Houllier dismisses Kewell controversy

Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier brushed aside the controversy surrounding Harry Kewell’s departure from Leeds United to hail the Australian as a “fantastic signing”.

Houllier was delighted to have signed such an “exciting” player as he looks to take Liverpool back to the Champions League and build a squad capable of challenging for the Barclaycard Premiership once again.

The deal was finally completed late yesterday afternoon after the Yorkshire club’s plc board reluctantly agreed to a cut-price sale which will see them left with around £3m (€4.3m) cash, and some £2m (€2.9m) going to the player’s agent.

Despite the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the transfer, Houllier believes the arrival of life-long Reds fan Kewell has the potential to be one of the best acquisitions in the club’s history.

“This is a fantastic signing for the club and its fans,” he said.

“After the intense media interest in the player I am delighted we have finally completed a deal which can only excite our supporters all over the world.

“We had spoken about bringing in players who would have the fans on the edge of their seats and I can’t think of a better description for the qualities that Harry will bring to Anfield.”

Houllier added: “When you consider the calibre of rival clubs from all over Europe competing for his signature, it’s a huge boost for us ahead of the new campaign and an indication of Harry’s belief in what we want to achieve here.

“We have worked very hard to bring the player here against intense competition and I want to pay tribute to (chairman) David Moores, (chief executive) Rick Parry and the board for their efforts. Like them, I could not be more delighted at the successful outcome.”

Following today’s noon press conference at Anfield, where Kewell will be unveiled alongside fellow new signings Steve Finnan, Antony Le Tallec and Florent Sinama-Pongolle, the squad will travel to Switzerland for their annual pre-season training camp.

Kewell is now looking forward to the challenge of playing for Liverpool, for whom he will wear the number seven shirt made famous by Ian Callaghan, Kevin Keegan, Kenny Dalglish, Peter Beardsley and Steve McManaman.

“My lucky number is seven and I used to play seven when I was younger,” said the Australian.

“Vladimir Smicer has given the shirt up, which I’m thankful for. He didn’t have to – but I’m grateful to him. It’s a big number to take on – but I’m looking forward to the pressure.”