Hostile home fans await Reyna

Last updated : 18 September 2003 By Ben Collins
Negotiations with Fulham went as far as the usual transfer sealer - the player holding shirt aloft pose - but Kevin Keegan stole in to persuade the American to join the Blues instead.

Reyna has therefore been labelled 'Judas' on some Fulham fan sites and can rest assured an abusive reception awaits him, if indeed, he is selected to play on Saturday.

"I understand why Fulham are upset because I was in deep discussions with them and I didn't join," said Reyna. "That is all in the past as far as I'm concerned. I had every right to weigh up all the offers.

"Sunderland had told me I could speak to other clubs virtually as soon as I reported for pre-season training. The situation wasn't easy and was changing day by day and, in the end, hour by hour, but I got a call from Kevin Keegan and then I had a decision to make."

Reyna, of course, opted for City, and he added his reasons for doing so: "Everything here is the best, the whole set-up, brilliant stadium, everything.

"I think this club can stay in the top six. I hope we can progress in the UEFA Cup and get some big clubs here at the City of Manchester Stadium."

The midfielder now has to wait and see if he has done enough for his new manager to select him against the Cottagers.