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THOMAS INCE has cooled talk of a move to Liverpool FC, saying he was never close to joining the Reds.

Brendan Rodgers made the Blackpool winger one of his main targets in the January transfer window and lined up a £4m bid.

However a deal could not be struck and the former Liverpool Academy player remained with the Seasiders.

Manchester United were reported to be another club tracking Ince’s progress but the 21-year-old – who was named Football League Young Player of the Year on Sunday night – says a move away from Blackpool was always some way off.

“I don’t think any of the moves were close,” he said.

“It’s great having that speculation and it’s very flattering. To have teams of that magnitude saying you’re a decent player, it gives me a smile and flatters me a lot.

“For me though it’s about putting my faith in Blackpool because without that club, my team-mates and the fans I wouldn’t be Football League Young Player of the Year and the player I am now.

“My dream is to play at the top level and to achieve my ambitions, but it’s all about timing and patience, so when you get to the top you are ready to go and not jumping too soon.”