MARCO SILVA said Andreas Pereira was left out of Fulham’s squad against Spurs due to a “technical decision” – and NOT for an interview discussing a move away from the club.
Midfielder Pereira appeared to tell PL Brasil this week that it would be “very cool” to move to Marseille and play under Roberto De Zerbi.
But the Brazilian took to social media on Sunday to hit out at the English translation of his comments, branding it “malicious and inaccurate”.
The ex-Manchester United man, 28, wrote on Instagram: “In the interview, I clearly expressed my happiness and satisfaction with being at Fulham and my gratitude for everything the club and the staff have done for me, emphasising at all times that I still have two years remaining on my contract and that I am fully focused on my club.
“However, the article includes comments that are neither accurate nor reflective of what I actually said.
“I deeply regret the unprofessional conduct displayed in this situation and respectfully request a retraction of the quotes falsely attributed to me.”
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Pereira had started all 12 of Fulham’s Premier League games this season prior to sunday’s match
But he was then left out of the squad altogether as the Cottagers battled to a 1-1 draw at Tottenham, despite goal-scorer Tom Cairney being sent off.
Yet Silva said: “(The interview was) not why he wasn’t in the squad. I didn’t read the interview. I know some of the topics. For me to read something I need to be sure they did it. I
“I don’t make decisions regarding interviews or newspapers or social media. I don’t follow them, of course I am aware.
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“He was not ready for the game. It was a technical decision from myself.”
Without Pereira, Fulham managed to save a point at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium.
They fell behind in the second half to a Brennan Johnson goal in the 54th minute.
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But it was Cairney who drew them level in the 67th minute.
He would go from hero to villain in the 83rd minute, when he was given his marching orders.
However, Silva’s side managed to hold on to share the spoils.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
