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Chairman
Doug Ellis told the club's official website: "In
light of recent events, it would have been difficult
for Alpay to represent Aston Villa again in the future
and the player himself was aware that life in England
had become increasingly difficult for him and his
family.
"Therefore,
both parties agreed that the best course of action
was for the immediate termination of his contract
which was due to expire in June 2004."
The
Turkish player was involved in a much-publicised bust-up
with England skipper David Beckham earlier this month
during England's 0-0 draw in Istanbul.
Alpay
missed last weekend's Premiership derby against Birmingham
City after being given time off by Villa boss David
O'Leary over concerns at the reception he might get
from both sets of fans, but had showed up for training
on Tuesday.
He had earned the tag as the most unpopular player
in England for riling Beckham after the Real Madrid
midfielder's penalty miss and again on the way into
the changing rooms at half time of the Istanbul qualifier.
Alpay told Sky Sports: "I'm really sad because
I am leaving my team-mates, and they have been really
supportive. But we came to an agreement to end my
contract.
"I
have strong interest from five other clubs - but I
will wait to make a decision until next week."
Looking
back to this month's Euro 2004 qualifier against England,
he insisted he has no reason to regret his part in
the controversy.
"This
wouldn't have happened if the confrontation had been
with any other player than David Beckham," he
added. "The time and effort the English media
give to David Beckham is unfair. It is injustice to
the other players in the England team.
"The
other players work harder than he does. I wanted to
leave Aston Villa anyway. I am happy that we have
resolved the situation."
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