Soccer News of Wednesday, 7 February 2007

Source: Eurosport

Le Roy Blasts G14 clubs

Ghana boss Claude Le Roy has launched a stinging attack on the G14 group of leading clubs after his side's 4-1 friendly win against Nigeria. He accused powerful clubs such as Chelsea - who midfielder Michael Essien plays for - of attempting to control national team selection.

"All the G14 clubs are talking about deciding who plays for the national team," he told eurosport.com.

"Chelsea have no right to say who plays for the national team. It is not their decision; it's the national team's decision and national team's doctor who decides whether somebody can play."

Le Roy's opposite number, Nigeria boss Augustine Eguavoen, is also set to clash with the Premiership champions after accusing them of lying about the fitness of John Obi Mikel.

The Ghana supreme also said he would complain to FIFA after two clubs apparently refused to release players to the squad, including Spartak Moscow's Quincy Owusu-Abeyie.

"We sent him an invitation to play and he said yes, but the club did not release him," said Le Roy.

"It's the same for Derek Boateng at Beitar Jerusalem. The club said he was injured but the regulations say he must be released and be checked by our doctors.

"We have sent a fax to FIFA and to the clubs to complain."

However, Le Roy was at pains to point out he did not blame the players and that he would give them another chance.