Liverpool FC Forum

by **JBG** » Sat Jun 11, 2005 10:24 am

FAIRCLOUGH: BITTERSWEET VICTORY FOR REDS
Paul Eaton 10 June 2005

David Fairlcough believes the Reds have achieved a 'bittersweet victory' after being granted a place in the first qualifying round of next season's Champions League.
The former Liverpool striker feels that Rafa Benitez's side should have been given a more generous starting position as they look to defend the title they won in such style last month.

"I'm disappointed by the decision," he said. "To me it sounds like UEFA are giving more prestige to finishing third in La Liga or Serie A than actually winning their own competition.

"That's the only analogy I can draw. I don't think UEFA have been bold enough. Liverpool as a club knew they would have problems when they finished outside the top four.

"But having won it I would have expected a little more generosity from UEFA. They have given Liverpool the smallest crumb imaginable.

"It's a bittersweet victory for Liverpool. They will be delighted that they have a chance to defend their trophy but the knock on effect on their season could be considerable. By Christmas they could have played more games than any of their rivals for the Premiership."

Former Liverpool captain Phil Thompsson, meanwhile, was more upbeat and is just delighted the Reds are back in the competition.

"We've had the right things in our hearts and they've had the right things in their minds," he said.

"This is a great decision for football. I'm glad they've made the decision quickly and to our benefit."

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Fairclough: bittersweet victory for reds - Paul eaton 10 june 2005 (.tv)

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