 |
|
Panama unhappy with Al Ain [Fri Sep 2nd, 2005]
The Panama Football Federation (FePaFut) have reported United Arab Emirates club side Al Ain to FIFA for failing to release striker Luis Tejada for international duty.
Tejada should have arrived in Panama on Tuesday to prepare for his country's World Cup qualifying fixture against Costa Rica, but stayed behind to play a league fixture for his club.
Al Ain officials have not followed the regulations laid down by FIFA and Tejada is now due to land in Panama on Friday evening - less than 24 hours before the clash with Costa Rica.
"The club Al Ain did not follow FIFA regulations referring to the players' nominations and they have to suffer the sanctions of FIFA," said FePafut president Ariel Alvarado.
Coach Jose "Che Che" Hernndez echoed the sentiments of Alvarado, saying: "In Guatemala, he (Tejada) was affected by the flight and hour difference. As soon as he arrives, we'll test him. We really need Tejada for this match."
Panama are currently bottom of the CONCACAF qualifying zone, having taken just two points from their opening six fixtures, and they are in dire need of victory against third-placed Costa Rica.
PA Sport
News headlines from around the world.