SONG TURNS DOWN MARSEILLE MOVE

Marseille had agreed to a £3.5 million move to bring the defender to the south coast of France, but Song rejected Marseille's wage offer.

 The Cameroon international has stated that he is happy to stay on Merseyside after his £2.6 million from Italian side Salernitana.

Since he has been at Anfield the last 18 months, The Reds faithful have found him to be a hit in Gerard Houllier's squad.

The Liverpool boss told Song that he is free to leave if he wishes because his chances of first-team football will be limited this coming season, after the arrival of German international Markus Babbel from Bayern Munich

But Song has managed to overcome cultural and language barriers to adapt himself to life in the Liverpool area.

Song told Liverpool's official website: "It's difficult to integrate, but I believe I've managed to do it.

"I played in France with Metz, in Italy with Salernitana and in England with Liverpool, so I've shown I'm a professional and can adapt.

"I think people realise quickly that I'm not shy and I like a laugh, and I'm not someone who likes to sit around on his own.

"Language was a handicap at the start, but now I get all the jokes and Robbie Fowler really makes me laugh."

Song also believes that his time in Europe has made him a far better player with his own game.

Song said: "Coming to Europe has enabled me to iron out the flaws in my game, largely through the regular experience of playing at the highest level.

"Now I play the European way.

"I have been lucky also to have trainers who have taken the time out to work with me and improve my game.

"I'm aware too of the responsibilities you have when you are playing for one of the biggest clubs around.

"It is impossible to behave badly when you are a Liverpool player, you have to set an example when you play for a club like this."