West Ham's Frederic Kanoute has cast a doubt over his future at Upton Park by explaining that he may have to join a bigger club to further his international ambitions.
But the French striker has indicated that if he does move it is unlikely he will join a club in the North of England.
Kanoute has been linked with a number of Premiership teams following some impressive displays for the Hammers since his move from French club Lyon.
But he feels that he is being ignored by the French selectors while playing for Harry Redknapp's side.
Kanoute told The Mirrornewspaper: "When you are in a big team like Manchester United or Arsenal, the selectors will see you all the time. . . the fact is you don't tend to get noticed if you're playing for the smaller clubs. Sometimes you have to move to get noticed."
But he added: "I don't really like the North. It's always raining, it's very cold and I don't like all those little houses.
"It's not for me. I couldn't see myself ever playing for someone like Middlesbrough or Everton.
"My friend Joseph-Desire Job plays for Middlesbrough and he tells me how quiet it is.
"I come from the city and need to have things going on around me."