Michael posting here probably makes it more feasible to try and get information than from someone who communicates via official press releases and spin. Or it's a massive conspiracy by those usual SISU bumlickers, one of the two.
I think the injury story would be legit. He's in his 30s, had a lesser season and was signed during the Championship years when we lit our farts with £50 notes, if they were planning to let him go I can't see any need for a cover-up.
He's given you his number, don't call. Wait three days, make him think you're not interested. When you do he'll be so relieved, we're talking at least handjob.