Izzet slams transfer talk

Izzet says he is keen to stay at Leicester

Leicester City midfielder Muzzy Izzet has spelled out his desire to sign a new long-term contract and stay at Filbert Street.

Izzet rubbished newspaper claims that he will quit the Foxes at the end of his current deal, which has 12 months to run.

Currently with the Turkish squad for Euro 2000, he has already held talks over a new deal with Martin O'Neill and claims O'Neill's departure to Celtic has not affected his desire to stay on.

He said: "I can categorically state that I have never said I will run down my contract and then leave Leicester City.

Once Euro 2000 is out of the way I plan to resume negotiations

Muzzy Izzet

"It is true that I have one year left of my current deal but rather than jump ship I intend to continue contract negotiations when I return from Euro 2000.

"I want to stay with Leicester City," he declared. "I've had a brilliant time here and it is rubbish to say that I am now getting ready to pack my bags and leave.

"Once Euro 2000 is out of the way I plan to resume negotiations with the club."

Izzet's commitment is a timely boost for the club after speculation that O'Neill would raid his former club to bolster his new squad at Celtic.