• Premier League

Kuyt: Liverpool exit not due to Brendan Rodgers

ESPN staff
June 3, 2012
Dirk Kuyt was impressed by Fenerbahce © PA Photos
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Dirk Kuyt has moved to clarify that he was not forced out of Liverpool by new Reds boss Brendan Rodgers.

Kuyt signed a three-year deal with Fenerbahce on Sunday, bringing the curtain down on a six-year stay at Anfield. He won one trophy during that time, the Carling Cup, but nevertheless became a popular figure on Merseyside.

The most recent Premier League campaign saw Kuyt become disillusioned with life at Liverpool for the first time, with Kenny Dalglish often leaving the Dutchman on the bench. Kuyt said he would stay if still valued at the club, a situation that became possible when Rodgers took the reins from Dalglish.

However, within days of Rodgers' arrival Kuyt has confirmed his exit, although he insists the move has nothing to do with the ideas of the new Liverpool manager.

"After six years I am ready for a new challenge,'' Kuyt said on the website of his management company. "[The club and supporters] I will always carry in my heart.

"The appointment of the new coach has nothing to do with it. When Fenerbahce came to me and made their ambitions known, from the first moment I was sold. They give me the confidence that I lost.''

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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