Suarez admits to seeking help after biting ban
Print Edition
Barcelona striker Luis Suarez said he has received professional help after receiving a four-month ban for biting an opponent for the third time in his career when he clashed with Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup.
Suarez made his debut for the Catalans in a 6-0 friendly win over Mexican side Club Leon on Monday, but will not be able to play a competitive game for Barcelona until late October after his appeal against the ban was thrown out by the Court of Arbitration for Sport last week.
“The suspension is what it is and I have to accept it, it is a personal matter but I have worked with the adequate professionals,” the Uruguayan said at his first press conference as a Barca player yesterday. “I have tried to forget this game and this situation as well. It is a difficult moment for me and I would say to all the fans to not worry because I am not doing that anymore.”
Suarez was believed to have been a long-term target of Barca rival Real Madrid. However, Barca vice-president Jordi Mestre said the player’s desire to come to Catalonia had allowed the club to negotiate a fee of 81 million euros (US$109 million) with Liverpool, which was less than the release clause.
“There were options from other teams, but when the option of Barca became clear I didn’t have any doubts because it was a dream for me,” Suarez said. “I still can’t believe it. It is something I have dreamed about but I never imagined such a beautiful dream would come true.”
Suarez could even make his competitive debut against Real Madrid should their first clash of the season be scheduled for Saturday, October 25, or the following day and he is determined to stay as fit as possible.
“It’s not the same but I had a similar situation last year at Liverpool. I started to play on September 20.
“It is a long time but if you keep focused with your teammates in training it helps.”
Barcelona already has a wealth of talent available in attacking areas with four-time World Player of the Year Lionel Messi and Brazilian star Neymar, meaning Suarez is likely to be forced into a role on the right side of the attack.
“I am prepared to play any position in attack. I played on the left and on the right because Sturridge played as the No. 9. I don’t have any problem playing in any position and adapting myself to what the coach demands. The quality that Leo and Ney have is amazing, they are players you admire. Yesterday I was watching them in the first half and they make you want to stop and applaud.”
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