Flahavan - Why I had to leave Blues (From Echo)

Flahavan - Why I had to leave Blues

6:00am Friday 4th July 2008

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DARRYL Flahavan today explained he was forced to quit Southend United after they offered him just a year long deal to stay at Roots Hall.

As revealed in Echosport earlier this week, the goalkeeper has finally sealed a switch to Championship club Crystal Palace.

But it was Blues' reluctance to table a longer contract which led to the 30-year-old ending his lengthy stint with the Seasiders.

"I spoke to Southend when the season ended and they weren't prepared to offer me anything longer than a year," confirmed Flahavan who originally joined the Shrimpers from Woking in 2000 and has been handed a three-year-contract by the Londoners.

"My son Aaron is starting school soon though and that was an important factor in the decision because I wanted something more long-term.

"That wasn't going to happen at Southend so I made myself available for a move and as soon as I spoke to the manager here (Neil Warnock) I knew it was where I wanted to be."

However, after making 351 appearances for the club and enjoying a number of memorable moments, which included two successive promotions and a man of the match display in the 1-0 Carling Cup victory over Manchester United, the keeper admitted to also being saddened by his departure.

"I've had such a great time at Southend and really did love every second of being at the club," Flahavan told the Echo.

"Individually winning the PFA League One player of the season, along with the fans and players' player of the year awards meant an awful lot to me. So did the promotions, the games at the Millennium Stadium and, of course, beating Manchester United.

"That was amazing but playing a part in taking the club from the bottom of League Two right into the Championship meant an awful lot to me."

Flahavan played a huge part in the continued success but was quick to point out how Blues' goalkeeping coach Lee Turner had played a huge part in his development.

"I really do owe Lee a lot because he has been different class for me," said Flahavan who will now be coached by former Shrimpers keeper Jim Stannard at Palace.

"He really improved my game and I'd also like to thank the supporters.

"There were always fantastic with me at the ground or even just in the supermarket and it was something I always appreciated.

"I wish them all the best for the future and hope the club keep doing well."

But Flahavan, who stands eighth in the club's all-time appearance makers, is now fully focused on making a good impression with the Eagles and trying to force his way into the team, despite the fine form of Julian Speroni.

"He's a good keeper but I'm here to challenge him for a place," he said.

"I'm confident in my ability and will aim to make the most of any chance that comes my way."

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