Liverpool FC

Blackpool 2-1 Liverpool

2010-10-03T17:24:00.000-07:00

Liverpool's much-publicised issues off the pitch have been eclipsed by their problems on it as they slumped to an embarrassing 2-1 defeat at home to Barclays Premier League newcomers Blackpool.

Thousands of fans staged a pre-match protest march against the continuing ownership of Tom Hicks and George Gillett but there was a real danger of revolt inside Anfield at the final whistle.

Blackpool 2-1 Liverpool

Charlie Adam's penalty and Luke Varney's perfectly-timed run and finish did the damage in the first half and although Sotirios Kyrgiakos's header pulled one back Liverpool will spend the next fortnight rooted in the bottom three because of the forthcoming international break.

Manager Roy Hodgson has spent his three-month tenure at the club insisting there would be a transitional period but their current position is shameful for a club of Liverpool's stature.

There is little he can say to excuse this result, yet another in a string of disappointing displays which have been characterised more by poor performances than anything else.

Blackpool, to their credit, were well worth their win on their first-half performance but it should not be forgotten that they are a side who went to Arsenal and Chelsea and were beaten 6-0 and 4-0.

Prior to kick-off they had conceded more away goals than any of their rivals (10) but that record was not something which was exploited at all by their hosts.

They were not helped by the 10th-minute loss of striker Fernando Torres to a suspected groin injury, but even then they should still have at least dominated possession.

But they did not get chance as Blackpool attacked from the off and Adam's second-minute free-kick had Jose Reina batting the ball away.

Torres barely had time to flash a cross into the six-yard box where Joe Cole deflected it wide before he was replace by David Ngog.

Blackpool were enjoying far more of the play than they could have expected to at Anfield and DJ Campbell went close at the far post from Neal Eardley's teasing right-wing cross.

When Steven Gerrard gave the ball away in his own half it was only Martin Skrtel's sliding challenge which denied Varney's shot but the pressure eventually told in the 29th minute.

Right-back Glen Johnson, in particular, has had a dreadful start to the season and it got worse when he brought down Varney, allowing Adam to fire home the penalty despite Reina getting a hand on it.

Liverpool's response was half-hearted with Kyrgiakos, Ngog, Johnson, Dirk Kuyt and Raul Meireles all failing to test goalkeeper Matt Gilks with chances.

Seconds before the interval the Seasiders stunned their hosts when Gary Taylor-Fletcher flicked a ball into the penalty area and Varney ran on to fire past Reina.

Two minutes into the second half Ngog should have buried his header from Kuyt's cross when unmarked only to miss the target but Kyrgiakos showed him how it should be done in the 43rd minute, powering home Gerrard's quickly-taken free-kick.

The tide had turned as now Liverpool were enjoying all the possession, even if it had taken them nearly an hour to establish such a position.

Meireles had three attempts in quick succession, although only the first forced Gilks into a save, before Cole was put through by Carragher only to see his delicate dink beat the goalkeeper but roll past the far post.

A positive substitution removed defensive midfielder Christian Poulsen for forward Milan Jovanovic, with Meireles dropped back into his favoured central position.

As quickly as Liverpool had gained their attacking momentum it seemed to desert them just when they needed it most in the final 15 minutes.

Kuyt's header at the far post from Gerrard's cross was the closest they came but it lacked the power or direction to beat Gilks.

The Reds have now gone five matches in all competitions without a win - no wonder the Kop chanted the name of Kenny Dalglish, who was overlooked for the manager's job in the summer.

Hodgson has some serious thinking to do while the majority of his squad are away with their national teams.

Teams:

Liverpool Reina, Johnson, Kyrgiakos, Skrtel, Carragher, Poulsen (Jovanovic 60), Meireles, Kuyt, Gerrard,Cole (Maxi 88), Torres (Ngog 10).

Subs Not Used: Jones, Lucas, Spearing, Kelly.

Booked: Reina, Kyrgiakos.

Goals: Kyrgiakos 53.

Blackpool Gilks, Eardley (Phillips 46), Evatt, Cathcart (Keinan 20), Crainey, Vaughan, Adam, Campbell,Grandin (Southern 63), Varney, Taylor-Fletcher.

Subs Not Used: Halstead, Harewood, Ormerod, Sylvestre.

Booked: Taylor-Fletcher.

Goals: Adam 29 pen, Varney 45.

Att: 43,156

Ref: Michael Jones (Cheshire).

Hodgson Calls For Patience

2010-09-27T18:09:00.000-07:00

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson once again called for patience as he waits for things to click into place at Anfield.

Having watched his side stage a second comeback inside a week - the first was ultimately unsuccessful at Manchester United - just to salvage a point in the 2-2 draw at home to Sunderland the 62-year-old saw positive signs.

Hodgson Calls For Patience

He was one of the few to do so as the Reds, having been gifted a bizarre opening goal, failed to press home their early advantage and almost paid the price.

Hodgson spoke about results covering over cracks but performances so far have been so paper thin and the fissures so cavernous there is still plenty of repair work required.

Liverpool have had a tough start, playing Arsenal, both Manchester teams and Birmingham away, but six points from six games marks their worst start to a top-flight season in 18 years.

No wonder Hodgson suggested stress could have been one of the factors that caused his players to miss a number of late chances as they scrambled for what would have been an undeserved victory over the Black Cats.

"We missed a couple of very good possibilities at the end but that is partly also due to the stress the players are under," said the 62-year-old.

"Goal chances which you take when you are two or three up don't always get taken when it is 1-1 or 2-2.

"I just think the expectations at the moment that are being piled on the team are probably expectations they are going to find difficult to match up to until such time we do more work together and they bed in better as a team.

"I am seeing very good signs that the bedding-in process is moving along nicely.

"But it is six games into the season, we have a total of 38 to play and there will be a lot of games between the period from game 30 to 38 which will be decisive.

"I am not prepared at the moment to start getting depressed over the fact we are a few points down on the ones we would like to have, as I think maybe it is to be expected given the situation.

"This was a better performance than the one when we beat West Brom (1-0) at home, but we got the three points in that and that covered over a lot of cracks.

"Sometimes as a manager you have to be aware some results can cover over cracks and a lack of results can pose questions that really don't necessarily need to be posed.

"We need to work and play more together and the more we do the better the team will be become.

"For me it is quite simply the Rome wasn't built in a day adage. We have got to keep working at it and there are lots of things I see in the game which need working at."

Sunderland looked as if they could be in for a torrid afternoon as Fernando Torres' chest trap and volley from Steven Gerrard's second minute free-kick was ruled out for offside.

The Spain striker's quick thinking, combined with referee Stuart Attwell's interpretation of Michael Turner backheeling the ball to goalkeeper Simon Mignolet as being the taking of a free-kick, set up the first goal three minutes later.

With everyone assuming the official, in charge for the infamous "ghost goal" two years ago in the game between Watford and Reading, would pull play back Torres nipped in and rolled a pass for Dirk Kuyt to slide home a shot.

The decision incensed the Black Cats and they used that injustice to launch a fightback which saw Darren Bent equalise with a penalty after Christian Poulsen's handball before putting his side ahead with a header just after the interval.

Liverpool looked devoid of ideas but midway through the second half Torres slipped past Phil Bardsley on the right touchline and swung over a deflected cross which Steven Gerrard nodded in at the near post.

There were a flurry of late chances for the hosts, including Daniel Agger missing the target with a free header in the sixth minute of injury time, but a victory really would have been papering over the cracks.

"The pleasing thing for me was the way we took the ball and dominated possession for big periods," said Sunderland manager Steve Bruce.

"I thought overall we thoroughly deserved it and, on another day, we deserved to win the match."

Liverpool are set to be without left-back Paul Konchesky for Thursday's Europa League game in Utrecht and next Sunday's visit of Blackpool after he sustained a hamstring strain in the first half against Sunderland.

Berbatov Calm AfterHistoricTreble

2010-09-19T22:28:00.000-07:00

Berbatov Calm AfterHistoricTreble

Dimitar Berbatov scored the first Manchester United hat-trick against Liverpool in 64 years - and celebrated with an afternoon at home with his kids.

Not since Stan Pearson in 1946 has a United player scored three times against their biggest rivals.

But Berbatov's efforts at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon were enough to seal a 3-2 win in an amazing game where, just as they did at Everton last week, the Red Devils threw away a two-goal lead before the Bulgarian headed the winner six minutes from time.

"It was probably my best day in a United shirt," said Berbatov.

"Obviously I am happy. I am going home with a smile on my face.

"But I am nothing special. I am going home to play with my kids."

If Berbatov's third goal proved decisive, it was his second that will live longest in the memory.

Controlling Nani's right-wing cross on his knee with his back to goal, the former Tottenham man let fly with an audacious overhead kick that left Pepe Reina rooted to the spot as it arced in via the underside of the bar.

"I never saw the ball go in the back of the net," he admitted.

"But when I heard the crowd scream it was easy to guess what had happened.

"It was a good goal but as long as the ball hits the back of the net it doesn't matter."

Berbatov's first United hat-trick took his tally for the season to seven, which - considering Wayne Rooney is still struggling to find his top form - is a vital contribution for the Red Devils so far.

For virtually the first time since his club-record £30.75million arrival from White Hart Lane two years ago, the 29-year-old was given a standing ovation by a packed Old Trafford, with Sir Alex Ferguson's praise ringing in his ears as well.

"Someone told me it was the first hat-trick in over 60 years, which tells you something about the achievement," said the United manager.

"I am very pleased with him. His form has been excellent.

"You do not see many overhead kicks like that coming off. It was a fantastic strike that hit the underside of the bar."

There were plenty of critics who felt Berbatov had run out of chances to make an impression at United and would be sold this summer.

Yet Ferguson insists he never thought of taking that option.

"Lots of questions were asked about him last season and he was made something of a whipping boy, to the point where he must have wondered whether he had a future at Old Trafford," said the United boss.

"But the man has real ability and he is a Manchester United kind of player.

"I concede at times he seemed to struggle but if you are satisfied about a player's credentials you must persevere and trust your judgement.

"You must have faith and I think we are being rewarded this season for our confidence in a player who has a touch of genius about him.

"We paid a lot of money for him and we should have understood that for whatever reason players do not always settle quickly after a big transfer, especially at a club of our stature.

"Certainly this is a big season for him that could determine the rest of his career.

"But he has accepted the challenge and responded in a way that has made him one of our major successes so far. And I think there is plenty more to come from the re-energised Dimitar Berbatov this season."

There might have been more to come from Ferguson too if Berbatov had not found the winner after his side followed up wholly unexpected setbacks at Fulham and Everton already this term.

"It was going through my mind that we had thrown away two-goal leads at Fulham and Everton," admitted Berbatov.

"But we have a fighting spirit and proved it again by scoring the winner.

"Let us hope in the future we won't complicate it so much."

Meanwhile Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson has dismissed Ferguson's assertion that their defeat is a "catastrophe".

He did accept, however, that any potential bid for a Premier League title was already looking remote.

Berbatov's winner inflicted Liverpool's second defeat of the campaign - their first coming at Manchester City a month ago - and Ferguson believes it is a major blow for their season with the club lingering in 16th place in the Barclays Premier League.

"[People were saying] it would have been a catastrophe for Liverpool if they had lost, and a catastrophe for us if we had - fortunately we won," said Ferguson.

Hodgson admitted that, with Chelsea stretching their advantage at the top of the table, Liverpool's chances of winning the title were already slim but their aim of finishing in the top four remained alive.

"We have had a remarkably hard start to the season," said the Liverpool boss.

"Our performance today was clearly a lot better than our last two Barclays Premier League performances (a 1-0 win over West Brom and a goalless draw at Birmingham).

"We were playing against a top team and we can take a lot of credit from the way we went about our business and got ourselves back into the game.

"To use words like catastrophe is a bit strong unless you are talking about winning the league.

"Of course if Chelsea win today we will be a long way behind them early doors - I suppose you could use the word catastrophe for that.

"But at this early stage of my time working the club I can't be making those judgements.

"Our aim is to get better, to get to the Champions League, and maybe that is where I have got to have my focus."

United seemed to be cruising after Berbatov struck twice, once with a first-half header and then with a clever overhead kick which went in off the crossbar.

However, Steven Gerrard dragged Liverpool back into the game with a penalty, after Fernando Torres was fouled by Jonny Evans, and a free-kick after the Spain striker was controversially pulled back by John O'Shea, who was only booked.

There was an argument the Republic of Ireland defender should have been sent off for denying Torres a goalscoring opportunity but referee Howard Webb was lenient.

Ferguson accused the Liverpool striker of trying to get his player a red card but Hodgson again refused to bite.

"Definitely Fernando Torres made a meal of it. There is no doubt he was trying to get the player sent off," said Ferguson.

Hodgson saw it differently. "I prefer to talk about the game and talk about issues that interest me," he added.

"Sir Alex is entitled to any opinion he wants to have but I'm not going to come here and say I agree or disagree.

"I thought the referee refereed the game very well and I have a very ambivalent attitude to those type of things.

"I am not a great lover of red cards for petty offences. Alex is a lot closer to it where he sits but my first thought when it happened was 'this is a foul' but I didn't think he should have been sent off.

"My staff around me jumped about saying he should have been sent off but I took a much calmer attitude towards it.

"As it turned out we got the goal anyway and that should have been the goal which got us a good and maybe deserved point.

"But we defended poorly five or six minutes from the end at a cross which we should have done much better on.

"In my opinion it would be churlish to talk about whether a player should be sent off when really our downfall was due to the fact we should have defended much better for that third goal.

"The first was a wonderful header and the second a bit of genius which is difficult to defend against but the third was far too routine.

"Having got back to 2-2 we should have kept that."

Ferguson glossed over the defensive frailties his side showed for the third league match running, after conceding late goals in draws at Fulham and Everton, to claim United should have been out of sight before Liverpool launched their comeback.

"From thinking to myself 'it's going to be 10' we ended up at 2-2," said the Scot.

"It was a travesty of a scoreline then - but a great result at the end."

Hodgson again disagreed, saying: "I thought United played well but to undermine our performance is a little bit harsh."

Manchester United 3 Liverpool 2

2010-09-19T22:14:00.000-07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson was indebted to the "genius" of Dimitar Berbatov after the Bulgarian's brilliant hat-trick floored Liverpool at Old Trafford.

Every single member of the United side had need to thank Berbatov at the end after they had tossed away a two-goal advantage against Merseyside opposition for the second weekend running, only for the former Tottenham man to net the winner six minutes from time.

In some very perceptive programme notes, Ferguson suggested to lose a winning position once was bad luck, twice is downright careless.

Manchester United 3 Liverpool

Now Liverpool can be added to Fulham and Everton as teams United have thrown winning positions away against this season.

They were only spared the sight of Ferguson's fury stripping paint off the home dressing room because of Berbatov, whose header denied Liverpool, who had levelled through Steven Gerrard's double.

The other part of Ferguson's pre-match missive was the declaration that "you must have faith and we are being rewarded this season for our confidence in a player who has a touch of genius about him".

Genius was an apt word to describe Berbatov's contribution, in particular the astonishing overhead kick that had put United two ahead midway through the second-half of a slow burner of a game that eventually turned into a classic.

Ferguson is not the only one in these parts who still feel this is the biggest fixture of the Premier League calendar.

Chelsea, Arsenal and even Blackburn may have won the title since Liverpool last did so in 1990. But with their 18 league championships and five European Cups, they remain the most successful English side, even if United have now joined them on the domestic front.

The atmosphere was crackling at kick-off, although the early action failed to match it.

United did create one excellent opportunity, which Nani wasted when he fired wide after Wayne Rooney's shot had bounced kindly for him after striking Gerrard.

But the game was low on incident until Berbatov broke the deadlock by nodding home Ryan Giggs' corner at the near-post.

TV replays did not show Fernando Torres in a good light.

His performance at Birmingham last week was branded "diabolical" by TV pundit and former Liverpool skipper Jamie Redknapp.

Clearly needing a goal, Torres was again struggling to make an impact.

New United captain Nemanja Vidic, who has suffered more than most at the feet of a man who remains one of the world's best strikers, tidied up one opportunity that had come Torres' way via a fortunate bounce off World Cup final referee Howard Webb.

The Liverpool forward also trundled a disappointing shot way off target after managing to get a quarter of a yard in front of Vidic as the pair turned on the edge of the area.

All this was forgivable. Just allowing Berbatov, who had already got in front of the former Atletico Madrid star as Giggs strode up to take the corner, just to stoop for it unchallenged, would not have impressed Roy Hodgson very much.

If defensive questions needed to be asked about that, there was nothing more to do than simply admire Berbatov's brilliance when he doubled his side's lead just before the hour.

It was almost impossible to believe it took just two touches to get Nani's right-wing cross into the net.

But it was precisely that. The first to control with his knee. The second to dispatch an overhead kick which left Pepe Reina rooted to the spot as it bounced in off the crossbar.

In any normal season, the contest would have been over.

However, there is a fallibility about United just now that clearly refuses to rectify itself no matter how harsh Ferguson's words.

The rashness with which Jonny Evans lunged in on Torres as the striker checked back inside the box gave lie to the theory United can operate effectively without Rio Ferdinand, overlooked for the captaincy and missing with a virus.

On the second occasion, John O'Shea could count himself mightily relieved Webb did not reach for the red card once he decided the Irishman had dragged Torres to the ground just outside the box.

The consequences of Webb's ruling would be felt in the eventual outcome.

With both situations though, Gerrard found the corner of United's goal with precision, racing gleefully to the ecstatic visiting fans the second time around to hail a position he could not have expected his team would be in 10 minutes previously.

It looked like United had blown it. Berbatov had other ideas and rose to meet O'Shea cross to give his side victory.

Teams:

Man Utd Van der Sar, O'Shea, Vidic, Jonathan Evans, Evra, Nani (Gibson 88), Fletcher, Scholes, Giggs (Macheda 82),Berbatov (Anderson 88), Rooney.

Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Brown, Owen, Smalling.

Booked: Rooney, Jonathan Evans, Scholes, O'Shea.

Goals: Berbatov 42, 59, 84.

Liverpool Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Skrtel, Konchesky (Agger 81), Meireles (Jovanovic 79), Poulsen,Maxi (Ngog 62), Gerrard, Cole, Torres.

Subs Not Used: Jones, Kyrgiakos, Babel, Lucas.

Booked: Ngog.

Goals: Gerrard 64 pen, 70.

Birmingham 0 Liverpool 0

2010-09-13T02:54:00.000-07:00

Liverpool were indebted a superb display from goalkeeper Jose Reina for earning a point from a goalless draw with Birmingham in a Barclays Premier League clash at St Andrew's.

Reina produced excellent reflex saves to keep out point-blank range headers from Cameron Jerome and Craig Gardner.

Birmingham 0 Liverpool 0

The home side were also left to regret spurning a hat-trick of clear-cut chances and were the more impressive of the two sides.

But on this evidence new Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has plenty of work to do to make the Merseysiders a force to be reckoned with.

Barry Ferguson and Gardner bossed the midfield while James McFadden and Cameron Jerome linked well up front.

Reds skipper Steven Gerrard tried to spark his side into life but Fernando Torres still looks short of full sharpness with Scott Dann excellent at the back for Birmingham.

The first decent chance fell to Torres after 12 minutes after Glen Johnson made a good break down the right flank before sending in a low cross.

But the Spaniard failed to make a clean contact on his attempted shot which he dragged a couple of yards wide.

Reina kept Liverpool on level terms with a superb reflex save away to his right to keep out Jerome's powerful header from Lee Bowyer's left-wing centre.

Blues midfielder Gardner became the first player to be yellow carded after 28 minutes for a challenge on Lucas.

Birmingham continued to look the more dangerous and Gardner dinked a shot over the bar after being teed up by Sebastian Larsson.

But Reina made another outstanding save to keep out a close range header from Gardner after another dangerous cross from Larsson.

In a rare threat to the home goal Roger Johnson's tackle prevented Torres from turning and shooting from inside the box although replays suggested he may have had claims for a penalty.

Roger Johnson missed a good chance when he turned a Ferguson cross over from close range.

Blues keeper Ben Foster made his first save in the opening minute of the second half in clinging onto a dipping drive from Gerrard.

But City were soon back on the attack and Liam Ridgewell had a powerful header blocked from a Larsson free-kick.

Paul Konchesky got forward to good effect for the first time and his pass almost played in Milan Jovanovic but he failed to take the ball in his stride.

But Liverpool continued to look uncomfortable at the back and Dann missed another good chance for the home side.

He found himself unmarked from a Larsson free-kick but his downward header bounced over the crossbar.

The Reds enjoyed their best spell of the game and Foster beat out a rising shot from a narrow angle by Torres after he had been found in space by Gerrard.

Another chance went begging for the home side when Jerome headed wide at the far post from Stephen Carr's cross after Konchesky had given the ball away.

Raul Meireles made his Liverpool debut after 76 minutes in place of Lucas. A minute later Konchesky limped off to be replaced by Daniel Agger.

Reina again did well in racing out of his area to chest clear from Jerome.

Foster went down to keep out a late drive from Torres although he failed to make full contact.

Guardiola Guarded on Mascherano

2010-08-25T00:19:00.000-07:00

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola was unwilling to discuss prospective signing Javier Mascherano on Tuesday - but says he will do so if and when the Liverpool midfielder arrives at the Nou Camp.

Mascherano was left out of the Reds squad for their 3-0 defeat at Manchester City on Monday night and appears to be on the verge of a move to Barca.

And Guardiola admitted the Catalans are interested.

Guardiola Guarded on Mascherano

"I will speak about him when he's here - if he comes," the Barca coach said in a press conference on Tuesday.

Guardiola, however, refused to reveal whether a deal is close.

"You'll have to ask (sporting director Andoni) Zubizarreta," he said.

But the Barca coach did admit he is keen to sign a defensive midfielder before the transfer window closes, and says the signing of such a player would complete the team for the new season.

"If a defensive midfielder arrives the needs of the team will be resolved. If one arrives I will be satisfied," he said.

Mascherano attended Liverpool's Melwood training ground on Tuesday but manager Roy Hodgson hinted on Monday night he would not pick the player again until the situation was resolved or the transfer window closed.

Hodgson said the 26-year-old's head "was not right'', with reports in Spain suggesting the Primera Division champions have already agreed personal erms on a four-year, £85,000-a-week contract.

But Hodgson insists the club is unwilling to budge on their valuation of a player rescued from West Ham's reserves for £18million three-and-a-half years ago.

"His head is being turned by Barcelona, who are making overtures to him and telling him they want him," said the Liverpool manager.

"Unfortunately the fee they are offering is way, way below our valuation.

"But that does not make the player any happier because he is not interested in the justice of the fee, he just wants to move and it makes it uncomfortable for us."

Mascherano has complained his family have not settled in England and wants a move for that reason, and his case has been strengthened by an agreement struck last season when he was told by the club if they received an acceptable offer he could go.

His presence will only be a distraction and a disruption but Liverpool will run the risk of keeping an unhappy player as they are determined to hold out for Mascherano's true market value.

Carragher Keen To Extend Reds Deal

2010-08-12T06:54:00.000-07:00

Veteran Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher is keen to agree a new contract which will see him end his playing career at Anfield.

Amid reports, which the club have refused to comment on, that a board meeting is scheduled for for Thursday where the current ownership issue will be discussed, the 32-year-old at least offered some reassuring consistency.

Towards the end of last season it had been suggested the former England international would consider leaving the only professional club he has played for if an adequate deal was not forthcoming.

Carragher Keen To Extend Reds Deal

However, Carragher dismissed that suggestion some time ago and has spoken about how keen he is to see out the remainder of his lengthy career with the Reds.

"I'm sure I'll be signing a contract and looking forward to finishing my career at Liverpool," he said.

"I laugh when people say I've been in 'talks'. There'll be no talks, as it will probably be sorted in 20 minutes.

"The club have mentioned that the most important thing was to sort the ins and outs before the end of the transfer window.

"Then, if they want to speak to me, that's great. That's probably when we'll sit down and sort it out.

"I am desperate to finish my career at the club and I'm sure that will be the case."

Transfers are not the only issues which had a timescale for completion of the end of the month, as chairman Martin Broughton had been hopeful of agreeing a sale to new owners before the close of the window.

There has been much public jostling for position by the likes of Chinese businessman Kenny Huang and Yahya Kirdi, a Syrian based in Canada, but neither has provided convincing arguments to suggest he should be the one to take over from current incumbents Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

Other, less vocal groups, have also expressed an interest, but although Broughton requested detailed proposals be submitted by the middle of this week it seems a sale before the end of August is now unlikely.

Manager Roy Hodgson has stressed off-field issues are not his or the players' concern.

And, according to Carragher, even uncertainty about the club's future and speculation about the suitability of potential new owners has not dampened the mood within the camp.

"I think there is a general feel-good factor around the place now," he told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"With the new manager coming in and Joe Cole coming, it's given everybody a massive lift around the city.

"Hopefully we can build on that, even though we have a tough start (against Arsenal on Sunday).

"You are always confident because Liverpool have always got good players but the proof will be on the pitch.

"A new manager coming in gives you that extra emphasis, Joe is a great addition and Stevie Gerrard and Fernando Torres are staying - but they were here last year and we didn't do particularly well.

"I am hopeful we will bring in a couple more players, which is what we need.

"We have a tough start to the season against Arsenal and Manchester City (their first two matches) and if we do well against them I'm sure we'll carry it on for the rest of the season.

"The whole world will be watching Liverpool v Arsenal. You want to play in the biggest games and that is the biggest one of the weekend and we are relishing the challenge."

Mascherano Wants New Challenge

2010-08-12T06:52:00.000-07:00

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano insists he has no problem with the club but just fancies a change of lifestyle.

The 26-year-old has made no secret of his wish to leave Anfield, with Inter Milan and Barcelona reportedly interested in acquiring his services.

But Mascherano revealed he has no issue with the Merseyside club - he just wants a new challenge.

Mascherano Wants New Challenge

Speaking after Argentina's 1-0 win over Republic of Ireland, he told Sky Sports: "The only thing I want to say is I don't have nothing against the Liverpool supporters, the Liverpool people.

"My problem is not to play for Liverpool. I'm very proud to play for Liverpool. It's another thing.

"I said to him (new Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson) that maybe for my life I prefer to change the country, not to change the club - that is the fact.

"Sometimes you can see all the things that the papers or the press say, but at the end the only thing I can say is thank you to everyone in Liverpool because they supported me all the time, from the beginning until now."

Agger Tips Poulsen To Be Anfield Hit

2010-08-10T05:53:00.000-07:00

Liverpool centre-back Daniel Agger believes international team-mate Christian Poulsen will be "a perfect addition" to Roy Hodgson's squad.

The Denmark defender is looking forward to welcoming the midfielder to the club as the 30-year-old edges nearer a move from Juventus.

Poulsen has been given permission to withdraw from Denmark's friendly against Germany and is believed to have been offered a three-year contract by Reds boss Hodgson, who first signed the player for FC Copenhagen in 2000.

"Christian would be a perfect addition to most of the big clubs in Europe, so he will certainly fit in here," said Agger.

"He is a top player and will make us stronger. We need to have big signings so we can compete and he is one of those players.

"Christian will improve the team. But we need more improvements if we want to be at the top of the league this season."

Agger, who has recovered from the back injury which kept him out of last week's Europa League victory over Rabotnicki, accepts Poulsen will need time to adapt to the speed of the Barclays Premier League after several years in Serie A.

However, he feels his compatriot will be the ideal replacement for Javier Mascherano, whose days at Anfield are numbered after he asked Hodgson for a transfer.

"Maybe he will find the pace of here a bit of a culture shock; he will have to get used to the extra high tempo," Agger told the Liverpool Echo.

Agger Tips Poulsen To Be Anfield Hit

"He has played in Italy, Spain and Germany and done very well, so I don't see any reason why he shouldn't be a success with Liverpool.

"We have Mascherano but it looks like he is leaving so there is a gap there."

KIRDI CONSORTIUM CLOSE TO DEAL - REPORTS

2010-08-10T05:51:00.000-07:00

Reports suggest that the consortium fronted by Yahya Kirdi expects to have signed an initial takeover deal with Liverpool by Sunday afternoon.

It emerged last week that the group of investors from the Middle East was interested in buying out Reds co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks and Sky Sports News understands that an agreement has been reached.

KIRDI CONSORTIUM CLOSE TO DEAL - REPORTS

The consortium hopes that a first contract, which will not complete the takeover, will be signed before Liverpool kick-off their Premier League campaign against Arsenal on Sunday at Anfield.

All parties - including Kirdi's group, Gillett and Hicks, and the Premier League, which now has tougher rules regarding the fit and proper person test - are said to be ready to gather before the weekend.

Sky Sports News has also reported that the consortium has agreed to pay off all of Liverpool's debts to The Royal Bank of Scotland and Wells Fargo, and that funds will be supplied to complete the planned construction of a new stadium in Stanley Park.

There has also been clarification of Canada-based Kirdi's financial position, with the former Syria international said to be 'well off' and not a billionaire as has been reported in the past.

Earlier on Monday Indian conglomerate Sahara Group, one of the parties expressing an interest in buying Liverpool, cooled their interest, while Chinese tycoon Kenny Huang has also made enquiries.

Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton is overseeing the sale, being run by Barclays Capital, and is conscious of the need to make the correct decision when it comes to a change of ownership.

In July he stressed it was important to choose the most appropriate bid and not necessarily take the highest offer, at the same time confirming co-owners Hicks and Gillett could not block a sale to a particular party if it was deemed in the best interests of the club.

Broughton, managing director Christian Purslow and commercial director Ian Ayre make up the other members of the board and can out-vote the co-owners if there is no consensus on the best candidate.

Hicks and Gillett are not inclined to support the bid by Huang, as he has insisted there will be no profit for the Americans in his calculations over what the club is worth.

Agent: No Liverpool Move for Poulsen

2010-08-03T00:41:00.000-07:00

Agent: No Liverpool Move for Poulsen

Christian Poulsen has not received any contact about a possible move to Liverpool, according to the player's agent.

The Denmark international has long been linked with a transfer to Merseyside, where he could be used as a possible replacement for Javier Mascherano.

Mascherano has requested to leave Anfield, with Inter Milan his likely destination, and Poulsen is rumoured to be available to leave Juventus after failing to hold down a regular first-team spot.

"I've also read the voices on newspapers but I can't comment on the rumours," said Joern Bonnesen to Calciomercato.it.

"I have not heard from anyone from Liverpool.

"Juventus have not called me and I have not found it necessary to do it.

"How many chances does Poulsen have to leave Juventus? No comment."

Borussia Monchengladbach 1 Liverpool 0

2010-08-02T01:42:00.000-07:00

Joe Cole's debut for Liverpool ended in defeat as the Reds went down 1-0 to Borussia Monchengladbach.

Roy Hodgson fielded a strong side including England's World Cup captain Steven Gerrard as well as Jamie Carragher and Glen Johnson while Fabio Aurelio was named on the bench after re-signing for the club on Saturday.

Borussia Monchengladbach 1 Liverpool 0

Monchengladbach had arranged the match as part of their 110th anniversary celebrations at Borussia Park and the hosts made an early breakthrough through Karim Matmour in the eighth minute.

The Algerian took advantage of some poor play by Daniel Ayala inside the area and the defender was duly punished as Matmour produced a powerful finish.

Matmour was proving a real irritant for the Anfield club and came close to doubling his side's lead with Liverpool having to wait until the 56th minute for their first real chance when Cole's low drive was parried, with the former Chelsea player withdrawn nine minutes later.

The hosts continued to threaten and, although David Amoo headed narrowly wide, Monchengladbach fully deserved their victory.

Villa Warns Reds Over Torres

2010-08-01T05:08:00.001-07:00

David Villa believes this season is Liverpool's "last chance" to keep Fernando Torres and admits he is surprised his Spain team-mate has not joined Chelsea this summer.

Villa, who joined Barcelona from Valencia before the World Cup, expected Torres to move on after Liverpool finished a lowly seventh last season and failed to qualify for the Champions League.

And he believes unless they turn things around in the coming campaign, Roy Hodgson's side will lose their star striker.

"I am actually a little surprised. It looks like Nando is staying," Villa is quoted as saying by the Daily Star Sunday.

"After I spoke with him at the World Cup I thought he would sign for Chelsea.

"I think it must only be that Chelsea did not meet Liverpool's valuation. Because, if they had, I am sure he would have made the move."

Villa Warns Reds Over Torres

He added: "This is Liverpool's last chance to keep him. They have to prove they are capable of challenging on all fronts this season, otherwise he will be gone.

"If Liverpool fail to win anything I am sure he will be at Chelsea next summer."

Jovanovic Hopes To Impress Hodgson

2010-08-01T05:04:00.000-07:00

Milan Jovanovic wants to repay the faith shown by manager Roy Hodgson following his arrival at Liverpool.

The Serbia international moved to Anfield after playing in this summer's World Cup, having previously made an initial agreement with former Reds boss Rafa Benitez.

Ex-Standard Liege forward Jovanovic is grateful that Hodgson decided to conclude the deal and he wants to impress his new manager.

Jovanovic Hopes To Impress Hodgson

He told Liverpool's official website: "My main thing now is to show Roy Hodgson that the club hasn't made an error in bringing me here.

"The coach is fantastic. He speaks very openly with us and tries to put across his ideas clearly.

"I hope that I will learn more and more. I accept the coach's words and now it is up to me to show him I really can do everything he asks me to do.

"I have only been here a short time, but I want to show all my qualities.

"I know that physically the Premier League is a demanding league, but when I thought about this characteristic, I thought, 'this is me'.

"I think I can do everything I need to play at the top level here. It is a long season and if you count games with the national team as well, you can be looking at 60 or 70 games, but I feel okay and of course I am really looking forward to it.

"I couldn't have asked for more from the other players in making me feel welcome. They have been very kind and I feel very close to the group in a short space of time.

"I am 29 and feel I am at my best. I feel this is my best time and I am with the best team."

REDS BOSS HAPPY FOR HITMAN NGOG

2010-07-30T03:39:00.000-07:00

Roy Hodgson hailed the performance of David Ngog after the Frenchman's double got the new Liverpool manager's reign off to a winning start.

Ngog, playing alone up front, struck in each half as an under-strength Liverpool emerged from a potentially tricky Europa League test against FK Rabotnicki in Macedonia with a 2-0 win.

Ngog's future has been uncertain since Hodgson took charge a month ago with reports linking the 21-year-old with a move to West Brom.

REDS BOSS HAPPY FOR HITMAN NGOG

The player, however, has expressed a desire to remain at Anfield and Hodgson said: "I can't stop players being linked with other clubs. I certainly have never discussed him leaving.

"I think Ngog has done well in the pre-season matches so far and he has worked very hard in the training sessions.

"I was pleased that he crowned his performance with two goals.

"I thought his target play, his general movement and his ability to keep the ball for us was also very good.

"But front players need goals and that will be a very big weight off his mind.

"It will mean he doesn't have to worry too much about the coming matches."

With their Barclays Premier League opener still 17 days away, Liverpool were without 10 of their World Cup players for the third qualifying round first leg.

The likes of Steven Gerrard, Joe Cole, Jamie Carragher and Glen Johnson were left to train on Merseyside while Fernando Torres, Jose Reina and Dirk Kuyt are still on holiday.

Ngog was one of only a handful of recognised senior players on duty along with Lucas, Sotirios Kyrgiakos, Martin Skrtel, Daniel Agger and Alberto Aquilani.

Youngsters David Amoo, Jay Spearing and Martin Kelly all took the chance to impress against a limited Rabotnicki side and Hodgson's selection was fully vindicated.

"I am very satisfied," Hodgson said. "It was a game that could have been very difficult for us.

"It was a big crowd and some of our players that played are not used to big crowds.

"I was really pleased with the way everyone went about their business and we can go back to Anfield with a margin of victory which will enable us to feel a little more comfortable."

INSUA FIORENTINA MOVE ON ICE

2010-07-28T04:19:00.000-07:00

Fiorentina are set to pull out of a move for Liverpool full-back Emiliano Insua over his wage demands.

Fiorentina fear unless terms can be sorted out soon, could the Argentine's switch to the Artemio Franchi is in jeopardy.

INSUA FIORENTINA MOVE ON ICE

Insua seemed set to leave Liverpool after Fiorentina agreed an undisclosed fee with the Merseyside side for the left-back.

However, Fiorentina sporting director Pantaleo Corvino has warned Insua that he might have to take a drop in wages to tie up the move to Italy.

"We have an agreement with the English club, but we have to find an understanding with the player in terms of wages," Corvino told Quotidianopuglia.it.

"We cannot guarantee him the figures that he gets at Liverpool."

TEVEZ: I`D LOVE TO PLAY WITH TORRES

2010-07-28T04:17:00.000-07:00

Carlos Tevez has urged Liverpool striker Fernando Torres to join him at Manchester City, describing his own move to Eastlands as the best decision of his life.

Torres has been repeatedly linked with City this summer, although interest appeared to have cooled, particularly after Reds boss Roy Hodgson said the Spain striker was looking forward to returning to training on Monday.

TEVEZ: I`D LOVE TO PLAY WITH TORRES

However, Tevez was quoted as saying in The Sun: "Torres would definitely make us better. He's one of the top strikers in the world and I would love to have him as a team-mate.

"Last year we ended up contesting the Champions League places. I have no doubt that this year we will achieve that aim and fight for the title.

"The club will pick up reinforcements and this will make us stronger.

"I know I've never regretted coming to City. It's the best decision I ever made."

LUKE YOUNG PONDERS LIVERPOOL MOVE

2010-07-28T04:12:00.000-07:00

Aston Villa defender Luke Young has emerged as a target for Liverpool - and is weighing up whether to make a £2.5million move to Anfield

Luke Young

Villa manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed he has received an offer for former England right-back Luke Young.

And sources close to the club indicate the interest in the former Charlton and Middlesbrough player is from the Reds.

Young was one of half a dozen players made available for transfer at the end of the season - if the price was right.

He was a key performer during his first campaign at Villa after making a £5 million switch from Middlesbrough during the summer of 2008.

But he suffered early injury problems last season and then was given compassionate leave after the death of his brother.

In his absence Carlos Cuellar cemented his position at right-back and Young has become surplus to requirements.

O'Neill said: "There has been an offer from a football club which Luke is mulling over and, if it doesn't materialise, then he would join us in Portugal (for the Guadiana Cup)."

LUKE YOUNG PONDERS LIVERPOOL MOVE

LAMPARD HAS NO PLANS TO QUIT ENGLAND

2010-06-28T04:28:00.000-07:00

Frank Lampard wants to carry on playing for England but knows there will be much debate about the future after the World Cup exit at the hands of Germany.

Lampard will be 36 by the time of the next World Cup in Brazil and the likes of Steven Gerrard, John Terry and Emile Heskey are already over 30.

But the Chelsea midfielder, denied a goal when his shot had clearly crossed the line, has no intention of quitting international football.

He said: "I want to carry on with England. I think there will be a lot of talking, not just about me.

"It's important players go away and don't listen to it and concentrate on our jobs now.

"The talk is great for the people who are involved in that sort of thing but it doesn't actually make any difference.

"We'll try and carry on, that's what we have to do.

"Only one team wins the World Cup and the rest go home at some stage and don't win it so the talking is by the by.

"We'll have to come back and try and perform."

But when asked if there should be major changes, Lampard said: "You know what, I don't really want to talk about it at the moment.

"We will worry about that when we start again."

Lampard has suffered his fair share of setbacks at international level and admits England's last 16 reversal is on a par with any of them.

He said: "There is bitter disappointment. It's right up there with other disappointments.

"You are at a World Cup and we felt we could have got a bit of momentum after the Slovenia game."
LAMPARD HAS NO PLANS TO QUIT ENGLAND

KUYT HOPES GERRARD WILL STAY

2010-06-26T04:05:00.000-07:00

Dirk Kuyt was disappointed to see Rafael Benitez leave his post as Liverpool boss and hopes the Spaniard will not be followed out of Anfield by captain Steven Gerrard.

Benitez left Liverpool by mutual consent earlier this month to bring an end to a six-year tenure that was highlighted by his Champions League success in 2005.

Kuyt was signed by Benitez from Dutch side Feyenoord a year later and the 29-year-old forward admitted he would be forever thankful to the Spaniard for giving him his chance in English football.

"I was sad to see Rafa go. He was the manager who brought me over to Liverpool and I think he is a great manager," he told The News of the World.

"He was very important for Liverpool. He won the Champions League and did wonderful things for the club.

"I would just like to thank Rafa for bringing me to Liverpool and making me the player I am now."

Following Benitez's departure there have been fears on Merseyside that Gerrard could follow him out of the club, with new Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho reportedly keen on luring a player he almost signed while he was with Chelsea.

That would be a major blow to Liverpool's hopes next season in the eyes of Kuyt, after they could only manage a seventh-place finish in the Barclays Premier League last term.

"I wouldn't like to see Stevie G go. Everyone wants to keep Stevie at the club," he added.

"He is the captain of the team, he's very important and his heart is bleeding Liverpool.

"So it must be a very good offer or a very good club if he wants to leave.

"But I don't know what will happen. It's just up to him and the club.

"I have spoken to Stevie while I have been here. We wished each other all the best before the games started but we just talked about football and not his future."
KUYT HOPES GERRARD WILL STAY

Gerrard Warns England Rivals

2010-06-24T03:58:00.001-07:00

Skipper Steven Gerrard believes England will be "a match for anyone" during the remainder of the World Cup if they live up to their potential and listen to what Fabio Capello is preaching.

Jermain Defoe's 23rd-minute goal in his first competitive start for 21 months was enough to earn England second place in their group courtesy of victory over Slovenia.

It was their first victory of the tournament but a vast improvement on the goalless draw against Algeria in Cape Town five days ago.

The win means England will meet Group D winners Germany in the last 16 on Sunday.

"There is relief there because the lads were under pressure and we are all so glad to be through to the next round," Gerrard said.

"All games are difficult but it's about us now. If we turn up and play close to our potential we're a match for anyone.

"We can do well if we play like we did against Slovenia, stick together, keep trying to improve and keep listening to the manager.

"His ideas and what he wants from the team are spot on.

"If we can deliver what he is asking we will be difficult to beat like we were against Slovenia.

"We have the quality to win football matches."

But Gerrard is aware England cannot afford a repeat of their showing against Algeria when they were booed off at the final whistle by their own fans.

He said : "We have done it before when our backs were against the wall and people were out there doubting us.

"We rolled our sleeves this time and produced the goods. We need to do that all the time.

"To get to the latter stage of the tournament, you need to find that consistency now.

"If we perform like we did against Algeria, I don't think we'll get another chance."

Gerrard again repeated his belief that Wayne Rooney will soon deliver goal-power.

Rooney looked sharper than in the previous two games and struck a post in the second half.

Gerrard said: "Wayne's had a bit of criticism over the last couple of days but he worked his socks off and showed quality.

"If people keep doubting him, it's up to them - but I'm certainly not. I know goals are around the corner now for Wayne."

NO BLUES BID YET FOR BENAYOUN

2010-06-19T09:42:00.000-07:00

Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun is expected to leave Anfield this summer but the club have yet to receive an approach for the Israel international.

Reports suggesting the Reds have agreed a £6million deal with Chelsea are premature but the Merseysiders are resigned to the fact the 30-year-old will leave and accept it is only a matter of time before an offer comes in.

Benayoun signed an improved contract only last year but even before the departure of manager Rafael Benitez earlier this month he had already dropped several hints he wanted to leave.

Back on May 2, after the 2-0 defeat by Chelsea at Anfield, the Israeli said "he couldn't say for sure" whether he would be at Anfield on the opening day of the new campaign.

Chelsea are believed to see the former West Ham star as a direct replacement for Joe Cole, whose departure from Stamford Bridge was confirmed when the two parties failed to agree terms on a new contract after his current deal expired.

Reports claim Benayoun has already agreed in principle a four-year deal with Chelsea.

Liverpool are still continuing their search for a new manager but do not feel there is any rush to appoint Benitez's successor and have given themselves a loose timeframe until the end of the month to finalise matters.
NO BLUES BID YET FOR BENAYOUN

Gerrard fired up for must-win encounter

2010-06-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

England face a must-win encounter with Algeria on Friday as they seek to restore confidence in their ability to make an impact at the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa. Fabio Capello's team go into the Group C game in Cape Town under considerably more pressure than they would want after drawing 1-1 with the USA in Rustenburg on Saturday.

Capello will definitely be without Ledley King, who has a groin strain, but they have should be boosted by the return of midfielder Gareth Barry from an ankle injury. The team has also been lifted by star striker Wayne Rooney and Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole's return to training on Tuesday, with the duo having been restricted to gym and pool work after picking up knocks in the opening game.
Captain Steven Gerrard acknowledged that England must win both of their remaining games. "It would have been nice to start with three points but we conceded a goal at a bad time after going ahead," said the Liverpool star, who scored four minutes into their game with the USA. "It was a shock and a setback to concede but I think we played okay. The target now has got to be seven points."

Big things are expected of England and their opening performance drew criticism, with Capello's selection of Robert Green in goal, whose error gifted the Americans an equaliser, seeing his judgement seriously questioned for the first time since he became the country's coach.

They have also come under criticism from the legendary former Germany player and coach Franz Beckenbauer, who accused them of going backwards in their development and reverting to a basic kick-and-run style.

Defender Jamie Carragher, however, urged disgruntled England fans to keep faith with the England coach. "He is Fabio Capello. Look what he has done in his career, at what he has done with England, how we qualified," he said. "His record as a manager is unblemished. That gives you belief on its own."

West Ham United defender Matthew Upson, meanwhile, said the team was happy to ignore Beckenbauer's comments. "If that's what he feels about our style of play that's his opinion," he said. "We'll play the football that suits us best and if it means we win games we'll play according to that."

Algeria, who have never faced England before, know that they too must win, having crashed 1-0 to Slovenia in their opening game, and captain Anther Yahia believes they can cause problems. "We have qualities which should shine through," said the 28-year-old, who plays club football for VfL Bochum in Germany. "We are going to pose problems for the English. We will be more ambitious (than against Slovenia) and it is a role that suits us better."

Algeria coach Rabah Saadane expects his players to give their all. "England are a superb team. I put them among my favourites. There will be very little change against them in terms of personnel, maybe one or two," he said.

Mohamed Raouraoua, president of the Algerian football federation, added that Algeria were not going to the match simply to lie down and surrender. "We are not going there just to make up the numbers," he said.
Gerrard fired up for must-win encounter

Manchester City Ready To Make Fernando Torres World's Richest Footballer

2010-06-07T03:49:00.000-07:00

Manchester City are prepared to make Fernando Torres the world richest footballer in an attempt to bring the Liverpool striker to Eastlands.

However according to ESPN, Torres will turn down the offer in favour of a move to Premier League champions Chelsea.

One of the men at the centre of secret talks about a possible move has disclosed that while City are ready to outbid Chelsea, Torres wants to be playing Champions League football next season.

The source also told ESPN that "City were ready to offer Fernando Torres a huge contract, and by that I mean the biggest for any footballer anywhere in the world.

"But Torres said 'no', he was not interested."

No formal contract offer can be agreed though as City have not agreed a fee with Liverpool for the Spaniard, but any deal could see Torres earn more than £200,000 a week plus image rights and bonuses.

The source continued by saying that negotiations were underway behind the scenes at Chelsea who have also made Torres aware of their interest.

While managerless Liverpool are looking to hold out for £70 million for Torres, Chelsea believe that a more realistic price of £50 million should be enough to take the striker to Stamford Bridge.
Manchester City Ready To Make Fernando Torres World's Richest Footballer

Liverpool Confirm Rafael Benitez To Leave Club By Mutual Consent

2010-06-04T06:26:00.000-07:00

Liverpool have officially announced this afternoon that manager Rafael Benitez is to leave the club by mutual consent.

The Anfield board moved to get rid of the Spaniard after a disappointing campaign saw them finish in seventh place and dumped out of the Champions League in the group phase. Although Benitez only signed a five-year contract last summer with a £16 million severance clause, the two parties are rumoured to have agreed a compensation fee of £3 million.

An official statement on the club's official website this afternoon announced the search for a successor had already begun, led by club legend Kenny Dalglish and managing director Christian Purslow:
It said: "Mr Benitez relinquishes his position as team manager after six years and the Board of Directors would like to place on record their grateful thanks for his services and wish him all the best in his future career.

"The Board has now asked Managing Director Christian Purslow, with the assistance of Club Ambassador Kenny Dalglish, to begin a formal search to identify and assess potential candidates for the managerial position.

"No timescale has been placed on the process and Liverpool FC will make no further statement until a new manager is appointed.

Benitez said: "It is very sad for me to announce that I will no longer be manager of Liverpool FC. I would like to thank all of the staff and players for their efforts.

"I'll always keep in my heart the good times I've had here, the strong and loyal support of the fans in the tough times and the love from Liverpool. I have no words to thank you enough for all these years and I am very proud to say that I was your manager.

"Thank you so much once more and always remember: You'll never walk alone."

Chairman Martin Broughton praised the ex-Valencia manager's work. He said: "Rafa will forever be part of Liverpool folklore after bringing home the Champions League following the epic final in Istanbul but after a disappointing season both parties felt a fresh start would be best for all concerned.''

Despite lifting the Champions League in his first season on Merseyside, repeated failure on the domestic front and frustration over his transfer budget have led to the exit. Star players Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Javier Mascherano were also rumoured to be considering their future if Benitez stayed.

Benitez has, however, been linked with a quick return to the sport and is being considered to replace Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan.

Liverpool Confirm Rafael Benitez To Leave Club By Mutual Consent

Rafael Benitez Had To Go To Keep Steven Gerrard At Anfield

2010-06-03T21:43:00.000-07:00

Liverpool legend David Fairclough is convinced Rafael Benitez has to leave to ensure club captain Steven Gerrard stays at the club.

The Anfield outfit are reported to be in negotiations with their manager about a compensation package to prematurely bring to an end his six-year stay. Unrest had been reported between the Spaniard - who only last season inked a five-year deal with a £16 million severance clause - and star players in his squad after a disappointing seventh place Premier League finish.

Real Madrid are understood to be ready to splash the cash to bring Gerrard to La Liga. Three-time European Cup winner Fairclough, 53, argued to Sky Sports News the Reds have no option but to get rid of Benitez to stop the move happening.

"You have to have Steven here and I think their only hope, probably, was to try and re-structure a change and a new name at the top to perhaps make Steven commit," Fairclough said.

Rafael Benitez Had To Go To Keep Steven Gerrard At Anfield

Lampard/Gerrard Fit Mourinho BILL

2010-05-30T19:36:00.000-07:00

Prospective Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho admits England midfielders Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard are the type of players he will look to bring to the Bernabeu.

Mourinho is expected to be formally announced as Real's new coach in the next few days and speculation has already begun over which players he will look to bring in to shape the team in his own image.

Gerrard - who Mourinho tried to sign from Liverpool while he was Chelsea manager - and Lampard, who played under the Portuguese coach at Stamford Bridge, are two that Mourinho admires.

Mourinho told Spanish sports daily AS: "I like players in the final part of their careers.

"I love to have some players who are 33 or 34 years old...they are players that you buy and you won't recover this money, but if they give you good performances for two or three years you've got your money's worth.

"Both (Gerrard and Lampard) are great players who always give everything."

Another England international, Ashley Cole, has also been linked with a move to Real.

Lampard/Gerrard Fit Mourinho BILL

Brukner Keen to minimise injuries

2010-05-26T07:29:00.000-07:00

Liverpool's new head of sports science Dr Peter Brukner hopes to be able to keep the likes of Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard injury-free by revolutionising training methods at the club.

The Australian, who officially takes up his post after travelling to the World Cup with the Socceroos, intends to introduce new techniques when he returns to Melwood.

Liverpool were badly hit by injuries during the 2009/10 season with Torres, Gerrard , Martin Skrtel, Glen Johnson, Yossi Benayoun, Fabio Aurelio, Emiliano Insua, Daniel Agger, Alberto Aquilani and Javier Mascherano all sidelined for varying lengths of time.

That undoubtedly impacted on a campaign which produced the club's worst Premier League finish for 11 years - seventh - but Brukner hopes to be able to keep injuries to a minimum next season.

"The players will notice an immediate difference come the start of the 2010/11 season," said Liverpool's head of sports medicine and sports science, who plans to divide players into groups depending on their injury history and then target them with specific work.

"Our plan is for the players to do a 15-minute session before they start training.

"This will be purely on injury prevention - working on hamstrings, groins, thighs, calves and so on.

"The other thing we'll be doing more of is monitoring their general well-being, health and workload.

"We'll be able to modify their programmes depending on how much they play and how quickly they recover.

"You can't stop all injuries. There are certain injuries which are inevitable - like when someone gets a kick or something.

"But I think we can certainly reduce the amount of injuries - particularly what we call soft-tissue injuries.

"Things like hamstring muscle, groin muscle, calf muscle and tears."
Brukner Keen to minimise injuries

Torres Aims For Spain Opener

2010-05-25T08:17:00.000-07:00

Fernando Torres is optimistic about his chances of being fully fit for the start of Spain's World Cup campaign.

The Liverpool striker underwent an operation on torn cartilage in his right knee in April, sidelining him for the end of the Premier League season and leaving him with a race to be fit for the World Cup.

However, the 26-year-old insists the recovery is going well and suggests he is on target to be available for Spain's opening match in South Africa, which is against Switzerland on June 16.

Torres, who also underwent a knee operation in January, told Marca: "I'm very well, happy with the progress of the injury. Since January I've had two operations, and that isn't easy.

"Everything went very well with the first and in the second the objective was to be ready between six and seven weeks, and I'm at the start of the sixth.

"I will do a few more days of specific work and, God willing, I'll be 100% for the first game of the World Cup for sure."

Spain have three friendlies planned before leaving for Africa, facing Saudi Arabia and South Korea in Austria and then Poland in Murcia.

If Torres is back to peak fitness in time for the tournament, then it could be that he will be among the challengers to finish as the top scorer in South Africa, as European champions Spain are potential winners.

Asked if he felt any pressure to be the leading scorer, Torres said: "No, but I know that, along with (David) Villa, I'm lucky enough to be one of the strikers in a team that are among the favourites, and that brings certain privileges."

Aside from Switzerland, Spain have also been placed alongside Honduras and Chile in Group H.

If they get through, then Vicente Del Bosque's side could face a tough hurdle in the second round, with one of Brazil, Portugal or Ivory Coast their likely opponents.

If Spain do manage to add the world title to their European crown, it would be a great end to what Torres admits has been a difficult season for him at club level with Liverpool.

Aside from his injury problems, the Reds have struggled on the pitch and ended the season down in seventh place in the Barclays Premier League.

Torres said: "It's been a very difficult season. When you start a campaign you hope you will be able to fulfil your dreams, winning titles, not having injuries, enjoying yourselves, and it has been just the opposite.

"But there is always a tomorrow in football and this summer, the World Cup.

"I've put aside the club, the bad season, and I want to finish in the best way possible way by making history with my county."

Torres' future at Liverpool has also been the centre of speculation, but the former Atletico Madrid player insists his mind is now focused solely on the World Cup.

"I want to think about the national team, about winning. Since I've been injured, the season has been over for me," he said. "I've started working morning and evening to be able to be here, thinking only of getting there."

Torres' agent, however, has assured Liverpool fans the forward "will continue at Liverpool next season".
Torres Aims For Spain Opener

Aurelio Rejects Reds Deal

2010-05-25T08:12:00.000-07:00

Liverpool defender Fabio Aurelio has turned down the offer of a new pay-as-you-play deal and will leave the club next week, manager Rafael Benitez has confirmed.

The Brazilian's Anfield career has been littered with injuries.

He missed the start of the last campaign after sustaining a freak knee problem while playing football with his children and a thigh problem at the end of February prematurely ended his season.

Because of his fitness record the club offered the 30-year-old a flexible deal based on the matches he played but Aurelio wanted the security of a more permanent arrangement and has chosen to end his four-year stay at Anfield.

"Fabio's contract is nearly finished and he is going to leave us," said Benitez.

"We had been trying to work something out with regards an extension but it was a pity that we couldn't.

"He has given us absolutely fantastic service. The one problem we had with Fabio was that he suffered too many injuries and it was such a pity because he has great quality."

Aurelio's absence placed additional pressure on 21-year-old left-back Emiliano Insua as there were times when Benitez wanted to rest the player but had no other back up and, as a result, the Argentinian played 44 matches before he too succumbed to injury late in the season.

Benitez was sorry to see Aurelio leave as he had nothing but praise for the player he brought from former club Valencia on a free transfer in June 2006.

"With Fabio being out so much, it meant that we had to use Insua more than we would have liked and that was not easy for him," the Spaniard told the Liverpool Echo.

"Fabio is a top professional, a great player and a really good lad.

"It has been a pleasure having him here and we really will miss him

"You are talking about an amazing person who gave 100% all the time. We wish him all the best."
Aurelio Rejects Reds Deal

Liverpool To Remember Heysel Dead

2010-05-24T05:24:00.000-07:00

Liverpool are set to honour the memory of the 39 Juventus fans who died at the Heysel disaster with a permanent tribute at Anfield this week.

On Wednesday, three days before the 25th anniversary of the tragedy, the club will unveil a plaque at the entrance to the Centenary Stand in front of officials from both clubs.

Former Liverpool captain Phil Neal and Sergio Brio, who both played in the 1985 European Cup final, will attend along with Gianluca Pessotto, the former Juventus defender and current director of youth development.

Civic dignitaries from both clubs and representatives from two Italy-based family support groups will also be present at the ceremony, which will be presided over by Liverpool's club chaplain Bill Bygroves.

Later this week a delegation from Anfield will visit Turin to attend the commemoration events being organised in the city.

Wednesday's event is part of a series of commemorations taking place this week in Liverpool.

Anfield is already home to a permanent memorial to the 96 fans killed in the Hillsborough disaster in 1989.

Liverpool To Remember Heysel Dead

Reina Expects Torres To Stay

2010-05-24T05:13:00.000-07:00

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina believes club and country team-mate Fernando Torres will remain at Anfield next season.

Torres has been linked with a move away from Merseyside after the club's poor campaign, with Chelsea and Barcelona supposedly in the running for the Spain international's services.

But Reina spoke to his compatriot this week and claims Torres is committed to turning the club's fortunes around.

"I am calm about Fernando," Reina said in quotes reported by The People.

"I spoke to him about his future and he has told me that he intends to continue with us.

"Fernando suffered so many blows last season, but he is a professional and has always wanted to do well for us.

"That is what he remains - committed to this club."

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has also been strongly linked with a move away from the club this summer, with Inter Milan a possible destination, but Reina is equally convinced his manager will stay put.

"I am convinced that Rafa will still be with us and that is good for us because he wants revenge in the next campaign," he said.
Reina Expects Torres To Stay

Gerrard Focused On Task In Hand

2010-05-22T21:48:00.000-07:00

Steven Gerrard has vowed to learn from past mistakes and not let speculation about his Liverpool future wreck his World Cup.

Once again, Gerrard's Anfield future is the subject of fevered speculation.

Having slumped to a seventh-placed finish in a season where Liverpool were expecting to mount a serious title challenge, the 29-year-old is at a crossroads.

Real Madrid are said to be interested in the midfielder, whilst closer to home Chelsea have never made any secret of their admiration for a player who came so close to joining them in the past.

Those links are bound to be revived now Rafael Benitez appears committed to another four years with the Merseyside giants despite interest from Juventus.

But Gerrard is determined to ignore it all, to the point where he has expressly told agents, friends and close family not to discuss his future in public, or even tell him what is being written.

"I fell into a trap four years ago at the last World Cup," he revealed.

"I used to go back to my room, read the papers and go on the internet and then I would speak to people at home who were telling me that there was stuff going on.

"I knew that Chelsea were very interested because my agent was telling me. Every time I went back to my room I was driving myself mad thinking about whether I should go to Chelsea.

"Mentally it might have drained me. I don't know if it did or not but I won't make that mistake again."

The warnings have been issued. Gerrard may not be able to do anything about the wider chatter. But the elements he can control, he has.

"People around me are under strict instructions not to be talking about my club future or any speculation," he said.

"It's not important now.

"What is important is that I have a good and successful World Cup with the team. Agents, friends and family have been told not to be talking about club stuff to me."

Gerrard feels he is experienced enough now to maintain that approach for the next eight weeks, which might not be easy given the number of words likely to be written about a club who have so dramatically under-performed and whose ownership structure only fuels the sense of chaos.

"Last year was a massive disappointment after finishing second the previous season," he said.

"The challenge for me then was 'can we go one step further?'. Instead we took steps backwards.

"It has been very difficult, both personally and for everyone in the squad, to deal with the amount of setbacks that we have had.

"Hopefully things might happen whilst I am away.

"There might be players coming into Liverpool to help strengthen the team.

"But I'm not really interested at the moment in what's going on at Liverpool. My main focus is the World Cup."

It is what happens afterwards that fills most Liverpool fans with a sense of foreboding.

Although Jamie Carragher insisted earlier this week that no-one was bigger that the club he has spent his entire career with, the loss of Gerrard would be very hard to take for the Kop-ites, who struggle to see how a top-four place can be regained without an injection of cash.

These are all issues Gerrard intends to address in the middle of July, by which time he hopes to have a World Cup winners' medal to cherish.

"I won't consider my future or think about what is going to happen to me until after the World Cup," he said.

"I am experienced enough now to park issues like that.

"I am really focused and determined to put all my energy into playing for England."
Gerrard Focused On Task In Hand

Torres, Cesc Heading To World Cup

2010-05-22T21:44:00.000-07:00

Fernando Torres and Cesc Fabregas have both been included in Spain's final 23-man squad for the World Cup, along with uncapped trio Victor Valdes, Pedro Rodriguez and Javi Martinez.

Liverpool striker Torres (knee) and Arsenal midfielder Fabregas (lower leg) are recovering from injuries that forced them to miss the end of the English Premier League season, but both will go to South Africa this summer.

Valdes got the third goalkeeping spot behind Iker Casillas and Jose Reina while his Barcelona team-mate, winger Pedro, was also included following a fine season with the Primera Division champions.

Athletic Bilbao midfielder Martinez is the other newcomer in a squad that has many of the same faces that won Euro 2008.

Of Del Bosque's 30-man provisional squad for the World Cup, the men to miss out are goalkeepers Diego Lopez and David De Gea, defender Cesar Azpilicueta, midfielders Marcos Senna and Santi Cazorla, plus forwards Dani Guiza and Alvaro Negredo.

Del Bosque admits he has a "slight concern" over his side's walking wounded but is optimistic they will be fit to start the tournament.

When asked how the likes of Torres, Fabregas, Xavi and Andres Iniesta were faring, he said: "There is a slight concern but they are here and that's because the reports from the medical staff and physical trainers are positive and we are confident they will be at 100% at the start of tournament."

Speaking about his newcomers, Del Bosque said: "They have had a very good season and they are replacing others who, due to circumstances, have had a worse season, and they are coming in to cover all possibilities.

"We are thinking with the head but the heart also helps.

"In relation to the Confederations Cup we have made four changes, and eight with respect to the European Championships. Almost 75% of the squad that were champions of Europe are in the list."

With regards to the players that missed out, Del Bosque admits it was not easy to end the World Cup dreams of those still hoping to make the final cut.

"Of course it's tough to discard the players who were in the first list. (But) now we need to look to the future. These are the best players for us," the former Real Madrid coach said.

Spain squad for World Cup: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Jose Reina (Liverpool), Victor Valdes (Barcelona); Raul Albiol (Real Madrid, Alvaro Arbeloa (Real Madrid), Joan Capdevila (Villarreal), Carlos Marchena (Valencia), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Carles Puyol (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid); Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Sergi Busquets (Barcelona), Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Javi Martinez (Athletic Bilbao), David Silva (Valencia), Xavi (Barcelona); Jesus Navas (Sevilla), Juan Manuel Mata (Valencia), Pedro Rodriguez (Barcelona), Fernando Llorente (Athletic Bilbao), Fernando Torres (Liverpool), David Villa (Valencia).
Torres, Cesc Heading To World Cup

Albert Riera Slams Liverpool Board

2010-05-20T04:10:00.000-07:00

Albert Riera has slammed the Liverpool board for not fighting his corner in his row with Rafa Benitez.

The Reds boss signed Riera from Espanyol for £8million in 2008 but has failed to establish himself at Anfield and has not played since a verbal attack on Benitez in March.

The 28-year-old Spain winger admits his Liverpool career is over yet he believes the Reds board have done nothing to assist his exit, claiming Benitez has too much power at the club.

"I want to leave," Riera told the Daily Mirror. "English clubs are run differently to Spanish clubs.

"In England you have a manager at the club and the board of the club has done nothing for me. The club has not fought for me.

"I do not want to quarrel, but if a club doesn't fight for you, that means they don't want you. I do not want to be in a place where I am not wanted."

Riera made 28 league appearances in his first season at Liverpool but just 12 this term having fallen out of favour.

And his lack of first-team opportunities this year have cost him a place in Spain's World Cup squad.
Albert Riera Slams Liverpool Board

Athletic Swoop For San Jose

2010-05-20T04:06:00.000-07:00

Athletic Bilbao have agreed a deal with Liverpool to sign on-loan defender Mikel San Jose on a permanent basis, the Primera Division club have announced.

San Jose's contract with Athletic will tie him to the Basque club until June 30, 2015 and has a buy-out clause of 30million euros.

The 20-year-old defender rejoined Athletic on loan from Liverpool last summer - with an option to buy - and played 25 league games for Joaquin Caparros' team, helping them finish eighth in the standings.

Liverpool signed San Jose on a three-year contract from Athletic in 2007 for £270,000.

Athletic Swoop For San Jose

Mascherano Talks On Hold

2010-05-17T02:10:00.000-07:00

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano's contract negotiations are unlikely to be resolved until after the World Cup.

The Argentina captain has been in discussions over a new deal for three months and it was anticipated an agreement would be reached by the end of the season.

He was expected to follow the lead of goalkeeper Jose Reina, who signed a new six-year contract last month, but so far nothing has been finalised.

And with the players having been released by the club for the summer - which for many means preparations for next month's World Cup - it seems likely Mascherano's improved contract will not be sorted until the middle of July at the earliest.

Back in March, manager Rafael Benitez said he expected the midfielder to sign his new deal by the end of the Premier League campaign.

Now that has not happened it leaves open the prospect that a good tournament for the 25-year-old will lead to more speculation over his future.

There was a similar scenario last summer when Barcelona were heavily linked with a move for the Argentinian before the departure of fellow midfielder Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid resulted in Benitez slapping a £50million price-tag on the player.

Aside from Mascherano's contract, Benitez - who has stressed he is keen to stay at the club despite his own future coming under intense scrutiny - has other plans to put in place before the players return for pre-season training in mid-July.

A seventh-place finish in the Premier League means the club will begin their Europa League campaign in the third qualifying round , which starts on July 29 - the same stage at which this season's runners-up Fulham entered.

That date is just 18 days after the World Cup final, which Liverpool could conceivably have players involved in.

Benitez is obviously not happy about the scenario but begrudgingly accepts it is something which is happening more regularly.

"We have to prepare. We have pre-season more or less organised and we now have to analyse carefully the schedule and see if we can organise the fixtures properly," said the Spaniard.

"Last year we had too many players away with the Confederations Cup (also in South Africa) so the teams are suffering with these tournaments and every year it is more and more so it is not easy."
Mascherano Talks On Hold

Kuyt Wants Quick Return To Elite

2010-05-14T05:02:00.000-07:00

Forward Dirk Kuyt admits it is crucial Liverpool get themselves back in the Champions League next season.

Their seventh-placed Barclays Premier League finish in the season just completed was the Reds' worst for 11 years, and their failure to progress from the group stages of the Champions League means Anfield will have a long wait before again playing host to Europe's elite club competition.

While that could damage the club's efforts to attract top-quality players, Kuyt feels the Merseysiders are still an attractive proposition - providing they make a swift return to the Premier League's top four next season.

"Liverpool is a massive club. It's very disappointing that we don't have the Champions League because, up until last season, we had done so well in the competition," said the Holland international.

"But this is what has happened. We have just got to make sure that we will be right back in it next year.

"Players who want to play in the Champions League would like Liverpool.

"We just have to make sure that we will back in it within one year."

Financial restrictions mean Liverpool are unlikely to be able to compete with their big-spending rivals this summer.

Figures released last week showed the debt of parent company Kop Holdings, set up by co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett, rose to £351million by July last year.

That was on the back of a relatively successful campaign which saw the club run Manchester United a close second in the Premier League and reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

With a new buyer not anticipated to be in place before the start of next season, the financial situation is unlikely to have improved 12 months on.

But Kuyt is hopeful manager Rafael Benitez will be able to bring in the necessary additions - while also hanging on to Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard - to give them a chance of competing for the Champions League and domestic silverware.

"If we can buy a few more players, I think we will be really close to winning trophies again," the 29-year-old Dutchman told the Liverpool Echo.

"There were times this season when we didn't play well and conceded last-minute goals but we were also really unlucky, when you think of the beach ball (which contributed to a 1-0 defeat at Sunderland) and the injuries we had.

"Fernando was a huge miss in particular. Last season, it was the opposite and we were the ones scoring the last-minute goals. Everything was going our way then.

"We just need a little bit more luck and a bit more quality in the team. Everyone knows that.

"In the meantime, everyone who is here needs to work really hard to improve."

One player whose future at Liverpool remains in doubt is defender Fabio Aurelio.

The 30-year-old Brazilian has been injured for much of his time at the club since joining on a free transfer from Benitez's former side Valencia in July 2006.

He missed the last two and a half months of the season with a thigh problem, a period when Liverpool's defensive resources were stretched to the limit.

Aurelio is out of contract next month and, having already been linked with Olympiacos and with his injury record counting against him, he may not find a new deal forthcoming.
Kuyt Wants Quick Return To Elite

Gerrard Is Inter Top Target

2010-05-14T04:52:00.000-07:00

Inter Milan have reportedly made Steven Gerrard their leading summer target after accepting Cesc Fabregas is out of their budget.

Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport claim Champions League finalists Inter Milan have targeted a left-back and a central midfielder this summer.

Although Fabregas would apparently be Jose Mourinho's first choice, he will instead move for Gerrard, who almost joined the Portuguese manager at Chelsea in 2005.

The Italian newspaper claims that the deal would not be dependent on Mourinho staying at the club, though their contention that Gerrard would leave Liverpool to join Rafa Benitez in Italy may be rather wide of the mark.
Gerrard Is Inter Top Target

Pav To Pool, Benayoun To Spurs?

2010-05-13T05:48:00.000-07:00

Swap deals never happen etc etc, but The Daily Mail reckons that 'Tottenham are considering a move for Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun that could see Roman Pavlyuchenko move in the opposite direction'.

There's some logic to the story because Pool reputedly made an enquiry for Pavlyuchenko in the last transfer window and Benayoun has seemed rather unsettled at Anfield of late.

'The Merseysiders could find better value in doing a straight cash deal for their Israel midfielder and would hope to raise as much as £10m by exploring interest from Aston Villa, Roma, Sevilla and Dynamo Moscow - as well as Spurs,' says the Mail.

'Meanwhile, Lokomotiv Moscow fear that their hopes of signing Pavlyuchenko from Tottenham Hotspur are dead. The Russians came close to clinching a £10m deal for Pavlyuchenko in the winter but believe his return to Harry Redknapp's starting line-up will scupper a renewed attempt to lure him when the transfer window opens.'
Pav To Pool, Benayoun To Spurs?

Skrtel Hopeful Over World Cup Chances

2010-05-13T05:37:00.000-07:00

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel is optimistic of being fully fit for the start of Slovakia's World Cup campaign which starts in just over a month.

The 25-year-old has not played since breaking a metatarsal in the Europa League victory over Unirea Urziceni in Bucharest on February 25.

However, he was an unused substitute for the final match of the Barclays Premier League season at Hull on Sunday and has been named in the provisional 29-man squad for Slovakia's World Cup debut.

Skrtel now hopes to be ready for the opening game against New Zealand on June 15.

"It is a proud moment for my country to have qualified and I hope to be there with them," said the centre-back.

"It has been a very frustrating time for me being injured and not being available for Liverpool but all I can do is wait and see.

"I've had great support from the medical staff at Liverpool and my family so I will do everything I can to be fit for the World Cup.

"It's a big thing for Slovakia to have qualified for our first finals. It's a dream for everyone to get to South Africa.

"We have achieved this dream as a country and now we have to show what we are all about and give our best."
Skrtel Hopeful Over World Cup Chances

Agent Rubbishes Aquilani Exit Talk

2010-05-13T05:27:00.000-07:00

Alberto Aquilani's agent has laughed off speculation the Liverpool midfielder will return to Italy in the summer after just one season on Merseyside.

Reports in England have linked the 25-year-old with a speedy return to Serie A after joining the Reds in the summer from Roma for £20million.

After a disappointing year at Anfield, some have suggested Rafael Benitez is willing to offload the injury-prone Italian at a cut-price deal, with Juventus and Fiorentina said to be interested.

But Aquilani's representative Franco Zavaglia has shunned claims his client does not want to leave the Premier League underachievers.

"A return in Italy? It seems a journalistic shot of the British tabloids," Zavaglia told Tuttomercatoweb.com. "I don't know anything, because Alberto is well in Liverpool.

"There is talk of Juventus and Fiorentina but the Bianconeri have yet to define the structure of the club before thinking about the market.

"Equally, Fiorentina has the issue of Cesare Prandelli to resolve.

"Aquilani has recovered well from his ankle injury and for this reason I think Liverpool won't deprive of him".

Juve have yet to comment on whether they are interested in signing Aquilani but Diego's agent insists the Brazilian playmaker will not be making way for the Reds' creative midfielder this summer.

Diego would be the player likely to lose his place in the team if the Old Lady purchase the Liverpool performer after a difficult first camapaign in Italy.

But the former Werder Bremen star's agent Giacomo Petralito claims he will shine next season and that Lionel Messi would have failed to impress at the Stadio Olympico this term.

"He doesn't leave Juventus, they're just rumours," he said.

"Next year will be his year, he will protagonist for Juventus. (Zinedine) Zidane and (Michel) Platini too had problems in their first season.

"Diego began very well and this means that the qualities are there. Something did not work, but he just needs time, in Italian football is very tactical. And then, this season at Juventus, Messi would also be in trouble".
Agent Rubbishes Aquilani Exit Talk

Reina Wants Quick Liverpool Sale

2010-05-12T05:18:00.000-07:00

Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina believes it is "vital" the club's American owners sell the club as soon as possible.

Tom Hicks and George Gillett officially put the Reds up for sale last month and chairman Martin Broughton said he expected a deal to be done in a matter of months.

After a disappointing season which saw Liverpool finish seventh in the Premier League and miss out on Champions League football, though, Reina believes things must move quicker than that.

"It is vital," he was quoted as saying in The Guardian. "It would be simple as it would mean we could start planning for next season earlier.

"All that I ask is that if it is going to happen, then it happens as soon as possible to help the club.

"We [the players] worry. It is a little bit of a concern and we need to sort out these kind of things, like the sale of the club and the thing with the owners.

"Once we settle all this then we can begin to look forward and improve the squad."

Reina does not believe the squad needs major surgery, but hopes boss Rafael Benitez, should he remain at the club, can bring in some high-profile signings.

"It is not about quantity, it is about quality," he said. "We need to bring in the proper ones and improve on the players we already have.

"It is not cheap but I am sure that the manager and his technical staff will be working hard to change that."
Reina Wants Quick Liverpool Sale

Chelsea beat Liverpool to move closer to the Premier League title

2010-05-03T06:10:00.000-07:00

A tepid match inflamed the hearts of visiting supporters who witnessed Chelsea taking themselves to the verge of the title. Carlo Ancelotti's side need, at the very most, a home win over Wigan next Sunday to bring the Premier League title back to Stamford Bridge for the first time since 2006. Conspiracy theorists, however, will linger over the opener, when Steven Gerrard rolled a careless backpass in the 33rd minute that invited a lurking Didier Drogba to open the scoring.

Anyone of a paranoid disposition who supposed there had been a plot against Manchester United will have to concede that the lapse was not as shocking as it would once have been. Gerrard has an unanswerable case if obliged to proclaim his integrity. The captain's form has been so poor for so long that even an aberration on this scale was in keeping with his sorry season at the club. Even so, he can get ready for incessant gags about how, belatedly, he did win the league for Chelsea, the club that once ached to buy him.

The Liverpool malaise extends far beyond an individual's blunder and Rafael Benítez would have met with a mutiny by fans had it not been for the fact that this loss had a marked appeal for them. The crowd, in any case, is now accustomed to such an outcome. Chelsea follow Aston Villa, Lyon, Fiorentina, Arsenal and Reading in being victorious at Anfield in this campaign.

Ancelotti's squad certainly contained the means to prevail here purely through its own efforts. Frank Lampard, indeed, was to notch his 21st league goal of the season after the interval. That was the true illustration of the talent at the manager's disposal. In his debut campaign in England, Ancelotti has a perfect record against United and Arsenal as well as Liverpool.

There has been a calmness to his work as he restricted himself to minor alterations and focused on sending out a well-prepared line-up, as he did here. There is no denying the fact, of course, that this stadium was not the crucible of passion it can be.

Liverpool had needed to win to stand an outside chance of landing the last of the Champions League qualifying round places but that was scarcely a great cause to galvanise the crowd. In the streets around the ground entrepreneurs had been hawking friendship scarves that contained the colours of both clubs. Trade was brisk since there were purchasers aplenty eager to declare the anti-United coalition.

No conniving, it has to be emphasised, is essential to bring about a tame Liverpool. The outcome was merely another demonstration of decline. Benítez's own position should be in jeopardy, even if it is his intention to reject a rumoured offer from Juventus, but any successor of note would insist on a grand budget to restore the club. While Liverpool are, in effect, on the market, there is no prospect of such radical and costly reconstruction of the squad.
Against Chelsea yesterday Alberto Aquilani was playing off a lone striker, the role Steven Gerrard filled in the same fixture last season. The Italian has been playing relatively well of late, but in this role his failings, in comparison to an in-form Gerrard, are obvious. We've only used the first hour, as Chelsea had Frank Lampard sent off at this point in last season's game.
Nonetheless, that type of exercise is essential if the erosion of a fabled institution is to be halted. The blandness here was wholly consistent with recent sorrows. Two hours of action against Atlético Madrid on Thursday night were taxing enough but it was even more debilitating for Liverpool to end that Europa League semi-final in the knowledge that, for a fourth successive season, there would be no trophies.

Despite Gerrard's brainstorm, Liverpool were not really bent on aiding the opposition's cause. Alberto Aquilani, for instance, was cutting it fine with a 25-yarder that brushed the top of the bar in the 11th minute if he had secretly been bent on missing. It did Liverpool no good either that Glen Johnson was ruled out with a calf strain and Maxi Rodríguez went off injured in the 42nd minute.

Each team played to no more than a moderate standard for much of the time, although the visitors could blame any conservatism on the delicacy of the situation. Ancelotti was enraged when the referee, Alan Wiley, refused to award a penalty as Salomon Kalou went down after 45 minutes, but the forward's heel had caught the knee of the pursuing Lucas Leiva. Chelsea, however, might have had their second goal by then had Sotirios Kyrgiakos not made a fine saving tackle on Nicolas Anelka in the 38th minute.

Nine minutes after the interval, though, the Frenchman took a pass from Drogba to stroke a low, pinpoint cross from the right and Lampard made sure of the win. The occasion petered out but Chelsea will have felt they were surging to the title as they made the trip back to London.
Chelsea beat Liverpool to move closer to the Premier League title

Liverpool 2-1 Atletico Madrid (Agg. 2-2)

2010-04-30T04:03:00.000-07:00

Liverpool crashed out of Europe tonight as a late goal from Diego Forlan saw Atletico Madrid progress to the Europa League final.

It truly was a flood of red in the first five minutes, as the hosts bombarded the Atletico goal with a flurry of chances. Yossi Benayoun was the first to go close as he went free after a through ball from Dirk Kuyt, but the Israeli's attempt to beat a capable David De Gea at his front post was thwarted.Finding it difficult to inject any measure of authority into the game, having no joy centrally or on either flank, Atletico were on the back foot for the entirety of the early exchanges.
Having finally broken in his Liverpool shoes, Alberto Aquilani showed his intent early in the game too, striking on target from 20 yards. Again though, De Gea's firm grasp made sure the scoreline remained 0-0.Warming up at last, the Madrid side had their first sniff at goal after a lovely long-ball from Valera found its way into the path of Diego Forlan after a nudge in the right direction from the head of Sergio Aguero. However, the imposing figure of Jamie Carragher was enough to keep the Uruguayan's run in check.This seemed to spark some life into the visitors, as Raul Garcia's venomous shot from range looked destined for the net before being expertly parried by Pepe Reina, and Forlan began taking on defenders, albeit with little to show for his efforts.Patrolling his flank well, Atleti captain Antonio Lopez leaped forward to help out a struggling Simao on the left. Winning a free kick for his side, the defender returned to his post at left back as he watched the winger fruitlessly deliver the set piece.With Liverpool's chances on goal beginning to dry up, Kuyt and Ryan Babel began to drop deeper and alternate roles as they looked to help the play on its way.The bold moves made by the forwards began to pay off, as some beautiful one-touch football ended after a glorious cross from Javier Mascherano found Kuyt on the six-yard-line, although the Dutchman inexplicably managed to knock it over the bar from a position right in front of an empty net.Thinking he had made up for Kuyt's mistakes, Daniel Agger scored with a powerful header after the half-hour mark, but the Dane's goal was adjudged to be offside and the deadlock remained unbroken.As he so often does, Steven Gerrard took matters into his own hands as the first half began to wind down, striking at goal twice within a matter of minutes. However, the captain's attempts were culled by the hands of De Gea and a wicked deflection from the back of Benayoun.Aguero thought he had capitalised on some uncharacteristic play from Gerrard soon after as the Liverpool skipper lost the ball in his own half. Dragging down the Argentine to regain possession, the red number 8 found himself in the book.Two minutes from the break, Anfield erupted. Scoring his second goal for Liverpool, Aquilani found himself in the right place at the right time after Benayoun lost his marker well enough on the right flank to deliver a beautiful cross into the box. Rattling it first time, the Italian found the bottom right hand corner of De Gea's net before the young 'keeper could react.As the teams poured out, both eager to get the second half started for the exact same reason, the sides were perhaps a little too heated in their attempts to take the next 45 minutes by the scruff of the neck. Paulo Assuncao managed to get his name in the book after scything Gerrard to the ground, joined by Aquilani who was shown yellow for shirt pulling.
Dancing off three or four challenges by the Liverpool defence, Jose Antonio Reyes held the ball well before teeing up an onrushing Simao. A poor shot by the winger sailed high over the bar, leaving some lucky fan with a souvenir.Continuing as he started, the heavily influential Aquilani almost turned provider as he slid the ball to Kuyt with the Dutchman running into plenty of space. Too hasty in his decision making, the forward shot at goal himself, prompting an easy save from De Gea and a few choice words from a looming Benayoun.A decent ball was swung into the box after some nice play between Simao and Lopez, but the forwards just couldn't rise high enough to connect. Reyes quickly took charge of the ball, letting rip from the edge of the area, but the ball came off the back of Gerrard and rebounded out to safety.
For all the failed attempts, there was definitely a sense of urgency about the visitors now, but their frustration at failing to find a way through was summed up when Raul Garcia drilled one in from outside the box that was always too high to trouble Reina.
Then, having his name mentioned for possibly the first time since the first five minutes of the game, Glen Johnson picked up the ball on the left before cutting inside and striking straight at goal. Covering it the entire time, De Gea saw the ball went over the bar before the ref blew the whistle to mark the end of 90 minutes and the beginning of extra time.Before five minutes of extra time had room to pass, the second goal of the game was scored. After a scrap inside Atletico's box, the ball fell to the feet of Lucas Lieva, who dinked the ball over a sea of Spanish faces to find Benayoun creeping at the back post.
Still with work to do, the Israel captain found the space to shot from an acute angle, seeing his shot finally rest in the side of the net after a fingertip touch from De Gea.
A powerful strike from Forlan looked like it might trouble Reina, as the shot pounded back out off the 'keeper's chest. Struggling to clear the rebound, the Reds had to endure a flurry of attempts before the ball went back out to safety.Jose Manuel Jurado almost got himself the title of super-sub as he belted a shot towards goal, shaving the side of the upright as it sailed out to safety.Feeling that they had done everything they needed to go through, the hosts were soon in for a shock. On the right flank, Reyes got goalside of Glen Johnson before squaring the ball wonderfully for Forlan. With nothing left to do but knock the ball in the right direction, the Uruguayan's boot saw the travelling fans erupt in celebration as the net shook.
On a slightly sour note, the first half of extra time ended after a fracas in the Atletico box involving Dirk Kuyt and a selection of travelling defenders. Despite not being originally involved in the ruckus, Lopez's handling of speaking to the referee afterwards earned him a place in the book.Looking weary, both sides struggled to do anything with the ball after the third restart. Sloppy passes and tired legs seemed to be the order of the last 15 minutes as both teams were holding on for different reasons.A long ball played down to Kuyt prompted the home fans to erupt with rage after the Dutchman seemed to be pulled down in the box by Alvaro Dominguez. The referee had other ideas though, as he waved for the Netherlands international to get up.
Starting to put together some neat play on the right flank, Liverpool subs Nabil El Zhar and Philipp Degen were causing problems, but the imposing figure of Atleti skipper Lopez continued to make it difficult for the Reds to find a way through.
Allowed one last sniff at goal, Dirk Kuyt bounded towards the net but lost his footing at the last minute, much to the relief of Quique Sanchez Flores in the visitor's technical area. Blowing his whistle soon after, the referee saw an even bigger sigh of elation from the Spanish coach as he knew what lies ahead.
With the score tied on aggregate 2-2, Atletico Madrid progress to meet Fulham in the Europa League final courtesy of the away goals rule. And with that, Liverpool's dreams of another European final have been dashed, while Rafa Benitez's job hangs further in the balance.
Liverpool 2-1 Atletico Madrid (Agg. 2-2)

Juventus Keeping Tabs On Liverpool Midfielder Alberto Aquilani

2010-04-28T05:51:00.000-07:00

Juventus are reportedly interested in Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani, hoping to bring the Reds player to Turin during the upcoming summer transfer window.

The former Roma midfielder has not settled in as expected at the club, and could be departing for the Bianconeri, according to Novantesimo.it.

Aquilani could also go to the Turin giants because of the side's strong link with Rafael Benitez, who may take up a coaching position with the Italian club.

It was the Spaniard who pursued the Italian international, and brought him to the English club over the past summer, but injuries have restricted the amount of playing time the 25-year-old received.
Juventus Keeping Tabs On Liverpool Midfielder Alberto Aquilani

Burnley 0-4 Liverpool

2010-04-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

Two goals from captain Steven Gerrard, a first Liverpool strike for Maxi Rodriguez and a late effort from Ryan Babel relegated Burnley from the Premier League and kept alive the Merseysiders' distant hopes of finishing fourth.

With two matches to play the Clarets cannot now catch 17th-placed West Ham and return to the Championship after just one season in the top flight.

Gerrard's first goal in the 51st minute was deflected off Burnley centre-back Leon Cort but his 25-yard strike seven minutes later was inch-perfect and Rodriguez and Babel wrapped things up.

The win, Liverpool's first in eight away league matches this year, kept Rafael Benitez's side in the hunt for next season's Champions League but only just.

Tottenham are two points ahead on 64, with a match in hand, and Liverpool must win their remaining two games and hope neither Spurs, Manchester City nor Aston Villa amass more than 68 points - and even then it could come down to goal difference.

Burnley, however, must now face up to a return to the second tier of English football, which has been on the cards ever since the departure of former manager Owen Coyle to Bolton in January.

By that time they were already on the slide but the loss of the inspirational Scot was a major blow and the decision to bring in Brian Laws failed to turn things around.

Whether anyone would have been able to save the Clarets on the shoestring budget and limited squad available is questionable.

But opting to employ Laws just a month after he had left Sheffield Wednesday having taken them to the brink of relegation from the Championship now seems, at best, a mis-judgment.

Laws has lost 14 of his 17 games in charge and the Clarets have won just seven games all season and not kept a clean sheet since Halloween.

At least the frugal nature of the sensible financial planning at Turf Moor means Burnley do not have the money worries of Hull, who are also doomed to relegation because of their dreadful goal difference.

The first half summed up exactly why they were heading back to the Championship as, having weathered the early pressure, they missed two gilt-edged headers which should have put them 2-0 up at the break.

Steven Fletcher out-jumped Jamie Carragher in the 27th-minute but planted Martin Paterson's right-wing cross over while on-loan Chelsea midfielder Jack Cork's seven-yard effort from Tyrone Mears' centre was straight at goalkeeper Jose Reina.

Prior to that the closest Liverpool had come to scoring was when Gerrard's deflected volley hit referee Phil Dowd before the Liverpool captain's shot on the turn from 12 yards was easily saved by goalkeeper Brian Jensen.

The break appeared not to have dampened Burnley's enthusiasm and Fletcher almost capitalised on confusion between Reina, Daniel Ayala - the teenaged centre-back a surprise inclusion - and Daniel Agger when Cork swung in a left-wing cross seconds after the restart.

Liverpool's problems up front worsened when Dirk Kuyt was forced off with a calf injury, meaning Babel was pushed into the lone striker role to allow Yossi Benayoun to come on and play on the left.

The Israeli had a hand in the opening goal but luck played a greater part in the 51st minute.

Benayoun and Alberto Aquilani combined in the centre of the pitch to give Gerrard the ball in the inside-left position.

With Graham Alexander backing away he switched the ball on to his right foot before unleashing a 20-yard shot which deflected off Cort and inside Jensen's right post.

Fortune also contributed to Gerrard's second seven minutes later when Glen Johnson and Rodriguez progressed a move down the right to Aquilani who slipped as he tried to turn inside.

However, the ball ran to Gerrard, whose 25-yard strike owed nothing to luck and everything to talent as he curled a shot perfectly through the gap between Jensen's outstretched fingers and the left post.

Fletcher almost pulled one back in the 72nd minute when his left-footed shot cannoned back off the post, although justice was probably done as the striker appeared to control the ball with his hand.

Two minutes later Burnley's fate was sealed as Aquilani played in Rodriguez on the right of the penalty area and he clipped home his long-awaited first goal since signing from Atletico Madrid in January.

In the third minute of added time Babel sprang the offside trap to race clear and fire in a fourth before Turf Moor rose to acclaim their departing heroes.

Teams:

Burnley Jensen, Mears, Duff, Cort, Fox, Cork,Alexander (Blake 63), Elliott, Paterson (Eagles 71),Steven Fletcher, Nugent (Thompson 77).

Subs Not Used: Weaver, Caldwell, Rodriguez, Bikey.

Booked: Cork, Duff.

Liverpool Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Ayala, Agger (Lucas 78),Maxi, Aquilani, Mascherano, Babel, Gerrard (Pacheco 82),Kuyt (Benayoun 48).

Subs Not Used: Cavalieri, Kyrgiakos, Degen, El Zhar.

Booked: Gerrard.

Goals: Gerrard 52, 59, Maxi 74, Babel 90.

Burnley 0-4 Liverpool

Atletico Madrid 1-0 Liverpool

2010-04-23T04:53:00.000-07:00

Diego Forlan was Atletico Madrid's hero as his ninth minute strike at the second attempt gave the Spaniards a 1-0 first leg victory over Liverpool in their Europa League semi-final.

The Uruguayan pounced during a sustained period of pressure from the home side in the early stages, but they were unable to add to their single goal and will take a narrow lead to Anfield next week.
With Fernando Torres missing out on a dream return to the Vicente Calderon through his season-ending injury, David Ngog led Liverpool’s line, whilst former Manchester United man Diego Forlan spearheaded Atleti’s attack alone in the absence of Sergio Aguero, who was left to watch from the stands as both teams lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

The home side dominated the early stages with Jose Antonio Reyes causing plenty of danger for Daniel Agger down Liverpool’s left. Not that the right side of Liverpool’s rearguard could rest either, with Jose Manuel Jurado equally threatening down the other wing.
It came as a surprise to nobody when Atleti struck in only the ninth minute. Jurado crossed from the left for Diego Forlan, but the striker’s header was rushed and the ball just bobbled into space. However, it was the Uruguayan who reacted quickest to the second ball, and his left foot shot took a deflection off Pepe Reina’s shoulder before finding the corner of the net from eight yards. Fortunate though it may have been, the goal was more than deserved.

The English side had to do what they could to get back into the game, but even after falling behind they were finding it hard to gain possession for any notable period. They actually had the ball in the back of the next in the 18th minute after their first decent move of the game, as Yossi Benayoun chased down Dirk Kuyt's perfect through ball and slotted beyond David De Gea. But the referee’s assistant had raised his flag against the Israeli despite Tomas Ujfalusi having seemingly kept him onside.
Within a minute Liverpool should again have been level, but this time it was of their own doing that the score remained 1-0, as Steven Gerrard was released down the left to go one-on-one with De Gea, but he drilled his left foot shot into the side-netting.

The Reds continued to force their way into the game, and a long cross-field ball by Agger was met with a lovely first touch by Kuyt, but Gerrard’s was not as convincing, and as he tried to get the ball back under control he was eventually forced to run wide by the Atleti defence and the chance was gone.
There was a big penalty call from the home side around the half-hour mark as Reyes went to ground under pressure, but the referee was in no mood to listen to the Spaniard’s protests.

Liverpool were starting to look a little more comfortable on the ball though, and Gerrard slipped a delightful ball through to Johnson as he overlapped down the right, but the pass had just too much pace on it, and the former Portsmouth full-back did well simply to stop the ball running for a goal kick.

The pattern of play remained finely poised until the break, though the Mattress Makers didn’t look overly worried about the chances of losing their lead before retiring to the changing rooms.

It was the Merseysiders who started the better in the second period, with the ball being moved about with more belief than they showed in the opening 45 minutes. After Ngog almost got clear of his marker, Liverpool worked the ball to the right, but Kuyt was well harried off the ball by Antonio Lopez and the ball ran harmlessly out for a goal kick.As Liverpool continued to look for the equaliser, Atletico so easily could have had a second.

First, Reyes sent Forlan through with a delightful chipped pass, but the striker couldn’t supply the finish and it was all too easy for Reina to collect. Then Glen Johnson slipped as he attempted to field a cross from Ujfalusi on the right, leaving Simao unmarked to shoot on sight, but Reina produced a fantastic one-handed reaction save to keep the Reds in the game.

With the visitors still looking for a vital away goal, manager Rafa Benitez introduced Ryan Babel for the lifeless David Ngog, meaning a switch into the centre of attack for Dirk Kuyt.

After the change, Liverpool began to look more lively, and Kuyt was freed down the left channel but just couldn’t quite get the ball into a comfortable position for a shot, and by the time he pulled the ball back into the centre of the box the chance had been lost.

Reina was again called into action with less than a quarter of an hour to go, making a point-blank save from Ujfalusi’s stinging left foot drive, and Jamie Carragher did well to clear the resulting loose ball ahead of the home side’s onrushing attackers.

Time was now running out for the Reds, but Atleti remained steadfast in the face of increased pressure from the away side, clearly believing that 1-0 would be a satisfactory result to take on the road to Anfield next Thursday. Juan Valera was brought on for Simao, whilst Diego Forlan was replaced by Toto Salvio.

Sotirios Kyrgiakos thought that Liverpool should have had a shot at an away goal with seven minutes left after he clashed with Ujfalusi in the home side’s area from a deep free kick, but referee Laurent Duhamel didn’t like the cut of his jib and decided to book the Greek rather than award a penalty.

With time running out, it was seemingly Liverpool who had decided to settle for the 1-0 scoreline, with the Madrid side forcing a succession of corners which very nearly gave them the buffer of a second goal.

But Liverpool held out and will fancy their chances of overturning the narrow deficit in seven days’ time, though Atleti may feel they have an away goal in them on tonight’s evidence.
Atletico Madrid 1-0 Liverpool

Liverpool 3-0 West Ham

2010-04-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

Liverpool kept-up their faint hopes of a Champions League place with a comfortable 3-0 win over West Ham United at Anfield. Goals from Yossi Benayoun, David Ngog and a Rob Green own goal were enough to see off a lacklustere West Ham team - who are still only three points from safety.

Without the injured Fernando Torres, Liverpool brought in Lucas and Dirk Kuyt for Ryan Babel and Javier Mascherano, who dropped to the bench. West Ham retained the side that started the home win against Sunderland on 10 April, with Scott Parker serving the second of his two-match ban.
West Ham went into the game having only scored four goals in 14 Premier League matches and were looking for their first win at Anfield since September 1963. Liverpool however were unbeaten in their last nine home games.

It was the home side who made the brighter star and were nearly ahead inside four minutes. Yossi Benayoun fed Maxi Rodriguez inside the box on the right and the Argentine drew a smart save from Rob Green at his near post. Minutes later a clearance put David Ngog through on goal but instead of taking the ball down, he opted to head it and the ball drifted tamely into Green's arms.

Twenty minutes in though and the home side did take the lead. Steven Gerrard fizzed across a free-kick from the right and Benayoun got ahead of the West Ham defence. The little Israeli deflected the ball with his stomach and it clipped the far post before rolling across the line. No celebrations from Benayoun against his old club.

Kyrgiakos then went close with a free-header from a Gerrard corner before Liverpool made it two just before the half hour. Benayoun spread the ball out to Rodriguez on the right and his low cross was met by Ngog, who firied across Green and into the net. Too easy for Liverpool.

Barely thrity-five minutes in and West Ham looked like a beaten team already. There only effort coming from Carlton Cole who found space inside the Liverpool half but his shot from distance went miles wide. At the other end, Gerrard curled a free-kick a couple of yards over the bar and Kuyt went close with a rasping shot as Liverpool went into the break firmly into control.

West Ham made a change at the start of the second half, bringing on Guillermo Franco for Junior Stanisla. The Mexican almost made an immediate impact rushing on to a through ball into the box, but Pepe Reina was quick off his line to meet him and clear the danger.

Liverpool had a credible shout for a penalty turned down, when the ball seem to strike Mark Nobles hand but soon netted their third of the night on hour mark. Gerrard curled in another devilish free-kick from the left and Sotirios Kyrgiakos stuck out a leg and deflected the ball onto the post. The ball rebounded off the back of Green's leg and into the net. An unfortunate own goal from the England goalie.

So easy was the night for Liverpool, they afforded the luxury of taking off Steven Gerrard with twenty minutes to go and replacing him with Javier Mascherano. For the visitors Benni McCathry replaced CarltonCole with what was looked like a worrying knee injury for the England striker.

It was beginning to look like training game for Liverpool, and Rodriguez went close to making it four, with a shot from the left wing that nearly caught Green out at the near post.

The closing stages were played-out without incident as Liverpool kep up their impressive home run. While West Ham still remain in trouble at the bottom of the league, three points off Hull having played a game more.
Liverpool 3-0 West Ham

AEK Athens to ask Liverpool to extend Krisztian Nemeth’s loan stay for another year

2010-04-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

AEK Athens are set to ask Liverpool if Krisztian Nemeth's loan spell in Greece can be extended by another season, according to a report from The Liverpool Echo.

The 21-year-old Hungarian forward has netted three goals in 12 appearances for the Greek side and has impressed the club's hierarchy.

New AEK president Stavros Adamidis is expected on Merseyide this week for talks about the player. He is also keen to persude the Reds to allow more of their fringe players to spend time on loan in Athens.

Nemeth himself insists that regular football is his aim and he is ready to acquiesce to whatever Liverpool may decide.

"I have a contract with Liverpool and so AEK must talk to the club,” he said.

“If the two clubs reach an agreement, then I’ll negotiate with AEK and decide what to do. For me the most important thing is to play.

“The new president told me that he wants to keep me at AEK and that’s why he’s going to travel to Liverpool.

“I’m fine in Athens but the two clubs must negotiate and make a deal.”

AEK Athens to ask Liverpool to extend Krisztian Nemeth’s loan stay for another year

Failure To Attain Champions League Football May See Juventus Miss Out On Landing Liverpool Boss Rafael Benitez

2010-04-16T02:00:00.000-07:00

Juventus may not be able to mount the finances necessary to secure the signature of current Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez if they do not qualify for Champions League football next term.

The Old Lady showed Ciro Ferrara the exit door earlier in the season following a lacklustre run, and Alberto Zaccheroni was installed as the interim boss until the end of the season.

With the current term swiftly approaching the finish line coupled with Liverpool's dreary season, the Spaniard has been heavily linked with a move to the Turin giants in the summer.

According to earlier reports, the Bianconeri have already made contact with representatives of the former Valencia boss with a view to his switching from England to Italy; they are said to want Rafa to leave his current post by next Friday if he wants to become the next Juve coach.

However, The Sun claims that a failure to compete in the Champions League next term will severely compromise the club's plans to hire Benitez, as they will miss out on the financial boost that participating in Europe's elite club competition guarantees.

It is claimed that Juventus used a significant portion of next season's budget to fund the transfers of Diego and Felipe Melo, and it would put further pressure on their finances if Benitez were to be appointed.

Juventus have been consistently inconsistent in recent weeks, and have consequently slipped to sixth in the Serie A - three points behind fourth-placed Palermo.

Failure To Attain Champions League Football May See Juventus Miss Out On Landing Liverpool Boss Rafael Benitez

Benitez Given Ten-Day Deadline

2010-04-14T05:43:00.000-07:00

Juventus have reportedly given Rafa Benitez ten days to decide whether he wants to become the club's new manager.

According to The Times, Juve, in the process of drawing up a shortlist of candidates to take over as the club's manager at the end of the season, are 'hoping to take advantage of Benitez's frustration at the lack of financial backing afforded to him by Liverpool since committing his long-term future to the club'.

Benitez signed a five-year contract with Liverpool 12 months ago, but his position has since been jeopardised by the club's struggles both on and off the pitch.

'Benítez would prefer to remain at Liverpool, particularly having secured several of the club's top stars, including Fernando Torres, Pepe Reina and Steven Gerrard, on lengthy contracts. But Juventus are ready to test his desire to stay on Merseyside by offering the substantial transfer budget that he is seeking, but at this stage seems unlikely to get, from Liverpool,' the newspaper reports.

Benitez's agent, Manuel Garcia Quilon, is quoted as saying: "I repeat, Benitez has a four-year contract with Liverpool which, in principle, means he will remain there."

However he then added: "For the next months, I do not know what will happen."

While it seems unlikely that Benitez would leave Liverpool for Juventus - The Sun claims that such a decision would see him 'turn his back on a £16m pay-off' - an offer from Real Madrid may prove altogether more tempting.

Intriguingly, a survey by Spanish newspaper Marca in the wake of Madrid's home defeat to Barcelona on Saturday found Benitez to be the preferred choice of the Real supporters to replace Manuel Pellegrini. Benitez polled 40% of the 100,000-strong vote to finish above Jose Mourinho.
Benitez Given Ten-Day Deadline

Atletico Madrid Striker Diego Forlan A Target For Liverpool

2010-04-12T23:30:00.000-07:00

Atletico Madrid forward Diego Forlan has emerged as a summer target for Liverpool, according to reports from England.

The Mail on Sunday comments that Reds coach Rafa Benitez is already looking at potential targets for next season, and recently admitted that he believes his squad needs at least five fresh faces in order to become title challengers once again.

Forlan, who spent three seasons with Manchester United between 2002 and 2004 before moving to Villarreal, has been prolific during his time in Spain, winning the Pichichi prize awarded to top goalscorer at both the Yellow Submarines and Atletico Madrid.

The 30-year old was thought to be a target of Barcelona during the close season, and is expected to star at this summers’ World cup for his country.

Forlan signed a new deal at the Vicente Calderon earlier this season, but may be interested in a new challenge at this stage of his career, and if so Liverpool are expected to pounce with an enticing offer to bring the striker to Anfield.

Atletico Madrid face Liverpool in the semi-finals of this season’s Europa League after overcoming Valencia in midweek.
Atletico Madrid Striker Diego Forlan A Target For Liverpool

Liverpool 0-0 Fulham

2010-04-12T23:28:00.000-07:00

Rafa Benitez’s decision to not use Fernando Torres proved decisive, as his Liverpool side were unable to break down a resilient Fulham side at Anfield.

The result of this match, which could well prove to be a dress reheasal for this season’s Europa League final, left Liverpool severely adrift in the race for fourth place on a day when Manchester City, the club in pole position for the final Champions League spot, won at Birmingham. Liverpool now stand 6 points adrift of City having played a game more, and on a sunny Merseyside Sunday saw their Champions League aspiration all but evaporate.

Despite Roy Hodgson threatening to make wholesale changes to his side before the match, the Fulham boss only made two changes to the side which yet again acquitted itself so well in the Europa League win at Wolfsburg on Thursday. Zoltan Gera, who has been in lively form in recent weeks, and Simon Davies made way for Erik Nevland and Jonathan Greening, whilst Hodgson was able to call on Bobby Zamora despite worries over an Achilles injury. After recent controversy over Fulham’s weakened selection at Hull, all eyes were on the Fulham teamsheet before the match, but it was Rafa Benitez who made the more significant changes of the two managers. Star man Fernando Torres was not even in the squad with David Ngog starting up front in the Spaniard’s place, whilst Alberto Aquilani, Ryan Babel and Maxi Rodriguez replaced Lucas, Dirk Kuyt and Yossi Benayoun.

Liverpool paid tribute to the 96 victims of Hillsbrough 21 years on with a minute’s silence before kickoff, and it was the home side that started the brighter of the two teams. After just 3 minutes, Daniel Agger headed a cross at the back post back across the goal and after a small goalmouth scramble, Bobby Zamora and Aaron Hughes combined to clear the ball. The Reds came closer not long after on 6 minutes, when Steven Gerrard’s raking cross field ball from the left flank was met by David Ngog. Gerrard’s ball was well measured but the young French forward was unable to guide his stretching volley on target from 12 yards.

Danny Murphy, looking somewhat overawed on returning to his former club, was thankful for further wayward finishing from Ngog on 11 minutes. The Fulham midfielder was dispossessed by the ever industrious Javier Mascherano, who then teed by David Ngog, but his shot from 20 yards could only be described as wayward at best.

On 16 minutes, Jonathan Greening will have counted himself unlucky to receive a booking for a slightly careless but largely innocuous challenge on Glen Johnson, but having gone into referee Mariner’s book the former West Brom man was fortunate to stay on the pitch when on 34 minutes he cynically checked Johnson. Mariner decided to only give Greening a final warning after arguably the more severe of the two offences committed by the former Manchester United trainee, much to the ire of Rafa Benitez whose reaction on the touchline was incredulous.

Alberto Aquilani, who has been something of a bit part player since arriving for £20 million from Roma, started the match in a bright manner and was making some fantastic runs from deep positions. On 22 minutes it was the Italian midfielder’s acrobatic overhead effort which drew a save from Schwarzer. Despite his eye-catching technique, Aquilani’s effort was straight at the Australian goalkeeper and drew a routine stop. The Fulham goalkeeper was called into further action just after the half hour mark when he was required to palm away Javier Mascherano’s 25 yard half volley. The Argetine’s effort dipped and swerved but could not beat Schwarzer, who was showing no signs of the jittery performance he put in at home to Wigan last weekend. A matter of seconds later Schwarzer had more work to do. Fulham, again looking vulnerable to balls over the top, allowed Maxi Rodriguez to nip in between the two centre back and draw the save.

Fulham had never won at Anfield in 28 attempts and didn’t look like ending that run at any time in the first half. Bobby Zamora, in such fine form this season, cut a marginalised and isolated figure up front for the Cottagers with precious little support from his midfield. Calls for the former Brighton man to be included in Fabio Capello’s World Cup squad have intensified after his career best haul of 19 goals in all competition this season, and smart work from the Fulham striker saw him nip the ball past Jamie Carragher on 25 minutes and draw a deliberate handball. Andre Mariner had no option but to book the former England centre-back.

As half time drew closer Fulham did begin to get more possession of the ball and advance into the Liverpool half, but as Andre Mariner brought a halt to first half proceedings Liverpool will have felt some disappointment that they had not converted their dominance of the match into any goals.

Rafa Benitez’s charges started the second half in the way they had conducted much of the first. On 49 minutes Alberto Aquilani attempted a curling shot from the edge of Fulham’s penalty area but his shot was far too central to be able to beat Mark Schwarzer who was able to tip the ball over for a corner. The resulting set piece eventually worked its way back to the former Roma midfielder whose rasping drive from 25 yards was well struck but always fading away from goal. Whilst Liverpool enjoyed a significant advantage in terms of possession and territory in the first fifteen minutes of the second half, that the Reds were limited largely to shots from outside the area is testament to how well organized Roy Hodgson has made this plucky Fulham team. Liverpool again came close though on 61 minutes when Ryan Babel’s bursting run from the left flank and drilled right footed effort forced an excellent save from Mark Schwarzer at his near post. The talented Dutch winger thought he had done enough to score from inside the area, but Schwarzer’s sharp reflexes ensured he pushed the ball onto the post.

Rafa Benitez made his first change of the day on 63 minutes when Alberto Aquilani was replaced by Dirk Kuyt. The Italian left the field to a warm ovation after a decent performance and on this showing he may go some way towards justifying his hefty transfer fee if deployed frequently next season. With one former Roma player making his way off the pitch, a current Roma player was preparing to make his entry at Anfield. Stefano Okaka, currently on loan with the Cottagers from the Italian club and scorer of the equaliser against Wigan last week, came on for Bobby Zamora after 67 minutes.

David Ngog was picked out by Steven Gerrard on 69 minutes and had the opportunity to open the scoring having been left unattended by the Fulham defence. The young French striker could not, however, emulate Fernando Torres’ imperious aerial ability and his header came closer to finding the corner flag than the back of the net. On 71 minutes a late challenge from Danny Murphy saw the former Anfield favourite booked and shortly afterwards Ryan Babel, who had come closest to opening the scoring was substituted for Yossi Benayoun. Murphy’s booking was also to prove his last involvement in the match as he was replaced by Kagisho Dikgacoi to a fine reception from Liverpool’s supporters.

An uncharacteristic lapse in concentration by Fulham from a short corner after 75 minutes allowed Kuyt to cross from close range at the near post. The Dutchman’s delivery was delightfully weighted but Sotiris Kyrgiakos somehow contrived to head over from just 6 yards out. David Ngog’s torrid afternoon was cut short on 79 minutes as he was replaced by Daniel Pacheco. Ngog has more ability than some of his detractors give him credit for, but he will need to produce far better performances than this to be considered a genuine and viable alternative to Fernando Torres.

Despite Liverpool’s desperate need for three points, Fulham maintained their organized discipline going into the last few minutes of the match and even managed some forays into Liverpool territory as the home fans began to stream out in disappointment. The Cottager’s impressive rearguard ensured that despite the Reds’ dominance of possession and superior number of shots, they were able to return to London after a busy week with a hard earned point.
Liverpool 0-0 Fulham

Premier League Preview: Liverpool - Fulham

2010-04-10T07:01:00.000-07:00

Two would-be Europa League champions go head-to-head this weekend as fellow semi-finalists Liverpool and Fulham return to domestic duty.

The Reds' 4-1 defeat of Benfica on Thursday evening has set up a tantalising last-four tie with Atletico Madrid, while the Cottagers will face Hamburg after edging past Wolfsburg in Lower Saxony.

That means England's sole remaining representatives in European competition are on track to meet in the final, and so Sunday's clash at Anfield could provide a preview of what may transpire at the HSH Nordbank Arena on May 12.
Liverpool certainly won't be thinking that far ahead, however, with some ground to make up in the Premier League if they wish to hold onto their 'Big Four' status.

Rafael Benitez's men are trailing Manchester City by four points, and Tottenham Hotspur by three, in the race for Champions League qualification. Both the Citizens and the Lilywhites also hold a game in hand over the Reds, so failure against Fulham is not an option.

For Roy Hodgson and his charges, anything but defeat on Merseyside will be considered a success after their recent struggles in the league.

Last weekend's win over Wigan Athletic ended a horror run that saw the Londoners take just one point from four games as they slipped into the lower half of the table, where they currently reside in 12th place.

The odds are firmly against Fulham making it two wins on the trot, however, as they have never won at Anfield.

FORM GUIDE

Liverpool

Apr 8: Liverpool 4-1 Benfica (Europa League)
Apr 4: Birmingham City 1-1 Liverpool (Premier League)
Apr 1: Benfica 2-1 Liverpool (Europa League)
Mar 28: Liverpool 3-0 Sunderland (Premier League)
Mar 21: Manchester United 2-1 Liverpool (Premier League)

Fulham

Apr 8: Wolfsburg 0-1 Fulham (Europa League)
Apr 4: Fulham 2-1 Wigan Athletic (Premier League)
Apr 1: Fulham 2-1 Wolfsburg (Europa League)
Mar 27: Hull City 2-0 Fulham (Premier League)
Mar 24: Tottenham Hotspur 3-1 Fulham (FA Cup)

TEAM NEWS

Liverpool

Fears that talismanic frontamn Fernando Torres could sit out appear to be unfounded, as the Spanish striker - who aggravated a minor knee problem during his two-goal display against Benfica - is expected to take his place in the starting line-up.

Left-flankers Ryan Babel and Emiliano Insua return from suspension, while Alberto Aquilani and Maxi Rodriguez are also back in the mix.

Defensive trio Fabio Aurelio (thigh), Martin Skrtel (foot) and Martin Kelly (knee) all remain sidelined.

Last starting XI (v Benfica): Reina; Johnson, Carragher, Kyrgiakos, Agger; Mascherano, Lucas, Kuyt, Gerrard, Benayoun; Torres.

Fulham

The in-form Bobby Zamora is a serious doubt after the England World Cup hopeful hobbled out of Thursday's win over Wolfsburg - in which he scored the only goal - with an Achilles injury.

Roma loanee Stefano Okaka is on standby to make his first Premier League start, while virus victim David Elm could also make the matchday squad after being discharged from hospital during the week.

Simon Davies is a 50-50 chance due to a rib injury, while American star Clint Dempsey (thigh) is certain to sit out.

Last starting XI (v Wolfsburg): Schwarzer; Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Konchesky; Duff, Murphy, Etuhu, Davies; Gera, Zamora.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Liverpool - Daniel Agger

The Dane has proven beyond doubt this season that, when fit, he is one of the classiest defenders around. His form of late has been nothing short of imperious, including a fine fill-in display at left-back during the week, and his ability to construct attacks from deep could prove important in this sort of encounter.

Fulham - Danny Murphy

He was discarded by Rafael Benitez in 2004 and looked like slipping into ignominy soon after, but Murphy and Fulham has been a match made in heaven. The former England international is the essence of the Cottagers' midfield and will relish the opportunity to strut his stuff in front of the Kop once again.

PREDICTION

Although buoyed by their midweek triumph in Europe, Fulham's abject displays away from home in the Premier League this season, with only one win from 16 excursions, make Liverpool hot-favourites to gain a processional victory.

Liverpool 2-0 Fulham.

Premier League Preview: Liverpool - Fulham

Liverpool 4-1 Benfica (Agg 5-3)

2010-04-08T17:42:00.000-07:00

Liverpool sealed their place in the Europa League semi finals with a 4-1 victory against Benfica to win the tie 5-3 on aggregate. First half goals from Dirk Kuyt and Lucas followed by two second half Fernando Torres strikes won the game for the Reds.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez made two changes from their weekend draw against Birmingham, with Daniel Agger coming in at left-back in place of the suspended Emiliano Insua and Javier Mascherano returning in midfield for the ineligible Maxi Rodriguez. Fernando Torres was fit to start up front for the Reds despite being controversially substituted against Birmingham
Benfica made two changes from the side which won the first-leg 2-1, with Ruben Amorim and Sidnei coming into the Portuguese league leaders' defence.

The visitors began the game in very confident manner, settling into their passing rhythm from the start while Liverpool struggled to get a grip on the game. In the 4th minute Benfica came close to grabbing an away goal, a deflected free kick found its way to Angel Di Maria inside the penalty area but his shot was deflected for a corner of Glen Johnson. From the resulting corner left back David Luiz had a snap shot which sailed wide of the goal.

Liverpool slowly began to get their passing game going and were having much more of the possession and in the 20th minute they created their first chance of the match. Glen Johnson made a good run down the right wing before delivering an early cross into Torres, the Spanish striker managed to get a flicked header on the ball but he couldn’t guide it goalwards and it sailed harmlessly wide of Julio Cesar’s goal.

Two minutes later and the hosts created another goalscoring opportunity. A neat one two between Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt opened up a shooting chance for the Dutchman but his strike was well blocked by the challenge of Luisao.

Liverpool were becoming much more dominant in the match and in the 27th minute they got their reward. A Gerrard corner found Kuyt in front of the Benfica goalkeeper and he powered his header past Cesar to send the Anfield crowd crazy. Their jubilation was nearly short lived as the referee assistant had his flag up to disallow the goal for offside but as a player cannot be offside from a corner referee Bjorn Kuipers correctly over-ruled his assistant and awarded the goal to put Liverpool 1-0 ahead.

Six minutes later the hosts doubled their lead thanks to Lucas. A good run and pass by Yossi Benayoun found Gerrard on the halfway line, the Liverpool captain turned and played a neat through ball into the path of the on-running Lucas who took the ball around Cesar and rolled the ball into the back of the net to put the Liverpool 2-0 ahead.

With two minutes of the half left Liverpool survived a scare as Benfica very nearly got themselves back into the game through Sidnei. A cross from Pablo Aimar found the Brazilian defender at the back post and his left foot shot clipped Lucas before fizzing across the Liverpool goal but no other Benfica player was able to apply the finishing touch.

The first notable chance of the second half fell to the visitors and David Luiz. A free kick from Aimar was headed clear by Jamie Carragher but only as far as Luiz who controlled the ball and struck a right foot shot but it sailed over the bar.

A minute later Benfica nearly gifted Liverpool a third goal. The tireless Kuyt played a neat pass into the path of Gerrard on the right wing, the England midfielder delivered a low cross which was intercepted by Sidnei but his clearance hit David Luiz and the ball rolled towards the bottom corner however Cesar managed to make the save.

In the 58th minute Liverpool got their third goal through Torres. A Benfica free kick was cleared by Johnson and Liverpool broke on the counter attack through Benayoun, the Israeli found Kuyt on the right wing who delivered a low cross into the six yard box where Torres was waiting to tap home Liverpool’s third goal. It was an excellent move from Liverpool which took just 15 seconds to go from defensive clearance to goal.

In the 70th minute Benfica got themselves a lifeline in the tie thanks to a goal from Oscar Cardozo. A foul on Ramires gave the Portuguese side a free kick in a dangerous position on the edge of the Liverpool penalty area, Cordozo took the free kick and from 20 yards fired a powerful shot through the wall and beyond Reina for the Paraguayan’s 32nd goal of the season.

Despite conceding a goal Liverpool continued to pressurise the Benfica goal and four minutes later they nearly got a lucky goal through Gerrard. A left wing corner from the midfielder beat a melee of players in the six yard box but dropped agonisingly wide of the far post.

A minute later Benfica almost levelled the tie twice through Cardozo. Another foul on Ramires on the edge of Liverpool’s penalty area gave the Paraguayan another chance to fire a free kick towards goal. This attempt was sent a curling towards the top corner but a deflection off the Liverpool wall sent it wide for a corner. From the right wing corner Cardozo rose above Sotiris Kyrgiakos inside the six yard box but his header sailed just wide of Reina’s far post.

With eight minutes to go Liverpool extended their lead and sealed their progression into the semi final thanks to Torres. The Spanish striker latched onto a lobbed through ball by Gerrard before calmly chipping the ball over substitute goalkeeper Moreira and into the back of the net.
Liverpool 4-1 Benfica (Agg 5-3)

Liverpool Snub £110m Rhone Group Investment

2010-04-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

Liverpool have not responded to the Rhone Group's proposal of £110 million investment in the club, according to a report from The Daily Mail.

The private equity firm are believed to be still open to further negotiations should Reds co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett change their minds about snubbing the potential cash injection.

The Rhone Group's offer, which had a deadline of midnight on Monday, was believed to be for 40 per cent of the club.

However, it is believed that the offer was dependent on Rafael Benitez's side being in the Champions League next season, something which is beginning to look increasingly unlikely after the weekend's draw at Birmingham City.
Liverpool Snub £110m Rhone Group Investment

Believes Liverpool Are 'Underdogs'

2010-04-07T09:15:00.000-07:00

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes his side must win all of their remaining Premier League fixtures if they are to claim the fourth remaining Champions League place.

After the Anfield club could only manage a draw away at Birmingham on Sunday, the Reds are now four points adrift of Manchester City in fourth place.

Gerrard admits his side must now rely on City and Tottenham Hotspur dropping points if they are to stand any chance of finishing ahead of them.

"To give ourselves a better chance we had to take maximum points here and it's going to be really difficult now," Gerrard told the Guardian.

"But the race for fourth place seems to change from week to week. You have to look at the teams above us, they're the favourites and we're the underdogs at the moment. But we'll keep fighting all the way to the end."

The Liverpool skipper believes his side cannot afford any more slip-ups and must win all of their remaining Premier League games.

Gerrard is wary however, of making any more predictions and believes they should let their football do the talking from now on.

He said: "It's OK saying we'll be all right if we win our last five games; we have to go out on to the pitch and win them rather than talk about it.

"It will be difficult but we have the experience and we're hoping that will be vital in the end but I think it'll go down to the wire.

"It's easy for me to stand here and say we have to win all our games, we have to go out and do it."
Believes Liverpool Are 'Underdogs'

Liverpool Ponder Move For Feyenoord Winger Georginio Wijnaldum

2010-04-06T09:51:00.000-07:00

Liverpool are considering a summer move for Feyenoord winger Georginio Wijnaldum, according to reports in the Dutch media.

Voetbal Centraal reports that the £8 million-rated player has been watched by the Reds for the last 18 months and may well be keen to follow compatriots Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel to Merseyside.

"Dirk Kuyt is my role model. He left Feyenoord when he was the best, I am not that far," Wijnaldum is reported as saying.

It is likely that Reds boss Rafael Benitez will be forced to sell before making any move for the wide man, though with Albert Riera set to leave there may well be some space freed up in the budget.
Liverpool Ponder Move For Feyenoord Winger Georginio Wijnaldum

Liverpool FC's Rafael Benitez defends Fernando Torres withdrawal

2010-04-05T06:57:00.000-07:00

Rafael Benitez has defended his decision to take off Fernando Torres during Liverpool's draw with Birmingham City, revealing that the striker was suffering from exhaustion.

After playing 65 minutes of the frustrating 1-1 stalemate at St Andrews, the Spain international made way for David Ngog which prompted questions whether Benitez was looking ahead to Thursday's Europa League showdown with Benfica rather than on the task in hand.

However the Kop boss has refuted the claims and confirmed that Torres' withdrawal was simply precautionary, despite the 25-year-old having to receive an ice pack to protect his knee.

He said: "Fernando knew we needed to win and he knew he was tired.

"He was exhausted. He had some ice to protect his knee but he was tired, like some of the other players who played on Thursday.

"You have to manage and I think Ngog did a very good job. We needed fresh legs, that was very clear."

The result leaves Liverpool sixth in the Premier League table, four points behind Manchester CIty in the final Champions League qualification place.

But Benitez is refusing to conceded the fight with City, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur all facing tricky run-ins before the end of the season.

"Yes, it's true it's going to be difficult, but we have to keep going," he insisted.

"There are still a lot of points to play for. We were talking about maybe winning six games in a row but we knew maybe we could have one draw. Now we have to win five.

"We didn't have much margin for error and now we have less margin but that's football, and (how much margin we have) still depends on the other teams.

"We have to believe we can win games and have confidence that they will lose."
Liverpool FC's Rafael Benitez defends Fernando Torres withdrawal

Birmingham 1- 1 Liverpool

2010-04-04T18:43:00.000-07:00

Liverpool's hopes of securing a Champions League spot are hanging by a slender thread after Birmingham defender Liam Ridgewell earned his side a share of the spoils in a 1-1 draw at St. Andrew's.

Reds skipper Steven Gerrard put his side ahead a minute into the second half but Ridgewell levelled matters nine minutes later.

It means Rafael Benitez's side are four points adrift of fourth-placed Manchester City and have played a game more.

And the Spaniard is still searching for a first Barclays Premier League victory over Blues in eight attempts spanning his six seasons at Anfield.

Birmingham again showed the resilience which has been their trademark in preserving a seven-month unbeaten home record.

And the share of the spoils with Liverpool means they have drawn at St. Andrews with every one of the current top six this season.

West Ham twice came from behind to claim a crucial 2-2 draw at Everton.

Manuel da Costa and Ilan both struck in the second half as the Hammers produced a battling display to end a run of six successive defeats.

Diniyar Bilyaletdinov opened the scoring and Ayegbeni Yakubu looked to have won it for the Toffees six minutes from time, but the Hammers, who also missed a penalty through Mido, produced their best performance in weeks.

A superb second-half fightback from Fulham saw them come from a goal behind to win 2-1 and ensured woeful Wigan remain in trouble on the edge of the relegation zone.

Goals from substitute Stefano Okaka and Brede Hangeland completed the home side's recovery after Jason Scotland's first Barclays Premier League goal for Wigan had put them in front in the 34th minute.

The defeat leaves Wigan just four points clear of the relegation places, while Fulham remain on course for another top-10 finish so coveted by boss Roy Hodgson.
Reds Held At Birmingham

Daniel Agger Looks To Maintain Impressive Form Against Birmingham City

2010-04-04T03:55:00.000-07:00

Following his heroics against Benfica, Daniel Agger is hoping to continue his good form to help Liverpool keep up the pressure for fourth place.

Having produced a commanding defensive display, and scored the Reds vital away goal in Lisbon, manager Rafa Benitez has challenged Agger to maintain his form until the season's close.

Despite finding themselves behind in the Europa League tie going into the second leg, Agger’s performance has received rave reviews from the media.

The Danish international will hope to find some consistency on Sunday, when the Anfield side travel to Birmingham City in their pursuit for Champions League football.

“We have got a good squad and we will manage,” Agger told Liverpool’s official website.

“I think my own form is improving all the time and I’m getting there but you know that you can always be better. After every game, you have always got to look back at yourself.

“It is always important to ask could I have done this better? Could I have improved on that?

"That is the only way you will keep improving and making sure your performances stay at a good level.

“But I don’t mind who scores against Birmingham [City] as long as we work hard and get three points.”

Liverpool will be hoping to overcome their poor away record so far this season, with a much-needed victory at St. Andrews.

With Manchester City and Aston Villa winning on Saturday, Liverpool need maximum spoils from the west Midlands to keep within reach of fourth spot.
Daniel Agger Looks To Maintain Impressive Form Against Birmingham City

Benitez Unsure Over Aquilani Return

2010-04-04T03:37:00.000-07:00

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is not sure when injury-prone midfielder Alberto Aquilani will return to full fitness.

The Italian arrived at Anfield last summer with a £20million price tag and a reputation for being susceptible to injury after being plagued with problems at Roma.

Since moving to the Premier League, the latter has proved accurate as Aquilani has suffered with numerous complaints in his debut campaign in England's top flight.

The 25-year-old missed the midweek Europa League defeat to Benfica with concerns surrounding the ankle which required surgery last summer and Benitez is not sure when his big-money signing will be back in action.

"He was complaining of pain in his ankle and said he couldn't train," the Spaniard told the Liverpool Echo ahead of Sunday's trip to Birmingham.

"We will have to talk with the doctors when we get back to see what's going on because at the moment we don't know.

"He has some pain and we will just analyse that with the doctor. It's the same ankle he did before.

"Some players maybe can manage with the pain, but some, when they have pain, cannot. It depends on each individual and that makes it really difficult."

But Aquilani's agent, Franco Zavaglia, has dismissed suggestions that his client's campaign may have been concluded by the latest injury.

"Season over? I don't know who puts these bad things around. We have to wait and see what it is, but Alberto will be back on the pitch soon," Zavaglia told ANSA.
Benitez Unsure Over Aquilani Return

Riera To Stayat Pool?

2010-04-03T03:17:00.000-07:00

After his rather stinging criticism of Rafa Benitez resulted in him being told to sling his hook - preferably to Moscow - it seems that Albert Riera has decided life at Liverpool isn't quite so bad after all.

Especially after apparently failing to agree personal terms with Spartak.

Riera is quoted in Marca as saying: "Negotiations with Spartak Moscow are stalled. My intention is to decide my future in the summer."

And in a desperate attempt to smooth things over, he said: "I want to continue my career at Liverpool because it is one of the best clubs in the world.

"The feeling is spectacular, we have a great stadium and I feel very good at Liverpool... I speak with Fernando Torres and Reina and agree on the greatness of Liverpool."

Nice try Al, but it might be too late.
Riera To Stayat Pool?

Gerrard Must Stay- Hansen

2010-04-03T03:00:00.000-07:00

Former Liverpool captain Alan Hansen believes keeping Steven Gerrard at Anfield is crucial to the club's aspirations of success.

The Reds midfielder is desperate to win the Barclays Premier League with his hometown club but another disappointing season has only increased speculation he may look for a new challenge as he turns 30 in May.

Midweek reports in Italy suggested Inter Milan were preparing a bid of £28million plus striker Mario Balotelli but it remains to be seen if that ever gets off the ground.

Leaving Liverpool would be a huge wrench for Gerrard, while Inter manager Jose Mourinho has hardly committed his long-term future to the club by stating this week he does not like Italian football.

Hansen insists holding on to the England midfielder represents the Merseysiders' best chance of success in the near future.

"Liverpool supporters love him, he is part of the place. If he doesn't play there is something missing," said the Scot, who won eight league titles and three European Cups with the club.

"It is just great to have players of the quality of Fernando Torres and Gerrard in the team because with those two in the team Liverpool can beat anyone."

Gerrard admitted last weekend he had failed to reach his own high standards this season.

Hansen said the fact he was prepared to face up to criticism spoke volumes about the type of person and player Gerrard is.

"If you have played the way Gerrard has played the last seven or eight years at Liverpool - where the level of performance has been as good as anyone I have seen at the club - and don't reach those massive standards then he is the type of player that will be self-critical," he added.

"There is no doubt he has not played as well this season as in previous years.

"That's great he can look at himself and say that. It is a measure of the man. Having rediscovered some form to play an important role in last Sunday's 3-0 victory over Sunderland Gerrard will need to lift his side again at Birmingham tomorrow."

Thursday's Europa League defeat to Benfica in Lisbon, in which Liverpool played with 10 men for an hour after Ryan Babel's dismissal, highlighted the team's fighting qualities.

Manager Rafael Benitez hopes to be able to use the positives from that match against Blues.

"The commitment of the players was really good and, okay, we made some mistakes but we have to be positive and think about the next game," said the Spaniard.
Gerrard Must Stay- Hansen

Reds After Raul

2010-04-03T02:53:00.000-07:00

Premier League side Liverpool are willing to sign Spain legend Raul from Real Madrid at the end of the 2009-10 season, according to latest reports.

The Mirror speculates that Reds manager Rafael Benitez will attempt to convince the three-time Champions League winner to leave the Spanish capital and move to Merseyside, where he would partner Spain international striker Fernando Torres in attack. The Daily Mail adds that Liverpool will offer Raul a two-year contract.

Raul is thought to have expressed a desire to play in the English top flight, and with him falling in the pecking order under coach Manuel Pellegrini this season, there has been speculation that he could leave Madrid in the summer.

The 32-year-old has also been linked with a move to the MLS. Raul has started just eight times in the Spanish Primera Division so far this season and has scored four times. He featured in seven Champions League games and was on the scoresheet twice.
Raul After Raul

Babel SorryFor Red Card

2010-04-02T04:13:00.000-07:00

Liverpool forward Ryan Babel has admitted to being "stupid and silly" after his sending-off in Thursday night's 2-1 Europa League quarter-final first leg defeat to Benfica in Lisbon.

Having taken an early lead through Daniel Agger and watched the Portuguese league leaders waste numerous chances the match turned on the 30th-minute dismissal of Babel.

The Holland international raised his hands to Luisao in a melee started by the Benfica defender after he had viciously gone through the back of Fernando Torres - a tackle which infuriated manager Rafael Benitez.

Swedish referee Jonas Eriksson, who lost control of the game the moment he allowed Luisao to escape with a yellow card, had no hesitation in sending-off the Liverpool player.

Two second-half penalties from Oscar Cardozo turned the game around for Benfica to leave Babel regretting his actions.

"The referee told me the red card was for touching Luisao's face - that was it," said the Dutchman.

"It was clear that Luisao had made an awful foul and all I wanted to do was back up Fernando.

"Too harsh maybe. In the end maybe it was a stupid, silly thing for me to touch him in the face, but I think a yellow card would have been fair enough. But if they are the rules...

"He came very loud and very close with his face and I just tried to back him off with my hand (to say) don't come too close.

"That's it and in the end, they made it bigger than it was. But it was a mistake by me, I will learn from it and it won't happen again."
Babel SorryFor Red Card

Lucas Brazilian midfielder confident of progression

2010-04-02T04:10:00.000-07:00

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva was content after the Reds' 2-1 loss at the hands of Portuguese outfit Benfica in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final.

The Brazilian international feels the Reds did well in the opening stages of the game, and is confident that Liverpool can overturn a one-goal deficit in the second leg in order to ensure progression to the semi-finals of the competition.

"We are really disappointed," Lucas told Fifa.com

"We started really well in the game and scored an early goal. We created some chances even with 10 men.

"Now we have to keep going and try to go through in Anfield."

Lucas was hesitant in his analysis of Ryan Babel's red card following a heated argument with Benfica defender Luisao, suggesting that the team are more focused on the second leg than disputing refereeing decisions.

"The referee just said it was 'hands to face' - something like that," he added.

"To be honest, we don't want to talk about the referee. I think everyone saw the game and you can analyse better than us.

"We'll just keep going now. We have an important game in the Premier League and then we'll try to go through to the semi-finals."

The second leg of the Europa League tie will be played next Thursday at Anfield, with the Reds going into the game with the advantage of Daniel Agger's away goal despite facing a one-goal deficit.
Lucas Brazilian midfielder confident of progression

Benfica 2-1 Liverpool

2010-04-02T04:04:00.000-07:00

A brace from Oscar Cardozo cancelled out an early goal from Daniel Agger to give Benfica a 2-1 win going into the second-leg of the Europa League quarter-finals against Liverpool.

Travelling to the Stadium of Light will no doubt bring back bad memories for Rafael Benitez, who saw his side lose 1-0 in Lisbon in 2006 before tonight’s opponents knocked the then Champions of Europe out of the competition in the first knockout stage.
One change was made to the reds line-up which faced Sunderland at the weekend, with the ineligible Maxi Rodriguez dropping out of the squad, being replaced by Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva.

Rafael Benitez will have been well aware of the danger provided by former Valencia man Pablo Aimar, who started for Benfica, playing just behind Oscar Cardozo, with Angel Di Maria looking to provide support from the left-hand side.

The opening minutes of the first-half provided little in the way of chances for either of the two sides, with the slippery pitch at the Stadium of Light ensuring that neither of the two teams could really take control of the game.

But it didn’t take long for Liverpool to get their first chance of the match, with Steven Gerrard playing a low-ball into the box from a free-kick on the left-hand side which Daniel Agger connected with in order to slot it into the bottom left corner of Julio Cesar’s goal with just under ten minutes played.

The reaction of the Benfica players was a positive one following on from conceding early, with the Lisbon side moving quickly down the wings and sending some dangerous balls into the box, with Cardozo having two good efforts which he failed to convert.

Aimar and Di Maria continued to pile the pressure on the Liverpool back-four, with Aimar breaking through the reds defence and seeing his shot saved by Pepe Reina before Di Maria went on a blistering run down the left-hand side, running past a number of Liverpool players and into the box before his run was cut short by Jamie Carragher.

With just 31 minutes gone the game saw its first bit of drama, with Luisao being booked for a kick on Liverpool front man Fernando Torres, however the Benfica defender wasn’t happy with the decision, leading to an argument with Liverpool winger Ryan Babel, ending with the Dutchman putting a hand in Luisao’s face, resulting in a red card.

Minutes after the sending off Liverpool once again put the ball into the back of the net, with Torres heading in following a Gerrard free-kick past Cesar, but this time the Swedish referee disallowed the goal after the linesman had flagged to indicate the Spaniard was offside.

In the dying minutes of the first-half Liverpool looked to attack through a corner, with a Gerrard cross finding Torres following a deflection, but the striker failed to react to the fast-arriving ball, mis-hitting it well wide of the Benfica goal.

Benfica were the quickest of the mark in the second-half, with Cardozo missing two good chances early on, both from free headers inside the Liverpool box, sending one straight toward Reina and one well over the top of the crossbar following on from a corner.

With nearly an hour gone in the game Benfica’s pressure paid off, with Insua bringing down Aimar in the box, forcing the referee to award a penalty to the home side which forward Cardozo placed confidently into the right-hand side of Reina’s goal, bringing the home side level.

The home side made their first change with just under 70 minutes on the clock, bringing on Nuno Gomez to replace Maxi Pereira.

The Babel sending off clearly had an impact on Liverpool going forward, with the reds creating little to nothing in the first 20 minutes of the second-half, with Torres being the only player for the away side posing any real threat, but the Benfica defence handled the Spanish forward well, ensuring he had no real chances to add a second for the reds.

With just over fifteen minutes left in the second-half Benfica made their second substitution of the game, bringing on Filipe Ruben Amorim in place of Jorge Carlos Martins.

After playing a good one-two with Dirk Kuyt, Torres found himself one on one with the keeper, however, uncharacteristically, the Liverpool striker fired just wide left of Cesar’s goal, wasting Liverpool’s best chance of the second-half.

With just over ten minutes to go Di Maria once again made a break down the left-wing, but saw his attempt ball into the middle deflect off the hand of Carragher, leading to the ref award Benfica their second penalty of the evening. Cardozo once again struck well into the bottom right corner, this time sending Reina the wrong way to extend the home sides lead.

In an attempt to ensure Torres didn't pick up a yellow card which would rule him out of the second-leg at Anfield Rafael Benitez decided to make his second substitution of the game following on from the penalty, taking off the front man and bringing on David N'gog.

Not long after Benfica made their third and final change, taking off veteran midfielder Aimar and bringing on Brazilian Airton.

Rafael Benitez's side will take some positives from the game, most notably getting what could be a vital away goal at the Stadium of Light, but the suspensions picked up by both Babel and Insua will cause more selection headache's for the Liverpool manager going into the second-leg.

The home will be pleased with their performance, though going into a European game at Anfield with such a narrow advantage will mean everyone in the Benfica side will have to be at their best if the want to progress to the next round.

Benfica: 13-Jacobi Julio Cesar; 4-Anderson Luis Da Silva Luisao, 14-Maximiliano Victorio Paez Pereira (21-Nuno Gomes 66), 23-Marinho Moreira David Luiz; 10-Pablo Aimar (2-Santos Ribeiro Airton 86), 17-Jorge Neto Carlos Martins (5-Filipe Marcos Ruben Amorim 72), 6-Francisco Fernandez Javi Garcia, 20-Angel Di Maria, 18-Alexandre da Silva Fabio Coentrao, 8-Nascimento Santos Ramires; 7-Oscar Rene Cardozo

Liverpool: 25-Pepe Reina; 23-Jamie Carragher, 2-Glen Johnson, 5-Daniel Agger, 22-Emiliano Insua; 8-Steven Gerrard (15-Yossi Benayoun 90). 20-Javier Mascherano, 21-Lucas; 18-Dirk Kuyt, 9-Fernando Torres (24-David Ngog 82), 19-Ryan Babel
Benfica 2-1 Liverpool

Juventus have one coach option left - Benitez

2010-04-02T03:59:00.000-07:00

Juventus will not concede defeat in the race for Liverpool coach Rafael Benitez, as they cling onto a line of hope to reel him in.

Il Corriere Dello Sport claims Juventus have been left with just one main target - Benitez - after Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli pledged his allegiance to the Tuscan side.

Bianconeri vice-general director Roberto Bettega will now use the Easter period for some reflection before he flies out to Liverpool next week to open up a new line of communication with the Spaniard.

Benitez is under contract at Anfield until 2013, but top chiefs at Juve have promised significant action, and they are prepared to pay any penalties they incur from signing the coach should the deal take off.

Also, Juve have allocated an extra budget to help pay for Benitez's top coaching staff, who he would bring to Turin with him.

The Bianconeri are now set to act quickly to help speed up the move.
Juventus have one coach option left - Benitez

Liverpool Supporters

2010-04-01T07:18:00.000-07:00

During the season 2008–09, Liverpool had the fourth-highest average League attendance for an English club: 44,318, which is 96.8% of available capacity.[Liverpool fans often refer to themselves as "Kopites", which is a reference to the fans who once stood, and now sit, on the Kop at Anfield.

The song "You'll Never Walk Alone", originally from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Carousel and later recorded by Liverpool musicians Gerry & The Pacemakers, is the club's anthem, and has been sung by the Anfield crowd since the early 1960s. It has since gained popularity among fans of other clubs around the world. The song's title adorns the top of the Shankly Gates, which were unveiled on 2 August 1982 in memory of the former manager Bill Shankly. The "You'll Never Walk Alone" portion of the Shankly Gates is also reproduced on the club's crest.
Liverpool's longest-established rivalry is with fellow Merseyside team Everton, against whom they contest the Merseyside derby. This stems from Liverpool's formation and the dispute with Everton officials and the then owners of Anfield. Religious differences have been cited as a cause of division, although both teams stem from a Methodist origin, which undermines the notion of a Catholic–Protestant split. The Merseyside derby is usually a sell-out fixture. More players have been sent off in it than in any other fixture in Premier League history. It is one of the few local derbies that does not enforce fan segregation. Liverpool has a rivalry with its neighbours Manchester United. This is mostly due to the success enjoyed by the two clubs and the proximity of the two cities. The rivalry is so intense that the last player to be transferred between the two clubs was Phil Chisnall in 1964, when he moved to Liverpool from United.
The club's supporters have been involved in two major tragic events. The first was the Heysel Stadium disaster, in which 39 Juventus fans were killed. They were penned into a corner by Liverpool fans who charged in their direction, the sheer number of fans cornered caused a wall to collapse. After the final UEFA laid the blame for the incident solely on the fans of Liverpool, English clubs were banned from European competition for five years and Liverpool served an extra year, a six-year ban. There were 27 arrests on suspicion of manslaughter – the only extraditable offence applicable to events at Heysel. The majority of these people were from Merseyside. Some of these people had previous convictions for football-related violence. In 1989, after a 5-month trial in Belgium, fourteen Liverpool fans were given 3-year sentences for involuntary manslaughter. Half the terms were suspended and it is unclear how many served their sentences.
The second was during an FA Cup semi-final in 1989 between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, 96 Liverpool fans died due to overcrowding in what became known as the Hillsborough Disaster. The Sun newspaper published an article entitled "The Truth", in which it claimed that Liverpool fans had robbed and urinated on the dead and had attacked the police. Subsequent investigations proved the allegations to be false, and this led to a city-wide boycott of the newspaper. Many organisations were set up as a result of the disaster, such as the Hillsborough Justice Campaign, which represents bereaved families, survivors and supporters, who campaign for justice for the 96 people who died in Sheffield on 15 April 1989.

Manager Liverpool 2009-2010

2010-04-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

Liverpool has had 17 permanent managers and one caretaker manager since the club's first appointed, W.E. Barclay and John McKenna as professional managers in 1892. The longest-serving manager in terms of time was Tom Watson, who managed Liverpool for 19 years from 1896 to 1915. Bill Shankly managed the club for more games than any other manager; he served for 783 matches. Kenny Dalglish was the first player-manager in English football when he was appointed in 1985. Bob Paisley, who won 19 trophies during his tenure, was the club's most successful manager.

Current coaching staff

Position	Name	Nationality
Manager	Rafael Benítez	Spanish
Assistant manager	Sammy Lee	English
First team coach	Mauricio Pellegrino	Argentinean
Goalkeeping Coach	Xavi Valero	Spanish
Reserve Goalkeeping Coach	John Achterberg	Dutch
Fitness Coach	Paco de Miguel	Spanish
Reserve team coach	John McMahon	English
Physiotherapist	Rob Price	English
Chief Scout	Eduardo Macia	Spanish

Liverpool FC Honours

2010-04-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

Liverpool has won the English League Championship eighteen times (a record they share with Manchester United), the FA Cup seven times and the League Cup a record seven times. The club achieved a League and FA Cup "Double" in 1986, and has won the League and European Cup double twice, in 1977 and 1984. They also won the League Cup in 1984 to complete a unique treble, a feat they repeated (albeit with different trophies) in 2001 when they won the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup. Liverpool has won the European Cup, Europe's primary club competition, five times, which is an English record. Only Real Madrid and Milan has won the competition on more occasions. The club's fifth triumph meant that they won the trophy outright and was awarded a multiple-winner badge. The club has won the UEFA Cup, Europe's secondary club competition, three times, a record they share with Juventus and Internazionale.

Domestic
League
Football League First Division (English football champions) (level 1)
Winners (18): 1900–01, 1905–06, 1921–22, 1922–23, 1946–47, 1963–64, 1965–66, 1972–73, 1975–76, 1976–77, 1978–79, 1979–80, 1981–82, 1982–83, 1983–84, 1985–86, 1987–88, 1989–90
Second Division (level 2)
Winners (4): 1893–94, 1895–96, 1904–05, 1961–62
Lancashire League
Winners (1): 1892–93

Cups
FA Cup
Winners (7): 1965, 1974, 1986, 1989, 1992, 2001, 2006
League Cup
Winners (7): 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1995, 2001, 2003
FA Charity Shield / FA Community Shield
Winners (15, 10 outright and 5 shared): 1964 (shared), 1965 (shared), 1966, 1974, 1976, 1977 (shared), 1979, 1980, 1982, 1986 (shared), 1988, 1989, 1990 (shared), 2001, 2006
Super Cup
Winners (2): 1986, 2001

European
European Cup and UEFA Champions League
Winners (5): 1977, 1978, 1981, 1984, 2005
UEFA Cup
Winners (3): 1973, 1976, 2001
UEFA Super Cup
Winners (3): 1977, 2001, 2005

Liverpool FC Statistics and records

2010-04-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

Liverpool's first competitive game was an 8–0 victory in the Lancashire League against Higher Walton. Ian Callaghan holds Liverpool's overall appearance record—he played 857 matches over the course of 19 seasons from 1958 to 1978 and the record for League appearances with 640. Of the current squad, Jamie Carragher has the most appearances; he played his 500th game for the club early in 2008.
Liverpool's all-time leading scorer is Ian Rush, who scored 346 goals while at the club from 1980 to 1987 and 1988 to 1996. Rush holds the record for the most goals in a season with 47 in 1983–84. However, during his career, Rush could not surpass Roger Hunt's record number of league goals, which has stood at 245 since 1970. In the 1961–62 season, Hunt scored 41 goals, which is the club record for league goals in a single season. Gordon Hodgson, the club's third highest scorer with 240 goals, holds the club record of 17 hat tricks. The most goals scored by a player in a single match is five; John Miller, Andy McGuigan, John Evans, Ian Rush and Robbie Fowler have achieved this feat. Fowler also holds the club and Premier League record for the fastest hat trick: he scored three goals in four minutes, 32 seconds against Arsenal in the 1994–95 season. Steven Gerrard is Liverpool's all-time leading goalscorer in European competition with 29 goals.
Liverpool's biggest victory is 11–0 against Strømsgodset IF in 1974. Liverpool's 10–1 defeat of Rotherham Town in 1896 was its largest league win. This margin of victory was matched when Crystal Palace were defeated 9–0 at Anfield in 1989. Liverpool's heaviest defeat, 1–9, came against Birmingham City in 1954. Liverpool's 8–0 win against Beşiktaş J.K. in the Champions League was the largest victory in the competition's history at the time.

History liverpool

2010-04-01T06:54:00.000-07:00

Liverpool F.C. was founded after a multi-faceted dispute between the Everton Committee and John Houlding, the owner of the land at Anfield and Everton's president. Everton F.C. founded and played at Anfield from 1884 to 1892. The catalyst that escalated the dispute was when the adjacent landowner wanted to run a road though the newly built main stand. Fundamental difference emerged in how the club should be run when the club assessed the purchase of the whole of the Anfield site. Houlding was accused of motives for personal financial gain. Everton who had been playing at Anfield for eight years departed from Houlding and Anfield moving to a new stadium in Goodison Park.
Liverpool F.C. were founded by Houlding to play at the vacated Anfield. The original name was to be Everton F.C. and Athletic Grounds, Ltd., or Everton Athletic for short, but it was changed to Liverpool F.C. in June 1892 when The Football Association refused to recognise the team as Everton.
The club won the Lancashire League in their first season, and successfully applied to join the Second Division for the following season. They won the league and were promoted to the First Division. They won their first title in 1900–01, and were champions again in 1905–06. They reached their first FA Cup final in 1914 but lost 1–0 to Burnley. The club won back-to-back championships in 1921–22 and 1922–23, but after this the club did not win another trophy until 1946–47 when they won the League for a fifth time. The club reached the FA Cup final in 1950, but lost to Arsenal. Liverpool were relegated to the Second Division in the 1953–54 season. During this period they suffered a 2-1 FA Cup defeat against non-league Worcester City FC in the 1958-59 season.
Not long after this infamous result, Bill Shankly was appointed manager and released 24 players. He also converted a room at Anfield originally used for boot storage into a room where the coaches could talk strategy over tea (and other beverages). There Shankly, along with other founding Boot Room members Joe Fagan, Reuben Bennett, and Bob Paisley, started reshaping the team.
Promotion to the First Division was achieved in 1961–62, and the club won the League for the first time in 17 years in 1963–64. Another League title followed in 1965–66, after the club had won their first FA Cup the previous season. The club won the League and UEFA Cup in 1972–73 and the FA Cup again a year later; after this, Shankly retired and was replaced by assistant Bob Paisley. Paisley was even more successful than Shankly and the club won the League and UEFA Cup in 1975–76, his second season as manager. The following season they retained the League title, won the European Cup for the first time, but lost in the FA Cup final, narrowly missing out on a treble. Liverpool retained the European Cup the next season, and the season after won the League again with 68 points—a domestic record, conceding only 16 goals in 42 league matches.[8] During the nine seasons Paisley managed the club, Liverpool won 21 trophies, including three European Cups, a UEFA Cup, six league titles and three consecutive League Cups. The only domestic trophy to elude him was the FA Cup.
Paisley retired in 1983 and (as Shankly had done) handed the reins to a Boot Room veteran, assistant coach Joe Fagan. Liverpool won three trophies in Fagan's first season in charge: the League, League Cup and European Cup, becoming the first English side to win three trophies in a season. Liverpool reached the European Cup final again in 1985. The match was against Juventus at the Heysel Stadium. Before kick-off, disaster struck: Liverpool fans breached a fence which separated the two groups of supporters and charged the Juventus fans. The resulting weight of people caused a retaining wall to collapse, killing 39 fans, mostly Italians. The match was played regardless and Liverpool lost 1–0 to Juventus. English clubs were consequently banned from participating in European competition for five years; Liverpool received a ten-year ban, which was later reduced to six years. Fourteen of their fans received convictions for involuntary manslaughter.
Fagan resigned after the disaster and Kenny Dalglish was appointed as player-manager. During his reign, the club won another three League Championships and two FA Cups, including a League and Cup "Double" in 1985–86. Liverpool's success was overshadowed by the Hillsborough Disaster: in an FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest on 15 April 1989, hundreds of Liverpool fans were crushed. 94 fans died that day; the 95th victim died in hospital from his injuries four days later, and the 96th died nearly four years later without regaining consciousness. After the Hillsborough tragedy there was a governmental review of stadium safety. Known as the Taylor Report, it paved the way for legislation which required top-division teams to have all-seater stadiums. The report ruled that the main reason for the disaster was overcrowding due to a failure of police control. 1989 also saw Liverpool involved in the most dramatic conclusion to a season of all time, with the club losing the title on goals scored and in the last minute of the season in a home defeat to eventual winners Arsenal. Dalglish cited the Hillsborough Disaster and its repercussions as the reason for his resignation in 1991. He was replaced by former player Graeme Souness. Apart from winning the FA Cup in 1992, Souness achieved little success and was replaced by a former member of the "Boot Room", Roy Evans. Evans fared little better: a League Cup victory in 1995 was his only trophy. One highlight was a 4-3 victory over Newcastle United at Anfield on 3 April 1996, which was named in April 2003 as the Match of the Decade in the Premier League 10 Seasons Awards. Gérard Houllier was appointed as co-manager in 1998–99, but was left in sole charge after Evans resigned in November 1998.
In his second season in charge Liverpool won a treble of the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup. In the 2001–02 season, during which Houllier underwent major heart surgery, Liverpool finished second behind Arsenal. The following seasons failed to live up to expectations and Houllier was replaced by Rafael Benítez. The club finished fifth in his first season in charge but won the UEFA Champions League by beating Milan 3–2 in a penalty shootout after the match finished 3–3. The following season Liverpool finished third with 82 points—their highest total since 1988. They won the FA Cup as they had the Champions League victory the previous season, by beating West Ham United in penalty shootout after the match finished at 3–3. In 2006–07, the club's search for investment came to an end when American businessmen George Gillett and Tom Hicks became the owners of Liverpool in a deal which valued the club and its outstanding debts at £218.9 million. That season, the club reached another Champions League final, but this time they lost 2–1 to AC Milan. In the 2008-09 season Liverpool achieved their highest Premier League points total of 86 points and finished as runners up to Manchester United.

Liverpoo FC

2010-04-01T06:24:00.000-07:00

Liverpool Football Club is a professional football club based in Liverpool, England which plays in the Premier League and is one of the most successful in the history of English football, winning more trophies than any other English club. Liverpool has won a joint-record eighteen league titles, seven FA Cups, seven League Cups, three UEFA Cups and five European Cups, an English record.

The club was founded in 1892 and won five league championships between 1900 and 1947. However, Liverpool spent several years in the Second Division during the late 1950s, and did not win promotion again until the appointment of Bill Shankly as manager in 1959. The club traditionally played in red and white, but this was changed to all red in the 1960s.
Under Shankly's management, Liverpool won three League Championship titles, two FA Cups and a UEFA Cup, the club's first European trophy. In the past 30 years, they have been one of the most successful clubs in English and European football; they won four European Cups between 1977 and 1984 and a fifth in 2005.
The Heysel Stadium disaster made the club infamous in Europe; 39 Juventus fans died after a wall collapsed as they fled from charging Liverpool fans. The club was involved in a worse disaster four years later—the Hillsborough Disaster— which saw the death of 96 Liverpool fans in a crush against perimeter fencing. Both disasters have had wide-ranging impacts on English and European football, and the club, to this day.
Liverpool F.C. has played at Anfield since its formation, but plans to move to a new stadium in Stanley Park, which was due to be completed by 2011 but has been put on hold until economic conditions improve. Liverpool has a large fan base which holds long-standing rivalries with several clubs. The most notable of these are their rivalry with Manchester United and Everton, with whom they regularly contest the Merseyside derby.

Privacy Policy Generator for Google Adsense Publishers

2010-04-01T06:17:00.000-07:00

Privacy Policy for http://liverpool-premier-league.blogspot.com/

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