Marseille thank federation for Flamini stance

MARSEILLE president Christophe Bouchet has thanked the French football federation (FFF) for refusing to deliver a letter of release for Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini.

The 20-year-old has been in conflict with the Mediterranean giants since announcing in July that he was joining the Gunners instead of signing a professional deal with OM.

Bouchet and coach Jose Anigo immediately tried to block Flamini’s departure to England and lodged a complaint with the LFP, the body that runs the professional game in France, who refused to authorise the move.

The request was then sent to the FFF who gave their backing to Marseille, while Bouchet also received support from the UCPF, the national union for professional football clubs, as well fellow Ligue 1 outfits Auxerre, Saint Etienne, Le Havre and Metz.

“The FFF took a courageous decision,” Bouchet said. “They assured us they would hold on and they did, it is good to feel supported.”

Bouchet was disappointed by Arsenal’s actions, insisting they are prepared to take the case as far as possible. “I had always praised the loyalty of Arsenal but their attitude is unacceptable,” he added.