I don't deserve greedy label - says new Sheffield United striker

DANIEL BOGDANOVIC joined Sheffield United last night and immediately hit back at his former club Barnsley.

The Maltese international striker, who was also offered the chance to move to Leeds United, is angry at being labelled 'greedy' by Oakwell officials.

According to reports, Bogdanovic demanded a 100 per cent pay rise to sign a new deal after finishing the season as Barnsley's leading marksman with 14 goals.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"It is a pity that things have ended this way but I also believe that talk is cheap," he said. "I have been labelled greedy and I have been criticised with people saying I am only moving for the money – but that is absolutely false.

"I want to play for Sheffield United because it is a club that can make me a better player and a better athlete. It is ambitious and a club that gives me the possibility to reach my goal of playing in the Premier League.

"Of course, I have a good contract," he added. "I would be a hypocrite if I did not say so. It is a good move for me, financially, but it is not the best offer, financially, I received."

Bogdanovic claims to have rejected offers from Championship clubs including Leeds as well as others from clubs in Italy, Qatar, Greece and Turkey before opting to join the Blades, who are sponsored by the Maltese Tourism Board.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"I had the opportunity to join Leeds and a few other clubs who I will not name," he said. "I did not speak to the Leeds manager – the people who represent me had to do that job – but I thank all the managers for showing interest in me. I am flattered and it shows you have done your job on the pitch."

Commenting on the Blades' commercial links with Malta, Bogdanovic said: "It is a plus in many aspects but nothing to do with my quality as a player. I deserve to wear this shirt because of what I have done on the pitch. I want to be appreciated for my character and what I do on the pitch, not where I come from. I categorically deny that I am here just for that (commercial) reason."

Bogdanovic, 30, has now been involved in 12 transfers in just nine years and his 16-month association with Barnsley was the longest of his career.

He has signed a two-year deal, which starts on July 1, and the Blades also have the option of extending that for a further 12 months.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"My career has been unlucky because I have known the wrong people at the right time," he reflected.

"Things change in life and I am happy with the turn my career is taking. This is the biggest club I have played for."

Manager Kevin Blackwell said: "It's a relief to get the first new player in – following on from the good news about Chris Morgan's extended contract and the re-signing of Nick Montgomery.

"Daniel made a name for himself in the Championship last season and I hope he goes on to forge a successful career here.

"He has some attributes that can be important to us and the more variety we have the better.

"Teams can be difficult to break down if they know the opposition doesn't have alternative options."