Riera suspended and fined for attack on Benitez and Liverpool 'sinking ship'

18 March 2010 17:49
Rafa Benitez has responded to Albert Riera's outspoken attack on him by suspending the Liverpool winger until Monday.[LNB]In what amounts to a two-game ban for Riera, the £6million signing from Espanyol has been told to stay away from Liverpool's preparations for Thursday's Europa League last 16 return leg against Lille and Sunday's Old Trafford showdown with Manchester United in the Barclays Premier League.[LNB] Rift: Riera struggles to look interested in training with Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez on Wednesday[LNB]Riera, who will also be fined, has infuriated Benitez with the timing and contents of an interview with a Spanish radio station, in which he claimed he had been ostracised, accused his fellow-Spaniard of lacking communication skills and described Liverpool as 'a sinking ship'.[LNB]Benitez is acutely aware that overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit against Lille and repeating last season's Old Trafford triumph could be crucial to salvaging some respectability from a desperately disappointing campaign, as well as earning himself some breathing space.[LNB]Liverpool's under-pressure boss does not want any distractions and feels let down by Riera, who will be sold at the first opportunity.[LNB] Out of favour: Riera has not been a regular for Liverpool this season[LNB]According to sources in Spain, Benitez rang Riera's agent, with news of the suspension, as soon as he heard of the interview and verified it had taken place.[LNB]Riera was subsequently informed that he would not be allowed back in Liverpool's Melwood training ground until Monday, when he can expect to feel the full force of Benitez's wrath.[LNB]Riera claims he has received two offers from clubs in Russia, the homeland of his wife Yulia Koroleva.[LNB]He could be set for a swift exit as the transfer window in Russia, which was supposed to close last week, has been extended to April 8.[LNB] Rafa Benitez under fire: Albert Riera rap threatens Liverpool loyalty callRafa Benitez's Pepe talk - Liverpool boss says: Be loyal like ReinaMan United, City, Liverpool or back to Chelsea - where next for Mourinho?Kjaer calls for Liverpool or Manchester United offer to tempt him from PalermoLIVERPOOL FC

Source: Daily_Mail