Birchall On City Move
Last updated : 07 August 2006 By Covsupport
Chris Birchall has been talking about his move to Coventry City.
Said the Stafford born Port Vale fan who made his City debut against Sunderland yesterday to the Stoke Sentinel: "The last year has been one of ups and downs for me. The ups were with Trinidad and Tobago because no one expected us to get to the World Cup. I got a bit of stick for making the decision to play for them, but that is the best decision I have made in my life.
"There were downsides. I got stick for some of my performances for Vale, but that couldn't be helped. I was travelling all over the world and coming back and getting niggling injuries and not playing my best.
"I don't think I should have been judged on that. With no distractions I felt I could have gone on this season and scored at least 10 goals.
"I am a bit disappointed I didn't get the chance to prove some people wrong, but there were a lot of fans behind me and I would like to thank all the Vale fans.
"It's my club. I have been there all my life and the fans have been brilliant with me. "I will always remember the amount of people who have got behind me and given me support."
He joins on a deal that will rise to £325,000. There will be an initial payment of £150k with payments of a further £100,000 at the end of the season and three £25,000 payments when Birchall makes 15, 30 and 45 appearances. There is also a 15% cent sell on clause and further undisclosed bonueses.
