Pierre Ekwah back at L’Étrat for pre-season, but already heading out? | OneFootball

Pierre Ekwah reported for Saint-Étienne’s pre-season return at L’Étrat on Wednesday, with his future still unresolved.

According to Le Progres, the 24-year-old has been granted permission to leave this summer, with interest from clubs in France and abroad.

Supporters’ groups Green Angels and Magic Fans displayed banners near the Robert-Herbin training centre in the morning, reflecting a frosty reception.

Ekwah was signed permanently last summer despite his objections after Saint-Étienne triggered their option to buy from Sunderland. He refused to play in Ligue 2, angering sections of the fanbase.

He spent the first half of the season without featuring, then joined Watford on loan for the run-in and made seven appearances. That was not enough for the Championship side to exercise an option to buy.

His presence at L’Étrat is viewed as a conciliatory gesture towards the hierarchy.

Saint-Étienne cannot be overly demanding after paying seven million euros for him. The club’s stance remains empathetic, and they do not believe a point of no return was crossed, now regarding him as a normal squad member returning from a difficult personal spell.

Source: Le Progres