Let-o(ff)!

By: Peter Katsiris | March 2nd, 2009

When Ernesto Valverde released his roster for this past weekend’s derby with Panathinaikos, the main headline was the absence of Sebastian Leto from that list. There was plenty of speculation as to why Leto was not named to the roster.

The Argentine had featured in Olympiacos 2-1 defeat to Saint-Etienne after overcoming an injury that kept him out of the original meeting with the French outfit and Super League visit to Ergotelis ahead of the second leg.

No Indication
There was no indication that the on-loan Liverpool midfielder was injured after Olympiacos’ trip to Saint-Etienne, allowing many to speculate a training ground incident had decided the Argentine’s fate.

Initial speculation returned to the pitch as many believed Leto was being punished after kicking two water bottles after being subbed off during a domestic encounter. That hypothesis, however, was quickly ruled out as it was realized Leto had made appearances for the club after that touchline incident – indicating he had since been forgiven.

Secret Meeting
It became more evident that something was wrong when rumors began to swirl about a private meeting between Valverde and club president Sokratis Kokkalis. The speculation suggested the pair met to discuss Sebastian Leto immediate future with the club, while reports also indicated the club had abruptly lost interest in approaching Liverpool to extend Leto’s stay in Piraeus.

The Truth Surfaces
Now, after the derby, more has been revealed about the incident that kept Leto from the weekend clash with Panathinaikos. According to various publications in the Greek press, a training ground incident and argument between Leto and Valverde was in fact the reason for the Argentine’s exclusion.

In what was a very unprofessional move by Leto, reports suggest the left winger rudely kicked two footballs that were in front of him. One ball hit backup ‘keeper Pavel Kovac in the face, while the other hit Valverde in the back.

For his misbehaviour on the training ground, Leto was suspended for the weekend fixture with Panathinaikos, and could remain out of the line-up for the rest of the season.

Soleidis Call
In the wake of this event, Valverde has also taken the initiative of calling up prospect Aristides Soiledis after being told to look at the reserves team for Leto’s replacement.

The 18-year-old has made a handful of appearances for the ‘Erythrolefki’ including the club’s Greek Super Cup win over Larissa two seasons ago.