Newly promoted Manchester City have reportedly signed Peter Schmeichel from Aston Villa. The former Manchester United goalkeeper was told by Villa boss Graham Taylor earlier this week that the option on his contract will not be taken up for next season. According to Sky Sports, City manager Kevin Keegan has snapped up Schmeichel for the 2002/2003 season.
"Peter will be playing for us next season. The deal is done and I am absolutely delighted. He should be at the club next week and subject to a medical he will be with Manchester City next season. He is another signing just like Stuart Pearce; if he can do as well as he has it will be tremendous. He is a tremendous professional and has a winning mentality and you cannot have enough of that around a club," said Keegan.
Villa manager Graham Taylor explained yesterday why the Birmingham club were not retaining Schmeichel. "There are four games to be played and Peter Enckelman will now come into the side. He has served his apprenticeship under both David James and Peter Schmeichel and deserves his chance.
"I would not even consider asking Peter Schmeichel to be a substitute as he is a legend in his own right. Peter Schmeichel has been in a league of his own but Villa now have to look to the future. I thought it was very interesting when Villa signed Peter Schmeichel but we are now another season down the line and changes have to be made. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Peter. He is a great character and has been an asset to Villa," said Taylor.
Filed by Tom Grealis
