Benayoun begins intensive training regime in bid to win contract at West Brom



Yossi Benayoun has signalled his intent to extend his Barclays Premier League career by embarking on a week of intensive training with Maccabi Haifa, ahead of a decision on his future.



The Israel midfielder’s Premier League days looked to be over after he was released by Chelsea at the age of 33 and left pondering a possible move to MLS side New York Red Bulls.



But interest from West Brom rekindled his ambition to remain in England and prove he can still make an impact in the top flight.



Hungry: Yossi Benayoun is determined to remain a Premier League player following his exit from Chelsea

Eager to convince Hawthorns boss Steve Clarke that he can cope with the rigours of the Premier League, the former West Ham, Liverpool and Chelsea winger began a seven-day conditioning programme with Israeli League runners-up Haifa on Sunday.



He will formulate his plans for next season after that, and after completing his first session, he admitted he wants to hit the ground running, should he land one more contract in English football’s top division.

Valuable: Benayoun showed during Chelsea's busy end of season that he still has a role to play

‘I must work on my fitness and make sure I am in peak condition, and I am grateful to Haifa for allowing me to join them for the coming week,’ he said.

