Joe Ledley will consider playing abroad after leaving Crystal Palace
Wales midfielder Joe Ledley says he interested in the prospect of playing abroad as he weighs up his options after leaving Crystal Palace.
The 30-year-old was phased out of proceedings at the tail end of last season when Sam Allardyce took charge at Selhurst Park and is now available as a free agent.
Ledley played the full 90 minutes for Wales on Sunday night against Serbia despite his lack of match practice, a situation he is glad to be leaving behind even if he is fond of the south London club.
He said: „It’s been frustrating. I don’t know why I’ve not been even in the squads, but it was the decision of the manager and I had to deal with it and get on with it.
„It’s definitely for the best. I spent three-and-a-half years at the club and gave my all there and I think the fans know that.“
After joining Palace in January 2014 from Scottish champions Celtic, the midfielder says consistent playing time before he enters the twilight period of his career is of importance.
„When you’re not getting picked for as long as I wasn’t then you have to do something about it,“ he added.
„I need to be playing, especially at my age having turned 30 now.“
The Cardiff City academy product, who has made 69 Premier League appearances and earned 73 international caps, is attracted to the idea of playing abroad but will bide his time before deciding on which of his vast array of options appeals to him most.
Ledley said: „There have been clubs in touch with my agent all over the world.
„I’d be prepared to go abroad. I think it would appeal to me, especially having played international football because I love playing on that stage and I think it suits the way I play.
„There have been Championship and Premier League clubs in touch, a lot of interest, but I want to have a good summer with the family first.
„I’ll see the options I have and go from there.“