Pepe Reina: I was surprised over Liverpool's decision to send me to Napoli

Pepe Reina was ‘shocked’ over Liverpool’s decision to loan him out to Napoli

Pepe Reina has expressed disappointment over Liverpool‘s decision to loan him out to Napoli.

The 30-year-old has revealed that he was ready to sign a new deal with Liverpool if a move back to Spain was not possible. He also claimed that he was ‘shocked’ over the Liverpool’s decision to loan him out to Napoli.

Simon Mignolet’s signing from Sunderland was the sole reason for Reina to be loaned out as he was now a second-choice keeper for the club.

In an open letter to Liverpool FC and its fans, Reina said: “Although it was not my decision to leave I will accept it just like I have always accepted any decision that Liverpool have taken for me.”

The 30-year-old added: “A lot has been made about me informing the club that if an offer came in from Barcelona that I would have liked them to consider it. But I had also spoken to the club about the possibility of extending my contract if the offer was not made.

“I told the manager that I wanted to play for Liverpool and that Barcelona would only become an option for me if the opportunity arrived, like the rumours said it would, as it would be a chance for me to go back home.

“When it didn’t come I was happy to fight for my place so I was surprised that Liverpool decided it was in the club’s interests to send me to Napoli instead.”