Taylor: New deal snubbed

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Newcastle defender Steven Taylor has rejected the offer of a new five-year contract at St James' Park.

The 21-year-old, who still has two years to run on his current deal, is unhappy with the club's offer of an extension.

Taylor has established himself as a key member of the Newcastle side after coming through the club's youth ranks.

Taylor's father Alf, who is currently representing the defender, insisted his son is desperate to stay on Tyneside, but expressed his disappointment at the offer currently on the table.

He said: "I only hope that they are not trying to force Steven out.

"He loves Newcastle United and it is the only club he wants to play for, but he is most disappointed at what they are offering him."

Massive wages

Taylor's contractual situation has been up in the air for several months and the player's camp are hoping for an improved offer reflecting the defender's development into a genuine first team member.

"Fans seeing the likes of Albert Luque and Jean-Alain Boumsong coming into the club with massive wages must think Steven is also on big bucks, but that is not the case," added Taylor Snr.

"He is not playing for Newcastle for the money, but because he loves football and the club.

"But having said that, it is a short career and the financial aspect is still important.

"Fortunately, while he is disappointed, Steven has never - nor ever will - let it affect his performance on the field.

"He is a local lad who only wants to play for his local team.

"But perhaps that is why his contract offer is not in the same category as those players who are coming in from all over the place.

"Yet I do not see this being a problem at Liverpool with Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher."