Cisse - One Big Can Of Worms!

Last updated : 21 July 2013 By Footy Mad - Editor

dFirst we had his agent telling the media: "If Alan Pardew plays Papiss on the wing the player will want a move."

That fell on deaf ears ... so next up ... "let's refuse to wear the shirt".

However, a prominent Tyneside Muslim has said if Papiss Cisse followed Islamic law strictly he would not have worn a Virgin Money shirt last season.

Cisse was branded a hypocrite by some fans this week after he refused to wear the club's Wonga- sponsored kit on personal and religious grounds.

Sharia Law forbids an individual to benefit from the giving or receiving of financial interest.

However, some fans pointed out the Senegalese striker was happy to don a shirt sponsored Virgin Money last season.

The 28-year-old did not leave to train with other members of the squad in Portugal this week in a move which has raised serious questions about his future at the club.

It is obvious he is attempting to engineer a move.

dAbu-Tabaye, project manager with the Islamic Diversity Centre North East, has spoken out about the row.

He stressed Muslims could not be grouped together and that some could be considered more strict, but added Cisse is being a hypocrite because "a Muslim has to honour his contract".

He said: "There is not one group of Muslims, it is a very diverse group.

"Some are practicing of their faith more than others.

"From an Islamic point of view it is very clear that interest is forbidden, both to receive and to give. It is completely prohibited.

"The real, truly practicing Muslim would object to any of those sponsorships and promoting something which goes against their beliefs.

"A Muslim has to honour his contract and it is a major thing to break a contract or to not honour a contract."

Once we get into religion in football we are in danger of ruining the sport ... and it could become THAT serious!

What next? Players refusing to play on Sundays or religious days? Because that could happen.

Cisse's stance is a can of worms, and he must NOT be allowed to get away with it!