Hey it may be the way you've fitted it
From Haynes manual not my words
(A) make sure the flats on the cable are located correctly on the steering gear housing .
(B) grease the cable attachment point on the pedal,
But do not grease the cable before fitting it to the steering gear housing, as there is a danger of grease blocking the breather vent,
(C) check that the clutch operates correctly .depress the pedal several times , then pull the release leaver approximately 10mm away from the cable to check that it is free ,