Contract talks between Brentford and Harlee Dean have broken down, the defender has revealed.
The 24-year-old has been with the club since November 2011, when he joined on loan from Southampton, and has been the cornerstone of the Bees' defence this season.
Head coach Marinus Dijkhuizen is a fan of the wholehearted and honest defender, placing him as vice captain and giving him a role in his leadership group, and is keen to see him sign a new deal.
But Dean, in his typically honest style, admitted, with regret, that talks between Brentford and his representatives have not progressed the way he had wanted it to.
Below is the transcript of the conversation we had with the defender after the 2-1 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.
Question: Tell us about your contractual situation
Dean: “There were some talks about a month ago and we couldn't agree anything and it's been decided we leave the talks and continue playing.”
Question: Are they on hold until January?
Dean: “I've got seven months left on my contract so, as far as I'm concerned, that's it.”
Question: So you're going to be leaving at the end of the season, is that what you're telling us?
Dean: “I don't know. I mean, I don't want to. I want to be here. We had talks and couldn't decide anything and couldn't agree and nothing has been said since.”
Question: Has the stuff that happened in the summer made you consider your future?
Dean: “It's not me. I want to be here. I've just bought a house in Brentford. This is my club. It's all I can say really.
Question: Is it disappointing it hasn't been thrashed out?
Dean: “You could say so.”
Question: Is it assurances on your situation in the squad or other issues?
Dean: “You can't sign a contract and have assurances with your situation. You've got to earn your situation. You've got to train hard, play hard and deserve to be in the team. I'd never expect anything else. That's it.”
Question: Are you hoping the club will come back?
Dean: “Listen, it's not down to me. I've said what I've said and that's as far as it goes. It's a shame but we are where we are.”
Question: It sounds like, from the way you're speaking to us, it feels like it's unlikely to be turned around?
Dean: “I know if it was the other way round and you want someone, you show that you want them and it doesn't feel like that. I don't know. Nothing will change with me. I'll go on the pitch and put my body on the line, give 100 per cent, and wear my heart on my sleeve as I always will. That's just me and I'll never stop that if I've got a month left.”
Question: Are you saying you don't feel properly wanted?
Dean: “I'm not saying that. They weren't my words. We've had contract talks and we couldn't agree. That's it.”
