Charlton beam at Zheng stay

Chief executive delighted to keep Chinese midfielder

By James Dall   Last updated: 3rd September 2008

Charlton Zheng Zhi

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Charlton chief executive Steve Waggott has expressed his delight at retaining the services of Zheng Zhi.

Chinese midfielder Zheng had been strongly linked with a move to West Bromwich Albion, with the Premier League club lodging a bid earlier this summer.

However, an agreement failed to materialise before Monday's transfer deadline, and Waggott has admitted he is pleased Zheng will be at manager Alan Pardew's disposal in the new campaign.

Waggott told the club's official website: "The deal for ZiZi wasn't right, and we're delighted he's still a Charlton player, particularly because he loves the club so much.

"Having ZiZi in the squad is a huge boost for us. Especially due to China's lack of commitments with no World Cup qualifiers or Olympics on the horizon.

"He's a fantastic player, and we look forward to a big contribution from him as we try to regain our status in the top flight."