Alpay future in the balance

Last updated : 13 October 2003 By Paul Doherty
The Turkish defender was involved in an ugly incident with the England skipper during the vital Euro 2004 qualifier between the two countries in Istanbul on Saturday night and Alpay feels the backlash he is receiving in the English media could drive him out of English football altogether.

"I have heard all about what the supporters are saying at Villa and I have heard what has been written in the English newspapers," said Alpay.

"I think it is all very unfair and I think maybe this will have the effect of deciding my future at Aston Villa once and for all.

"It was just a small incident in a football match and I am being crucified because of the recent history of trouble between the two countries.

"The only reason I said anything to Beckham was that he swore at me first.

"I won't tell you what he said because I don't go running to the media to tell them what goes on on the field of play. That should remain between the players.

"I am more of a gentleman than that but I know that he likes to tell everything. I'll just say what he said was not pleasant at all."