Rafa slams Heinze verdict
22 Aug 2007 - 16:14:16
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has launched a stinging attack on the Premier League and Manchester United over the Gabriel Heinze transfer saga.
The Argentina international saw his attempt to join the Reds blocked by the league at an arbitration panel on Wednesday and Benitez has responded by lashing out at both the decision and the Red Devils.
Benitez can't believe the player wasn't allowed to move clubs despite reportedly being in possession of a letter from United claiming they would sanction his sale if a £6.8million fee was matched.
"I would like to ask the Premier League a number of questions. How can a player with a signed agreement be treated like this?" he told the Liverpool Echo.
"He has a document which is clear, but the Premier League prefers to believe the word of someone else who made a mistake. I know there were accusations made against Liverpool in the hearing which were unbelievable. How can this be allowed?
"Then I would like to ask the Premier League why is it that Liverpool always plays the most fixtures away from home in an early kick-off, following an international break?
"We had more than the top clubs last season and we have four already to prepare for this season.
Meanwhile, Henize, who joined United in the summer of 2004 from Paris St Germain, has been linked with a return to France with reigning champions Lyon reported to be interested in the versatile stopper.