I don't think he did refuse to play, he was going on at Fulham until Stephens cramped up. I'm almost certain that it was Hughtons choice to leave him out, not on ability as he's a better player than Greer, but as a result of the transfer speculation. Dunks head must be all over the place at the...
Fair enough, I'd be surprised if it's true as well. The club have done a lot for Lewis, he's well respected by the fans and his team mates.
If it is true that he withdrew from the Southend game, it makes it MUCH easier for the fans to say goodbye to a player under those circumstances.