Gerrard wants more after receiving Football Of The Year Award

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is as "hungry and ambitious" as ever and has vowed to make sure he will once again be in contention for Footballer of the Year at the end of next season. The England midfielder was honoured at a gala dinner in London last night by the Football Writers Association [FWA] after he topped the poll of journalists ahead of Manchester United duo Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney to win the prestigious accolade.

Gerrard scored 24 goals, 16 of which came in the Barclays Premier League as he led the Reds' challenge to eventual champions United. Although Liverpool were unable to sustain their title drive, Gerrard pledged to continue working towards making the Anfield club the best around once more.

"The coaches at Liverpool and England are always driving me on, trying to improve me as a player. I am 29 on Saturday and I still feel I can get better," Gerrard said.

"I am still learning every single day in training, working on parts of my game, am still very hungry and ambitious," he said. "There is still a lot to achieve for me personally, for Liverpool and England, so hopefully next year is going to be a lot bigger for me trophy wise."

Gerrard added: "The night has blew me away to be honest. I did not realise it was such a big event with so many people here. I would love nothing better than to come back here and share this evening with you again, so I will certainly try my best to be here next year."

However, the Reds captain was quick to pay tribute to all the people who had helped him earn such an accolade. "I would not be standing here without my family, my wife and a few close friends are here tonight, and I have to say a big thank you to them," he said. "Also my club manager, Rafael Benitez, who has a lot of belief in me.

"He has pushed me further forwards into a role I am absolutely loving at the moment. Every time I go out, I feel so confident," said Gerrard. "It is great to be here to receive an individual award, but without my team-mates, I would not be able to be here.

"They have been fantastic this season and I am proud to be the captain of such a great team," he said. "Although this is an individual award, I would much rather be in a London hotel now preparing with my team-mates for the FA Cup final. Now, however, I believe we are moving forwards and are capable of challenging for major honours."

The toast to the FWA was made by England manager Fabio Capello. The Italian coach paid tribute to Gerrard, who is set to play an integral role in the forthcoming 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Andorra. Capello said: "Steve, you have played a fantastic season and scored a lot of goals. Now, please, just two more to help us towards South Africa."

Gerrard insists the best is yet to come and pledged to help lead the side towards the finals next summer. He said: "The new manager has come in and changed things. I can honestly say it is a good time to be an England player.

"I have got a lot of belief in the England manager and his coaching staff," Gerrard said. "I think it is going to be an exciting year and hopefully we can get [FIFA World Cup] qualification sorted as quickly as possible. Then hopefully we can do better than we have done in previous years for England."

Steve Bates, Chairman of the FWA and chief football writer for The People, paid tribute to the 2009 Footballer of The Year, an award which has been running since 1948.

"Steven is without doubt an outstanding player of his generation and an inspiration to his club Liverpool and a prized asset of England manager Fabio Capello," he said.

"It speaks volumes that Steven beat off competition from five of Manchester United's big names, following their season of fine achievement, to be named by our members as Footballer of the Year - and deservedly so."

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Liverpool Sign Brazilian Under-17 star

According to reports in South America, Liverpool have clinched the signing of Brazil under-17 star Zezinho.

The attacking midfielder was one of the stars of the Under-17 Championships which his home country won and was apparently a target for the Reds, the other three clubs of the Premiership's 'big four', Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Zezinho is currently at Brazilian second division outfit Juventude but reports in the country are claming that a deal has already been done to bring the youngster to Anfield.

However Juventude's club president Sergio Florian has refuted the claims and insists that to his knowledge no agreements have been made.

"The money is already in our account? I'm not aware of anything," he told Futebol Interior.

"In particular, there is nothing, any kind of negotiation."

"I cannot speak anything more than that because, as far as I'm concerned, they were just scouting the player."

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Liverpool on High Alert as Lavezzi's Rapport Broken with Napoli

Liverpool are on high alert after Ezequiel Lavezzi’s agent declared “the rapport with Napoli is practically broken.”

The Argentine, nicknamed ‘Pocho’, was the subject of a huge bid from the Anfield club that would triple his current wages.

Napoli turned it down, but the situation is deteriorating at the Stadio San Paolo and he may have played his final game for the side.

“With each moment that passes, Lavezzi is further away from Napoli and we cannot guarantee he will return here after the World Cup qualifiers in Argentina,” announced agent Alejandro Mazzoni on Sky Italia.

“We need to sit around a table and see what is to be done. He feels that the club doesn’t love him any more and cannot be happy with this situation.

“I can say the rapport with Napoli is practically broken.”

The player is asking for a contract extension to 2013 with improved wages, which are currently at £1m per season.

“The last meeting with director general [Pierpaolo] Marino to discuss this matter was seven months ago,” continued a furious Mazzoni.

“We received an offer from an English club, but he told us not to begin any negotiations because Napoli wanted to renew the deal with Ezequiel.

“He asked me for some time, but from that moment neither Marino nor President [Aurelio] De Laurentiis have answered our phone calls.

“Lavezzi himself tried calling the President, but the phone was not picked up.”

Pocho is a huge favourite with the fans, who dubbed him the ‘new Diego Maradona’ after his spectacular performances at the San Paolo.

“Lavezzi is not enjoying this situation at all. He would like to remain at Napoli just because he loves the city and its fans, but the rapport with the club is practically broken.

“I cannot say for sure whether he will be at the summer training camp if things don’t change. The club owns his contract, but not his head.”

The 24-year-old joined Napoli from San Lorenzo in 2007, scoring 15 goals in 64 games for the Italians.

He was listed 14th in the round-up of 50 most promising young players in the world, according to The Times.

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Torres Reveals Why he Signed a New Deal

Fernando Torres today revealed how a special bond with the Kop was key in him agreeing a new deal at Anfield.

The Spain international has improved the terms of a six-year contract originally signed when he arrived in July 2007. This reflects his reputation as one of the world's top strikers.

El Nino has bagged 50 goals in 83 appearances since joining from Atletico Madrid.

He also scored the winner as Spain lifted the Euro 2008 trophy last summer, helping to secure a Ballon d'Or nomination.

"I want to remain here," said Torres. "Since arriving at Liverpool I feel that there's a bond and commitment.

"We listened to the club's offer, which came on the back of two seasons of positive work.

"My objective now is to win a trophy with Liverpool next year."

The new deal includes an option to extend his stay a further year to 2014.

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Liverpool Superstar Marries his Girlfriend

Fernando Torres, married childhood sweetheart Olalla Dominguez in a secret ceremony with just two guests.

The Liverpool striker, 24, snuck off to the tiny El Escorial town hall north of Madrid for a low-key ceremony conducted by a local councillor.

It was a far cry from the lavish celebrations preferred by the Beckhams, Rooneys and Coles.

A source said: “It was hardly a ceremony fit for a superstar. It was small and romantic, but there was nothing glam about the day at all.”

The couple, together eight years, decided to tie the knot last Wednesday before Olalla, 23, who is seven months pregnant, gives birth.

She is not your typical Wag, preferring to stay out of the limelight while she studies at the Spanish equivalent of the Open University.

She said last year: “Fernando is very shy and a very good person. He is the man of my life.”

The £20million Spanish star was expected to marry in a cathedral wedding. The source added: “Fans expect something lavish from a local hero. They may be planning a bigger public do.”

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Liverpool Target Athletic Bilbao midfielder

Liverpool are understood to be lining up a summer move for the highly-rated Athletic Bilbao midfielder Javi Martinez.

The 20-year-old, a Spanish Under-19 and Under-21 international, is believed to be seen by Rafa Benitez as a possible replacement for Xabi Alonso, whose future remains unclear.

Martinez is likely to cost in the region of £10million and Bilbao will do all they can to stick to their price tag, as the midfielder is contracted to the La Liga side until 2012.

Serie A outfit Fiorentina are also understood to be interested in Martinez, who joined Bilbao from Osasuna in a €6million deal back in 2006, but Liverpool are leading the chase for his signature.

The player himself appears keen on a switch to the Premier League - when asked about Liverpool's interest, Martinez said: "Any player would want to be part of such a good squad."

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Torres Extends Liverpool Stay till 2013

Fernando Torres has signed a new Liverpool contract that will keep him at Anfield until at least 2013.

Although the 25-year-old Spain striker still had four years remaining on his original six-year contract, Liverpool have offered him improved terms and added an option to take the deal through to 2014.
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez said: "Fernando is one of the best strikers in the game today and, at his age, can only get better.

"Every major side would want him in their team, but he has shown how much he wants to achieve success at Liverpool by committing his future to the club.

"He's a special talent but still has the hunger to improve his game."

Dirk Kuyt, Daniel Agger, Steven Gerrard and Benitez himself have already signed new contracts in the last two months.

"We've made huge progress this season and now we need to take the next step," Rafael Benitez added on the club's website.

"We are building something special here and securing such important players on long-term deals means we can move forward with confidence.

"This sends out a very positive message to everyone connected with the club."

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Rafa wants to work Quick and Fast in the Transfer Market

Rafa Benitez has insisted he intends to conduct his transfer business during the early weeks of the summer.

The dust has barely settled on the Premier League season, but thoughts are already turning to next term.

Benitez is likely to be an active player in the transfer market as he embarks on building a side capable of landing the title.

The Spaniard feels the key to mounting a title challenge will be to bed in any recruits as quickly as posslble.

“Clearly we want to sign players but we know that it will be difficult to find players who are better than what we already have,” Benitez told the Liverpool Echo.

“It is not easy to find this kind of player in the current market and if we do then maybe they will be too expensive or not available.

“But we have to sign the right players and make the right decisions during the summer.

“We have some targets but right now it is too soon because some clubs do not know what the future holds for them but we will wait and see.

“But our idea is to have players signed before pre-season begins because this would be perfect.

“It means you can start working with them and training with them with the ideas that you want to get across to them so that they can start putting them into practice on the pitch.”

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Tuncay linked with Liverpool

Insiders have revealed that Liverpool are considering making a bid for Middlesbrough star Tuncay.

We have to be realistic," said [Boro boss Gareth] Southgate. "Tuncay is an international player who is captain of his country. He has given everything right to the end, he's a very special person and he's been a pleasure to work with.

"I will have to sit down with him and see what he wants to do but it's obviously going to be very hard to keep him.

"He needs a stage on which to perform because he is that type of a character."

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Mascherano would love to see Carlos in the Merseyside Red Shirt

Javier Mascherano wants Argentina teammate Carlos Tevez to join him at Liverpool next season.

Tevez has just won a second Premier League winners' medal with Manchester United, but the striker's two-year loan deal expires at the end of the season and a permanent contract looks uncertain despite the Red Devils fans wanting him to stay.

Man United manager Alex Ferguson claims Tevez's financial demands are unrealistic and negotiations are on hold until after Wednesday's Champions League final with Barcelona.

Tevez says he is resigned to leaving Old Trafford - but not necessarily the Premier League. With his family settled in England's northwest, Liverpool could be an attractive destination for both professional and personal reasons, and Mascherano agrees.
"It would be great if Carlos could come here because I know how good he is,'' Mascherano told The Associated Press. "But maybe it's a difficult situation. I don't know exactly what is happening. The only thing I can say is that he is a great player and a great person.
"I don't speak to him about football situations just about his family. It's something that maybe the manager has to talk (to him) about.''
Liverpool would have to pay around 25 million pounds ($38 million) to the investment company that owns his rights and initially brought both Mascherano and Tevez from Brazilian club Corinthians to West Ham in 2006.
Tevez's work-rate and tendency to score important goals could provide the missing ingredient to a Liverpool team that lost the Premier League title race to Manchester United by four points. The Reds still appear to rely too heavily on the attacking skills of Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard. Injuries to both of them restricted their partnership to barely a third of league matches.
The Reds amassed their highest points tally since the start of the Premier League in the 1992-93 season, but Mascherano is still hurting that he couldn't help deliver the club's first league title since 1990.
"I'm not feeling good. We wanted to win the league and we were very close,'' Mascherano said. "It's not easy when you have really good players and you finish in second place - it's difficult to understand.
"Maybe if some players come to improve the team, it would be great for us for next season. It doesn't need improving too much, maybe a little bit. We need to improve at home. We dropped a lot of points at home because we didn't have that experience to finish the games, but next season we will have the experience maybe and it will be better for us.''
Liverpool needs to keep its best players such as midfielder Xabi Alonso and improve the depth of its squad, says Mascherano.
"If we can keep this squad and improve this squad it will be really good for the future,'' Mascherano said. "We will be fighting in all the competitions, not just league. (Manager) Rafa (Benitez) will work really hard to improve the squad and maybe next season we will be stronger.''

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Barry rated at £10 million by MO'N

Liverpool must cough up £10 million to land Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry.

The Mirror says Liverpool, who tabled four failed bids for Barry last summer, are set to resume their pursuit of Aston Villa’s England midfielder.

And Villa boss O’Neill has pledged not to stand in Barry’s way if the left-footed maestro wants to quit for Champions League football.

But O’Neill insists Barry,28, valued at £18m last summer, will still cost a lot despite having only 12 months remaining on his £47,000-a-week contract.

"The price obviously with a year left to run is a different issue," said O’Neill, who has offered Barry a lucrative new deal to stay.

"But by the same token he is an England international player, he has captained his country and he is still only 28 years old.

"He wouldn’t come cheaply even in this day and age."

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Sammy doesn't want to see the Mistakes of 2002 repeated

SAMMY LEE admits Liverpool cannot afford to ignore the mistakes of 2002 as they prepare for a "massive" summer.

Rafael Benitez’s side bring down the curtain on their season tomorrow when they entertain Tottenham Hotspur.

A point will confirm runners-up place behind Manchester United with the Anfield outfit having already reached 83 points, their record total in the Premier League era.

Benitez is already assessing his transfer options with Carlos Tevez, Glen Johnson, David Silva and Gareth Barry all among those the Spaniard has run the rule over.

The last time Liverpool finished second in the table seven years ago, they responded by spending more than £20million on misfits Bruno Cheyrou, El Hadji Diouf and Salif Diao and subsequently finished outside the Champions League places the following campaign.

And Lee, who was on then manager Gerard Houllier’s coaching staff in 2002, accepts Liverpool are treading a fine line as they aim to make the final transformation into a potentially championship-winning team.

"Each summer is massive," said the assistant manager. "There will be activity going on behind the scenes here to bring new people in. You always need to bring in new players to strengthen and improve.

"We hope it’s just fine margins that need looking at rather than sweeping changes. It’s only tweaking that is needed, which is why this summer is going to be important. There is a fine line between success and not having success.

"The final bit is always the hardest part in anything. But we’re fully aware of the task that faces us. To get that little bit extra will be the hardest work for us."

Lee added: "I was aware of what went on in 2002. That’s why the cliches come in, there’s no way we can afford to take anything for granted. The fact is we’re not 100% happy with the season because we have won nothing. There’s no way we can afford to rest on our laurels.

"If you win things, you don’t dwell on that either. It’s the old Ronnie Moranism, you forget that trophy then move on to the next one. Before we even finished the last game of the season, he told us how many days there were before we came back for pre-season.

"That was the type of mentality we had. We are preparing already for next season and there’s no way anyone here will be resting on our laurels because we have won nothing."

Tottenham are one of only two teams – Middlesbrough the other – to have beaten Liverpool in the Premier League this season.

If Benitez’s side avoid defeat tomorrow, they will become the first team ever to go through a top-flight season season losing as few games without winning the league.

But Lee said: "There certainly has been an improvement but it’s not enough of an improvement as we don’t have any trophies. No-one at the club is 100% happy with the season, as every season we want to win something."

Tomorrow’s game will mark the 464th and final Liverpool appearance of Sami Hyypia, who is set to leave on a free transfer to Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.

And Lee said: "Sami is a terrific professional, a fine player. Under that cool exterior there is a really emotional guy and he will certainly feel that on Sunday. We will too having worked with him for so long.

"These days you do not get players staying very long at one club, but it is a testimony to him that he has been able to evolve as a player and last 10 years at this club.

"He can play for another couple of years. He has looked after himself and is in great condition.

"He is committed, a good professional. He has all the attributes to make a coach and manager, he can make the tough decisions."
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Hyypia Sad to Miss Premier League Medal

Sami Hyypia has spoken of his sadness at leaving Anfield without a title winners' medal - but the 35-year-old insists he will keep his fingers crossed Liverpool finally clinch Barclays Premier League glory in 2009-10.

The Finland international claims he will look back on his decade on Merseyside with no regrets having helped transform Liverpool back into one of Europe's elite clubs.

His haul of winners' medals includes the Champions League, UEFA Cup, two FA Cups, two League Cups and two Super Cups.

Only the Premier League has eluded Hyypia - but the veteran defender will not be bitter if Liverpool's long wait ends next term.

"I am sad to miss that medal but I don't think I have anything to regret," he said. "Next season it might happen but I only play 10 games and I wouldn't get a medal anyway.

"That played a part in my decision to leave. When I first came here I couldn't have believed I would be here for 10 years and win the things I have won. I am sadder for the fans that Liverpool haven't won the Premier League than for myself.

"I will keep my fingers crossed that the fans get what they deserve."

Hyypia bids farewell to the Kop on Sunday before beginning a two-year stint at Bayer Leverkusen.

His reception this weekend is likely to rival that which greeted Robbie Fowler when he left for the second time two years ago - not that the humble Finn is relishing being the focus of attention.

He said: "I won't like being the centre of attention, not at all. But in this case I have no choice.

"It is not like I am retiring. I have a new challenge ahead of me but it will be very emotional and it is better not to think about that too much before the game."

As well as a contract offer from Liverpool, Hyypia had options with other Premier League clubs.

"I would have had to move house wherever I went so I thought, why not a different country and a different league?" he added. "Plus Leverkusen really wanted me.

"For 10 years I have played in the same league, in the same stadiums and against the same clubs mainly, so now I have a chance to go to Germany which is a good league.

"I seriously thought about hanging my boots up at the end of this season but everyone I know who has retired, such as Gary McAllister, has told me I should play as long as I can. I have shown when I have played this season that I can still play to a high level."

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Gerrard wants to end the season Unbeaten

Liverpool can complete a season unbeaten at home when they host Tottenham on Sunday - and captain Steven Gerrard believes it is the perfect opportunity to repay the fans.

The Reds have not gone a whole campaign without defeat at Anfield for 21 years but if they avoid losing to Spurs it will be the 10th time in their history they have achieved the feat.

Rafael Benitez's side narrowly missed out on the Premier League title to Manchester United and Gerrard wants to reward the supporters

"I think the supporters deserve it. They have given us terrific support once again over the course of the season," he said.

"We have not got much to play for really but every time you put the Liverpool jersey on in front of your home supporters, the least they deserve is effort.

"And if we go into it with that attitude, we can finish on a high with three points."

Liverpool need one point to guarantee finishing second behind United but, even if they lose, Chelsea will have to win and turn around a goal difference that is five fewer than Liverpool.

Having lost twice already to Spurs this season - in the league and Carling Cup - there will be an extra incentive for Liverpool to extend their unbeaten home league record to 30 matches, the fourth best in their history and the best for 28 years.

Gerrard believes the experience of this season's title race will mean Liverpool will mount an even stronger challenge next term.

"We are unfortunate not to have won the league but we can take a lot of positives from this season moving forward," he said.

"We've put in some terrific performances and played well as a team. We can use this experience and take big confidence into the next campaign.

"As far as trophies are concerned, we have finished empty handed, but we can be really proud of how we have performed. From maybe mid-December onwards we have shown championship-winning form.

"To win the Premier League you have to have had experience of being involved in a title race and let's hope the experience we've gained this year will help us go one better next season."

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Alonso to stay "A Red" next Season

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso could be on the verge of playing his last game for the club this weekend as speculation once again grows surrounding the Spaniard’s future at Anfield.

Alonso looked set to leave the club last summer in the wake of Rafa Benitez’s unsuccessful bid to sign Aston Villa skipper Gareth Barry but he remained on Merseyside and has been one of Liverpool’s star performers this season.

Benitez is reported to be still interested in Barry, while the club may need to off-load players in order to finance a £10 million bid for Portsmouth and England full back Glen Johnson.

Liverpool have also been linked with Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez and Valencia winger David Silva but Benitez knows a budget of around £30 million will not cover his transfer targets.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s presidential candidate Florentino Perez is said to be keen to take Alonso to the Bernabeu if elected to power next month.

However, Liverpool have denied that Alonso is up for sale and the prospect of his departure would certainly not go down well with the club’s supporters.

A Liverpool spokesman said: “There has not been contact from anyone and Alonso is not for sale.”

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Agger admits Leaving Liverpool would have been a Mistake

Daniel Agger has admitted he would have made a serious error had he rejected Liverpool's offer of a new contract and left the club this summer.

The Denmark international ended months of uncertainty over his future recently when he agreed terms on a new five-year contract with Liverpool, one that will replace the final 12 months of his existing deal and keep him at Anfield until 2014 on an improved salary of around £55,000 a week.

Agger had been reluctant to commit his future to Liverpool due in part to a lack of first-team starts under Rafael Benítez since returning from a series of metatarsal fractures, with Jamie Carragher and Martin Skrtel the manager's preferred partnership in central defence this season, and his agent held talks with the likes of Milan over the possibility of a cut-price move under the "Webster ruling" this summer. Now, however, with his deal agreed although unsigned, and Liverpool emerging as genuine rivals to Manchester United in the Premier League, the 24-year-old admits it would have been unwise to leave a club on an upward curve.

"I've agreed a contract, the manager has agreed a new contract, Steven Gerrard, Dirk Kuyt and some other players are all agreeing contracts so I think this shows you that within the club there is a real sense that we are building towards something special," said Agger, a £5.8m signing from Brondby in 2006. "Everyone wants to be successful, everyone wants to be part of it. If you don't, then I think you're making a big mistake. There is a lot that we should be proud of this season and we are."

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The Legend gets the Captains Armband

RAFA BENITEZ is ready to make Sami Hyypia captain for his final Liverpool appearance.

The Finnish centre-back is leaving Anfield this summer after 10 years with the club after agreeing a two-year deal with Bayer Leverkusen.

And Benitez, whose side host Spurs on Sunday, admits the Reds will be losing a legend when the 35-year-old leaves Merseyside.

He said: "Certainly we are losing a legend. For years he has been so good. He has scored important goals and has been very good in defence. Clearly we are losing an important player.

"He will get a fantastic reception from the fans.

They are amazing and they recognise when someone has been a very good servant to the club.

"He is a fantastic professional and a very good person."

Benitez also insists he feels nothing but pride for his players, even though they have finished without a trophy.

He added: "The fact that we have won nine of our last 10 games and not won the title just shows the high level of the Premier League.

"This season we have managed very good performances against the top sides - something we had not been doing before - and now we have to improve a little bit more.

"We've 83 points and that would have been enough to win the title on six other occasions since the Premier League started.

"I can only underline that I am pleased and proud of my team to have gone this close."

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Liverpool to offer £15 million for England International

Liverpool have placed a £15 million bid to land Portsmouth defender Glen Johnson.

Johnson (24) was earlier with West Ham and Chelsea.

Glen Johnson is one of the best right back's in the Premier League and a player that definately would strengthen the Liverpool defence.

Benitez knows that his big headache is how to build a defence that can be solid and not let the team down in the crucial periods of a game.

Liverpool would if they had been better defensively this season been playing for trophies, and not be settled as second best.

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CH 1- Liverpool V Sunderland

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CH 2- Liverpool V Sunderland

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CH 3 - Liverpool V Wolverhampton

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CH 4 - Manchester City V Hull City

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CH 5 - Fulham V Bolton

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CH 6 - Wigan Athletic V Sunderland

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CH 7 - West Ham United V Burnley

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CH 8 - Blackburn Rovers V Stoke City

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CH 9 - Aston Villa V Tottenham

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CH 10 - Aston Villa V Tottenham

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CH 11 - AZ Alkmaar V Olympiakos

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CH 12 - Rangers V VfB Stuttgart

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Gerrard Backs Fiercest Rivals

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has surprisingly revealed he hopes Manchester United beat Barcelona in Wednesday’s Champions League final.

Speaking to local press, Gerrard said: “I hope it’s a very good game from a neutral point of view,”
“I’ll be watching the game and hope there is a lot of entertainment. It’s obviously a difficult question. But I’ve got a lot of good friends who play for Manchester United so I hope they win, although obviously I’m sitting on the fence.”
Liverpool and Manchester United share one of the greatest and fiercest rivalries in English football, but it seems Gerrard’s affinity for some of his England colleagues such as Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand have led him to back the English league champions.


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Torres will Finally get to Face Atletico

Liverpool talisman Fernando Torres will have another opportunity to face his former club Atletico Madrid this summer, after the Reds announced a pre-season friendly with the rojiblancos at Anfield in August.
El Nino made more than 200 league appearances for the Vicente Calderon outfit from 2001-07, scoring 82 goals, before joining Rafael Benitez's Spanish revolution on Merseyside, where he has been equally as destructive in the Premier League.
The 25-year-old Spain international has netted 37 top-flight goals in just 55 outings, helping Liverpool run arch-rivals Manchester United close in this season's race for the league title.
However, despite helping dispose of Atletico's city rivals Real in the Champions League last 16, the popular front-man was denied the opportunity to face his former club in the group stages of the competition due to injury.
But he will now be offered a second bite at the cherry, with the Reds due to welcome Atletico to Anfield on Saturday August 8, kick-off 3pm.
Liverpool will meet another Spanish side in pre-season, travelling to Barcelona a week earlier to play Albert Riera's former club Espanyol in the periquitos' new Cornella-El Prat stadium


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Liverpool Bid Stuns Tottenham

TOTTENHAM were reeling last night after being told Liverpool are willing to shell out £50million for Carlos Tevez.

The Spurs board sanctioned an £18m move for the Argie striker, whose loan at Manchester United ends this summer.

But they were blown away when the Tevez camp revealed Liverpool are ready to offer the £26m asking fee AND a staggering £160,000-a-week three-year deal — worth £8.3m-a-year.

United insist they still want to cut a deal with Tevez, who is loaned to them by his owner Kia Joorabchian.

Although they are refusing to pay Joorabchian’s current asking price, United would be sickened if he switched to bitter rivals Liverpool — a move which would also infuriate Old Trafford fans.

But unsettled striker Tevez, 25, revealed in SunSport last week that he would join Liverpool if they made a bid.

A source close to the deal told SunSport: “It seems amazing that Liverpool have the money to do this when you consider their owners are looking for funds.

“But Spurs were told that Liverpool were going to get the deal done and that Tevez was very happy about it.”

Tevez’s Argentine pal Javier Mascherano moved to Liverpool after a Joorabchian deal.

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Liverpool to Break Club Transfer Record

The Reds gaffer has intimated that big cash will be splashed on Merseyside this summer

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has already turned his sights to next season, and how he can improve the squad that ran Manchester United so close in this season's race for the Premier League title, revealing that big money might well be spent in an attempt to overhaul their rivals from the other end of the East Lancs Road.

However, Benitez hinted that, although the Merseysiders would be spending big, they would not be able to match the £30 million spent by United on Dimitar Berbatov, and then, more pointedly, that any mistakes made by the likes of United in the transfer market were offset by their colossal financial muscle - something Liverpool cannot currently match.

"We may well break our transfer record, but certainly not Manchester United's," Sky Sports News report the Spaniard as saying. "But it does not matter about the prices. It is about doing the right thing and finding the right players. The next step is to overcome Manchester United and that is the hardest. It all comes down to the money they have been able to spend. That is the difference.

"In order to reduce this gap we have to be really good in the transfer market this summer. That could be the difference between winning the two or three extra points we need to win the title.

"We do not have that sort of money so we have to be cute and clever in the market, then it does not matter if you have money or not. When you have money it is easier because nobody notices your mistakes."

That last line would appear to be a clear dig at Ferguson and United, who have signed their fair share of flops over the years, something that Benitez currently seems at pains to stress, as the propaganda war between him and his opposite number at Old Trafford looks set to rumble on beyond the end of the season.

"If you spend big money on a player and he's not a success, it's worse for us than it is for United. If they make one or two mistakes, because of the difference in money, they can still spend £50 million on other players. The more money you have, the more quality players you can sign," Benitez added, speaking to The Daily Telegraph.

"We've been talking of Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres for the whole season. We have good players in the squad but the experience of fighting for titles and the quality of players makes a difference. Sometimes that means money, and it is easier if you have it."

With the rumours linking United's Argentine striker Carlos Tevez to Anfield refusing to dissipate, an interesting summer of transfer dealings can perhaps be expected from the two giants, with Manchester City's new spending power tweaking the situation just a little more.

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Gunner Legend Tips Barry for Liverpool Success

Arsenal legend Paul Merson says Liverpool can finally win their first Premier League title next season, if they land Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry.

Rafael Benitez's men ran Manchester United close, but not close enough in 2008/09, with Sir Alex Ferguson's side equalling the Reds' league title haul of 18 last weekend after securing the single point needed against Arsenal.

However, the Anfield outfit have the ability to go one better next year - and deny United the chance to usurp their record of league crowns - with the acquisition of Aston Villa's midfield general, according to Merson.

The Merseysiders appeared set to seal a deal for the England international last summer, only for the move to fall through with both clubs disagreeing over the transfer fee.

And although Liverpool's loss proved to be Xabi Alonso's gain - with the Spanish central midfielder in inspired form throughout 2008/09 - Benitez is again being linked a move for Barry.

The 28-year-old is expected to renew his desire to leave Villa Park this summer, after Martin O'Neill's side saw a top-four finish evaporate following a disappointing end to the campaign.

“As for Liverpool, I expect them to be a right force next season. It's been a long time since they've been in a title race and it takes a lot of getting used to," Merson told Sky Sports.

“Last year a young Arsenal team capitulated when they had a chance of winning the league, but Liverpool have stayed there and they have progressed in the Champions League too. They've done great.

“If they can get players like Gareth Barry in over the summer they could possibly nick the title next year.”

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Carra explains on field bust-up with Arbeloa

Jamie Carragher has insisted Pepe Reina's bid for this season's Golden Glove award was behind his on-field disagreement with Alvaro Arbeloa during Liverpool's 2-0 victory at West Brom.

Goals in each half from Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt secured victory for the Reds at The Hawthorns - and ended the Baggies' stay in the Premier League.

West Brom fought hard for a way back into the game in the latter stages, and created a number of chances which had Carragher seething with frustration.

"We can't win the league now but there are a number of targets we can aim for," said Carragher after the game. "We want to keep a clean sheet and we want Pepe to have a chance of the Golden Glove for the third season running. Pepe is one behind Van der Sar now and there's a chance Van der Sar won't play next week, so we wanted to make sure he got a clean sheet today.

"To be honest we were a bit lackadaisical in our defending all through the game and they had too many chances.

"Maybe we took it a bit too easy and let them attack us too much, but that was one of the toughest games I've played in all season. We go all over Europe playing top teams and we play against the best sides in this country, but that was one of the hardest games we've had."

Carragher admits he's disappointed Liverpool's title chances have been ended for another season, but he's already looking forward to the prospect of making another challenge next year.

"It's hard to win the Premier League because our top four sides plus Barcelona probably make up the best five sides in Europe," he said. "That's the challenge we face.

"You can look at the statistics from this season and it's impressive that we've only lost two games and scored lots of goals, but United have got more points than us and credit to them because that's what matters.

"We have to make sure we finish second now and win our last game of the season next weekend."

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Foul Play : The Seven Deadly Sins of Football

"Foul Play: The Seven Deadly Sins of Football" have been put together by a team of the Guardian and Observer's award-winning sports writers, who have scratched beneath the shiny veneer of the modern Premier League era and discovered that the beautiful game has a secret history of the odd, the unexpected and the downright shady.


Its a must read for all the Premier League Followers and You can Grab the Copy of the series of this football supplements being given away free in The Guardian and The Observer from this Saturday (in the UK only).

The Series has Seven Editions and will be included from 16th May - 22nd May.

Here's an overview of the Seven Deadly Sins of Football :

• 16 May - Greed featuring David Beckham and Ashley Cole
  
• 17 May - Pride featuring Andrei Arshavin and Mike Ashley
  
• 18 May - Wrath featuring Craig Bellamy and Roy Keane
  
• 19 May - Envy featuring Bruce Grobbelaar and Daniel Lloyd
  
• 20 May - Gluttony featuring Mark Bosnich and Gazza
  
• 21 May - Sloth featuring John Terry and Ian Rush
  
• 22 May - Lust featuring David Mellor and Robinho
  

Don't Miss it.....Make Sure You Read It!!!

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Xabi not going any where insists Rafa

Rafa Benitez has insisted that Xabi Alonso will be at Anfield next season and described the Spaniard as a 'key player' for Liverpool.

With Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres missing for spells this season, Alonso has arguably been the Reds most influential figure having looked like he would leave last summer.

Arsenal and Real Madrid have been strongly linked with the 27-year-old especially as Gareth Barry is once again being mentioned as a close season target for Benitez.

But the Reds boss has been keen to play down the speculation over Alonso and insists that the former Real Sociedad star remains part of his first-team plans.

Benitez said: "Xabi has been doing really well this season. He's a key player for us and with him being fit again it will give us a different option in midfield.

"Xabi has been talking about how he wants to stay here and we certainly want to keep him, so I don't think there will be any problems."

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Tevez is the Prime Target for Liverpool Boss

LIVERPOOL are confident of gatecrashing Manchester United's title party by snatching Carlos Tevez in a stunning £22million raid.

In what promises to be the biggest transfer coup of the summer, Kop boss Rafa Benitez has decided to make signing the Old Trafford idol his top priority.

He will make the offer for the Argentine striker after this month's Champions League final.

Benitez has already earmarked Liverpool's No 10 shirt for the South American and alerted the player's representatives of his determination to make a deal happen.

Now Tevez is willing to snub overtures from across Europe - and a £135,000-a-week offer from Manchester City - to become the first player to make the sensational move direct from Old Trafford to Anfield in 45 years.

Benitez's confidence he will land the striker grew after Tevez's announced his intention to quit United in last week's Sport of the World exclusive.

Liverpool have put a transfer strategy in place which relies on the £18m sale of Xabi Alonso and the release of up to 10 other squad players, raising the necessary funds to pay for 25-year-old Tevez.

Benitez wasn't originally in the market for a striker this summer, but the opportunity to steal Tevez from under the nose of Sir Alex Ferguson has been too much to resist.

Rafa is still smarting from Fergie's refusal to allow Gabriel Heinze a Kop move two years and wants to ram the United boss's claim he'd never let a top player join Liverpool down his neck.

Most importantly, he sees Tevez as a world class addition to his emerging squad, with Gareth Barry also joining from Aston Villa to add a formidable array of talent at Anfield.

Although the frontline partnership between Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres has been an electrifying success for the Merseysiders, Rafa doesn't want to pay the price for more injury woes to his hitmen next season.

He believes Torres' hamstring problems cost Liverpool the vital points which would have won the title. And there are concerns about the large amount of football the striker has missed recently.

Benitez is currently headhunting a replacement physio to join his backroom team next season, with particular focus on protecting his Spanish superstar from further muscle problems.

He sees an attacking trio of Tevez and Torres, with the versatile Gerrard rotating between forward and midfield roles, as the winning formula for a renewed title assault.

The capture of Tevez will also reassure Kop fans disturbed by the prospect of losing the popular Alonso.

Alonso has said he'd rather stay on Merseyside, but privately his relationship with manager has been strained since last summer. He's set to snub a mega-offer of his own from Manchester City in order to join Real Madrid.

It was thought Alonso was being forced out to make way for Aston Villa's Barry, but it's now clear Benitez wants Tevez and Barry as he reshapes his side.

Liverpool were hopeful of offloading former Real Sociedad star Alonso to Manchester City after learning that Mark Hughes was ready to pay £18m.

But the midfielder, 27, whose wife gave birth to their first son just over a year ago, would need to have been persuaded to make the move and sacrifice Champions League football.

A source close to Alonso said: "If he was given the choice he would join Real Madrid and they are definitely very interested in signing him."

He has three years left on the five-year deal he signed in the summer of 2007 and Real would be willing to pay Liverpool around £15m.

Benitez was willing to listen to offers for the player last summer but his failure to land Barry meant they had to turn down an enquiry from Arsenal. Alonso was also strongly linked with a move to Juventus.

Tevez's desire to move to Liverpool will stun Fergie and the Old Trafford faithful, but the lure of joining his friend Javier Mascherano in a side where he'll be first choice will be hard to resist.

Liverpool fit the bill for the striker because he won't have to move home and is also assured Champions League football and a title challenge next season.

The irony won't be lost on both United and Liverpool fans that it is Tevez's performances in the last month which have gone a long way to keeping the title at Old Trafford for another year. But that has not put off Benitez, who thinks Tevez has recently proved Fergie has made a mistake not securing the player on a permanent deal.

The north-west rivals have notoriously refused to do business with each other over five decades of power-shifting success.

Paul Ince played for both club's in the 1990s, but joined Liverpool after a stint at Inter Milan. The last player to move directly from United to Liverpool was Phil Chisnall, signed by Bill Shankly in 1964.

Liverpool's pursuit of Tevez will see the battle lines between Rafa and Fergie drawn earlier than ever over the summer.

On the day United equalled Liverpool's record of 18 titles, Benitez was preparing to fire the first bullets in next season's war of words between the managers.

Tevez exclusively revealed he plans to quit Old Trafford but stay in England in the News of the World last week.

He told us: "It's not true I want to leave England for Spain. My four-year-old daughter Florencia is learning English and my wife is very happy living in England.

"We want to stay. I want to play in England because it is the best league in the world and it suits my style."

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Liverpool Owners granted 6 Months Amnesty

LIVERPOOL owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett will be granted a six-month amnesty on their massive £350million debt.

The Royal Bank of Scotland is to make a re-finance offer to the Americans to ease their immediate cash worries. But the deal will demand the pair guarantee to pump millions of their own funds into Liverpool to retain control of the club.

Gillett and Hicks are now finalising negotiations which will give them a temporarily reprieve from the threat of selling Liverpool on the cheap this summer.

The current deadline expires in July but Sport of the World understands a new two-phase deal is on the agenda. The short extension will be followed by a second, longer-term loan providing Hicks or Gillett raise more cash before January, 2010.

Hicks and Gillett may still need to raise as much as £150m between them to keep a grip on Anfield - but the duo are increasingly bullish they will meet deadlines.

Amid hopes the worst of the economic crisis is easing, the club's owners are also desperate to revive their stalled stadium plans.

Talks with Liverpool city planners to expand their £500m stadium scheme into a 73,000-capacity arena are continuing.

Liverpool want to accommodate an extra 10,000 fans by developing transport links around Stanley Park. The Americans know a business plan which promises revenue from an additional 25,000 tickets per home game could reassure their bankers.

A 73,000-seater stadium would raise over £70m a year in matchday revenue, double their current income from tickets.

Meanwhile, Rafa Benitez will urge his side to do their bit to improve his transfer kitty by as much as £5m by securing a top-two finish.

The difference between finishing second and third in the Premier League can make a huge financial difference - perhaps even enough for an extra signing.

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Hiddink : Gerrard fully Deserved it

Guus Hiddink disagrees with John Terry’s choice of Player of the Year, insisting Steven Gerrard was the worthy winner.

Terry claimed Frank Lampard deserved to beat his England colleague to the Football Writers award, but Hiddink has a very different viewpoint.

The temporary Chelsea manager has had time to work closely with Lampard, but he admits nobody can deny Gerrard his success.

"Gerrard deserved it fully, what he was nominated for," said Hiddink.

"He had a tremendous season, not just in his efficiency on the pitch, but also in his appearance as a professional player.

"He is very warm-hearted towards his club. You could say the same for Frank Lampard. He is well respected all over England."

Hiddink remains on course to leave Chelsea at the end of the season, with Carlo Ancelotti widely tipped to replace the Russia coach.

Former PSV boss Hiddink admits he has an idea of who Roman Abramovich wants to bring in, but he is keeping quiet on the Chelsea hierarchy’s plans.

"There are names, but we haven't spoken about names," revealed Hiddink. "It's up to them. It's none of my business.

"They have to go forward and there's no responsibility whatsoever on their side to inform me.

"They are doing so but I don't need to be informed every day. Generally, I know a bit what is going on. I can tell you, but I won't."

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Agent Tips at Anfield Switch

David Silva's agent has fuelled speculation that Liverpool could be lining up a move for his client after revealing that several clubs had enquired about the Valencia midfielder.

Jose Segui did not name which clubs had asked about the availability of the Spaniard, who was part of his country's Euro 2008-winning squad, but that Silva was definitely a man in demand.

"At this time it is normal there are many stories in the papers about transfers, but the decision depends on Valencia," Segui said.

"It is certain that some clubs have asked about the boy, but he has a deal with Valencia and he is happy in the city."

Valencia sporting director Fernando Gomez, who had previously admitted that Silva and several other high-profile Los Che players may have to be sold to service club debts, insisted that no decisions would be made until the end of the season with the club still battling for a Champions League place.

"Now it is impossible to negotiate anything because the future of the team in qualifying for Europe is not decided and that is key for the budget next season," Gomez said.

Despite this, Reds' manager Rafael Benitez is expected to be on high alert with Silva regarded as one of his top transfer targets although he has previously denied rumours linking the midfielder with a move to Anfield.

"Our chief scout was in Valencia and talked with different people from the club but someone was talking too much," he said in March.

"If we are going to look for someone we will not announce it to everyone - we will try to do it properly and secretly."

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Forlan Nearing Premier League Return

The ex-Manchester United flop could be heading back to England to prove a point...

Diego Forlan, the Atletico Madrid striker, is poised to return to the Premier League, with Liverpool keen to obtain his services.

Forlan already has a verbal agreement with the Reds and the only stumbling block is an agreement between the two clubs.

Forlan currently has a release clause of €36 million, and Atletico intend to hold out for every penny. However, they could settle for a deal of €24 million plus Lucas Leiva, who has interested Atleti in the past.

Forlan is enjoying arguably his best season in the Spanish top-flight, having scored 25 league goals thus far, placing him second on the top scorers list. Should he join Liverpool, he will link up with Fernando Torres, whom he replaced at Atletico.

Of course, Forlan already has experience of England having played for Manchester United, although he only managed to score 10 goals in 63 appearances.

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Gerrard Wins Footballer of the Year Award

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been voted the 2009 Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.

The England midfielder topped the poll of journalists ahead of Manchester United duo Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney to win the prestigious accolade, which has been running since 1948.

The 28-year-old Anfield hero has scored 23 goals this season to spearhead Liverpool's continuing challenge to Premier League leaders Manchester United as the Reds bid to land their first league title for 19 years.

"Steven's performances this season have been of the highest quality," said chairman of the FWA Steve Bates.

"His drive and desire have underpinned Liverpool's Premier League title challenge and ensured a tight finish to the season.

"Steven is clearly in his prime and quite rightly rated one of the finest midfield players of his generation, and the FWA are delighted to honour his contribution to club and country."

Gerrard, the first Liverpool player to win it since John Barnes in 1990, will receive the award at the FWA's gala dinner in London on 29 May. The Huyton-born player follows in the illustrious footsteps of Stanley Matthews, Bobby Moore, George Best and more recently Thierry Henry, Frank Lampard and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Second-placed Giggs was named the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year in April.

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Liverpool linked with £12 million Downing

Reds manager Rafael Benitez will bid £12 million for Boro's England international winger

According to a report in the British tabloid The Daily Mail, Liverpool have yet again turned their attentions to Middlesbrough's Stewart Downing.

The left-sided winger has been linked with a move away from the Riverside Stadium for some time, with the Reds and Tottenham Hotspur said to be most interested in acquiring his services.

Apparently, Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is keen to add more width to his squad, despite signing Spain international Albert Riera last summer, and will offer Boro £12 million for the 24-year-old.

Downing has won 23 caps for England to date and has scored 22 goals in 233 appearances for the Teesside outfit.

It is claimed that Benitez was also eyeing Spurs' Aaron Lennon to play on the right, but has put that idea on hold having been impressed with Dirk Kuyt's performances as a makeshift winger.

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West Ham Ace wants Premier League Title at Anfield

West Ham star Mark Noble hopes Steven Gerrard ends his career with a title winners' medal - because he sets an example to every midfielder in the country.

The 21-year-old Hammer asked Gerrard for his shirt after Liverpool's 3-0 victory at Upton Park on Saturday - and also collected Jamie Carragher's jersey for pal Craig Bellamy.

Noble said: "He's the best, isn't he? Let's put that straight.

"In my eyes, with the praise he does get, I still don't think he gets enough. He's obviously labelled one of the best in Europe but with the goals he scores, how he is for Liverpool, I'd say he is the best.

"He has stayed at his own club all these years. The really big teams are all interested in him but he pledged his future to Liverpool. For his sake, I hope one day he wins the title. For him and for Liverpool."

Noble is eager to one day get close to Gerrard's awesome standard.

"Everyone wants to aspire to being that good," he said. "He's got a fantastic brain but he is also an athlete - he's strong, powerful and quick. He's got everything. If I can be nearly as good as Stevie Gerrard I'd be pleased."

Meanwhile, former Red Jamie Redknapp believes Gerrard should win the Football Writers' Player of the Year after missing out on this season's PFA award to Ryan Giggs.

"Steven has fired 23 goals this season, from his attacking midfield role," said Redknapp.

"The football writers soon decide their player of the year and I reckon it counts more than the players' award because of the timing of their vote. Surely it's between Gerrard and Wayne Rooney."

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Tevez Open to Liverpool move? But should Liverpool Sign him?

The Argentine looks to have taken a step closer to the Old Trafford exit.

Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez has given his clearest indication yet that he is set to leave the club this summer.

The Argentine’s future has long been the subject of much discussion, with his two-year loan deal set to expire in the summer and with United appearing reluctant to sign him on a permanent basis.

Whilst both the club and the player have previously admitted they both want him to stay, speaking to the News of the World, Tevez has revealed that he feels he will leave the club at the end of the season.

"I do not feel wanted. I feel bad over my situation, I do, but it's very, very difficult to stay any longer. I guess what I'm saying is goodbye," he said.

"I don't think I will be a Manchester United player next season. I have done everything I possibly can but they have never made me an offer or given me a contract, so I have to leave. I don't think I deserve to be in this position but you realise if your time is up you have to go."

Tevez also insists that the club have shown him a lack of respect by failing to offer him a contract.

“Realistically, my time is over and I think I will be at another club next season. It's very, very difficult to stay any longer, so I have to finish this season the best I can and move on,” he explained.

“The fans treat me like family, but United have not signed me so they do not respect me as a footballer.”

Despite being repeatedly linked with a move to Spain, and with Real Madrid reportedly interested, the striker insists he is happy in England and wants to stay in the Premier League.

“It's not true my family are unhappy in England. It's not true I want to leave England for Spain. My four-year-old daughter Florencia is learning English and my wife is very happy living in England,” said Tevez.

“We want to stay. I want to play in England because it is the best league in the world and it suits my style.

“Any club I join, whether it be Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool or Everton, will be a rival of Manchester United. I would like to thank the United fans for their support. They will always have a special place in my heart.”

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Gerrard's double puts Liverpool Top of the Table

Steven Gerrard scored twice against West Ham as Liverpool cruised to a 3-0 win to move top of the Premier League and keep alive their slim title hopes

With Manchester United playing later in the weekend, Rafael Benitez's men overtook them on goal difference but time has almost run out and they only have two matches left.

United have four games and may not need them all to secure the title, although the efforts of Gerrard has at least stretched them well into May.

The 28-year-old's goals at Upton Park took him to 23 for the season, with Ryan Babel adding a late third to seal the win.

Liverpool's hopes this season have been built on the firepower of Fernando Torres and Gerrard - and the pair combined after 76 seconds for the opener.

Torres, back fit after a hamstring problem ruled him out of the win over Newcastle, received the ball in midfield but was given the time to turn and pick his pass, threading ball through to Gerrard beyond the Hammers defence.

The hosts were claiming offside but James Tomkins had played Gerrard on, with the England midfielder taking the ball around Robert Green and finishing into an empty net.

The early opener stunned the hosts, who kicked off knowing Fulham had won and Tottenham picked up a point earlier in the day in the race for the Europa League next season.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola believes four more points will see them secure seventh place - which will get them into Europe if UEFA grant them a club licence - and they had their moments after the setback of Gerrard's opener.

As they attempted to find a way back into the game, Diego Tristan flicked a header at goal from Mark Noble's free-kick that required Jose Reina to save.

They got a little closer just before the half-hour mark when Noble earned a free-kick on the left and swung the set-piece into the danger area. Radoslav Kovac got in front of Reina to meet the ball but his header flew over the crossbar.

Their progress was undone when Luis Boa Morte suffered a nightmare 30 seconds that resulted in conceding a penalty just before the break.

He was furious that no free-kick was given when Javier Mascherano brought him down, then chased back to own penalty area and hauled down Torres when Yossi Benayoun scooped the ball through.

Green saved Gerrard's spot-kick but the rebound fell to the Liverpool captain to tap home. David di Michele should have pulled when back when he seized on a mistake by Jamie Carragher. He raced through and got his feet tangled up as he tried to take the ball around Reina.

It was a shocking miss and referee Alan Wiley rubbed salt in the wound by booking the Italian for diving.

Boa Morte was trying to atone for own his first-half error after the restart but one powerful run was ended by Fabio Aurelio, earning the full-back a caution.

Liverpool threatened to score a third, with Benayoun volleying over from Dirk Kuyt's cross and Torres looping a header just over the crossbar. The Hammers defence looked under pressure but Matthew Upson was exposed in a different way when he received a bloody nose - the centre-back had to strip down to his underwear on the sidelines to change his kit.

Upson was among the players racing back when Liverpool broke on the hour mark, with the hosts saved by Green rushing out to block Kuyt's effort.

Benayoun then exchanged passes with Torres before shaving Green's post with a drive.

There were ironic cheers when Di Michele was taken off for Freddie Sears, as there were when Tristan put the ball in the net after clearly being offside.

The visitors were able to keep out any genuine efforts and added a third through Babel with five minutes remaining. Kuyt crossed for his fellow Dutchman, Green saved the initial header but the rebound was tapped home.

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