Figo backtracks on criticism of referees after reprieve

Real Madrid midfielder Luis Figo has backtracked over his criticism of Primera Liga referees after the Spanish football authorities withdrew the red card he received in Sunday's 2-1 defeat at home to Barcelona.

"I'm very happy about the decision," the Portugal winger told radio station Cadena Cope on Friday. "I can now play on Saturday and help the team against Deportivo (Coruna)."

"I don't think the referees act in a premeditated fashion but they make mistakes more because of the pressure they're under."

Figo's comments are in sharp contrast to those he made after the Barca match when he launched a fierce attack on referee Alfonso Perez Burrull for sending him off after a second booking for a reckless challenge on defender Carles Puyol.

"He was arrogant and didn't give anything in our favour," Figo had told reporters. "I want the referees to blow for what they actually see, not for what they want to see."

"We are suffering because of that penalty we were given in the last minute of the Valencia match," said Figo.

"From that day the referees have been scared and are giving everything against us. They are deliberately going against us in nearly every game."

But the decision to give Figo a reprieve and allow him to play in this weekend's match at fourth-placed Deportivo has sparked an angry response from rival clubs.

"I was astounded," sports daily Marca quoted Valencia midfielder David Albelda as telling Radio Nou. "It's incredible. Why don't Madrid just keep the league title and let them celebrate?"

Barcelona midfielder Philip Cocu also said he was surprised by the decision to pardon his former team mate.

"I've seen Puyol's ankle and the stud marks and bruises that are there," the Dutchman told a news conference. "He didn't injure himself... The committees seem to make some odd decisions sometimes."

With four games remaining Valencia lead the Primera Liga, a point ahead of champions Real Madrid and five clear of Barca.