Thursday 1 January 2015 15:12, UK
Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski has dismissed newspaper claims he stormed out of the club's training ground as "pure lies".
Inter Milan have admitted an interest in taking Podolski to Serie A in the January transfer window but the Germany star has firmly denied reports he withdrew from the squad to face Southampton in a bid to push through a move.
Speaking on social media, the 29-year-old said: "I try not to comment on stories I see in the papers but when I see something that questions my commitment & love for the club then I must speak up!
"Here 'The Mirror' have tried to make a story out of nothing. I find it incredible that newspapers are allowed to print pure lies to get people's attention.
"In order to 'storm' off the pitch you have to actually be on the pitch in the first place, I spent the whole session inside with medical staff. It seems it is 'The Mirror' who stormed to the keyboard too quickly.
"Nevertheless I wish 'The Mirror' a Happy New Year and more luck with correct headlines in the future. COYG."
Podolski has scored 31 goals in 82 appearances for the Gunners since joining from Cologne for an undisclosed fee in 2012 but has failed to command a regular starting role.
