Saturday 27 June 2015 18:35, UK
Tony Cascarino has defended Aston Villa over Fabian Delph having a release clause of under £10m in his contract.
Manchester City are being linked in Saturday's national newspapers with the England midfielder, who signed a new four-and-a-half year deal with Villa earlier this year.
Former Villa striker Tony Cascarino believes the Midlands club had little choice but to insert a low release clause in case Delph left on a free.
He told Sky Sports News HQ: “The circumstances why Delph has a contract that has a release clause is he was nearly at the end of his previous contract.
“How can it be £10million? We’re at a stage where literally players have a blank sheet of paper and clubs say fill in the blanks and tell us what you want.
“Players have got so much power in the modern game.
“Villa tried to broker a deal where they will get something. I feel sorry for the club, it’s the way the modern game is.”
Another Villa player with a release clause is Christian Benteke which is believed to be £32.5m.
Cascarino has doubts that the Belgian striker will remain at Villa Park after he was linked with a move to Liverpool.
He said: “Christian at his very best is unplayable. His release clause is obviously a lot higher and suits Villa a lot more.
“I’m not sure if Christian wants to stay. I don’t think clubs should keeper players if their heart is not in it.”
