Town striker Pablo Couñago says he is unsure how his old club Celta Vigo feel about him. The Spanish side meet the Blues in a pre-season friendly on Saturday at Portman Road (KO 3pm).

Couñago left Spain on a Bosman last season, much to the consternation of his club. His switch to England started a debate in Spain over the number of foreign players clubs were employing inhibiting the chances of their own players.

The U21 international cites the constant signings from outside Spain as behind his move to England: "I had my reasons for leaving Spain. I could not see a big future for myself at Celta because they were always buying new players.

"The youngsters were not getting a fair opportunity, which is why I had no problem with walking away."

He says that although he has no grudge with Celta he is unsure how they will react to him. After Town brought him to Portman Road Celta's president Horacio Gomez was less than happy with proceedings and even suggested legal action: "We are going to demand the compensation to which we have the right. We will fight in all the channels, even the judicial one."

That came to nothing, however, the Spaniards were less than helpful in getting the player's documentation completed and he had to get special permission from the FA to play in Town's pre-season games.

Couñago had a 2001/02 where he hardly set the world alight, making just one league start and scoring no league goals. However, he says he was never tempted to leave, is happy here and with his four-year contract. He does, however feel that he would do better playing more often, but promises goals this time around.

Photo: Action Images

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