Sunday People

Begovic warned for attacking the Reds

- By Tom Hopkinson

EDDIE HOWE admits he had a stern word with Asmir Begovic after the Bournemout­h keeper savaged Liverpool’s defence.

And the message from the Cherries boss (above) was: “We need to get our own house in order first.”

The Reds, who visit Bournemout­h today, had just been beaten 4-1 by Tottenham in October when Begovic laid into them on Sky Sports’ The Debate Show.

The Bosnian keeper (right) said: “They are not doing the basics of defending and I don’t think they have the pride it takes to be a defender. It’s a combinatio­n of things – communicat­ion, positionin­g and the desire to defend is lacking for Liverpool.

“They don’t look organised, they don’t look like they want to defend. I don’t think their first thought is defending.”

But Howe said: “I don’t agree with what he said but everyone has an opinion and the right to say what they wish.

“Me and Asmir did speak about it. From a player’s perspectiv­e, I don’t think you ever want to see anyone say anything negative towards any other team in the Premier League, because we’re all competing and we’re all trying to do the same thing.

“It’s very important we all show respect for each other, so it’s not something I’d ever encourage my players to do.

“But Asmir was put in a situation on a programme where he was asked his opinion and every person has a right to give their opinion.

“I have to respect that at the same time.

“My initial opinion is that we have to get our own house in order first before we ever comment on other people.”

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