Pearce supports Neville stance
16 Feb 2007 - 13:33:37
Manchester City boss Stuart Pearce has backed Gary Neville's stance that players should take more responsibility for their contracts rather than rely on the input of agents.
Neville hit out at the growing influence of agents on Thursday saying he didn't know many good ones and that they should be removed from the game.
But, although Pearce stopped short of wholeheartedly endorsing the comments of the Manchester United and England defender, he did concede that Neville had a point when it comes to players taking more responsibility for themselves.
"There are good and bad agents as there are good and bad people in every industry," said Pearce.
"You can't really tar everyone with the same brush, although I do understand Gary's sentiments.
"The overriding point Gary was making was that players have to take more responsibility for themselves.
"Sometimes players have to know what is right for them and understand that opinion.
"I have taken lads to one side and said I am thinking of sending him out on loan. He says he will get back to you the following day after he has spoken to his agent.
"I can respect that as a manager, but as a player I could have probably given an answer myself without speaking to anyone."
Meanwhile, Pearce has confirmed that City are close to unveiling Emile Mpenza as a new signing after the Belgium international striker completed a successful trial at Eastlands.