KLUIVERT DENIES ARSENAL DEAL
Monday 26th January 2004
Kluivert: No Arsenal deal
Patrick Kluivert has informed the Catalan media that he has not signed a pre-contract with Arsenal.
The Barcelona striker has been heavily tipped to join Arsene Wenger's Gunners in the close season in order to form a potentially exciting strike partnership with the outstanding Thierry Henry.
However, the Dutch international has made it clear that no decision has yet been made on his future, even though he seems increasingly likely to quit Camp Nou in the summer.
"Arsenal? What hurts me is that people can think that I have signed a pre-contract because it is not the truth," he insisted.
Meanwhile, coach Frank Rijkaard has praised Xavi and Ronaldinho after the 1-0 win in Sevilla, revealing why he substituted the Brazilian for Marc Overmars.
"Congratulations to Xavi, not only for his birthday, but the way he played," stated Rijkaard. "He celebrated in the best way.
"The truth is there are many games ahead. It is clear that Ronaldinho is indispensable for us.
"With the score at 1-0, I believed we needed to defend more therefore I replaced Ronaldinho because I wanted to give him a little rest.
"The most important thing was to win, at any price. The only thing that counts are the points."
Rijkaard was satisfied with Kluivert's work as the former Ajax striker bagged the only goal of the game.
"I am very happy for the player because it has been a very delicate week for him," added the Barca boss.
"One must congratulate him above all after the hard week that he has had.
"It was a very important goal for him and his team-mates."
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just another rumour I guess....