Reds hit back at Neill
24 Jan 2007 - 12:03:32
Chief executive Rick Parry has launched a thinly-veiled attack on Lucas Neill after the defender opted to sign for West Ham United rather than Liverpool.
Reds supremo Parry has hit back at claims from the Australia international that the Anfield club didn't do enough to persuade him to join them from Blackburn Rovers.
Instead Neill opted to move to Upton Park where he has reportedly signed a more lucrative contract than the one he was being offered to sign for the Merseysiders.
Ironically, the former Millwall full-back is likely to make his Hammers debut against Liverpool on January 30 after missing the FA Cup fourth round clash with West Ham this weekend as he is cup-tied.
"The decision by Lucas Neill not to accept our terms after we agreed a fee with Blackburn will bemuse many fans," Parry told LFC magazine.
"What we want are players with an instinctive desire to play for Liverpool. We want people with a real passion to come here and help us win trophies.
"At the end of the day it is up to the individual to decide what is best for his career.
"From our side, we never want to be in a position where someone is only coming here for the money. A player has to be driven by something more than that.
"Because of the stature, history and ambition of Liverpool, there should be no need for us to sell the merits of this club.
"It's Neill's decision and it's his future. It has happened before and it will happen again."