Silva Explains Why Andreas Pereira Was Excluded from Fulham Squad Following Interview About Marseille Transfer Desire
MARCO SILVA stated that Andreas Pereira was omitted from Fulham’s lineup against Spurs due to a “technical decision” – and NOT because of an interview regarding a potential transfer away from the club.
Midfielder Pereira seemed to indicate to PL Brasil earlier this week that moving to Marseille to play under Roberto De Zerbi would be “very cool”.
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However, the Brazilian took to social media on Sunday to express his dissatisfaction with the English translation of his remarks, calling it “malicious and inaccurate”.
The former Manchester United player, 28, posted on Instagram: “In the interview, I clearly communicated my happiness and satisfaction with being at Fulham, along with my gratitude for everything the club and staff have done for me, emphasizing at all times that I still have two years left on my contract and am fully committed to my club.
“Nonetheless, the article includes statements that are both inaccurate and do not reflect what I actually said.
“I deeply regret the unprofessional behavior displayed in this situation and kindly request a retraction of the quotes falsely attributed to me.”
Pereira had been a starter in all 12 of Fulham’s Premier League matches this season prior to the match on Sunday.
Yet he was excluded from the squad entirely as the Cottagers battled to a 1-1 draw against Tottenham, despite goal-scorer Tom Cairney receiving a red card.
Nonetheless, Silva clarified: “(The interview was) not the reason for him not being in the squad. I didn’t read the interview. I am aware of some of the topics. To read something, I need to be sure it was correctly represented. I
“Don’t base my decisions on interviews, newspapers, or social media. I don’t keep track of them, although I am aware of some discussions.
“He wasn’t prepared for the game. It was a technical decision from my side.”
Without Pereira, Fulham managed to secure a point at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium.
They fell behind in the second half when Brennan Johnson scored in the 54th minute.
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However, it was Cairney who equalized in the 67th minute.
He would transition from hero to villain in the 83rd minute, receiving a red card.
Nevertheless, Silva’s team held on to share the spoils.