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Batty staying at Leeds - Agent

EXCLUSIVE
DAVID BATTY'S agent Hayden Evans has quashed speculation that claimed the former England midfielder is on his way out of Elland Road, insisting the fans' favourite is staying at the club.

Recent speculation in the press had linked the veteran midfielder with a loan move to Sheffield Wednesday and even a surprise return to Newcastle United, however this is not the case.

"Not that we're aware of at all, no," said Evans, when asked if there was any truth in the Magpies link. "No-one has made us aware of any interest.

"He's not available so I don't know why there would be interest, or why journalists and the media would continue to think along these lines.

"David Batty's situation at Leeds couldn't really have been made any clearer. He isn't looking to move on."

Batty was a firm favourite under former manager David O'Leary, having made 36 appearances for The Whites last season.

However, following Terry Venables's arrival, the former Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers man has yet to feature under the club's new regime, leading many to believe the veteran is surplus to requirements.

"It's like any other situation, he's just doing what he's doing and it's up to the manager," added Evans.

"He doesn't want to play anywhere else. There has been no fall-out (with Venables). None at all."

Evans also confirmed that the Leeds-born star will be closing the door on football when he hangs up his boots at the end of his contract, but will be battling for his place while at Elland Road.

"He is fighting for his place, it's well documented he is. He won't go into coaching, he'll be retiring," concluded Evans.

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