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Post by Columbia on Nov 19, 2003 11:20:40 GMT -5
From the bbc:
Owen makes Liverpool vow I find it a little insulting that, after 12 years' service, my loyalty is being questioned.
Michael Owen insists he may still sign a new contract at Liverpool - dismissing claims he has decided to quit if they fail to reach the Champions League next season.
Owen has been linked with moves to Real Madrid and Barcelona with only 18 months left on his current Liverpool deal.
But this website understands Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier and the Anfield hierarchy are convinced Owen will sign at least one more deal at the club.
Owen insists Liverpool can match his ambition and revealed initial talks are going well - adding that he will never play for another Premiership club.
He said: ""After Steven Gerrard signed his new contract, it was inevitable all the attention would turn to me and my future.
Initial talks were very positive and encouraging and they will continue next year
"The stories which followed resulted from some comments which I gave to a magazine several months ago. Some of the words I never even said and the rest were taken completely out of context.
"They have led to a lot of false claims that I will walk out on Liverpool if we don't get into the Champions League. It has all got completely out of hand.
"I want every supporter to know that I am as committed to Liverpool as any player at the club. I have been the same ever since I first came to Anfield as an 11-year-old."
He added: "I believe my ambitions can be fulfilled at Liverpool. I find it a little insulting that, after 12 years' service, my loyalty is being questioned.
"I have signed five contracts with Liverpool and on each occasion they have been sorted out very quickly and satisfactorily.
"The comments which have been made about me this week have come from people who don't know the truth.
"I wouldn't normally comment on gossip and speculation but I felt I should put the record straight for all Liverpool fans.
"I am certain 99% of them understand the situation anyway. But, as usual, these stories have been fuelled by people that simply don't know the facts."
Owen said: "The initial talks were very positive and encouraging and they will continue next year.
"Of course I want to play in the Champions League, but I'm no different to anyone else at Liverpool. The whole club needs it because of the profile and money it generates.
"But I have never said I will leave if we don't quaify next season. I have never categorically stated I want to play abroad.
"A few years ago I said it was an option I might want to consider at some time in the future."
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Post by shadowboxer on Nov 19, 2003 12:49:59 GMT -5
I am glad and DS should be glad. Otherwise he would need to buy me a new jersey.
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Post by daysleeper on Nov 19, 2003 13:15:48 GMT -5
I am glad and DS should be glad. Otherwise he would need to buy me a new jersey. ;D hehe - you can kiss my..... maybe i should just get you the England team Owen jersey! its not like he can change his nationality! ok, so shadowboxer's xmas wish list is now - oasis calendar, push up bra, ceiling mirror, me, England football shirt... the list goes on.....
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Post by shadowboxer on Nov 19, 2003 13:39:52 GMT -5
;D hehe - you can kiss my..... maybe i should just get you the England team Owen jersey! its not like he can change his nationality! ok, so shadowboxer's xmas wish list is now - oasis calendar, push up bra, ceiling mirror, me, England football shirt... the list goes on..... ummm Santa- I did not ask for two of the things listed.... but I'll take one of the extras...you can keep that DS guy. ;D
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