Way clear for Akinfenwa move?

Last updated : 19 June 2007 By Simon Head

Akinfenwa: attracted Gillingham's interest last season

"I've talked to my family and agent and I think their offer shows a lack of appreciation."

That's the view of Swansea striker Adebayo Akinfenwa, who today rejected a contract offer from Swansea, effectively sealing his departure from the Liberty Stadium.

The big striker, a £150,000 signing from Torquay two years ago, had an injury ravaged season last term - and also found himself out of favour on occasion under former boss Kenny Jackett.

"I've got to feel like I'm appreciated. At the moment I don't feel like I'm appreciated at Swansea.

Swansea offered Akinfenwa a one-year deal and gave him until today (Tuesday) to sign - and the striker's response suggests that he is set to leave Swansea, which will alert Gills manager Ronnie Jepson, who attempted to sign Akinfenwa in the January transfer window last season.

The player himself confirmed that he has already received contract offers from other (as-yet unnamed) clubs and says his priority is to start the season 100% fit, wherever he ends up.

"My aim is the first game of the season," he told BBC Sport.

"I've been given the all-clear by a surgeon to start running.

"At the moment the progress is very well so I'm looking to get in time for pre-season and play that first game."

Could that first game be for Gillingham? We'll keep tabs on the situation and report news of any signings as we get them.