Hunt wanted Toffees switch

Royals ace disappointed bid was rejected

Last updated: 2nd September 2008

Stephen Hunt Reading

Hunt: Disappointed

They were asking if I wanted to leave, and they knew my stance.

Hunt on Reading
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Reading's Stephen Hunt has expressed his disappointment at missing out on a transfer deadline day move to Everton.

The Toffees reportedly tabled a £3.5million offer The Republic of Ireland international on Monday, which was rejected by The Royals.

A £5million bid would have triggered his release clause in his contract and Hunt is disappointed the club did not adhere to his wishes and allow him to move on.

Hunt understands why Steve Coppell was reluctant to lose his services, although he feels being back in the Premier League would help him further his career.

"I spoke to the manager (Steve Coppell), the director of football (Nick Hammond), the coaches. They were asking if I wanted to leave, and they knew my stance," explained Hunt.

"I haven't been a bad apple in the club over the last two or three years.

"I could have been, but I wasn't. I have been ultra-professional and probably deserve a little bit better from them.

"But then again, I understand where they are coming from. They wanted to keep hold of me. But to further my career, that would have been a good move."