Lens can't afford Smicer

Last updated : 09 June 2004 By Adam Bryant

"I think that the idea of Smicer moving to Lens is a rumour only," said Pavel Paska.

"Lens are not a football club that are able to sign a player like Vladimir Smicer these days. I mean, they do not have enough money to pay him."

The Czech international joined Liverpool from Lens for £4.2million five years ago but, despite playing well for his country, has been unable to reproduce that form for his club.

According to Paska, Smicer has a year remaining on his Anfield contract and intends to see it out.

"Smicer has a contract at Liverpool and I think that he will honour it."