Frank Arnesen, Sporting Director of Hamburger SV, says that Nicklas Bendtner twice turned down the German club because he was looking for somewhere ‘bigger’ to play.

The striker was linked with a move to Germany in the summer of 2011 before making a deadline day loan move to Sunderland, and last season he held out until the same day before sealing an ill-fated move to Juventus.

Arnesen revealed personal contact with Bendtner in an interview with Politiken, saying, “He said no to me twice because he wanted to play in an even bigger club.”

And he urged his countryman to lower his sights, let go of his ego, and just get back to playing football on a regular basis.

“He must take a step down and choose a good club where he can get the joy of playing back and be used much more.

“He has to make sure to always be in the best shape, needs to be more humble and to think about how he’s going to get the most out of his talent.”

After his drink driving conviction, Bendtner released a statement expressing his sorrow over his behaviour.

“I am incredibly sorry for my actions,” he said. “I can truly say, that this is the worst day of my life.

“I take full responsibility for it, for what I have done, but I must go on. I cannot describe how much pain I am going through, but now I want to do all I can to come back strong.”

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Hat tip to @RYO_cleverfish