Levy – Berbatov had to leave

September 4, 2008

Daniel Levy have defended the clubs decision to sell Berbatov in a deadline day deal to Manchester United.

“The decisions we took to allow the transfers of Berbatov and Robbie Keane were made after close discussions with the coaching staff.

“Juande was clear, and I believe correct, in not wishing to embrace any player within the dressing room that had no desire to play for the badge of this club and for his team-mates. Under these circumstances we had no option but to sell these players.”

Levy though is keen for the FA to review the transfer system after allegations of an illegal approach by Manchester United for the Bulgarian international.

“There are no guarantees in football and this summer we found ourselves having to deal with the unexpected challenge of both our leading goal scorers making it clear they wished to leave the club,” Levy continued.

“I have already stated my opinion on the manner in which our players were approached and the nature of the negotiations surrounding Robbie Keane and Dimitar Berbatov.

“Monday’s events were further evidence of the need for the Premier League to review the system.

“I have also previously said that we had no need to sell players on long contracts - this no longer remains practical.”

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