‘When all parties are not happy’ – Patrick Vieira on Nottingham Forest midfielder’s Crystal Palace exit
Patrick Vieira has spoken about Cheikhou Kouyate’s exit from Crystal Palace and says the now Nottingham Forest midfielder was a ‘warrior’ during his first season in charge.
The 32-year-old left Selhurst Park over the summer after failing to agree a contract extension.
Kouyate made 31 appearances in all competitions under the French World Cup winner last season. Palace finished 12th in the Premier League and reached an FA Cup semi-final in Vieira’s first season in charge.
“He was really important – Cheikhou was a warrior on the field,” said Vieira. “He really helped me. His experience was really needed on the field, and he really helped me to send my messages across [to the other players].
“His stability and strength allowed me to do what I wanted to a little bit quicker because of his experience in the Premier League.”
It was reported that the Eagles were only willing to hand Kouyate a one-year deal, but the midfielder wanted a two-year deal.
Kouyate, who spent four years with the South Londoners and made more than 140 appearances, signed a two-year contract with Nottingham Forest following his Palace departure.
The former West Ham midfielder has made 12 appearances for Forest since joining. Palace travel to the City Ground tomorrow for the final Premier League game before the season breaks before the World Cup.
“When players get to the end of their contract, there is the wish of a player, and there is a contract situation,” added Vieira.
“When all parties are not happy, there is always an option for the player.
“I will always have a huge respect for Cheikhou because we are still close to each other – we are still in touch.
“Cheik loved this football club. The fans loved him. I can guarantee you that he loved his stay at this football club stayed.
“That is what happens in football – sometimes you move out, but you don’t take away the years you spent at the club.”
KOUYATE PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD