'I can't understand' - Joachim Andersen tells Crystal Palace fans why he joined Fulham in £30m deal

Eyebrows were raised within the Crystal Palace fanbase when one of their star defenders, Joachim Andersen, was sold to rival Premier League club Fulham in the summer transfer window for a fee in the region of £30 million.

The Eagles massive were not happy - but Andersen has hit back at critics of the move, suggesting he ‘can’t really understand’ the negative reaction and that he is ‘happy’ with his decision.

He drew upon his prior experiences with the Cottagers, having spent a year on loan with them during the 2020/21 season. Furthermore, Andersen also mentioned that players do not always have an ‘option’ when transfer moves are being made - indicated that it may not have been his choice to leave.

Speaking in an interview with Danish outlet Ekstra Bladet [via Fotboll Skanalen], Andersen said: “It provides a certain security and safety in relation to my career. I’m 28 years old, and getting a five year contract is pretty nice and pretty important. When I finish the contract, I will be 33 years old. It’s not like you can relax, but it gives some peace in the stomach.

“Fulham is a club I know, and I had a fantastic year there. They have shown they are incredibly ambitious and have brought in some talented players during this window. I can’t really understand why there’s anything wrong with taking a step aside if you’re happy about it.

“I don’t know why it’s like it’s something negative to take a step aside. I love doing what I do, and everyone always wants to play for the very biggest clubs in the world. It is not always an option, and many coincidences come into play.”

During his time at Palace, Andersen made 104 Premier League appearances for the club over the course of three years, scoring a total of three goals along the way.