Sylvain Distin has attempted to reassure Portsmouth of his loyalty to the club following an interview in his native France that appeared to call into question his long term future at Fratton Park and hint at a possible move to Arsenal.
The defender, who performed excellently against The Gunners in a 1-0 defeat for Pompey at the weekend, has again been linked with a possible move to Emirates Stadium following a report that emerged from respected French daily L’Equipe on Friday.
It was claimed that Distin had been contacted by the North London club and the newspaper carried quotes from the player that suggested he wanted to be reassured of Portsmouth’s ambition in January before deciding on his own future on the South Coast.
But following the sale of Lassana Diarra and with fears of a January exodus surrounding more top names, Distin has attempted to end the speculation regarding his own position by declaring his commitment to Tony Adams’ side.
“I have read that (the report). It said I had been in touch with Arsenal – it is rubbish,” Distin told The News. “Firstly, if I had I am not going to say it and secondly I am happy where I am now.
“I don't know where this stuff comes from. You say a long sentence and the first word and the last word is taken – then it doesn't mean what you say.
“I just answer a question that people ask me, if they want to transfer me and change it into something else it's their business.
“I know what I am doing, I know that I am staying, I am here.
“I don't even feel I have to clear it up. For me everything is fine, everybody knows what I feel and what I think.”
Portsmouth have seen the likes of Glen Johnson and Jermain Defoe linked with moves away from the club in January but Adams insisted on Sunday that the club have not received offers for any members of their playing staff.