THE ENGLAND PLAYERS ARE REVOLTING

Last updated : 09 October 2003 By Editor
Team England’s statement, with the Nevilles apparently
leading the way:

“It is our opinion that the organisation we represent has
not only let down one of our team-mates, but the whole of
the England squad and its manager. We feel that they have
failed us very badly.

“One of our team-mates was penalised without being given the
rights that he is entitled to and without any charges being
brought against him by the governing body of the game.

“Rio Ferdinand was entitled to confidentiality and a 'fair'
hearing in front of an independent commission. We believe
the people responsible for making the decision did not give
Rio Ferdinand that due process and [that] has disrupted and
made the team weaker against the wishes of the manager and
the players.

“All the England players are proud to wear the England shirt
and would never let England, Sven-Goran Eriksson or our
magnificent fans down. We apologise to our manager, staff
and fans for any concerns that may have arisen over the past
few days.

“In our minds, there has never been any question as to
whether we would play in this game. We will continue our
preparations for Saturday's game. We are fully focused on
the match in Istanbul and the only thing that matters to the
whole of the England squad and manager is that we qualify
for the European Championships next summer.”

FA director of communications Paul Barber:

“We took a policy decision, we stood by it in the face of
enormous pressure and we were right to do it. The players
conducted themselves in difficult circumstances very
professionally. They had strong views and we are comfortable
that they have expressed those views.”

FA chief executive Mark Palios:

“We've heard what the players have had to say on Rio's
situation and the general situation of anti-doping rules.
We've listened carefully to them and they have some very
strong views. I have to work with the procedures currently
in place and we've already started a comprehensive review of
these.”