Austrian international Paul Scharner believes that his desire to play in central defence was one of the main reasons for his departing West Bromwich Albion.

The 32-year-old was not offered a new contract by the Baggies at the end of the season, and he has suggested that disagreements over his best position played a factor in his departure.

"The rest of the world outside of England still regards me as a centre-half and it's where I've played the last two games for Austria," he told Press Association Sport.

"I want to play at centre-half, told West Brom of my intentions and that contributed to the club's decision [not to offer a new contract]."

Scharner is currently a free agent.