m basically a laid-back character and I don’t tend to let many things bother me.
“It was just a case, when the window shut, of knowing where I’m going to be and re focusing a bit, enjoying my training and looking forward to the game.”
Cahill said further that his recent performances were responsible in establishing him in the Three Lions squad. He added further, “It was a great end to a sticky week so I was pleased with that. From the manager’s [Fabio Capello] point of view, hopefully he knows he can rely on me to start or come on.
He was grateful that his performances at Bolton alone were fetching him opportunities of playing for England, despite the fact that he does not represent any of Premier League’s top clubs.
“Touch wood, I’m still getting my opportunities for England which I am thankful for,” said Cahill. “I just need to keep my head down and work as hard as I can for Bolton. Hopefully my performances there will be enough.”
Bolton manager Owen Coyle has stated at the start of the season that he would not stop Cahill from leaving the Reebok Stadium, provided his buyers would put up an offer up to the standards of their centre-back. But, the transfer could not take place as no team was able to match the of £15 million price-tag of Cahill.
Tags: Arsenal, Bolton Wanderers, EPL, Gary Cahill, Premier League, Tottenham Hotspur, Transfer Window
