LUIS SUAREZ has spiked speculation about his Liverpool FC future – and expressed his appreciation for the support he has received since he moved to Anfield in January 2011.
The departure of Kenny Dalglish, who signed the Uruguayan, and the difficulties Suarez has endured in England following last season’s unsavoury race row with Patrice Evra, have led to stories linking Suarez with a summer move to Spain.
Barcelona and Real Madrid were both reported to be monitoring the striker’s situation, but Suarez dismissed the speculation over the weekend.
And despite the search for a new manager, Liverpool are pressing ahead with talks to secure the player – along with Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger – to a new long-term contract.
“Being honest, I have never talked to anyonefrom Barca or Real Madrid. If the rumours are to be believed I would have already played for 20 teams,” he said.
“Liverpool have had a good season and we got to two cup finals.
“In the Premier League we did not finish as high as expected, but positive things have been taken.
“Liverpool is a 10/10 club for the support they give the players. I am very grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity to play in the Premiership.”
Suarez’s statement echoes managing director Ian Ayre’s claim last week that he has spoken to key members of the squad following the departure of Kenny Dalglish – and has now dismissed any talk of high-profile exits.
“I spoke to all our senior players and I don’t think that will happen,” said Ayre.
“Of course Kenny is an important part of the fabric of the club and always will be.
“There isn’t anyone who won’t be disappointed with the decision but at the same time players are respectful. It’s about the football club. We are talking about going forward, not going backwards.”
Martin Kelly, meanwhile, has been voted Liverpool’s Young Player of the Season in a poll voted for by supporters on the club’s official website.
Kelly polled 28% of the vote, just pipping nearest rival Jordan Henderson with 25%.
Jonjo Shelvey picked up 20% and Sebastian Coates came fourth with 14%.
Kelly made 20 appearances throughout the campaign and scored one crucial goal – a match-winner in the Carling Cup win at Stamford Bridge.
