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New Real president gets tough with players
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-03-03 09:20
MADRID, March 2 (Reuters) - Real Madrid's new president Fernando Martin
issued a stern warning to his players on Thursday that those not committed to
the cause would be unwelcome at the club.
Fernando
Martin | "I don't want a team of millionaires. I
want a team of marvellous sportsmen who work 24 hours a day to achieve the best
for our fans," Martin told a news conference.
"Those players who think they can stay here giving only the minimum amount of
effort are wrong. Those who fight and sweat for the shirt know they will have
mine and the club's full support.
"I am not afraid to take tough decisions if people don't give their all for
Real Madrid."
Martin's predecessor Florentino Perez resigned after six years at the helm on
Monday, saying one of the reasons for his disillusionment was the lack of
commitment shown by some players.
The Spanish press has, in particular, called into question the attitude of
Brazil striker Ronaldo after he criticised fans last week the day before the 1-0
Champions League defeat at home to Arsenal.
Since then both Sergio Ramos and Raul have hinted that unity within the team
is not as strong as it should be.
"I will set up an independent commission to evaluate the effort of each of
the players, and their sporting and personal conduct," he added.
FUTURE POLICY
Martin's tough stance is bound to win favour with the club's fans.
Although a close ally of Perez's in the past he said he would not be
constrained by his predecessor's former policies and would act as he saw best.
"New elections would be irresponsible at the moment but we will have them
when it is right for the club," he said.
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