After completing the medical tests I finally signed a 18-month contact with Leicester. The contract is initially until the end of the season. Then, I will have the option to renew it or continue my career with another team.

It was only a matter of time for the transfer to take place as the manager at Newcastle was not counting me in his plans. I had to play if I wanted to maintain my chances for the all important invitation to the Euro 2004. I had offers from other English and Italian teams, but I finally decided to go to Leicester because I felt that the people there and especially the manager believed in me. I hope I can help my new team fulfil their goals. It will be the best way to return their trust!

As such, I will be leaving Newcastle after six years. Even under the current circumstances it is very difficult to be honest. I have many good memories and I came to consider Newcastle my second home. I would have liked to finish my career with United, but unfortunately things don't always turn out the way we want them. Still I would like to express my gratitude to the fans that never missed a chance to show their support. They always made me feel special.

I will start training with Leicester from Monday and if everything goes well I may play against Southampton on Wednesday.

Nikos Dabizas