Liverpool News: Del Piero Rejected Move Over Heysel

CaughtOffside), Alessandro Del Piero turned down the opportunity to join Liverpool in the summer, after considering the tragic events of Heysel and out of respect for the victims. Del Piero ended his illustrious association with Juventus after 19 years in the summer, and had attracted interest from Liverpool, who were in the market for a new striker after letting Andy Carroll leave, and failing to conclude a deal for Clint Dempsey, so instead joined Spurs. But despite that interest, the Italian forward joined Australia's Sydney FC on a free transfer. According to the report, Del Piero acknowledged the interest shown by Brendan Rogers' side, but confirmed that it was Heysel that put him off joining the Anfield side:

€œWhy I said no to Liverpool? Negotiations with Sydney were already advanced and then I thought about what had happened at Heysel. Juve and Liverpool were able to rebuild the relationship, but for many people that tragedy is an indelible memory. I thank all the clubs which wanted me, but I€™m convinced of my choice."

The tragedy saw the death of 39 Juventus fans and the injury of 600 after a crush caused by Liverpool fans at the 1985 European Cup final in Brussels, and resulted in a five year ban for English clubs from European competition, as well as a six year ban for Liverpool and 14 convictions for Liverpool fans of involuntary manslaughter. What do you think Liverpool fans? Should Del Piero have come out with this statement? Would you have welcomed the Italian's signing? Share your thoughts below.