The Daily Mirror has printed two stories over the past week or so linking Reina with a move away from Anfield. The first described a secret escape clause in Pepe Reina’s new 6 year contract, allowing the player to leave the club in January.
This has been followed up by an article by David Maddocks in today’s Daily Mirror in which he intimated that Pepe Reina had told the club board and Roy Hodgson that he wanted out of Anfield as soon as possible.
The player today issued a firm denial of this accusation speaking to the official website.
“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.”
“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.”
Both Torres and Reina have been the source of many rumours on Merseyside, with suggested fall-outs not only with the manager but also Gerrard and Carragher.
Before we get too excited we do urge a word of caution. In February 2009 another Spaniard insisted:
I will be here at least three more years.
Just under 6 months later Xabi Alonso had handed in a transfer request and was on his way to Real Madrid.