Australian PM supports World Cup player in referee row
20/6/2006 17:16
Australian Prime Minister John Howard said on Tuesday that he wants to see
forward Harry Kewell to play in the next game despite his insulting at a referee
following the loss to Brazil at the ongoing World Cup in Germany. Kewell is
charged for mouthing off at German referee Markus Merk and faces a possible
suspension in Australia's next game with Croatia. Australia needs at least a
draw to advance to the next round. Asked if he thought Kewell should be
suspended, Howard said "No, no, no." Speaking to Southern Cross Broadcasting
radio, Howard said he watched the game and was thrilled by the Australian team's
performance against Brazil on Monday, which ended 2-1. "I thought the
Socceroos (Australian players) were magnificent in the first half...In the
second half we obviously missed a couple of opportunities, but gee, they've done
well," he said.
Xinhua news
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