Hedler - No Return

By Matthew Jones
June 24 2002

Former loan star Helder has once again ruled out a return to St James's Park - despite Portuguese reports still linking him with United.

Former loan star Helder has once again ruled out a return to St James's Park - despite Portuguese reports still linking him with United.

The 31-year-old Portugal international spent six happy months on Tyneside two seasons ago and the Magpies have approached him about re-joining them following his release from Deportivo La Coruna.

But Helder, despite not yet reaching agreement on a predicted move to Benfica, insists he is staying in Portugal or Spain for the sake of his family.

"I am on holiday in Portugal at the moment and am already becoming accustomed to being here again so it is difficult to want to leave," he said.

"I would be better off in Portugal in the long-term because my son is approaching school age and I think it's important he begins his education in Portugal."

"Certainly I have to try to sort out my future in the next week because pre-season training will start soon."