Liverpool defender Markus Babbel must find a new club after being told by manager Gerard Houllier that he no longer fits in his plans.
The 30-year-old German international has failed to force his way back into the reckoning after a year out of action due to the debilitating illness Guillian Barre Syndrome.
Babbel was a key figure in Liverpool's treble season and was even rewarded with a new contract while he was recovering from illness, but Houllier has been disappointed with the player's recent attitude and disciplinary record.
The defender's last senior appearance was in December's Worthington Cup victory over Villa, however a clearly out of form Babbel angered Houllier and the Liverpool bench when he threw his jersey to the ground after being substituted. Babbel has also been sent-off in two recent reserve games - one of those red cards coming for a head butt, and Houllier has clearly had enough.
The Liverpool manager said, "The staff have been disappointed with Markus' attitude towards the club and the fans. It is not only because of the outburst during the Worthington Cup, but he has been sent off twice in the reserves. I took no action first time but I will fine him two weeks' wages for the incident last week which was unacceptable. He is no longer in my plans."
Houllier added, "When you have talent there is no question you are capable of doing well for your club, but the motivation has to be there too. The attitude has to be right but in this case it has not been right. I think the club has been very fair to Markus. We stood by him and handed him a new contract, I am very disappointed with him."
Babbel is now expected to make a return to his native Germany, with 1860 Munich said to be leading the chase for his signature.
Filed by Rob Wright
