• Premier League

Kuszczak 'definitely leaving' Manchester United

Tomasz Kuszczak claims Sir Alex Ferguson never gave him a chance to impress at Manchester United © PA Photos

Enlarge

Related Links

• News: Redknapp tried audacious summer bid for Ferdinand
  
• News: Ferguson hits back at police chief
  
• Preview: United look to move a step closer to 19th league title
  

Goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak has stated his desire to leave Manchester United because he is tired of sitting on the bench and fears for his place in the Poland set-up.

United's first-choice goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar is retiring at the end of the season, potentially opening the door for Kuszczak to stake a claim for the No. 1 shirt. But reports have linked a number of Europe's top goalkeepers to Old Trafford and Kuszczak said his conversations with manager Sir Alex Ferguson indicated he will still be a back-up if he stays at United.

"I'm definitely leaving the club," Kuszczak said, according to The Sun. "My time in Manchester is coming to an end. I've worked hard for five years but I never played as much as I wanted. It's a shame the manager didn't really give me a chance. I always believed I can be Edwin van der Sar's successor. Unfortunately, Sir Alex has decided differently.

"Even though I played many games, I spent most of my time on the bench. I accepted that as I had a great rival, one of the world's best keepers, and Manchester was the only club where I could accept that role for so long. But I've had enough of waiting. I want to play in Euro 2012. Staying here I could be left out by Poland's coach.

"I spoke to Alex Ferguson about my role on many occasions. The manager was in a difficult position. But he also knew Edwin is retiring after this season so he could give me a few more chances to play. We didn't speak that much to convince me next year I can be No. 1. I'd probably be No. 2 for the next few years. I don't want that."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.