By Andrew Warshaw
October 13 – A second Greek Cypriot player is reported to have transferred to the Turkish-controlled north of the divided island in another success for supporters of re-unification.
Argyris Christofi has followed the example of Demetris Vassiliou and signed for second division Degirmenlik (Kythrea) according to reports in the Turkish Cypriot press.
The team’s president, Amir Ali Ortourtz, says other Greek Cypriot footballers have also shown interest in playing for Degirmenlik as part of the agreement to develop ties between the football associations on both sides of the island.
A year ago, the Cyprus Turkish Football Association (CTFA) – recognised only by Turkey – signed an historic “provisional arrangement” with the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) in which both sides agreed in principle that the CTFA would become a member of the CFA after 59 years of separation.
It is clear, however, that there are still deep frictions within the respective communities, with both sides waiting for each other to ratify the agreement.
Vassiliou was forced to miss what would have been his first match with his new team over fears for his safety following a wave of negative responses to his transfer.
The 35-year-old says he has been the target of abuse both personally and via social networking sites since making the move.
FIFA’s Cypriot executive committee supremo Marios Lefkaritis (pictured) was quoted as saying: “Until a comprehensive solution is reached, not only in the Cyprus problem, but also in the reunification of Cypriot football, such steps are unacceptable.”
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