Delgado clears the air

Last updated : 14 July 2002 By Christian Kelly

While no one knows for sure the extent of Agustin's injury or his real views on his club after so many conflicting reports, the latest quote is a positive one from the man himself. Agustin claims that his injury has prevented him from travelling and he seems to want to return to do well for the club. Delgado told the BBC: "I want to recover completely here in Ecuador and talk to people in England so they give me time to recover properly.

"The only thing I want to do is get better, fix my knee and then go back to England.

"I like England and I like Southampton.

"It's a small place you can get around easily. The team is very good, the fans give a lot of support and I feel fine there.''

This is good news, although I still think that the entire series of events have been farcical. I hope Delgado is aware that he will not be considered match fit upon his return and will be behind Pahars, Beattie, Ormerod and perhaps even Kevin Davies in the pecking order. All of the above have returned to put in the work necessary during pre-season.