Plenty of Crystal Palace fans have been reacting on social media to Christian Benteke’s recent comments regarding his future at the club.
The 30-year-old, who is out of contract at the end of the season, revealed that he turned down a move away from Selhurst Park back in January.
Benteke was wanted by former boss Sam Allardyce at West Brom in the winter window, however, the towering striker snubbed a move to The Hawthorns.
However, the Belgian, who has been called up by Roberto Martinez, has not ruled out seeking a new challenge when his deal expires over the coming months.
Speaking to La Meuse, cited by Sports Witness, Benteke said:
“I know football, and that’s business. I’m in a position where I’ll be free at the end of the season and where the club can hope to get a few million euros. You have to respect that desire, even if I wasn’t entirely in agreement. Beyond that, I’m an employee and I have a boss.
“What was good, however, was that I had the right to refuse, and that’s what I did. With time and experience gathered over the years, you learn to deal with the situation and how to work it in your favour.”
“To be honest, at 30, I don’t exclude trying another challenge. It’s definitely more of a possibility than previously.”
Benteke, valued at £8.1m, has made 138 appearances for Palace since joining in 2016 from Liverpool. During that time, he has scored 28 goals and provided 11 assists.
Palace fans react
The forward’s recent comments were shared on social media by @cpfc_xtra on Monday evening. This is what these Palace supporters had to say in reply, with many pleading with Benteke to remain at the club.
"The pain is we have to sit here and watch it unravel, completely powerless."
"Please don't go"
"Please don't do this"
"Can he not just stay forever"
"I hate this, he deserves a new deal"
"Brb gonna cry"
In other news: Palace keen on Championship ace with £8m release clause, find out more here.