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Whitehead going nowhere
Sunderland, 17:06, September 16, 2008 ,
Sunderland midfielder Dean Whitehead insists he is staying in Wearside despite reported interest from Premiership rivals.
Fulham, Stoke and Middlesbrough were all linked to the Black Cats midfielder, who captained the side last season, but the player has denied rumours linking him with a move away from the Stadium of Light.
Speaking to the Sunderland Echo, Whitehead said: "These stories have been going on for a few months and I haven't a clue where they came from,
"The transfer windows bring up all sorts of rumours and I think some of the newspapers just make it up.
"We were bringing in players and there is competition in midfield, but nothing was ever said to me about leaving.
"I'm excited about what's happening at this club. I'm the captain and I hope it stays that way.
"The stories haven't annoyed me - they've made me laugh, more than anything - but the transfer window is closed for a while and hopefully everyone will just concentrate on the football now."