Mainz 05 have confirmed that former Lillestrom hero Anthony Ujah will be given a second chance to prove his credentials in the new season. In 12 matches last season, the 21-year-old forward was on target twice, against VfB Stuttgart, which was not a good statistic.

There was speculation that Ujah, Mainz record signing, could be traded off to the highest bidder in the summer transfer market after a woeful season by his own high standards.

''There was no player in as many ways as Anthony, but we decided to give him that chance, because it's also a great opportunity. First of all, lending requests have been there, double digit figures. But Mainz did not want to borrow the player. Clubs in Scandinavian have expressed interest in buying him, various clubs have inquired after Ujah,'' says manager Christian Heidel to the online edition of German newspaper rhein-zeitung.de

Ujah, himself, is embarrassed with his lack of form last season, and did not mind leaving the Coface Arena for a new adventure. But Mainz want to be patient with the Nigeria youth-teamer. He could have transferred to another club and be a sensation.

''Anthony had a different approach. He feels a little embarrassed because he was so expensive, and believes that we are not satisfied with him, so maybe he should go. Then the acclimatization and everything else for him would start again from scratch. We know that he feels comfortable here. Anthony can now completely focus on the pre-season,'' adds the Mainz coach.