Bolton Wanderers & England defender Gary Cahill relieved following the end of a 'crazy week'

Posted Monday, September 05, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

Bolton Wanderers defender Gary Cahill is relieved to have played through a "crazy week" in his career.

"It's been a crazy week, mentally more than anything," said Cahill. "I tried not to let it bother me and, in a way, there is not much you can do about it.

The 25-year-old center-half was heavily linked with a move away from the Trotters, with both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur being touted as potential destinations. On deadline day, Spurs boss Harry Redknapp publicly admitted that he wanted to bring in Cahill, only to give up on a possible deal as the minutes ticked away.

The former Aston Villa man remained at the Reebok Stadium - but he remains committed to the Bolton cause.

"Am I disappointed nothing happened [in terms of a transfer]? I can't really comment on that to be honest with you," said Cahill. "It all happened so quickly. It was like a bit of a whirlwind. Sometimes it is not always great when you make last-minute decisions but there was no decision for me to make.

"I'm employed by Bolton, no fee was accepted, so I'll just move forward and carry on. My head is fine and I'm doing what I love doing, playing football. I'll work hard for Bolton now and likewise for my country."

Cahill did admit that it was a far from ideal situation, with intense speculation concerning his future, as he prepared to play a Euro 2012 qualifier against Bulgaria. He did, however, end up putting in a solid performance and even got his name on the score sheet in the 3-0 victory in Sofia.

"All that stuff before the game is not ideal by any means," said the defender. "But the window was shut Wednesday evening, I knew where I was going to be, so I could settle my head. "I could refocus then on the most important thing which is playing for my country.

"The manager [Fabio Capello] just left me to my own devices. We are all professional footballers, and you have to be professional about the situation. You have got to get your head right and be mentally strong in this game."