MICOUD SET FOR PARMA EXIT

The 27-year-old playmaker had wanted to stay and fight for his place despite the arrival of Japanese superstar Hidetoshi Nakata, but he now looks to have been forced to change his mind and says that: "From now on, I am looking for a new club."

Micoud has not made the impact that he had hoped for since his move from Bordeaux and his days looked to be numbered when Gialloblu coach Renzo Ulivieri brought in Nakata from Serie A champions Roma.

Liverpool had been linked with a move for Micoud, along with French side Marseille and Bundesliga outfit Schalke 04, and he should not have any difficulty in finding a new club.

The way his impending departure from the Ennio Tardini has been conducted will disappoint him however, having been forced to train alone.

"On Saturday, I was disciplined by the sports directors and they kept me out of the squad for three days," said Micoud.

"They reproached me for taking too much time to put my shin guards on and to tie my boots when the coach asked me to get on the pitch.

"According to them this is negative behaviour, and it's the only explanation I have been given."

Micoud is now determined to leave the club after the treatment he has received, and is considering offers from England, Germany and France.