Meireles launches broadside at Liverpool

Raul Meireles has accused Liverpool of going back on their word and forcing him out of Anfield on the last day of the transfer window.

The Portugal midfielder signed for Chelsea in the final moments before the window closed on August 31 for a fee reported to be around £12 million after just over one season at Liverpool.

The 28-year-old revealed upon signing for Chelsea that he had never wanted to leave Anfield and that he would eventually explain why he had done so.

Attempting to set the record straight he said: "All I have to say is that I had one promise at Liverpool which wasn't fulfilled," a comment that appeared to give credence to rumours he was promised a 100 percent pay rise at Liverpool if he impressed during his debut season.

"It's not the only thing to blame. But that's why the Liverpool fans are unsure why I left."

Meireles admitted he was taken aback to discover he had been made available for transfer.

"I was aware that Liverpool wanted to sell me in the summer, which was a bit surprising to me," said Meireles, who was reluctant to discuss his relationship with Reds boss Kenny Dalglish.

"There's no point touching this subject any more.

"I was a bit surprised, but now I'm just concentrating on my present and future, and that's with Chelsea."

Meireles, who had joined Liverpool from Porto, was delighted to have ended up at Stamford Bridge.

"When Chelsea showed interest, it was like a golden opportunity," he said.

"I'm here now, it's a new adventure, and I want to do well here."