New West Bromwich Albion signing Stephane Sessegnon insists he never asked to leave Sunderland. The 29-year-old midfielder was happy on Wearside and only accepted a new challenge once an enticing opportunity was put to him.

He told the Sunderland Echo: "I didn't sense that I was going to leave Sunderland, but that's the life of a footballer.

"If a club wants you and they accept an offer, then that's what happens. That's football.

"I never asked to leave the club. But the club accepted the offer and then I had the choice to come to West Brom.

"It's football and I had the chance to continue playing in the Premier League. It's a good opportunity for me.

"I had three very good years at Sunderland with some great moments. I will always remember the good memories there and the people at the club."