Mutu: I Was Fit

Last updated : 06 October 2004 By Liam Corbett
After limit appearances this season, Adrian Mutu was announced as injured and not in the squad for the visit of Liverpool.

After Didier Drogba was injured mid way through the first half, we needed a replacement striker. However, with Mateja Kezman also out, we had to bring on Joe Cole. Cole may have scored, but was blasted by Mourinho for his defensive performance and is certainly not a striker. If Mutu was on the bench, he would've come on.

But Mutu, 25, now claims he was fighting fit for the Liverpool match and that he told Mourinho so.

"I am in an open conflict with Mourinho," claimed Mutu. "Who forbade me to go to my national team and said I was injured.

"It is not true - I have been in good condition for five days and he knew that.

"I don't care about being fined. I want everyone to know that the national team is the most important thing for me."

Mourinho's decision was taken on the advice of the medical staff, according to Mutu.

"I told Mourinho I was fit," added Mutu.

"He disagreed and showed me a piece of paper from the medical staff claiming I wasn't. But I know I am fit.

"Mourinho has promised me that I would play in the first team for some games. Then I wasn't even in the squad and I don't understand why.

"Probably the only solution, even if I don't want it, is to find another team."

After a great start to his first season at Chelsea last year, Mutu's form went wayward to say the least. Now, he has to decide what he wants. He showed glimpses of great talent last year, and I'm sure he could show that again for Chelsea.

That's if he wants to...