• Premier League

Martinez rubbishes Al-Habsi-to-Liverpool talk

ESPN staff
November 8, 2012
Ali Al-Habsi has emerged as one of the best keepers in the Premier League © Getty Images
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Roberto Martinez has dismissed suggestions his Wigan keeper Ali Al-Habsi could be heading for Liverpool in January.

Reports on Wednesday claimed Al-Habsi had emerged as a target for Reds boss Brendan Rodgers, with it being claimed a bid was being readied for January.

Al-Habsi's form has been impressive for the past couple of seasons and Martinez can understand why teams are looking at him, but he insisted Wigan are not a selling club and have the keeper tied down on a long-term deal.

"I don't think there is any truth behind it," Martinez said. "Any rumour that you can see with any of our players I see as a compliment. You don't get links if you are not playing well.

"We are really focused on what we want to achieve and we are looking to improve the squad, window after window.

"We are relaxed about it. He is on a long-term contract and is an important player for us.

"The rumours are going to be there, as he is playing well, he has been impressive. He has developed as a player and is reaching good levels. But he has a long way to go."

Suggesting it will take a huge offer to lure the club into selling, Martinez said: "We do not have financial muscle at this level, but we are well balanced and will never sell players for the sake of it."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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