Platini backs down on Wenger criticism

UEFA president Michel Platini said he was too harsh with Arsene Wenger when he criticised the Arsenal manager for caring more about business than football.

"I have been too harsh with Arsene. I have been scolded by my dad who made him start (at Nancy). But when I talk about business, I mean attracting young players aged 13 or 14. I can't bear that," Platini said in an interview with French newspaper Sud-Ouest published yesterday.

Former France playmaker Platini criticised Wenger this week when asked by another French newspaper about the Arsenal manager's calls for video refereeing.