A statement on his notorious website on Wednesday read (forgive any mistakes in translation, but hopefully I have the gist of it right):
“Contrary to what has been said these last few days, Newcastle didn't fine me the reported 55,000 Euros. Once again, the journalists have amused themselves by saying anything.
“I find it truly regrettable that the press go fiercely and unrelentingly at me and at Newcastle. The most unbelievable thing, being that I never speak to the English press. Then when I read in the newspapers that I criticised the choices of Bobby Robson, I asked myself many questions.
“I discussed it with Bobby Robson. He confirmed to me that the club supported me, and then, evidently, the 55,000 Euros fine was a pure invention of the press.
“Equally, all my team-mates are with me. I will return tomorrow for an interview, where I will enter into more detail.”
Well can you contain your excitement ahead of the full interview?