Moses Simon says transfer speculation over a possible move to Liverpool affected his performances at Gent and became one of the biggest lessons of his career — SuperEaglesNG.com reports.
The Nigeria winger revealed that links with several clubs distracted him between 2016 and 2018, when he struggled to maintain his best form while seeking a move away from Belgium.
Liverpool showed interest in signing Simon, alongside Tottenham Hotspur, Brighton, Fulham, Hull City and Lyon. However, the move to Anfield never happened.
Transfer Rumours Affected My Focus
Speaking to Urban Dwell Sport, Simon admitted that the failed move changed his mindset and affected his motivation at Gent.
“From 2016 to 2018, I dropped in form because I wanted to make a transfer,” he said.
“I didn’t get a transfer. The second year, I was supposed to go to Liverpool. It didn’t work.
“In my head, I was like, ‘Is it the agent or the club? I don’t want to play.’”
Simon also admitted that he made the mistake of thinking a decline in his performances could force Gent to sell him after interest from other clubs.
“The club bought me for €1m, but after one year, they wanted €25m,” he said.
Simon Rebuilt His Career
The winger later regained his form and continued his career in Europe. He joined Levante before he became an important player for Nantes in France.
He has also developed into one of Nigeria’s senior international figures, earning 98 caps for the Super Eagles and featuring at major tournaments.
Simon believes his experience shows young players the importance of staying focused despite transfer rumours.
Advice For Young Players
The Paris FC forward said players should focus on performing for their current clubs because strong displays create future opportunities.
“The more you play, the more market value you have,” he said.
“Whether there’s a rumour or no rumour, just give everything. A transfer can come, and you go. If it doesn’t come, continue because your club is paying you. This is the contract you signed.”
Simon now needs two more appearances to reach 100 caps for Nigeria, a milestone achieved by only a select group of Super Eagles players.
