33-year old play maker Yossi Benayoun was allowed to leave Chelsea and look for a new club after the Blues decided against renewing his contract. He is currently without a club and was linked with a move to New York Red Bulls of the MLS, which has somewhat become a destination for quite a few footballers who enter the twilight stage of their career, given the less physical demands of the league compared to that of English football.

However, it is believed that Benayoun only sees a move to the United States as a last resort, with an extended stay in England being his first choice. His hopes of staying put were boosted as he learned of West Bromwich Albion’s interest in signing him up. He is now keen to secure that contract and to further strengthen his case, he has already started training vigorously to convince West Brom boss Steve Clarke of his ability to deliver, regardless of his age of 33.

Benayoun has started a week long training regime with Israeli league’s runners-up Macabbi Haifi in an attempt to maintain his fitness and to earn that contract at West Brom which he is yearning for. He spoke to the media regarding the same and was reported by the DailyMail as saying, “I must work on my fitness and make sure I am in peak condition, and I am grateful to Haifa for allowing me to join them for the coming week,”

“I am going to work hard every day, so that wherever I go when I decide on my future, I will start the pre-season programme with my new club in good shape. I should know more next weekend.”

Do you feel that Benayoun still possesses the quality and physical traits needed to sustain the rigors of the English Premier League? Or do you think that the former Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea man has passed his peak, and that a move to the MLS is best for him indeed?