Platini backs Russia in World Cup debate

The political stand-off between Russia and Ukraine has already started spilling over into the sporting arena with some already suggesting that Fabio Capello’s side should be banned from this year’s competition in Brazil. In an interview with CNN, however, UEFA President Michel Platini dismissed suggestions and offered his support to the Russian players. “I don’t […]
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sambafoot_admin
2014-03-07 19:00:00

The political stand-off between Russia and Ukraine has already started spilling over into the sporting arena with some already suggesting that Fabio Capello’s side should be banned from this year’s competition in Brazil.

In an interview with CNN, however, UEFA President Michel Platini dismissed suggestions and offered his support to the Russian players.

“I don’t know why 11 players would not be allowed to play at the World Cup. Where is their responsibility?”

“Why don’t you (shut down) the Embassy? Embassies are still in the country,” stated the Frenchman.

AS the age of just 20, Platini came under pressure to boycott the 1978 World Cup in Argentina over political reasons and the Ukrainian Paralympic team is facing an equally tough choice as to whether it will boycott the Sochi Games or not.

“It’s always better to go and explain what you think is good rather than boycott.”

“I think it’s better to explain that you are not happy, which is the same opinion I had in 1978 when I was in Argentina for the World Cup,” added the 58-year-old.

“I thought it was better to go and explain that we were not happy with what was happening in Argentina.”

“It could be the same in Russia.”

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