Liverpool FC: Pepe Reina shocked by Luis Suarez’s ban

Dec 22 2011 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo

PEPE REINA has slammed the Football Association’s decision to ban Luis Suarez for eight games, accusing the governing body of “crucifying” his team-mate.

The Liverpool goalkeeper, speaking after last night’s 0-0 draw at Wigan, says he is convinced Suarez has been wrongly found guilty of racially abusing Patrice Evra.

And Reina says the striker has the full support of everyone in the dressing room as he battles to clear his name.

Before last night’s game the squad released a statement voicing their collective “shock” and “anger” at the decision and they wore T-shirts in the warm-up with Suarez’s name and picture on.

“We are fully supportive of Luis – we are all right behind him,” Reina said.

“We made a statement earlier today and said what we believe is the truth. We are all together on this and that statement was the least we could do for him.

“He is not racist. I am 100% sure that Luis is not racist. That’s what he has been accused of and it’s not fair.

“To say he’s guilty and give him eight games, that’s not even close to being fair.

“We have shown our support to Luis as we want him to know and everyone to know that we are right behind our team-mate.

“He deserves it. He’s a very lovely guy. He’s been crucified by some people and that’s not fair.”

Boss Kenny Dalglish opted to start Suarez at the DW Stadium and Reina praised the way the Uruguayan has handled the verdict.

“It’s difficult when you are accused of something like this,” he said. “It’s not nice but the most important thing is he is doing his job for the team.

“He played really well tonight. He has to keep playing and help the team as much as he can.

“We will enjoy him for as long as we can and then we will see what happens.”

The Reds were left to rue a string of missed chances against Wigan, including Charlie Adam’s second half penalty which was saved by Ali Al Habsi.

Reina said: “Once again it was the same story – their keeper was the man of the match.

“He prevented us from taking the three points but we have to take the positives.

“We kept another clean sheet, we defended very well and it’s a point for us.

“We would be more frustrated if we weren’t creating chances. As long as we keep getting them then we will be fine.

“The goals will soon come and other keepers won’t be as good as Al Habsi.”