Weaver parting shot for City

Nicky Weaver has rounded on Manchester City, claiming he was forced out of the club.

The 28-year-old goalkeeper felt he was due a testimonial at Eastlands as part of a new contract.

Instead he has a signed a three-year deal at Charlton, who were relegated from the Premier League.

Weaver told the Manchester Evening News: “One minute we were talking about a testimonial and the next we weren’t talking at all. I found that disheartening.

“I was told that the contract offered while Stuart Pearce was manager was no longer on the table and that I would have to basically go on trial for the new manager.

“I found that a bit of an insult, given that I played more than 30 games last season in the Premiership and cups.

“My agent Paul Stretford made it clear that I didn’t want to leave City, where I had spent most of my adult life, but in the end it became clear it was time to move on.

“I will probably never again experience the special bond I have with City’s fans and, for their sake, I hope the season is a great success. They deserve to see a winning team.”

Weaver added: “Now I have got to get on with my new life. Alan Pardew made me feel extremely welcome and did in 15 minutes what City couldn’t in six months.”