11 Nov 2010

Pepe's Reina's comments expose the *selfish arrogance* eating away at the heart of football

Despite signing a six year deal only seven months ago, Pepe Reina's disappointing recent comments (arguably) show that he is not fully committed to Liverpool FC. Worse than that, it seems clear that his allegiance has always been to Rafa Benitez and not the club, which is just completely wrong (IMO). In light of John Henry's recent comments about players leaving if they're not happy, if Reina wants to go then just let him go.

In a recent interview, Reina stated the following:

"I signed a six-year deal seven months ago and I'm happy at the club, but every footballer wants to be competing for trophies and winning things."

The implication here is that he plans to leave if the club is not winning things. It's a veiled (and unacceptable) warning, not dissimilar to the kind of risible threat Wayne Rooney was vomiting out at Man United a few weeks ago.

This kind of selfish attitude is a curse of modern football, with presumptuous, self-absorbed footballers thinking that football clubs exist only to fulfill THEIR individual ambitions. These overpaid, pampered primadonnas also have the shameless gall to hold their clubs to ransom publicly, basically threatenening to leave if THEIR loft expectations are not being met.

It makes me sick.

What happened to loyalty and the success of the TEAM? What happening to honouring your contract (or at least honouring more than ONE YEAR OUT OF SIX?). Every player wants to win trophies, but every CLUB wants to win trophies too; it's not just about individuals. The idea that Liverpool or Man United are not trying their hardest to win trophies - or lack the ambition to do so - is just insulting.

It's even worse in Rooney's case. United have a history of winning countless trophies (including 3 league titles in a row recently), and he has the opprobrious effrontery to suggest that United's ambitions might not match his own?! Absolutely pathetic, and a prime example of the narcissistic arrogance of some high-level footballers.

Reina's latest comments are a far cry from the (hollow) platitudes he was coming out with after signing his fat new contract seven months ago:

"I'm delighted to sign a new contract. It's probably the best news of my life that I'll be here for the next six years. Me and my family are really happy here"

One minute it's the best news of his life; the next he's hinting at leaving.

"It's very important that my family love it here as well, as family life is just as important as my career. My wife told me from the beginning she was more than happy here. My kids enjoy it and they have picked up the scouse accent already. I am really proud of that".


If his family is so 'happy', and his family life is just as important as his career, why is he hinting at leaving only 7 months after saying this? Perhaps the answer is in the following comment:

"I will stay at Liverpool at least until the end of the season. I know there are rumours about me leaving but I want to make it clear that I have no intention of going back to Spain"

Yes, he has no intention of going back to SPAIN. Reina could've been clear and said 'I have no intention of leaving', but he didn't; he sent what seems to be a very deliberate message to other teams in the Premier League: I'm available at the end of the season, so come and get me.

The most disappointing comment he made at the time is this one:

"To play for Liverpool is very special. I've been here for five years and now I will be here for six more and it's very exciting".

Playing for Liverpool is 'very special'? Well, according to Reina, he didn't come to the club because he thought it was 'special', he came because of Rafa Benitez:

"Benítez was an essential person for Liverpool and the reason I came to Liverpool".

Players should come to Liverpool because they also want to play for the CLUB, not just the manager. That's the way it used to be, and that's the way it clearly is for a number of existing players. That kind of loyalty may be dying these days but it doesn't mean the fans should just accept it. Reina saying such a thing is a slight on Liverpool; it suggests that the club doesn't hold any real attraction by itself now Benitez is gone.

For me, such an attitude is unacceptable.

Thankfully, we now have owners who will not tolerate this kind of disloyalty. In an illuminating recent interview, Liverpool Owner John Henry was clear on the issue:

"Frankly, we don't want a player at the club who doesn't want to be at the club".

Absolutely. This kind of attitude needs to return to Anfield; it's a fundamental principle of the (fading) Liverpool FC philosophy, i.e. no player is bigger than the club.

Mr Henry also added:

"I was upset about the assertion that they [Torres + Reina] were leaving. There was one day when I read reports that we were not going to be involved in the transfer window because we do not have the funds. The next day I read that Torres and Reina were leaving".

He was also clear on the issue of player's not honouring their contracts:

"It is a completely different system here to what we are used to. If a player has a contract in the United States they fulfill the contract. Over here, it seems players have much more say-so about where they are".

People may feel I'm being too harsh on Reina, but I disagree. Too many people prioritise the individual over the club these days, and you only have to look at the rabid support of Benitez (to the detriment of the club) to see that.

It doesn't matter who it is or how important they are perceived to be, if the privilege of playing for Liverpool is not good enough for a player then they should leave.

And in my view, it's wrong to continually enable such selfish behaviour by massaging players' egos and begging them to stay when they're blatantly disrespecting the club.

Jaimie Kanwar


138 comments:

  1. Were these comments ever confirmed? It seemed like a lot of BS at the time, especially the timing his comments were released. A day after the Chelsea win.

    ReplyDelete
  2. where did Reina make these comments? 

    ReplyDelete
  3. While the generic modern footballer sickens me to the back teeth it is symptomatic of soicety and modern life that everything is materialistic instant gratification.

    But If you put yourself in a good  model pro's shoes (such as reina) He has a point:
    1) He knows he won't have to worry about money
    2) He has no emotional conncetion to the club(homegrown/lifelong fan)
    3) he has a relativley short career and would like to win as many things as possible.
    4) All contracts mean in the "player power" is a club gets a decent fee for a player. By signing the deal you can't argue he is screwing the club.

    Good pros measure a career by medals not money so if you take your fan hat off and look at it from that point of view its hard to argue.

    While, as a fan I do not want to lose any of our top players, if we cannot match there ambition on the pitch and they wish to leave and the club recieves market value i would be upset as a fan but cannot hate a player for ambition.

    It would be a travesty for players of torres and reinas pedigree when their careers end not to be decoratated with silverware. I just pray to god its with us not without us.

    ReplyDelete
  4. They were reported in every newspaper (including the Guardian and The Telegraph), and Roy Hodgson himself directly referred to Reina's comments. he said:

    "That is fair enough, what's wrong with that? There is always spin put on these things but as far as I am concerned we are very happy to have Pepe Reina and I hope he will stay a lot longer than that. If at the end of the season he doesn't want to play for Liverpool any more then we'd have to deal with that situation when we come to it.


    "But I don't understand why, seven or eight months from the date I'm being asked to give my opinion on it. He is an excellent goalkeeper and I hope he plays for Liverpool for years and years to come. If he doesn't want to play for years and years to come we'll deal with the situation when it occurs."


    Is that good enough?  Why would Hodgson refer to comments that are not real?  It's okay for people to refer to the newspapers when it's a comment they agree with but as soon as it's something they don't like, the inquest begins to try and discredit the comments.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Yo have just said EXACTLY what has been in my mind since the articles surfaced. At first I thought it was tabloid crap, but as there have been no rebuttals I can only assume that Pepe did say this. If so then he needs to be off at the first opportunity.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Until he has a chance to defend himself, I'm not going to look into this too much!

    I give Reina a lot more credit than this article and the other hundreds which say exactly the same thing.

    Until he comes out ans says 'I want to leave Liverpool' I wouldn't take any notice!

    Why do these journalists get paid to write such crap based on rumours and speculation?

    ReplyDelete
  7. And, looking at the problems Man U and Arsenal have been having finding keepers, who should we do after? I think we need to do everything we can to keep him. This means improving the sides position into one which is challenging for trophies....I assume that's what we all want!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Maybe it has something to do with being told he should be more like an English goalkeeper by the infallible Roy....

    ReplyDelete
  9. It is not crap at all.  Roy Hodgson acknowledge and directly addressed Reina's comments PUBLICLY.  A verbal comment is not 'rumours and speculation' - it is fact.  Just because it's reported in the press doesn't remove its factual status.

    Yes, some articles are fabricated, but this one is not.  Every major news source on the planet has reported the comments, and they have done so because the comments were made, and are verifiable.

    ReplyDelete
  10. The idea that we should all sacrifice ourselves to our jobs blindly is a nice thought in respect of Liverpool, however we are talking about individuals who in most cases have no connection what so ever to the club, and have families that need taking care of beyond the natural footballers career. Reina has shown loyalty to the club and has fought tooth and nail to keep clean sheets every week, being one of our most consistant players by a mile, however despite this he has not won anything with liverpool, it would frustrate the best of us. I for one do not begrudge pepe looking to leave, he will be replaced and the club will go on, no one is bigger than the club.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Well, you can't have both, the business model prevailing in England and player loyalty. Unless drastic changes are made to the Premier League, players will remain mercenaries. Modern football clubs are run as international franchises, the ties to a certain place and community hardly exist anymore. So, it's futile criticising players, they're doing a job and, like all of us, want to have the freedom to choose the place to live and work. Besides, you can't buy loyalty, so criticising them for not being loyal despite being overpaid is just silly. Criticise instead the way football clubs are run and suggest changes to the system. The individual players are just cogs in the machine, so to speak. Of course, they do nothing to change this, as this suits them fine (unless you're a lefty in Barcelona called Oleguer).

    I agree with you, it's hard to trust and respect players when you feel they might change their spiel the next day and join the enemy for trophies and bucks. And frankly, I don't know what could be changed. After all, we live in a globalised capitalist society, so it's only natural that the football world emulates the world surrounding it.

    ReplyDelete
  12. The fans are also selfish, The likes of Torres, Reina, Masherano joined Liverpool because of Rafa. Rafa must have stated his goals for Liverpool. At the point the manager was changed, the new manager must have also stated his goals for the team. Torres and Reina can decide to stay with Liverpool and not thing anything, they can also look at their careers and see an opportunity to win medal and jump ship, I personally ll do the same thing, most of us have changed jobs because of a few quid, or career advancement, so it is hyprocritical to blame foreign imports that have no affiliation with the club to stay just because we want them too... It is life, so deal with it. Remember Reina is 28, He needs to win medals, signing such as Konchesky and Poulsen aint gonna win you ANYTHING.

    ReplyDelete
  13. See, this is the problem.  Players can be as disloyal and disrespectful as they like because adoring fans will just ignore it and use their perceived importance as an excuse.  If Reina goes, Liverpool will find another good keeper.  Hsitory proves this.  LFC has had some amazing keepers down the years, and every time one leaves we get another one just as good, if not better.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Oh, please.  Families that need taking care of?!  And Reina doesn't earn enough
     at Liverpool to do that, does he?  It's not like he's on fantasy wages, is it? 

    ReplyDelete
  15. <span><span>I think the issue here is that players sign for a club because of the manager not the history fo the club. Look at Manchester United do players sign for them because of their history or because of what Alex Ferguson has achieved there? I would argue its because of the AF. Of course money is a factor but unless you're Man City if you're an exciting player wanted by a number of clubs all offering similar contracts undoubtedly you will go to the place that is likely to offer you the most success and this is where the manager and his chances for success becomes pivotal. </span></span>

    <span>Frankly, we don't want a player at the club who doesn't want to be at the club</span>
    <span><span>
    Once a player doesn't want to be at a club even if he is under contract there is nothing a club can really do so this point by Mr Henry is nice but I would argue is meaningless. Under the old regime if a player wanted to go he was sold: look at Alonso (ok you will argue he was forced out by Benitez )  once he indicated that he wanted to go and RM came calling there was nothing LFC could do. You can make the same argument for Mascharaono so this notition that all of a sudden LFC won't tolerate players who don't want to be at the club is a bit redundant IMO.</span></span>

    <span>Mr. Henry was also clear on the issue of player's not honouring their contracts:</span>

    Why do you believe that LFC would beg Reina to stay? If he wants to go there is nothing LFC can do and if Arsenal or someone else is willing to pay 25m for Reina then I believe we could replace him with someone else who may not be as good but could still do a decent job.

    Reina has given five years of service to LFC of which every season he has played against the best players in the world in the CL. It is clear that LFC may struggle to get back into the CL this season given the competition from Tottenham and Man City so of course he is considering his options just like anyone else would. You accuse him of disloyalty but it is this same disloyalty (through which players don't honour their contracts) that allowed LFC to sign players from other clubs. I'm sure Reina had a contract with Villareal when we signed him back in 2005.

    As a fan of course I don't want Reina to go because he is a fantastic goal keeper and has given wonderful service to LF. BUT objectively I can also understand why he might want to go to a club that is likely to be competing for the CL and league titles in the near future which currently cannot be said about LFC.

    ReplyDelete
  16. <span><span><span>I think the issue here is that players sign for a club because of the manager and  the history he creates at the club throughn the sucess they bring on the pitch. Look at Manchester United do players sign for them because of their history or because of what Alex Ferguson has achieved there? I would argue its because of the AF. Of course money is a factor but unless you're Man City if you're an exciting player wanted by a number of clubs all offering similar contracts undoubtedly you will go to the place that is likely to offer you the most success and this is where the manager and his chances for success becomes pivotal. </span></span>  
     
    <span>Frankly, we don't want a player at the club who doesn't want to be at the club</span>  
    <span><span> 
    Once a player doesn't want to be at a club even if he is under contract there is nothing a club can really do so this point by Mr Henry is nice but I would argue its meaningless.</span></span><span><span> Under the old regime if a player wanted to go he was sold: look at Alonso (ok you will argue he was forced out by Benitez )  once he indicated that he wanted to go and RM came calling there was nothing LFC could do. You can make the same argument for Mascharaono so this notition that all of a sudden LFC won't tolerate players who don't want to be at the club is a bit redundant IMO.</span></span>  
     
    <span>Mr. Henry was also clear on the issue of player's not honouring their contracts:</span>  
     
    Why do you believe that LFC would beg Reina to stay? If he wants to go there is nothing LFC can do and if Arsenal or someone else is willing to pay 25m for Reina then I believe we could replace him with someone else who may not be as good but could still do a decent job.  
     
    Reina has given five years of service to LFC of which every season he has played against the best players in the world in the CL. It is clear that LFC may struggle to get back into the CL this season given the competition from Tottenham and Man City so of course he is considering his options just like anyone else would. You accuse him of disloyalty but it is this same disloyalty (through which players don't honour their contracts) that allowed LFC to sign players from other clubs. I'm sure Reina had a contract with Villareal when we signed him back in 2005.  
     
    As a fan of course I don't want Reina to go because he is a fantastic goal keeper and has given wonderful service to LF. BUT objectively I can also understand why he might want to go to a club that is likely to be competing for the CL and league titles in the near future which currently cannot be said about LFC. Also just like everyone else he has the right to maximise his earning potential if the opportunity arises just like people do all the time when they move jobs.<span>

    </span></span>

    ReplyDelete
  17. meh all players talk like this theya are asked the same question over and over it must get boring

    ReplyDelete
  18. I visit this site and read often incredulous at some o the views written and expressed by the site owner and I have on occasion made comments. I am not affiliated to any supporters organisations or unions and I disagree with there actions. So that said explaining about me this article is just rubbish. Pepe Reina has not stated anywhere that he wants to leave the club or will leave the club or is thinking of leaving the club. If he has JK prove it. You are guility of double standards happy to slag the press off when its suits you and then flying in the face of your ideals to support a complete none story. Pepe Reinas comments are that of a winner he wants to win he wants trophies and he wants to do that with LFC he wants to progress. Dont we all. Roy Hodgson has come out and said what a fantastic asset he is to the club one of the most enthusiastic members of the squad. I cannot prove the next piece of my comment it is just my opinion, but I think Pepe signed his new deal with the knowledge that Rafa probably wouldnt be around. I think his loyalty is to LFC although he obvioulsy has a friendship with Rafa. Hodgson has come in and despite comments suggesting what a fantastic coach Achtenburg is he deicided to bring in Mike Kelly who with all due respect is 70 ish years old and he is a specialist goalkeeping coach who worked at the club under Souness and was unsuccessful then. So if Pepe is thinking about winning and improving himself as a keeper he must wonder what is going on when a 70 ish year old is putting him through his paces. Your article is just based around sensational headlines created to stir up muck probably to unsettle our keeper. I hope it doesnt happen and he stays for a long time.

    ReplyDelete
  19. I visit this site and read often incredulous at some o the views written and expressed by the site owner and I have on occasion made comments. I am not affiliated to any supporters organisations or unions and I disagree with there actions. So that said explaining about me this article is just rubbish. Pepe Reina has not stated anywhere that he wants to leave the club or will leave the club or is thinking of leaving the club. If he has JK prove it. You are guility of double standards happy to slag the press off when its suits you and then flying in the face of your ideals to support a complete none story. Pepe Reinas comments are that of a winner he wants to win he wants trophies and he wants to do that with LFC he wants to progress. Dont we all. Roy Hodgson has come out and said what a fantastic asset he is to the club one of the most enthusiastic members of the squad. I cannot prove the next piece of my comment it is just my opinion, but I think Pepe signed his new deal with the knowledge that Rafa probably wouldnt be around. I think his loyalty is to LFC although he obvioulsy has a friendship with Rafa. Hodgson has come in and despite comments suggesting what a fantastic coach Achtenburg is he deicided to bring in Mike Kelly who with all due respect is 70 ish years old and he is a specialist goalkeeping coach who worked at the club under Souness and was unsuccessful then. So if Pepe is thinking about winning and improving himself as a keeper he must wonder what is going on when a 70 ish year old is putting him through his paces. Your article is just based around sensational headlines created to stir up muck probably to unsettle our keeper. I hope it doesnt happen and he stays for a long time.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Did you read Frank's orginal post particularly the last line which would appear to support your original article. None of us know what Reina earns nor do you know what his financial comitments are so your point regarding his earning is irrelevant. At the end of the day if Reina want to go to a club that is willing to pay him more money and which he perceives to be succesful that's his right and he will be replaced. 

    ReplyDelete
  21. Are you telling me that if your career earnings were to stop at 33 that you wouldnt try to earn as much money as you possibly can whilst someone was willing to pay you crazy wages? Players will look to move to capitalise on that potential, loyalty doesnt come into it. Steven Gerrard almost left twice and you couldnt question his loyalty to the club.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Calm down... Of course he wants to win trophies and is pissed off that he's not.. No need to panic

    ReplyDelete
  23. Pepe Reina has not stated anywhere that he wants to leave the club or will leave the club or is thinking of leaving the club. If he has JK prove it. You are guility of double standards happy to slag the press off when its suits you and then flying in the face of your ideals to support a complete none story.<span></span>
    You are in complete denial.
    What do the words ' I will stay at Liverpool at least until the end of the season' mean? Why would he say that when he has a 6 year contract?
    And 'prove it'?  The proof is in Reina's own comments. Anyone reading them without bias can see what he's saying.  If you choose to ignore it then that's up to you.
    And please provide examples (with evidence) of my alleged double standards.  I criticise the press when there are lies being peddled.  These comments are not lies.  There is no double standard at all. So please, provide examples with evidence if you're so sure of it.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Pepe Reina has not stated anywhere that he wants to leave the club or will leave the club or is thinking of leaving the club. If he has JK prove it. You are guility of double standards happy to slag the press off when its suits you and then flying in the face of your ideals to support a complete none story.<span></span>
    You are in complete denial.
    What do the words ' I will stay at Liverpool at least until the end of the season' mean? Why would he say that when he has a 6 year contract?
    And 'prove it'?  The proof is in Reina's own comments. Anyone reading them without bias can see what he's saying.  If you choose to ignore it then that's up to you.
    And please provide examples (with evidence) of my alleged double standards.  I criticise the press when there are lies being peddled.  These comments are not lies.  There is no double standard at all. So please, provide examples with evidence if you're so sure of it.

    ReplyDelete
  25. No one is panicking; this is just another issue related to the club that's worthy of discussion. I personally don't care either way if he stays or goes; Liverpool will always find another good keeper.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Frank - the career earnings of the average person are miniscule compared to the insane riches available to someone like Reina.  Ands 33?!  yes, like he's going to retire at 33. Lots of goalkeepers do that, don't they?  additionally, footballers' careers are not over when they retire; many move into mamagement/coaching/the media and have lucrative second careers. 

    And re Steven Gerrard - you definitely coule question his loyalty; he wanted leave twice. Just because he stayed doesn't  mean his loyalty is beyond question.  If someone's wife cheated on them twice but decided to stay, would that mean her loyalty was beyond question? No.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Rob - 7 months ago, Liverpool were in the midst of a horrible season; results were proor; the ownership situation was dire; there was endless doom and gloom; the situation was seemingly hopeless.  Are we to believe that Reina was thinking then that we would challenge for big trophies next season?!  Is that why he took his massive payrise and fat 6 year contract?  Now, all of a sudden he might leave to win trophies?  he wasn't thinking about that 7 months ago, was he?  He  clearly just wanted the money.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Jamie you are absolutely right that money is ruining the game and players are over paid and have little repect for their clubs. Its always about what they didn't get and what they want. But that doesn't change the fact that that is football right now. This hasn't happened over night. If you are a top player you want to be playing in the Champions League with a side competing for honours... If you're not doing that then you're career is only 15 years max and you're gonna move on. It really isn't any different to you or I leaving our job to work elsewhere because we want a better job is it? You and I as supporters want it to be different because we have passion for our club but in reality most players see it as a job. It's a shame sure but that's the reality.

    There are only a handful of Stevie Gs and Jamie Carraghers left now. I remember an interview with Harry Redknapp recently, he was talking about a very young player who had loads of money, fast cars and completely the wrong attitude (can't remember the player) and that is the sorry state of the game. The best thing Liverpool FC could do would be to lobby government to put a proper structure in place for football from grass roots upwards. There should be a structure to football from schools to local teams. There should be a clear route for every kid through their schools and onwards. While ever we have some kid's Dad's mate putting together a team we are always gonna miss talent. We need professional coaches for kids at an early age. That is also why we will lose talent to other sports that are more organised.

    But while ever you have players from abroad coming here without the passion that you and I have for the club then it's just a job and they may say the odd nice thing about Liverpool that makes us feel good about them, but essentially when things aren't going well they'll be off.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Jamie - I don't know what Reina was thinking and nor do you it may be that he signed the new contract after reasurrances from Benitez which obviously given his departure may have led Reina to reconsider his options. Football is all about money and perceived success you may not like it but that's the reality. You seem to be holding Reina to an impossible standard here which doesn't seem fair. Just because he signed a contract 7 months ago doesn't mean that he can't change his mind particularly if another club makes a silly offer. Its not like he's done a Rooney who came out and said publicaly that he would not sign a new contract and then as soon as the money was put on the table he signed a new contract and low and behold he has been accepted back into the fold by players and supporters.

    <span>He  clearly just wanted the money.</span>

    Everybody wants money what's your point here? nobody works for free again the very disloyalty you seem to be suggesting for Reina is the exact thing that allows LFC to sign players.

    ReplyDelete
  30. As someone that lives in North America I'll have to agree with Mr. Henry's comments about contracts and players. Contracts are rarely broken. Usually when a contract is broken it is because the player's contract is bought out by the team (due to poor performance) or in the rare case ask for a trade. Owners, clubs, and fans over in Europe are really being held to ransom by these players.

    ReplyDelete
  31. <span>Jamie - I don't know what Reina was thinking and nor do you it may be that he signed the new contract after reasurrances from Benitez which obviously given his departure may have led Reina to reconsider his options. Football is all about money and perceived success you may not like it but that's the reality. You seem to be holding Reina to an impossible standard here which doesn't seem fair. Just because he signed a contract 7 months ago doesn't mean that he can't change his mind particularly if another club makes a silly offer.
    Its not like he's done a Rooney who came out and said publicaly that he would not sign a new contract and then as soon as the money was put on the table he signed a new contract and low and behold he has been accepted back into the fold by players and supporters.  
     
    <span>He  clearly just wanted the money.</span>  
     
    Everybody wants money what's your point here? nobody works for free again the very disloyalty you seem to be suggesting for Reina is the exact thing that allows LFC to sign players. Also there's a double standard here because obviously some players are more important than others. If Torrez goes to the board in the summer and says i'll leave if i'm not paid 180k a week or whatever i'm pretty sure the board would pay it. But if Lucus did the same he'd be told to get on his bike so this notion of only keeping players who want to play for the club IMO can be pretty flexible.</span>

    ReplyDelete
  32. <span>

    Since we have such open, and according to yourself verifiable, displays of player discontent. Can we now start to refer to this as the 'Hodgson effect'? Or is that only applicable when it was the other man?
    </span>

    ReplyDelete
  33. You can refer to it as the 'Hodgson Effect' all you like. That's your right.
    Sent from iPhone

    ReplyDelete
  34. Hodgson effect it is. Not so sure i should put a big red 'X' over his picture though. After all, since our club's motto is 'You'll never walk alone'  that could be perceived as traitorous betrayal.

    ReplyDelete
  35. i reckon if lfc don't finish in top 4, he'll be off to a team that is; Arsenal or worst case Man Utd. Wouldn't blame him, would blame lfc management. 90% of people would do the same. I would in my line of work and have done, at least in Football the club gets compensated by way of transfer fee. we can't hold players to bondage, lol. good luck to him, unless he goes to mufc.

    ReplyDelete
  36. if after 6 years Hodgson is alienating players all over the shop, arguing with the owners, manipulating the fans and wasting tens of millions of pounds of the club's money, then a big 'X' across his picture would be more than justified.

    You still have no concept of time and context, do you?  Benitez was here for 6 years; Hodgson has been here for 4 months.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Nice one! Just like the traitorous betrayal of Lucas. Although apparently he's playing well now, better than at any time under Benitez!

    ReplyDelete
  38. I dont really see anything wrong with it either. His one of the worlds best keepers and liverpool might not be in the top 4. Of course he might go. Henry said it himself, 'it is upto liverpool' to ensure these type of players WANT to be at Liverpool. We cant rely on history and past silverware to keep players in the future, they want to be part of a quality team in their hayday.
    Whats wrong with that? If we're relegated would you still be whining about Reina wanting to leave? 
    Also this works in reverse, Keane signed a contract and then was shipped out of liverpool. Where's your blog moaning and whining pointlessly about that?

    ReplyDelete
  39. REINA HAS
    Been the MOST CONSISTENT PLAYER liverpool has seen in this decade. 
    Won the golden gloves award 4 times in his stay in Liverpool. 
    Been acknowledged as a future captain. 
    He loves the club and its fans..
    I guess all the spin in newspapers are from the other clubs which are trying to snap him up from Liverpool.  His recent unhappiness with the club has been with the goalkeeping coach he has at the club.
    From when on have you started trusting newspaper reports... You always say that media gets things wrong when it comes to reporting about Liverpool.  Roy did not acknowledge that reports... he was merely answering questions raised to him in the press. Problem with Roy is that he is never clear with his interviews in the press. He goes about beating the bush.  and why are we suddenly raising questions about a player like Reina.  He has been very professional.

    ReplyDelete
  40. What spin?  there is no spin. Reina did, as a matter of recorded fact, make these comments.  You cannot spin fact. Journos can mould a story from the comments, but the comments remain factual.  Hodgson referenced the comments himself!  Why would he do that if they were false.  I am not trusting a news report; I am trusting the words spoken by Reina himself.

    ReplyDelete
  41. Reina is not the most consistent player this decade.  He's only been at the club 4 years of this decade.  players like Sami Hyypia were far more consistent, and for longer.  Same goes for the likes of Carra and Gerrard,

    ReplyDelete
  42. Reina is not the most consistent player this decade.  He's only been at the club 5 years of this decade.  players like Sami Hyypia were far more consistent, and for longer.  Same goes for the likes of Carra and Gerrard,

    ReplyDelete
  43. Concept of time? In 6 years time Hodgson will be nearly 70... Lets say he is doing a good job... Are we going to prop him up with a stick?! It is an x parrot it has ceased to be! What is the plan here?

    ReplyDelete
  44. Jamie,

    Nothing in life is certain. Reina could have a career ending injury next week and that will be that for his playing career. Also how many ex goal keepers do you see on tv operating as commentators. In reality the position of GK is not that lucrative even if you are as good as Reina compared to being an attacking player like Gerrard or Torres. Irrespective of what insane riches you think might be available to Reina there is no gurantee for footballers and for every Gerrard or Ronney there are countless others who didn't make it.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Yes but you are putting a spin on his words. None of his quotes categorically state that he is leaving. You are inferring this from what he has said. The only thing that can be said as fact is that he wants to win things and that Benitez brought him to Liverpool other than that he has not specifically said that he wants to leave.

    ReplyDelete
  46. <span>Yes but you are putting a spin on his words. None of his quotes categorically state that he is leaving. You are inferring this from what he has said. The only thing that can be said as fact is that he wants to win things and that Benitez brought him to Liverpool other than that he has not specifically said that he wants to leave.</span>

    ReplyDelete
  47. http://www.liverpool-kop.com/2009/11/im-sorry-rafa-but-robbie-keanes-failure.html

    ReplyDelete
  48. Yes, and everything that people say is black and white; there is never any subtext; everything is on the surface, incapable of any further interpretation.

    ReplyDelete
  49. you cannot spin fact ??? how naive you are...

    ReplyDelete
  50. No, Jesse - you just don't get it.  As I said in my earlier comment: "Journos can mould a story from the comments, but the comments remain factual".

    It doesn't matter what story is spun, the comments themselves remain factual. i.e. you can take the comments out of any article and they will remain the same.  It is not the comments that change, it is the story built around them that changes.

    ReplyDelete
  51. Jaimie, these comments by Pepe, are what the majority of Liverpool Players are thinking, even the captain came out not 12 months ago with a similar statement about wining trophys, it is common knowledge a lot of the foreign players at LFC are currently unhappy with the managerial situation, they have gone from a world class manager with a winning mentality to a man who as stated today is happy with a draw against Wigan.

    He is not holding the club to ransom, he is just stating what he is in football for to win trophies, your comments and i quote (<span>This kind of selfish attitude is a curse of modern football, with presumptuous, self-absorbed footballers thinking that football clubs exist only to fulfill THEIR individual ambitions. These overpaid, pampered primadonnas also have the shameless gall to hold their clubs to ransom publicly, basically threatenening to leave if THEIR loft expectations are not being met.) are way off the mark, Reina signed for LFC as do other top stars to WIN trophies, Liverpool Football Club exists to win trophies..</span>

    You have seemed to take the moral high ground, with regard to his comments.
    <span><span>


    </span></span>

    ReplyDelete
  52. I wouldn't say Carragher was that consistent. He would be a mid-table full-back now with his form from the beginning of the decade, had 3 great seasons in Benitez heyday, opening three years of his reign, and then was hit and miss most times. Sami Hyypia definitely deserves a mention, but vote has to go for Gerrard. If we look for the least mistake-prone player in EPL in last 5 years, that would undoubtedly be Reina.

    And Jamie, I know you take any interview serving your agenda as a matter of the fact, but how can you be 100% certain Reina only wanted a payrise? Maybe he expected Benitez to stay and thought, rightly or wrongly, he could take the club forward? Or considers Roy Hodgson as a no LiverpoolWay manager, so the values of the club have to be put aside? Just wondering. Jamie Carragher also mentioned leaving the club, same as he did in 2003 when Finnan arrived. Maybe he wanted to put pressure on the club to give him a succulent contract? Just wondering. I know Carra is never to blame for anything on your site, but there are no untouchables - neither Carragher nor Reina is.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Carra never to blame for anything on this site?  Like these, you mean?

    http://www.liverpool-kop.com/2008/02/liverpools-winning-mentality-has-been.html

    http://www.liverpool-kop.com/2008/04/cometh-hour-cometh-predictable-cocky.html

    http://www.liverpool-kop.com/2009/04/can-we-stop-cocky-overconfidence-and.html

    You're right - no one is untouchable, and I have no favourites.  I treat everyone the same. I've been critical of Carragher many times over the years.

    ReplyDelete
  54. Maybe some piece on Roy interviews? Let's divide it into appropriate sections.

    1.Lowering expectations:

    "formiddable opponent" -Northampton

    I bet you would provide us with an article about this one if Benitez said so. There are more.

    "I would settle for a draw at Birmignham ahead of the game"
    "We can't play any better than against Blackburn"
    "Expecting a win at Goodison would be an uthopia"
    "Turkish technical wizards"
    "famous victory in Turkey" referring to Trabzon

    2. Alienating players:

    Agger "miraculously" recoverd for the national team
    "A team and B team"
    considering selling Nando twice in the media

    3.No respect for the supporters

    "ridicoulous websites"
    slating protesting fans

    4. Big-headed and egotical speeches a la Sam Allardyce:

    "35 managerial career"
    absolutely classless laughing off Frank Riijkaard, even Houllier would be "proud" of this one
    "one of the most respected coaches in Europe"
    "My achievements are on the par with Sir Alex only"
    saying he would never resign, admittedly prides himself as a fighter

    4. No understanding of the LiverpoolWay

    praising Javier Hernandez - you frequently mention hypocracy of "some fans" wanting Roy out, while every single poll indicates majority wants him already out - you show just the same, if not worse, hypocracy, writing a piece on Martin Skrtel one single interview praising Wayne Rooney, while Roy did it several times! Martin Skrtel was just one year in England then, might not understanding everything, while Roy is 63! And born Englishman. He praised Sir Alex, not asked, did it without journos pressure, in 3 separate interviews. Even said he's "ashamed on managing Liverpool" and fears losing "friendship of Sir Alex"

    Approval of groundshare with Everton

    And many, many more. One quote from Skrtel and 203 three unconfirmed from Reina appearing in tabloids mostly are enough to write several articles, while over 20 shocking interviews from Roy are enough to bring Benitez on the table. I know you hate the man and that's ok, he isn't my biggest favourite. But to hate Rafa doesn't mean blind support for Roy. Many fans understand it and that's why, searcing 12 Liverpool forum and over 12 000 votes, I've seen  averagely 86.4% of the fans wanting him out. I'm so far not one of them and don't criticise our football displays, but reckon his dealings with the media, no LiverpoolWay behaviour and much bigger ego than Rafa's are worth ONE SINGLE ARTIClE.

    Cheers

    ReplyDelete
  55. Maybe some piece on Roy interviews? Let's divide it into appropriate sections.

    1.Lowering expectations:

    "formiddable opponent" -Northampton

    I bet you would provide us with an article about this one if Benitez said so. There are more.

    "I would settle for a draw at Birmignham ahead of the game"
    "We can't play any better than against Blackburn"
    "Expecting a win at Goodison would be an uthopia"
    "Turkish technical wizards"
    "famous victory in Turkey" referring to Trabzon

    2. Alienating players:

    Agger "miraculously" recoverd for the national team
    "A team and B team"
    considering selling Nando twice in the media

    3.No respect for the supporters

    "ridicoulous websites"
    slating protesting fans

    4. Big-headed and egotical speeches a la Sam Allardyce:

    "35 managerial career"
    absolutely classless laughing off Frank Riijkaard, even Houllier would be "proud" of this one
    "one of the most respected coaches in Europe"
    "My achievements are on the par with Sir Alex only"
    saying he would never resign, admittedly prides himself as a fighter

    4. No understanding of the LiverpoolWay

    praising Javier Hernandez - you frequently mention hypocracy of "some fans" wanting Roy out, while every single poll indicates majority wants him already out - you show just the same, if not worse, hypocracy, writing a piece on Martin Skrtel one single interview praising Wayne Rooney, while Roy did it several times! Martin Skrtel was just one year in England then, might not understanding everything, while Roy is 63! And born Englishman. He praised Sir Alex, not asked, did it without journos pressure, in 3 separate interviews. Even said he's "ashamed on managing Liverpool" and fears losing "friendship of Sir Alex"

    Approval of groundshare with Everton

    And many, many more. One quote from Skrtel and 203 three unconfirmed from Reina appearing in tabloids mostly are enough to write several articles, while over 20 shocking interviews from Roy are enough to bring Benitez on the table. I know you hate the man and that's ok, he isn't my biggest favourite. But to hate Rafa doesn't mean blind support for Roy. Many fans understand it and that's why, searcing 12 Liverpool forum and over 12 000 votes, I've seen  averagely 86.4% of the fans wanting him out. I'm so far not one of them and don't criticise our football displays, but reckon his dealings with the media, no LiverpoolWay behaviour and much bigger ego than Rafa's are worth ONE SINGLE ARTIClE.

    Cheers

    ReplyDelete
  56. There doesn't always have to be subtext in things people say. You are choosing to interpret Reina's words as meaning that he wants to leave and I'm simly making the point that sometimes there doesn't have to be any subtext or further interpretation Reina could simply be making the point that he wants to win things and that he owes a lot of his success to Benitez as it was him who signed him to LFC.



    What is the issue here? if Reina wants to leave we will replace him and hopefully use some of that money to strenghthen the squad. If he stays then we benefit as he is a world class keeper. You are making some grand point about cancer eating away at football but LFC are a part of that cancer every time we sign a player who is on a contract or tap up a player (Christian Ziege).

    ReplyDelete
  57. <span>

    So what you are saying is traitorous betrayal is measured by time as well as actions? Therefore Traitorous betrayal = >1<6. Don't know how this is going to work to be honest Jaimie. Can't see this new motto catching on - 'You'll never walk alone as long as you have only been here 6 months and not 6 years, in which case walk alone' with the caveat being if you are called Cole, Johnson or Aquilani - you can walk on your todd pretty much immediately.
    </span>

    ReplyDelete
  58. Reina and Kuyt waited for Rafa to sign his contract before they would sign,then the club sack him.Mascherrano would only play for Rafa,these are players who know the value of a successful coach,Masch saying Rafa taught him everything,the respect rafa gained off these players who he developed speaks volumes about Rafa.I feel as though the stuffing has been knocked out of LFC with rafas departure.RH or whoever it had of been imo would never replace the heart and soul that Rafa brought.Imo RH or any manager has an impossible job to replace Rafa.

    ReplyDelete
  59. "Of course, my track record, if people bothered to study it, would put me in the same category as [Sir Alex] Ferguson enjoys today, but people don't talk about what I've done outside England,"

    Another piece of the collection.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Paul, in my view, You're very far from the true, very far.

    Do You really really think that's is a managerial problem?

    Do You really believe that with our team, Jose Mourinho, Rafa or Rjkaard could do better?

    Unfair, and Untrue.

    So ask to the question why Jose Mourinho or Rjkaard They escaped miles and miles away from our Club.

    The true, in my view, the only true, is that We are in a stage of rebuilding of our Club, with an ownership which put his sights on a long term strategy instead of immediate expensive signs of short term, and this new strategy putting place by NESV it's unfair for many stars, of older age, Who whould like to win anything immediately.

    Unfortunately, Pepe doesn't reminds that He puts pen on a six yrs new deal just four months ago........

    So there's a right moment to play for Liverpool, when the money is coming in your pockets, and there's a bad momento to play for Liverpool, four months later.

    But when You signed a new deal Reina, You had knew well that Liverpool don't guarantee trophie.

    And with Rafa, The WORLD CLASS MANAGER, my friend Pepe didn't win a trophy in 5 yrs....

    5 rys...

    ReplyDelete
  61. hmmm outside of England, Rafa, in charge at Inter Milan, Champions Of Europe under Mourinho, He's just alienating his employer, Chairman Massimo Moratti, Who is well reknowned in Italy as the only italian Chairman with a british approach based on stability.
    And don't try to say that's not true, because I live & work in Italy, and I read italians newspapers any day.

    ReplyDelete
  62. I would argue the context of such a comment is important, ie the question posed etc.  As we speak its impossible to conclusively state reina's feelings.  I know if any of my comments in life were isolated and presented they could be very misleading.  Now obviously reina has much experience in media handling, but the point still stands.  It's just not dealing in hard fact as much as your transfer spending or transfer spending comparisons.  I guess my feelings just stem from extreme cynicism of journalism!
    If his view is as presented by you, then i would agree it is scandalous. When a player signs a contract for x years, he is commited for that timeframe regardless,its a bloody written contract!! that is my idealogical view, but it is something I would expect my clubs players to adhere to.

    ReplyDelete
  63. scousepaul- did reina and all other contracted employees not give up control of there immediate future when they signed long term contracts in exchange for millions? The club is paying them for their performance, over the course of their contract.  If the club wants them to leave, be it because they're not performing, of they see the individual as disruptive or profitable, then thats their perogative. Its up to the club, they own the player, the player serves them, not themselves, and they're payed handsomely to do so.. Thats my own view of the situation, call it idealogical or naive, but it seems right and fair to me.

    ReplyDelete
  64. The Roy Hodgson Brigade4:13 pm, November 11, 2010

    Contracts are worth shite nowdays, if Reina wants to go then he must piss off.

    If a player signs a contract with LFC then he should honuor it and play for LFC not for other reasons otherwise why sign on the dotted line in the first place?

    I wouldn't be surprised if he has already secretly made an agreement to join Inter or another club in the near future.

    If he goes then good riddance...

    ReplyDelete
  65. Rick, the answer was there for all to see, the club was already being lined up to be sold before Roy was appointed, yet they still hired a manager who in 99% of all fans opinion is wrong for the position.

    Every great team needs a great leader, thats where it starts? we had a great leader in the former manager, now we have a man who the players dont respect and the media make a mockery of, thats if he doesn't do it himself.  

    Discount the slanted view of how much money they earn, and take a look from a players perspective: a player has between 10-15yrs at professional leave, they have a very short career in terms of what every footballer starts out to do be part of a winning team. 

    Liverpool FC are far from a winning team...

    As for your comment about the world class manager, look below:
    <span>2009/10
    Premier League: 7th (63 points)
    Europa League: Semi Final (lost to Atletico Madrid)

    2008/09
    Premier League: 2nd (86 points)
    Champions League: Quarter Final (lost to Chelsea)

    2007/08
    Premier League: 4th (76 points)
    Champions League: Semi-Final (lost to Chelsea)

    2006/07
    Premier League: 3rd (68 points)
    Champions League: RUNNERS-UP (lost to AC Milan in Final)

    2005/06
    Premier League: 3rd (82 points)
    FA Cup: WINNERS (beat West Ham in Final)

    2004/05
    Premier League: 5th (58 points)
    Champions League: WINNERS (beat AC Milan in Final)
    League Cup: RUNNERS UP (lost to Chelsea)
    <span>
    There is only a hand full of managers in the world who`s record could stand up to Rafa`s (YES WORLD CLASS)</span></span>

    ReplyDelete
  66. I do agree players like Hypia were consistent over the period, But when I say Reina is a consistent player I dont mean belittle the contribution of others who worked in the defence in during this period like Cara.  At least having in the team does not make us worry about the goal keeping situation...

    Anyways In modern football, players are bought and sold during the contract periods.  It sometimes suits the player and sometimes suits the club.  If we talk about loyalty then we also should talk about loyalty towards players as well.  Most of the clubs would get rid of their players when they find another player in that position.  So players try to make more money when they are in the prime.   Nothing wrong with that, as long as they do conduct themselves professionally, unlike Mashcherano or Berbatov

    ReplyDelete
  67. 5 years eh? Did you miss the FA cup final we won on Pens. Believe a certain Mr Reina saved a couple, wonder why he didn't get a medal or be credited as having won it?

    ReplyDelete
  68. Jamie,
    Agree with the article, the days of life-long committed players are gone in the name of MR AMBITIONs like Raina n Rooney.... Why dont we Q players when they first agree to stay for such a long time n then starts of talking leaving.. why dont they just leave, if they want.. but stating lack of ambition as a reason even when they are at club itself is a serious insult to players, coaching staff (who may be childhood fan, lifelong supporter of club), to defend them in terms of their career, money, family is BS... for god's sake they play for two of Biggest UK clubs... 

    looking at the comments... if you will write a article on 2+2=4, some ppl will still find a way to criticize you for that...

    ReplyDelete
  69. My maths may be faulty here but I'm pretty sure 2006 is within the last 5 years. I could be wrong of course.
    Sent from iPhone

    ReplyDelete
  70. If Liverpool have won nothing in last 5 years, Arsenal haven't for 6, while Chelsea have 1 year title draught. Am i right? Not to mention Inter Milan treble winners one year ago, so Rafael Benitez has a poor squad at his disposal now. Just like Roy one year after Liverpool Premier League record points tally. Oh, I get it - it was 2 years ago, so now we must be relegation fodders:)

    ReplyDelete
  71. CGL

    Jamie Carragher wanted to leave Liverpool twice - is he a glory hunter and money&obsessed selfish cunt?

    ReplyDelete
  72. Or maybe he has no faith in Hodgson.

    ReplyDelete
  73. Paul mate, surely it's not a faulth to be a great admirer Of Rafa.
    Rafa did good & wrong things for our Club, as any manager did it.
    He's in our history.
    But When You say that Roy has lost the dressing room you miss a point in my view.
    If Roy lost the dressing room why young guys saved the Roy's job at Naples?
    Why Fernando score against Blackburn and twice against Chelsea?
    Why Gerro scored an hattrick against Naples at home?
    I think that the dressing room saved the Roy's job in the worst moment, when Roy was vulnerable and his job was very very under threat, and the media speculation casts rumours about imminent appointmentt of Rjkaard.
    In addition, in many circustamnces Carra, Gerro, Joe Cole & also Raul Meireles publicy showed their respect for Roy, defending his position at the Club.
    In my view this season, appears that We're tirelessy blaming the right man for our dressing room, at least for our current side.
    I don't know if Roy Hodgson is the right man for the Club (not enough time), but He appears the right man for our players and We're blaming him.
    Give a break to Roy?
    At least He's doing a good job with our youngsters

    ReplyDelete
  74. when some argued with Rfa should get sacked, I predicted if he went Mascrano, Reina and Torress will go as well. They came here to win thropies and Rafa was a manager that they felt they could deliver that here. So in a way I wont be suprised if all left.
    I lived in Spain and still got relatives there and I know that Torres  was offerned more money to og ot Barcelona but he came here to play for Liveprool under Benitez and to be frank Roy is no way near Rafa in his achievement and pedigree.
    I hope they stay and I hope if we sell them we get players half good as them. unfortunelty in case of Mashcrano, we got Poulson who in my opinion is not good enough to clean Mashcranos boots.
    one thing i know about Reina as long as he s got liveprool shirt on , he will give 100%

    ReplyDelete
  75. when some argued with Rfa should get sacked, I predicted if he went Mascrano, Reina and Torress will go as well. They came here to win thropies and Rafa was a manager that they felt they could deliver that here. So in a way I wont be suprised if all left.
    I lived in Spain and still got relatives there and I know that Torres  was offerned more money to og ot Barcelona but he came here to play for Liveprool under Benitez and to be frank Roy is no way near Rafa in his achievement and pedigree.
    I hope they stay and I hope if we sell them we get players half good as them. unfortunelty in case of Mashcrano, we got Poulson who in my opinion is not good enough to clean Mashcranos boots.
    one thing i know about Reina as long as he s got liveprool shirt on , he will give 100%

    ReplyDelete
  76. you n me both know Jamie is through n through Liverpool player... so no, but for ppl like raina n rooney, yes.

    ReplyDelete
  77. Imagine Reina having this conversation with a barman in a pub when his career is over.
    Reina: Hi I'm Pepe Reina I used to be the best goalkeeper in the world.
    Barman: Oh really what trophies did you win?
    Reina: 1 FA Cup.
    Barman: Oh.....**Tumbelweed*

    Reina came to Liverpool to win trophies. He has undoubtedly surpassed everyones expectations of him. He's lived up to his end of deal with his fantastic performances over the last 5 years. The club however has NOT lived to up to it's end, by sacking the best manager we've had since Kenny, the off-field issues and the shite squad additions. Reina is now looking at a manager who is happy for WIGAN and BLACKPOOL to have more posession in a match than LIVERPOOL!!! This is not winning football we are playing. Reina is not stupid he knows that and so does Torres and we can have absolutely no complaints when they both piss off in the summer. And I for one will wish them good luck.

    ReplyDelete
  78. It's also fair to note that one of Reina's biggest weapons over the years has been his distribution of the ball (he has even provided assists in the past). Under Roy he is hoofing the ball all the time. This, no doubt takes away from Reina's enjoyment of the game. Why would your manager want to strip a player of one of his biggest assets?? Daniel Agger is another example - he plays a bit too much football for Roy's liking. No doubt Agger will be off in the summer also.

    ReplyDelete
  79. Agree entirely Jaimie..thought Reina was above this sort of ill-timed crap..even if that is how he is feeling. I do not see how it benefits anyone making it public so early in the season..As Mr Henry says anyone who doesn't wish to be there should take the door..that includes Torres if he also intends putting the gun to our heads again next summer.

    ReplyDelete
  80. Andy Gray said in a MOTD that he needed to be more English :D<span> </span>

    ReplyDelete
  81. No. He just didn't expect Liverpool to choose managers from the bottom shelve. No he is certain that he will never win anything.<span> </span>

    ReplyDelete
  82. Reina MAY be considering his future as he wants to win trophies, so what? That's his right, he's a World Class GK playing for a Club in transition for a manager whom for the most part doesn't know what day it is.

    I really don't think it's about money Jaimie, I really don't, and the same goes for Torres, It seems they're unhappy with Hodgson IMO.

    I think it's utterly ridiculous to slag Reina off as brazenly as you've done so here, you've read a newspaper article which has credited comments to Reina and then arrived at the conclusion that he wants to leave. In the past you've been very quick to sneer and lamblast people for reacting thusly to newspaper articles! I guess it's OK now that it's you doing it.

    Reina has been brilliant for us for 5 years, If he wants to go let him, he's earned it. He's been a great servant and he deserves success which can't be guaranted by us at the moment - especially with the bumbling dipstick that is Hodgson at the helm.

    Career as good as Ferguson? I'm a scouser and even I've got to say he's talking out of his arse. His achievements aren't a patch on Ferguson's.

    Funny isn't it? Rafa goes and all of a sudden our star players get twitchy - Mascherano, Reina, Torres...clearly they don't have much confidence in Hodgson.

    ReplyDelete
  83. This is the effect of a transitional manager I'm afraid. If we have another average season finishing in 6/7th place (which I think we will - the Chelsea result was a bit of fluke in my opinion, the Wigan game was more indicative of Hodgon's tenure so far) can you blame players like Torres and Reina reconsidering their positions? They are world class players and they want to be playing at the highest level. Its not arrogance, its human nature. Why else do people change jobs, buy newer and better cars, and bigger houses; ultimately they want the best for themselves. Footballers are no different.

    ReplyDelete
  84. There was a time in football when the maximum wage existed, it meant that the good players were spread throughout the country and divisions so was good for fans to see their local heroes stay with their club, good example being Stanley Matthews with Stoke City

    However it was not good for professional players who had limited freedom of contract, and were unfairly limited to earning to their full potential

    Now we have gone to the other end of the spectrum, where players earn multiple times the annual average industrial wage in just one week. They have lost touch with the punters

    A partial solution to this madness would be a salary cap based on a percentage of turnover. Simple as

    I work for a large telecomms company, my only loyalty to my employer is based on the fact that they pay me a salary that I use to pay mortgages, raise my kids etc. If a rival company comes calling with better conditions I'm gone, no doubt

    Are we really naiive enough to believe that Pepe Reina loves Liverpool enough to turn down better employment conditions / greater prospects for glory elsewhere?

    I'm not, they are professionals. Anybody see Koscielny from Arsenal laughing and joking with Drogba after Chelsea had stuffed them, while the gooners fans were crying?? These players couldn't care less, especially the foreign guys with zero connection / memories of glory days etc. This is not meant as a slight but they are mercenaries, like any professional in their chosen field

    Reina will probably stay if we get top 4 and some decent players in January. How long do we honestly expect him to hang about for if we don't?

    If he wants to leave we will get some decent cash for him although the search for his successor will not be easy, there is so much hype and BS in transfer market these days. Take for example the french goalkeeper Lloris, magical shot stopper but pure muck on crosses. Let's hope Comolli uses more than highlight DVDs to sign players

    How many good keepers have we had since Grobelaar? Just Pepe, he took us a decade to find

    The future will hopefully be built around players like Martin Kelly, Spearing (slightly doubt his long term future at the club), young scousers who are fans.

    We can also sign 21-24 year old foreign players with potential resale value

    This seems to be stated NESV goal

    Don't be too harsh on Reina, it's the football business whether we like it or not

    Even Gerrard only stayed "loyal" after repeatedly getting bumper new deals so lets not kid ourslves here

    ReplyDelete
  85. I could be wrong but is there not more open unrest in the Liverpool camp than before.
    Last year it was rumours but Carragher statements this year about the club not being liked and to an extent last year when he complained about playing at right-back which he is doing now without a complaint shows he  may have been a dissenter last year.
    This year though we have already seen the likes of Agger, Reina, even Jovanovic showing signs of being unsettled with all being linked with moves away. Jovanovic has acknowledged interest in him but has at least said he will fight his cause for liverpool while the other 2 have been very quiet about these rumours. Jovanovic and Agger have also pointedly questioned the suitability of the tactics, a point which many fans also raise.
    Gerrard of late has taken to giving votes of confidence in the manager as well as taking the blame for the Wigan draw which to me is an unhealthy sign that a pr exercise is being carried out to protect whoever it is. Many tabloids blamed Reina for the goal insisting e should have caught the ball rather than block it. This also has taken me back to the opening day match were a Reina mistake cost 2 points. I then wonder what was said in the dressing room because if Reina was unhappy about the manager who brought him leaving, he has since lost his smile and you don't see those Reina jubilant moments when we score.
    The fan reaction to the introduction of Poulsen on Wednesday probably says a lot about the nervousness and antipathy in the fan ranks when it comes to how we are playing and subsequent words to defend him when the same was not done for other players who have needed defending is also not helping.
    On the money issue, if a player moves every 2 or so years you could say its about the money but Reina has been with us for at least 5 years now and signed another 6 year contract  which to me was more about loyalty albeit paid handsomely for it. He may be on top dollar but just like any of us , if you get unhappy at your workplace because your new manager has introduced a new dress code or different working hours we would all consider a new job.
    The thing that I am afraid of most is the players are disillusioned just like the fans are, considering even Babel complaining he is always told you have to prove himself without getting a chance by both old and new manager. We all have sentiments about Babel but I think his comments are symptomatic of either a current dressing room fall out or quite possibly a remnant of ghosts christmases past. 

    ReplyDelete
  86. The contract might be for Liverpool NOT TO SALE him on the cheap. We have seen clubs extending players contract so the player doesnt walk away fro free. Rafa is why some of our spanish players signed. We just have to deal with the consequence of a NOT thoughtout decision made by the management. When Rafa left, I know some of the spanish players are going as well...It is not rocket science. Roy is not even a good coach in my opinion. He is a mid table coach at best.

    ReplyDelete
  87. Player must come at Liverpool with the right motivations.
    To wear Liverpool's jersey it's a great honour and a great moment of a player's career.
    Reina can go out in Spain, and say in any Pub or Bar of his home country that He playerd for Liverpool Football Club, and it will be regarded of a great honour.
    If You come to Liverpool only for money & trophies You're a glory hunter, only a glory hunter.
    Could You play for winning trophies, or for the privilege to wear the jersey????
    But if the so - called fans supported this sort of uncommitiment and passion, which future We did expect?
    "Roy is not near to the international status of Rafa"?
    Must Now A manager has the international pedigree?
    Whos was Shankly before Liverpool?
    Who was Paisley & Fagan before Liverpool?
    They come here for winning trophies under the manager They felt the right manager.
    Under Rafa We've not won trophies for five years.
    And Now Pepe Reina can't concede time to the manager...
    It's incredible the situation created by the new fucking breed of LFC Fans.
    If any player go out there and show lack of commitment and passion, now it's faulth of the manager Who has not "the pedigree"  (What's the fucking pedigree? Is manager a dog???) .
    It's always faulth of manager.
    When manager is woring to turn the things right and He collected a winning streak, a player, WHo is supposed to be one of the most influential in our dressing room, go out there and claim He wants to tgo at the end of the season, He creates instability & un-wealthy, and it's always faulth of the manager.
    The fucking problem with this fucking new breed of Liverpool Fans is that They are very different, They always idolise these fucking big name players, Who are on the pedestal, when the CLub, the manager and the staff are always shit.

    ReplyDelete
  88. Yes, and ROy is the only faulth, and ROy is shit.
    I hate this fucking attitude: it's a disgrace for our Club.

    ReplyDelete
  89. Wow !!! For someone that uses financial statement numbers and discount the continuity of the management, fact that managers doesnt get to sign his first choice players etc, THAT IS RICH. Now not everything is in black and white... So you do realise there is a GREY AREA? 8-)  Glad you do !!!

    ReplyDelete
  90. I didn't say he was "shit" Rick, he's not the kind of manager a Club like LFC should be attracting, he's a journeyman.

    His interviews with the press have been baffling for the most part, he's insulted foreign journalists, he's insulted players...is that the Liverpool Way?

    ReplyDelete
  91. I think all of Rafa signing should leave, we ll have Gerrard and Carra staying behind (since all Rafa signing are crap :-[ ) And Roy the great can sign his OWN players so most of the ROY Disciples can be happy and stop blaming Rafa. Amazing you want Rafa to go but wants his signings to stay... Most Spanish players did come for Rafa not Liverpool. It is NOT about Money for Reina.. Reina can probably get more money with Man U, Inter, definitely MAn city..

    ReplyDelete
  92. This is a symptom of modern life not just restricted to football. Remember the days when people used to work for the same employer for life this rarely happens anymore.

    You're telling me that if you're employer offered you a new contract with a 15% pay rise you would take it, and then a year later you weren't happy with the direction the company you worked for was going you wouldn't consider leaving?

    O.K, maybe he could conduct himself in the public eye with a bit more dignity but at least he's being honest I suppose!

    Also, it's swings and round-abouts, look at the way Le Tissier has been slated for lacking ambition and staying with the same team his whole life (and winning nothing!)

    ReplyDelete
  93. Hello Jamie

    I think the story about Reina is probably true vis the Mirror today -- this was written by Maddock who does have a couple of good 'sources' at Anfield.  The goalie is pissed off , it seems, but it does not mean he's off and certainly not in Jan. I agree with your comment that the club is all about individuals and not THE CLUB anymore....there are now two types of LFC player -- the plodders who let's face are not very good (this is overwhelmingly a Benitez problem - but Hodgson has added to the problem with his own poor buys) and then the 'superstars' SG - Carra (who reckons he is), Torres, Reina and probably Cole -- these players are all on well over 100k a week --  but the selfish individuals' behaviour on show - from all them from time to time -- makes supporters sick and alienates the 'ordinary' players in the team -- I think this has been the case at Anfield for many years but accelerated under Benitez and probably Houllier too. The culture at the club has changed and there were no 'stars' at the club when we were winning things -- I believe there is very little team spirit at Anfield these days and little of no pride playing for the shirt - now I am loathed the say this, but what a contrast with what the old puce faced drunk has managed 30 miles down the road??

    ReplyDelete
  94. I agree with you Jamie - Even if Pepe hasn't said anything, he still hasn't come out during the last 3days to deny it? I remember Agger was out the 2nd day in the media denying that he had slagged Roy off - and even Roy defended Agger in a pre-match press conference - Difference to this Roy has not gone out in a post -match press conference denying this comments but rather confirming them.

    I think the football clubs must change tactic and not sign players on such long contracts anymore if they are still going to be broken?

    I like Reina, but i get a bad taste in my mouth and a cold core rush in my spine - when start thinking that Reina wants to leave - if he wants to leave, i can mention 3 very good substitutes straight away
    1. Igor Akinfeev
    2. Martin Stekelbeurg
    3.) Manuel Nuer

    My first choice would be Igor Akinfeev from CSKA - i think he has the same qualities as Reina and is 4years younger. The transfer might go even up in regards of finances - Akinfeev plays in Russian national team and have CL-experiance and have done good, especielly during the Hiddink era - where offensive football was preached and implemented leaving Akinfeev as the last man standing when counter attacked!

    ReplyDelete
  95. I must admit that I am disappointed in Pep for one simple reason, He did not need to say what he said.

    <span><span>"I will stay at Liverpool at least until the end of the season</span>. I know there are rumours about me leaving but I want to make it clear that I have no intention of going back to Spain"<span>
    </span></span>

    what he should of said was

    "I signed a 6 year contract and I intend on honouring that contract"

    If at the end of the season he is not happy then put in a transfer request and be done with it.

    By saying what he said for me its a threat of leaving Liverpool and joining another prem club.

    ReplyDelete
  96. In the modern era most Clubs are just as bad as players, it's all very well moaning about players who look to move on for whatever reason but Clubs can't claim to be the victim when they regularly try and sell players against their will for what will be worse terms at a different Club (arguably), and what happens should players refuse? They get dumped in the reserves or made to feel unwelcome - happens all the time.

    So it's "disgusting" If a player tries to move, but it's OK If a Club tries to force them? You can't have it both ways and in each case they'll try to look after themselves, that's the nature of the game.

    ReplyDelete
  97. It doesn't just happen to players, look at the way Wilkins has just been treated at Chelsea - pretty poor form to be honest.

    ReplyDelete
  98. I think you have jumped the gun on this one. There is going to be a statement today from Pepe Reina inregarding the false accusations made by the Daily Mirror and other newspapers plus yourself.

    ReplyDelete
  99. Reina statement this afternoon so that billy bollocks written in the Mirror today is going to be rubbished end of story.

    ReplyDelete
  100. Erm, Jaimie, you might want to check this out:

    http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/reina-i-m-fully-committed

    I expect an article offering an unreserved apology to Reina for your attack based on paper talk.

    Very poor Jaimie, very poor.

    ReplyDelete
  101. Poor form JK. What happened to "Truth, facts and crictical realism"? Here you are believing the media spin; in fact not only believing it but then writing an article based on it and questioning the professionality of Reina and calling him arrogant. 

    ReplyDelete
  102. I gotta say when I read this article I never believed it, and was quite shocked when you Jamie, created this post insulting on of the best players in the league.

    As you expect full apologies and retractions, I think it is only fair that you do the same, you got this one wrong.

    I do enjoy coming to your site and was really surprised when you jumped the gun. Of course we have reina a top keeper Arsenal and Utd are interested in this season - of course speculation will fly....I thought you were smart enough to sort through the chaff.

    Unfortunately this post will forever be a black mark against your reputation.

    Stick to what you are good at - THE FACTS!

    ReplyDelete
  103. Reina has not denied making his initial comments; he has denied telling Hodgson that he is leaving in January:

    I have not told the manager that I wish to leave in January, or at any other time. It is important our fans know this.

    People seriously need to wake up.  Reina refuted something that was not even alleged.

    In his comments earlier in the week he said he would 'stay until the end of the season'.

    If those comments were wrong, he would've specifically referred to them.  He didn't.

    So please, get off your high horse.  Reina's initial comments are still open to interpretation.  Just because he's said he's not leaving in January doesn't make any difference.  I never suggested he would leaving in January.

    ReplyDelete
  104. Reina has not denied making his initial comments; he has denied telling Hodgson that he is leaving in January:  
     
    I have not told the manager that I wish to leave in January, or at any other time. It is important our fans know this.  
     
    People seriously need to wake up.  Reina refuted something that was not even alleged.  
     
    In his comments earlier in the week he said he would 'stay until the end of the season'.  
     
    If those comments were wrong, he would've specifically referred to them.  He didn't.  
     
    So please, get off your high horse.  Reina's initial comments are still open to interpretation.  Just because he's said he's not leaving in January doesn't make any difference.  I never suggested he would leaving in January.

    This really is hilarious - people are so unable to think critically they cannot even see the difference between what was originally said, and what Reina has said publicly now.

    ReplyDelete
  105. Reina has not denied making his initial comments; he has denied telling Hodgson that he is leaving in January:  
     
    I have not told the manager that I wish to leave in January, or at any other time. It is important our fans know this.  
     
    People seriously need to wake up.  Reina refuted something that was not even alleged.  
     
    In his comments earlier in the week he said he would 'stay until the end of the season'.  
     
    If those comments were wrong, he would've specifically referred to them.  He didn't.  
     
    So please, get off your high horse.  Reina's initial comments are still open to interpretation.  Just because he's said he's not leaving in January doesn't make any difference.  I never suggested he would leaving in January.

    This really is hilarious - people are so unable to think critically they cannot even see the difference between what was originally said, and what Reina has said publicly now.

    ReplyDelete
  106. Reina has not denied making his initial comments; he has denied telling Hodgson that he is leaving in January:  
     
    I have not told the manager that I wish to leave in January, or at any other time. It is important our fans know this.  
     
    People seriously need to wake up.  Reina refuted something that was not even alleged.  
     
    In his comments earlier in the week he said he would 'stay until the end of the season'.  
     
    If those comments were wrong, he would've specifically referred to them.  He didn't.  
     
    So please, get off your high horse.  Reina's initial comments are still open to interpretation.  Just because he's said he's not leaving in January doesn't make any difference.  I never suggested he would leaving in January.

    This really is hilarious - people are so unable to think critically they cannot even see the difference between what was originally said, and what Reina has said publicly now.

    ReplyDelete
  107. Exactly, Vas.  And the fact that people can't see that Reina has not refuted those comments with his latest statement is hilarious.

    No one suggested he was going to leave in january; I certainly didn't.  His original comments were true, and they are still a cause for concern.

    ReplyDelete
  108. I never suggsted, implied or inferred from Reina's comments that he would be leaving in January. 

    Reina's comments today have no bearing on the comments I quoted in the article above.

    It's hilarious how people can't see the difference.

    ReplyDelete
  109. Andrew - My article has nothing to do with what Reina said today.

    The comments of his I quoted did take place, and he has not refuted them.  He has just said that reports that he is leaving in January are wrong; tell me, where did I suggest or imply that his comments from a few days ago meant he was leaving in January?  I didn't.

    There is no apology required at all.  Reina's comments today and the article I wrote based on comments he made a few days ago are mutually exclusive, and if people can't see that then that's not my problem.

    ReplyDelete
  110. Alan - what false accusations have I made?  please show me where in the article I suggested, implied or hinted that Reina would be leaving in January.

    I DIDN'T. Nothing of the sort. I referred to comments he made a few days ago about staying till the end of the season, and re Benitez being the reason he came to Liverpool in the first place.

    Those comments  were true, and we are entitled to discuss them.  You're another person who needs to get off their high horse and READ PROPERLY before making accusations.

    I made NO false accusations at all.

    ReplyDelete
  111. Oh please Jaimie, that's a weak counter-argument!

    Read his actual comments from today's press release:

    "I have seen a newspaper has made this suggestion. It is completely untrue. I have not told the manager that I wish to leave in January, or at any other time. It is important our fans know this."

    "I have a long-term contract at Liverpool and I am fully committed to the club. Our new owner met me and some of the other players last week and I was very happy with what he told me."

    He QUITE CLEARLY states he HAS NOT suggested he wants to leave in January or AT ANY OTHER TIME.

    He's said the newspaper report was COMPLETELY UNTRUE.

    I cannot believe you are now taking the word of a paid journalist over the direct word from Reina!

    Admit it Jaimie, you're completely unable to admit fault in any situation. It's clear from Reina's interview that the newspaper story was dross and you're still calling him a liar, is that the LFC Way is it Jaimie? We now take the word of a paid journo above that of a model Pro like Reina?

    ReplyDelete
  112. Jamie....comments?

    Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina has denied reports he has told manager Roy Hodgson he wants to leave the club.
    Reina, 28, signed a six-year deal with the Reds in April and told the club's website: "It is completely untrue.
    "I have not told the manager that I wish to leave in January, or at any other time. It is important our fans know this.
    "I have a long-term contract at Liverpool and I am fully committed to the club."


    Reina was signed by ex-Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez in a £6m move from Villarreal in July 2005 and has become a key member of the side having racked up more than 250 appearances for the Merseysiders.
    <img></img>606: DEBATE He is one of our most committed players and would be very hard to replace
    KOP1990

    The Spain international has consistently been linked with a move since the summer, despite the club enjoying a new-found stability since the takeover by New England Sports Ventures [NESV].
    Arsenal, Manchester United and Inter Milan, now managed by Benitez, have been linked with Reina but he has moved to end any speculation over his future as the Reds try to climb the Premier League table following a poor start.
    "Our new owner [John W Henry] met me and some of the other players last week and I was very happy with what he told me," added Reina.
    "The entire squad and staff are working very hard to get us back competing at the top of the table. We will not be distracted by inaccurate media speculation."

    ReplyDelete
  113. Matt - You can flog this dead horse all you like but that's not going to change the fact that you are wrong.

    1. In his comments today, Reina said: "I have not told the manager that I wish to leave in January, or at any other time".

    Fine - show me where in my article I mentioned *anything* about Reina telling Hodgson he was leaving.

    I didn't.

    Reina has specifically refuted the allegation that he spoke to Hodgson and told him he was leaving.  That has NOTHING to do with article I posted, which was analysing the verified comments made by Reina earlier in the week.

    2. I did not suggest, imply or hint that Reina was leaving in January.  Nothing even close.  I don't know who made that allegation but it wasn't me.  I used Reina's own comments and gave my opinion on them, which I am perfectly entitled to do.

    What you are going on about has NOTHING to do with what I posted.  If it has, prove it.

    God, peoples' lack of comprehension really is disturbing these days.  Reina refuting something argued in a newspaper has nothing to do with the article I wrote.

    ReplyDelete
  114. No Jamie you have suggested in your article that Reina's comments indicate that he wants to leave. In his press statement today Reina states:

    I have not told the manager that I wish to leave in January,<span> or at any other time. It is important our fans know this.</span>

    "I have a long-term contract at Liverpool and <span>I am fully committed to the club.</span>

    "Our new owner met me and some of the other players last week and <span>I was very happy with what he told me."</span>


    So basically now we have the facts Reina is happy at the club and has no intention to leave of course this can all change but until that happens IMO this whole article should have been about Rooney and not Reina who has done nothing but give good service to LFC.

    ReplyDelete
  115. Please read further down the thread - I've already addressed this issue.  It has nothing to do with the article I posted; I never suggested Reina would leave in Janury, or that Reina had spoked to Hodgson about anything.

    ReplyDelete
  116. Cmon Jamie is sorry the hardest word..... ;)  Or maybe you were just quoted out of context....haha

    ReplyDelete
  117. <span>"I signed a six-year deal seven months ago and I'm happy at the club, but every footballer wants to be competing for trophies and winning things."</span>
    - Nothing wrong with that statement IMO - I want this as a fan too.

    <span>"<span>I will stay at Liverpool at least until the end of the season</span>. I know there are rumours about me leaving but I want to make it clear that I have no intention of going back to Spain"</span>

    AT LEAST!! - If Liverpool decide to sell him it is out of his control....and most likely it will not be in January.

    <span>"To play for Liverpool is very special. I've been here for five years and now I will be here for six more and it's very exciting".</span>
    <span></span>
    <span><span>"Benítez was an essential person for Liverpool and <span>the reason I came to Liverpool".</span></span>

    <span>- Perhaps after arriving at Liverpool he now understands how special it is. Of course Benitez is the reason he came - nothing wrong with that IMO. I have been a Liverpool Supporter for 24yrs born in Africa moved to the States and now Canada a far distance from Anfield - Some may say I am not a "TRUE" fan - I disagree, When Im in england visiting my family I always make a trip to Anfield even here across the pond I never miss a game. -- I started supporting Liverpool because John Barnes - was Jamaican (I am 50% Jamaican) and Bruce Grobbelaar was Zimbabwean (I am 50% Zimbabwean) As you know these players no longer play at Liverpool, However I am still a Liverpool Fan through and through. </span></span>
    <span><span></span></span>
    <span><span>My point is Reina may have come to Liverpool because of Benitez this does not mean that as Benitez is gone he must now go.</span></span>

    ReplyDelete
  118. Critical realism maintains that there is some ultimate or absolute truth - in your case Kanwar this article about Pepe Reina who posted up this week your article was not critical realism and in my opinion its criticial self preservation on your part to prove everybody wrong.

    Thankfully Pepe Reina showed that there is a least some dignity at the club and on the internet in regards to our supporters because your soundbite on this article is full of lies.

    ReplyDelete
  119. Come on people... 

    Pepe made the following comment


    <span>"<span>I will stay at Liverpool at least until the end of the season</span>. I know there are rumours about me leaving but I want to make it clear that I have no intention of going back to Spain"</span>

    <span><span>He has not denied making this statement. </span></span>

    Why say such a thing, why even hint that you might leave if you do not want to?

    You are either a complete idiot or you are trying to deliberatively trying to engineer a move or want more money.

    Considering he has recently signed a new contract, for me he is trying to engineer a move. 

    Unless of course he is a complete idiot and didn't think that the media would not pick up on a comment like that.

    ReplyDelete
  120. Fair enough Jamie....your right the comments are very much open to interpretation. Below is how I interpret them:

    <span>"I signed a six-year deal seven months ago and I'm happy at the club, but every footballer wants to be competing for trophies and winning things."</span>  
    - Nothing wrong with that statement IMO - I want this as a fan too.  
     
    <span>"<span>I will stay at Liverpool at least until the end of the season</span>. I know there are rumours about me leaving but I want to make it clear that I have no intention of going back to Spain"</span>  
     
    AT LEAST!! - If Liverpool decide to sell him it is out of his control....and most likely it will not be in January.  
     
    <span>"To play for Liverpool is very special. I've been here for five years and now I will be here for six more and it's very exciting".</span>  
    <span></span> 
    <span><span>"Benítez was an essential person for Liverpool and <span>the reason I came to Liverpool".</span></span>  
     
    <span>- Perhaps after arriving at Liverpool he now understands how special it is. Of course Benitez is the reason he came - nothing wrong with that IMO. I have been a Liverpool Supporter for 24yrs born in Africa moved to the States and now Canada a far distance from Anfield - Some may say I am not a "TRUE" fan - I disagree and I know you do too - as you have always protected fans like me, another reason I like your site. </span></span>
    <span><span></span></span>
    <span><span>When Im in england visiting my family I always make a trip to Anfield even here across the pond I never miss a game. -- I started supporting Liverpool because John Barnes - was Jamaican (I am 50% Jamaican) and Bruce Grobbelaar was Zimbabwean (I am 50% Zimbabwean) As you know these players no longer play at Liverpool, However I am still a Liverpool Fan through and through. </span></span> 
    <span><span></span></span> 
    <span><span>My point is Reina may have come to Liverpool because of Benitez this does not mean that as Benitez is gone he must now go.</span></span>

    ReplyDelete
  121. Jaimie what are you talking about?

    "verified comments made by Reina earlier in the week."

    Varified by who? Reina or a journalist, secret spokesperson, secret Club source?

    "Pepe Reina's disappointing recent comments (arguably) show that he is not fully committed to Liverpool FC. Worse than that, it seems clear that his allegiance has always been to Rafa Benitez and not the club, which is just completely wrong"

    WRONG - Reina has today said he is FULLY COMMITTED.


    You're entire article is based on comments attributed to Reina, who has today said it's total bullshit, ergo, you're entire article is based on lies. It's based on the allegation that he wants to leave which he's now denied and ridiculed the notion - you owe him an apology. He is not arrogant or selfish as the story is rubbish!

    ReplyDelete
  122. You can spin it whatever way you want - my article is completey fair, and Reina's comments were worthy of dicussion.

    And don't talk to me about dignity - the hypocrisy is amazing.  you say as someone who has been calling for Hodgson to be sacked after 4 months.  Amazing.  THAT is undignifed.

    ReplyDelete
  123. The hypocrisy, tell me what he has acheived in 35 years of management to warrant the position as manager of LFC and come back to me. In my opinion he doesn't deserve to be manager of the club and the results along with his ridiculous statements indicates to me a man who is far from the philosophy I idenitify a becoming manager of our club.

    What is undiginified I find is your article on Pepe Reina which clearly after Pepe Reina's statement today it wasn't a worthy a discussion but shit stirring the feelings among our fanbase yet again. You played the pro and anti Rafa fans off each other and so far this season your doing the same with Hodgson.

    ReplyDelete
  124. Vas....I personally believe people are innocent before being proved guilty. And unless you can prove to me he is engineering a move I will cut him some slack.

    As a player I can sign a 6yr contract but to be honest the club can decide to sell me at anytime. These sales are usually conducted at the end of seasons. So for Reina to say at least until the end of the season is fine IMO. As Liverpool could accept a $20M pound bid for him then.

    Understand this is one comment to a journalist....he has now clarified those comments -  he would like to stay beyond the end of the season but of course cannot guarantee that.....as 20-40M would be a lot for Liverpool to turn down

    ReplyDelete
  125. http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/reina-i-m-fully-committed

    His statement is enough for me to show up the sniping being aimed at one if not most committed player every season he has being at the club. This is why I primarily have taken issue with this article and Maddocks because it shows up some people agenda's.

    ReplyDelete
  126. You havent address the issue at hand.

    Reina has not denied making that comment which for me is at the heart of the matter.

    I do not consider Reina to be an idiot, I consider him to be an intelligent person who knew full well that the media would concentrate on that one comment.

    At the moment most journalists seem to have an issue with Liverpool Football Club, most reports about Liverpool are negitive.

    Therefore any interview your going to do you know you are going to have to be on your guard.

    There was no reason why he should of said, "until the end of season" unless he there was an a hidden motive.

    The last thing the Club needs is for players to be making statements such as these.

    ReplyDelete
  127. what club do you support ?

    ReplyDelete
  128. this is the most non liverpool board if had the misfortune to check out . jamie<span> are you sure your</span> on the r<span>ight site lad</span>

    ReplyDelete
  129. It's funny you mention about players being overpaid, yet a few weeks ago were saying our ticket price rises "weren't a big deal"...

    ReplyDelete
  130. dissappointed to read this article on this site jamie. I first heard about this site on caught off side where they slated liverpool Kop. then after i read ur articles i thought i found a liverpool site that didnt jump on stupid articles that r posted in the papers. as u are aware journalists take the comments that suit them and write about them out of context. yes pepe said it would be nice to be at a club winning trophies BUT after that commet he could of said take he wants to win trophies with liverpool and that the papers as usualy just left it out.pepe has always stated how much he loves liverpool and he was such a fan of rafa he would of left by now.  And now Pepe has come out and said he wont live he will stay the lenght of his contract. Jamie i know u wrote an article thanking pepe for clarifing his veiw but please dont just jump on some rubbish that the british papers love to write they love to twist everything. I realy enjoy this site because artiles like this one were not on it. its not a debate or argument its just gossip

    ReplyDelete
  131. Hi Jamie

    Why do you only point the famous facts when you can use them to win your argument.

    Firsly lets not dispute it Reina has made these comments and to be fair no matter how good of brain readers we think we are we do not know the fully story behind why he has said this.

    But I do want to state the facts here:
    Fact 1 - Reina signed a new contract last season
    Fact 2 - At the time Reina signed a contract (liverpool had always ened up in top four).  Remember he signed the contract whilst the season wasnt over so at the time he signed he had always experienced champions league football  each season.
    Fact 3 - The season before he signed new contract Liverpool had just ended up second.
    Fact 4 - Hicks had promised a big transfer window in summer.
    Fact 5 - We had a worse finish in so many years last year.
    Fact 6 - We were in the bottom three after 9 league games this year.
    Fact 7 - Hodgson has stated that liverpool should lower thier expectations.

    So firstly since he signed his contract last season alot of things have changed and secondly Jamie you seemed confused you have wrote many articles about how badly liverpool has been run over the last decade and how much money has been wasted by the managers. Well I dont think liverpool meant to waste all this money and I dont think liverpool wanted to go this long without the league.

    If Reina believes liverpool are not heading the right direction, and if liverpool fail to land in the top four two years in a row can you blame players like reina and torress wanting to move on?
    But you rather they stick to the contracts eventhough neither your or I were there when the contracts were signed and the promises were made (if any promises were made).
    But you are quick to make judgement and call him selfish and arrogant.

    ReplyDelete
  132. Hi Jamie

    Why do you only point the famous facts when you can use them to win your argument.

    Firsly lets not dispute it Reina has made these comments and to be fair no matter how good of brain readers we think we are we do not know the fully story behind why he has said this.

    But I do want to state the facts here:
    Fact 1 - Reina signed a new contract last season
    Fact 2 - At the time Reina signed a contract (liverpool had always ened up in top four).  Remember he signed the contract whilst the season wasnt over so at the time he signed he had always experienced champions league football  each season.
    Fact 3 - The season before he signed new contract Liverpool had just ended up second.
    Fact 4 - Hicks had promised a big transfer window in summer.
    Fact 5 - We had a worse finish in so many years last year.
    Fact 6 - We were in the bottom three after 9 league games this year.
    Fact 7 - Hodgson has stated that liverpool should lower thier expectations.

    So firstly since he signed his contract last season alot of things have changed and secondly Jamie you seemed confused you have wrote many articles about how badly liverpool has been run over the last decade and how much money has been wasted by the managers. Well I dont think liverpool meant to waste all this money and I dont think liverpool wanted to go this long without the league.

    If Reina believes liverpool are not heading the right direction, and if liverpool fail to land in the top four two years in a row can you blame players like reina and torress wanting to move on?
    But you rather they stick to the contracts eventhough neither your or I were there when the contracts were signed and the promises were made (if any promises were made).
    But you are quick to make judgement and call him selfish and arrogant.

    ReplyDelete
  133. Well i love a number of sports but football is my favourite,i must confess the days when players were loyal to the fans and their clubs who pay them exorbitant wages is long gone.
    It is sport today allround the people we idolise are often the biggest problem because they are extremely greedy and are in another world.
    I often say this bit about winning trophies is only about going to a successful club with more money, if this is not the case then why don,t more top players become Spanish or Brazilian so they can win a world cup.

    ReplyDelete
  134. Kanwar your a joke,
     Reina isnt leaving, hes just re-affirmed his commitment to LFC. do you not realise that the papers love making something out of nothing when a club isnt doing so well? this is just alot of rubbish thats been dreamt up by a journalist and copied by others because they cant think of any better stories.

    ReplyDelete
  135. what wrong with  wanting to leave? It is okay for a club to sell/ loan /not play a  player if he is not doing well for the club but not okay if a player feels he deserves more? You should not hate a player for leaving but respect  him for all he has done. Reina has been a good goalkeeper. The club/manager, the fans and the players all have certain expectations. Whats wrong with that??

    ReplyDelete
  136. Pepe Reina is a legend at Anfield, need to keep him otherwise we'll be just another Leeds United or Newcastle in my opinion.

    Trampolines Man

    ReplyDelete