Song Says Goodbye

Rigobert Song says he will miss playing in front of the West Ham fans next season.

Rigo, who has signed for French club Lens, does not yet technically belong to them as the necessary paperwork has not been received from the French club, but no problems are anticipated, and he says sadly: "I will remember the fans at West Ham with affection.

"It was fantastic when they sang my name and although I don't feel the need to apologise for anything, I am sorry to say goodbye to them."

Glenn Roeder praised the defender for his diligence and personality, and Rigo responds: "I do my job like everybody. I had some very good times at West Ham, and if Glenn said he liked me I would say thank you, I am very happy to hear that.

"I don't know why it didn't work, but now I will be playing in Europe so it is better for everyone."

As well as missing the fans, Rigo, who spent half of last season on loan with German side Cologne, says he is bidding a fond farewell to the camaraderie at the club.

"After the friendly for Cameroon against England before the World Cup I spoke to David James, Joe Cole and Trevor Sinclair, which was good.

"Titi is a good friend as well, but I am not the manager and I don't know why he doesn't play.

"But if you don't have the opportunity to play you can't stay, and in my case it was clear I wasn't wanted."

Rigo says he enjoyed the World Cup, from which he is now recuperating in his homeland, and says: "The tournament was super and I enjoyed it very much. I tried to give my best in every game.

"It was my third World Cup and I am only 26 - I need it in my life."

Rigo has not ruled out a return to these shores, and concludes: "Everybody has ambition. I think I will come back to England one day, but I didn't have a preference for Liverpool over West Ham.

"You are happy where you do your job - as long as you are not sitting on the bench."

It is a refreshing attitude that others could take heed of!