Phillips tips Liverpool to defy FIFA rules v Leeds after ‘baffling’ new development
Kevin Phillips predicts Liverpool will defy FIFA and play their Brazilian players this weekend.
The Sunderland legend, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, reacted to the latest developments out of Anfield.
Liverpool are one of several Premier League teams who didn’t release their South American players for this month’s internationals.
This was due to current coronavirus rules and the fact many players would have to isolate for 10 days on their return to the UK.
In response, FIFA banned some Brazilian Premier League stars from playing in this weekend’s round of fixtures.
However, on Thursday (9 September) Sky Sports reported Liverpool believe FIFA have no basis to ban said players.
If the ban was imposed, the Reds would lose Alisson, Roberto Firmino and Fabinho for their game against Leeds on Sunday.
Phillips claims Liverpool will defy FIFA and play their Brazilian stars.
“Rules are rules,” Phillips told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“It’s a double-edged sword. FIFA said they have to release the players and the clubs didn’t listen.
“Why would they listen now? It just doesn’t make sense. I can’t get my head around all this, it’s baffling.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Liverpool played those players at the weekend and just worried about the consequences after the game.
“Time will tell whether they go up against FIFA, it’s a big call to make.”
Article 22 of FIFA’s disciplinary code state sanctions may be applied if the restrictions are ignored.
These include fines and forfeiting the match 3-0, though it is unclear what would happen if Liverpool and Leeds, who are set to lose Raphinha, both defy the rules.
In other news, Pundit: Liverpool may be set to sell two stars Klopp calls ‘absolutely incredible’.