Crystal Palace defender Patrick van Aanholt has revealed the reasons behind his move from Sunderland to south London, ​stating that he 'fell out of love with the game' as his days at the Stadium of Light came closer to an end. 


The Dutchman is currently sidelined for a few weeks as the result of an ankle injury suffered in the 2-0 win over West Brom last month.

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"I did not enjoy David Moyes’ training sessions," said Van Aanholt. "Eventually I lost my love for the game, and went into the dressing-room feeling annoyed every day.


"When Sunderland turned down an offer for me from Crystal Palace I went to see Moyes in his office three or four times. I was angry. I told him: 'Accept Palace’s bid and just let me leave - it is the best thing for all concerned.'


"But he said that he wanted to keep hold of me."

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Van Aanholt, who eventually was allowed to make the move to Sam Allardyce's side, was also asked to join the club mid-game by Alan Pardew a few years ago as he explained: "I was playing for Sunderland when we were at home to Palace.


"Just as I was getting ready to take a throw-in Alan Pardew came along the touchline towards me and said: 'Come and play for my team next year.' In the middle of a game, eh? I found that really funny. Then I told him: 'OK, no problem.'"

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As things stand, the decision appears to have been a good one as Crystal Palace's recent run of form has been good enough to put some distance between themselves and the relegation zone - despite Wednesday's 3-1 loss to Southampton.


Sunderland, on the other hand, are ten points adrift at the bottom of the league with just eight games left to go. Jermain Defoe will probably pick up a few goals for the Black Cats as the season draws to a close but it looks like the side are finally set to fall into the Championship after years of flirting with relegation.