N'Zogbia: Le Havre Tricked Me

By Matt Jones
December 27 2005

Skilful winger Charles N'Zogbia believes former club Le Havre tricked him into signing a three-year deal before he made the switch to St James' Park in August 2004.

N'Zogbia's debut however, was delayed while the French club claimed they had him tied to a long-term contract; something which the 19-year-old winger was unaware. Charles thought he had only signed for one-year.

FIFA eventually intervened and he was able to make his debut in September 2004 against Blackburn.

N'Zogbia explained: "I was forced to leave Le Havre. They didn't offer me a good contract.

"Either I stayed and was blocked, or I could go abroad as I could not sign for another club in France.

"At first, Le Havre offered me a one-year deal. Actually the officials trapped me because I signed for three years.

"Indeed, my mother wanted me to sign. To me it was clear, it (the contract) was for one year.

"Now everything is fine. The Newcastle coach is happy with me so far.

"Sometimes the fans chant my name, but I can't always understand what they say."