BBC Sport Football Premier League

BBC Sport Football News Update

09 September 2008

Fa barclaycard Premiership News Update


Fa barclaycard Premiership News

English Premiership Football News ( 09 September 2008 )

Hyypia shocked at Reds omission

Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia has admitted he faces an uncertain future at Anfield after being left out of the club of the 25-man squad for the Champions League.

New UEFA regulations: the clubs must include at least eight home players in their team.

The 34-year-old Finn said: "The manager's decision to leave me out of the team is a big disappointment.

"I understand that it is partly due to UEFA regulations, but the news has come as a surprise to me and a shock too."

The Finland international has been an offer from Stoke City during the summer, but Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez wants to keep hold of him.

Hyypia, who made 446 appearances for the red since the signing of Dutch club Willem II in May 1999, he still hopes a future on Merseyside, but admits that had he known about Benitez decision earlier, he could play his football elsewhere this season.

"The club has a" perfect "for the moment," he added.

"They did not want me to move elsewhere, so that's why I was told the news having been left out, just after the transfer window had closed.

"The club has publicly to say there have been offers for me, but turned down between them. So maybe it means that I am still part of plans for this season.

"I do not know if I wanted to go ahead if I had heard news about the team when the window was still open."

UEFA rules only four players in the 25-man must be produced by the club academy itself, while four others can be produced by an English academy.

Established Names Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher, with 19 years, midfielder Jay Spearing and right-back Stephen Darby, 19, form the contingent of Liverpool

The other four players are Robbie Keane, Jermaine Pennant, 17, versatile defender Steve Irwin and 18, defender Martin Kelly.

Liverpool begin their campaign Champions League away to Marseille on September 16 and also face PSV Eindhoven and athletes Madrid in a difficult group.

If they progress beyond the group stages, clubs may submit a revised list before the team knock-out rounds in the new year.
by bbcnews.

No comments:

Sir Bobby Robson DVD