Liverpool furious with Football Association over injury to Steven Gerrard
Liverpool has released a huge attack on the Football Association after Steven Gerrard picked up an injury during the 2-1 friendly defeat to France.
England and Liverpool had reached an agreement where Gerrard was not supposed to play for more than an hour. This agreement is common between top clubs in England and the national side. However, Gerrard
was taken off just before time because of a hamstring problem.
"Unbelievable from all associated with England and English FA with regard to Steven Gerrard's injury. Completely ignored
agreement and past history. Completely amateurish and now we pay for their incompetence. Absolutely disgraceful," said Liverpool fitness coach Darren Burgess on his
Twitter account.
England manager Fabio Capello has defended playing Gerrard for longer than was agreed because he was forced to take Gareth Barry off at half-time. He says Gerrard's experience
and quality was vital in the opening period of the second-half.
"We spoke with Steve and he said he would play one hour, but after Barry's
injury we had some problems. That was the reason he stayed on the pitch. If it's possible, the players will play the time we agreed with the club," Capello said.
It is unknown how long Gerrard will be out for as Liverpool medical staff now have to assess his injury. He is rated doubtful for Premier League duty this weekend and it's
clear that Liverpool holds Capello responsible for not honouring an agreement that was made in good faith.
"But Barry was really injured so we needed someone senior on the pitch because
it was a really young team. They [Liverpool] asked that he can play one hour if it's possible. They can't decide how long a player plays with the national team," added
Capello.
Betting advice
Hold off from any bets on Liverpool until the extent of Gerrard's hamstring injury becomes clear. If it turns out to be a minor knock then it shouldn't affect Liverpool
a huge deal. However, if it's long-term then it could make it difficult for Liverpool to improve on recent form.
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