Monday, 16th December, 2013
Barcelona manager Gerardo Martino has denied centre-back Carles Puyol asked to leave the club owing to persistent injury issues.
Puyol has had a stop-start season this time due to knee injuries, while there is constant speculation of Barcelona looking for a new centre-back.
Names such as Chelsea's David Luiz have done the rounds, and many have claimed Puyol will look to join a club at a relatively lower level to Barcelona's to improve his odds of playing regularly.
However, Martino today denied there was any situation of that nature, insisting Puyol was still dedicated on the training ground.
relatedNewsStory
"All I have to say is that he has not spoken to me about this situation [of leaving]", Martino told Catalan daily Sport.
"I see that he has the very will that is required in training and he is doing well.
"I know he has not said anything about [leaving]. And having to clarify something that he has not spoken to me about seems somewhat unfair."
Puyol has made just three appearances for Barcelona in La Liga while the number drops by two in terms of the Champions League.
Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.
