Ashley Young has called off contract talks with Aston Villa – but insists he does not want to leave the Midlands club.
Young, targeted by Tottenham in the summer, has 18 months remaining on his current deal but has decided he does not want to hold any more discussions while the season is in progress.
The 25-year-old winger, who joined in an £8m move from Watford in 2007, told The Sun: “I’ve told the people at Villa that I won’t be signing a new contract at the moment.
“I know they want to get it done now but my current deal still has a year to run after this season and I feel there is plenty of time to talk next summer.
“I want to stress that I have no problem with Aston Villa. I love the fans and I’m very much enjoying my football.
“I want to concentrate on what’s happening on the field and don’t want to get distracted.
“It’s a big season for me and I’m hopeful there are good times ahead under the new manager.”