Liverpool target Henrikh Mkhitaryan could be fined after failing to return for pre-season training
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Shakhtar Donetsk chief executive Sergei Palkin has warned midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan he will be fined after going Awol and missing training.
The squad are currently based in Austria while preparing for the new campaign but the 24-year-old Armenia international has yet to join up with his team-mates, with reported interest from Liverpool and a number of other clubs.
Palkin denied there had been any official approach from the Reds and told the player he must attend the camp or risk punishment.
"Mkhitaryan did not come to the training session yesterday but he had to - we do not know why," Palkin told Russian newspaper Sportsdaily.
"If he does not join the team in the coming days he will be fined.
"Concerning Mkhitaryan's behaviour I know that he does not have any problems with his team-mates and coaches and we have not heard from him about his intention to leave Shakhtar.
"All the questions about Mkhitaryan's behaviour should be addressed to him
"I am certain that the negotiations between them (Mkhitaryan and Liverpool) is just rumour.
"No offer for Mkhitaryan has been made at Shakhtar."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments