The ex-Liverpool winger, who has been labelled as an “icon” by Tampines Rovers chairman Krishna Ramachandra, has turned down reducing his reported £23,495-a-month salary

Jermaine Pennant is on the brink of leaving Singapore's Tampines Rovers after refusing to reduce his “super-scale” salary.

Former Arsenal and Liverpool winger Pennant, who moved to Asia in January on a one-year deal, has been asked to take a pay cut like all of his team-mates.

Club chairman Krishna Ramachandra believes it would “create a social injustice” if Pennant continued to earn his reported £23,495-a-month wage packet while the rest of the side agreed to reduced terms.

However, Pennant - who has been described as an “icon” by Ramachandra - has turned down the offer.

"He's a great player, but no player makes the team," said Ramachandra, in quotes reported by the BBC.

"He's had a huge impact on the club and Singapore football. Someone of his stature and frankly quite iconic status engenders an excitement and vibe which was much needed for Singapore football in the early stages of the season."

Ramachandra insists Rovers could still afford Pennant's monthly salary, but says it would “send the wrong message”.

He added: "While the club could afford his wages, it would also send the wrong message to all the other players that one player is getting a super-scale salary while the others have to take a pay cut.

"It would create a social injustice within the dressing room.”