Ghana midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang Badu has debunked suggestions he joined Bursaspor in the Turkish Super Lig because of money.

The box to box midfielder had been the subject of a move to England where he had a preference to play.

After several failed talks to Premier League clubs, Championship side Birmingham City were strong contenders to land the Ghana international with Harry Redknapp interested in having the versatile midfielder at St.Andrews.

However, he opted to join Bursaspor and work under French coach Paul Le Guen who once managed Cameroon.

 “I don’t think I came to Turkey because of money. I want to play football and I will get it in a competitive Turkish league,” Agyemang-Badu said.

 “The offer I got for Birmingham was very great, it was very difficult to reject it but I needed to taste the Turkish league.”

There are several Africans in the Turkish league and Badu has admitted they played a major role in his decision making.

“I spoke with Jerry Akaminko, John Boye, Adebayor and Asamoah Gyan before our friendly with Kayserispor.

“There were great reviews and I want such challenges. It is not about money.”

The Turkish league begins this Friday with Bursaspor playing as guests to Istanbul Basaksehir.