McCarthy: please release me

Benni McCarthy is refusing to return to Blackburn - whilst stating that he wants to join West Ham, according to reports.

McCarthy, who is surplus to requirements at Ewood Park is thought to have been the subject of a £1.25million bid from West Ham last weekend. Rovers are said to have told United that a deal would not be sanctioned until a replacement for the South African striker had been found.

The 32-year-old is understood to have failed to attend training with his club since last Thursday as a result of the impasse and, according to Sky Sports this lunchtime, has now confirmed that he sees his future with the Hammers as a result of having been frozen out by Sam Allardyce.

David Gold first revealed West Ham's interest in the striker upon being unveiled as the club's new joint-owner last week.