Mascherano move sanctioned
20 Feb 2007 - 16:19:32
Liverpool will be able to include Javier Mascherano in their side for the Champions League clash with Barcelona after the Premier League confirmed that they had accepted the Reds' application to register the player.
Rafa Benitez's side agreed a deal to sign the Argentina international from West Ham United on transfer deadline day last month.
FIFA had given Liverpool special dispensation to sign Mascherano even though he had already been registered with two clubs this season - the Hammers and former side Corinthians of Brazil.
Despite FIFA's ruling, the Premier League revealed at the beginning of February that they wanted to look into the transfer of the player to Anfield.
A statement from the Premier League read: "We are satisfied that the contractual arrangements proposed by Liverpool FC are consistent with its rules; particularly that the relationship between club and player is not subject to third-party influence.
"The Premier League is grateful for Liverpool FC's co-operation and openness at the start and throughout the process.
"Liverpool FC also appreciated the Premier League Board were not prepared to sanction this transfer until further information on any third-party involvement in player registrations had been received from all Premier League clubs."