Carra delighted at Stevie's winner against Bolton

Jamie Carragher was delighted for Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard after his winner at Bolton Wanderers.

"It was a great goal from Stevie, typical of him really," Carragher told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"He has taken a bit of criticism this week and it's never a clever thing to write Stevie off because even when there are times when he doesn't play well, he will produce a goal like that.

"It was a great result. I thought we played very well in the first half even though it was disappointing to concede a goal from a corner.

"We have taken a bit of criticism this week and rightly so to a certain extent because we haven't made the greatest of starts.

"I thought the lads showed what great character we have. No-one can ever write us off because I think ourselves and Manchester United, not just in this league but probably anywhere in the world, are the best at coming back from deficits and winning games.

"It was so important to get the three points, especially with the international break coming up. We don't play again until Burnley at home so everyone can go away pleased and happy."

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Roma to replace Ex-Liverpool star with Liverpool star

The Giallorossi could be set to make one final move in this summer’s transfer period.

Reports emerging over the past 48 hours suggest that Roma’s John Arne Riise could be on his way to Germany, to join Bayern Munich.

With this in mind, the Giallorossi have been on the lookout for a direct replacement for the Norwegian, and they seem to have found one in the form of Andrea Dossena from Liverpool.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the 27-year-old Reds defender is keen on a return to Serie A, as he feels it will enhance his chances of earning a place in Marcello Lippi’s Italy squad for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Napoli have also expressed interest in the former Udinese man over the course of the summer, but at this late stage of the transfer period Roma seem to be Dossena's sole suitors.

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Gerrard backs Rafa after silencing critics

Steven Gerrard has shrugged off suggestions that Rafa Benitez singled him out for criticism and feels Liverpool got their just rewards after twice coming back to beat Bolton on Saturday.

The Reds responded to Monday's disastrous 3-1 humbling by Aston Villa as Gerrard netted a thunderous winner at the Reebok to reignite the Merseysiders' 20-year-long quest for domestic glory and silence a few critics along the way.

It had been widely stated that boss Benitez had been one of those to slate the 29-year-old talisman after the Villa defeat, especially when the Spaniard admitted the England international had been below his normal high standards twice this term.

But Anfield's pride and joy dismissed claims that he alone was on the receiving end from the manager, while claiming strong words in the camp had the desired effect on the team at Bolton.

Gerrard said: "The manager questioned the whole team after Monday's home defeat by Aston Villa, and rightly so. We were nowhere near good enough and we didn't play close to our standard.

"There has been a lot of soul-searching this week. The manager asked for character, determination and intensity and I think he got the three things he wanted from us all.

"We have had a couple of good meetings this week and we couldn't wait for this game to come around.

"We went behind twice but again we showed what character we have in this team.

"Going behind twice there are times when you think you are not going to get a point, never mind three, but we got our rewards in the end and we could have ended up scoring four or five."

Gerrard added: "We now go away on international duty and when we get back we will have a few new faces back in the squad with the lads who have been out injured, so that will give us a boost.

"We played so well last season and everyone was expecting us to start strongly again and win matches, but we all expected that ourselves.

"To lose two games already was a bit of a shock to us all but it is all about reactions. We know we have got a good team, a team that is capable of fighting for the title and we have got to go and prove that now."

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Liverpool come from behind twice to win at Reebok

Steven Gerrard responded perfectly to having his early season form questioned by boss Rafael Benitez when he belted Liverpool's winner in a 3-2 victory over Bolton at the Reebok.

But the visitors were made to fight desperately hard by a Bolton side who were down to 10 men for much of the second period. In fact, Gary Megson's men had been ahead twice through Kevin Davies and Tamir Cohen, and Liverpool only really got on top when Sean Davis was dismissed for a second bookable offence.

Glen Johnson had fired one equaliser in the first half, before Fernando Torres pulled Liverpool level at 2-2 a couple of minutes after Davis angrily trudged off. Then Gerrard struck with a fierce drive seven minutes from the end to lift at least some of the pressure from Benitez.
Bolton made one change from the side that won at Tranmere in the Carling Cup in midweek, with Tamir Cohen replacing Mark Davies. Liverpool, who lost disastrously at home to Aston Villa on Monday, gave new Greek signing Sotirios Kyrgiakos his his debut in place of Martin Skrtel, while Spanish winger Albert Riera replaced Yossi Benayoun on the left-flank.
Riera soon knew he was in a game. He was clattered by a strong Sam Ricketts tackle and then collected the Welsh international's boot in his ribs minutes later.
Predictably Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba was once again detailed to man-mark Gerrard, just as he did in both matches between the sides last season.
Liverpool soon had chances. Riera's cross was missed 12 yards out by Lucas, and the ball was returned into the box by Johnson for Fernando Torres to see a glancing header skim wide. Torres was next in the wars, cut down by Gary Cahill, with the defender one of three Bolton first-half bookings, the others being Davis and Muamba.
The visitors had plenty of possession, but without making many clear-cut chances, Matt Taylor and Cohen working tirelessly in midfield, breaking up Liverpool's flow. One through-ball from Lucas saw Torres shake off Cahill and attempt to chip Jussi Jaaskelainen from just inside the box, but the goalkeeper pulled down the effort.
At the other end, a Taylor free-kick was headed away for a corner by Torres, and that gave Bolton their breakthrough. Taylor's 32nd-minute corner curled to the far post where Johan Elmander headed it down into the six-yard box for Davies to turn past Jose Reina from a couple of yards.
Liverpool surged back looking for an equaliser, and it almost came when Torres chested down Johnson's cross - but he fired across goal and wide of the far post. But the visitors were level in the 42nd minute when a corner was cleared only as far as Johnson just outside the box, and he fired a low show inside Jaaskelainen's near post.
Bolton caught Liverpool asleep at the beginning of the second period. Liverpool's failure to clear a right-wing cross saw them go behind again just two minutes after the break. Davies was able to flick the ball across the box, where two defenders failed to stop Cohen lashing the ball home from eight-yards.
Bolton were reduced to 10 men after 54 minutes. Lucas was racing towards the Bolton box when Davis clipped his heels from behind. Referee Alan Wiley produced a second yellow and then the red card. Davis was furious. He had confronted the Brazilian before receiving his marching orders and ran towards Lucas again, before being halted by a colleague and ushered away.
It was the incentive Liverpool needed. Gerrard hit the bar before Torres took a chest-down from Dirk Kuyt before steering the equaliser past Jaaskelainen in the 56th minute.
Next into the book was Gerrard for a foul on Muamba, before Benayoun replaced Riera after 63 minutes. Not surprisingly, it was all Liverpool now. Andriy Voronin was sent on after 74 minutes to replace Javier Mascherano as the pressure on Bolton increased.
Torres and Kyrgiakos both had chances, and Bolton sent on another defender in Gretar Steinsson for Cohen with 12 minutes left.
Liverpool's pressure paid off with seven minutes left when Gerrard crashed the ball home from 12 yards. Benayoun's corner had been headed down by Torres for the Liverpool skipper to finally put his side ahead - and it proved decisive.

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Gerrard to be back in his central mid-field role

Rafa Benitez is considering moving Steven Gerrard back into central midfield as he strives to kick-start both Liverpool and their skipper’s season this afternoon.

Benitez’s side travel to pointless Bolton Wanderers aiming to bounce back from the shock 3-1 home defeat against Aston Villa on Monday night.

Gerrard was among several poor performers on the evening for Liverpool, with the England international responsible for giving away the penalty from which Villa scored their third.

With the Anfield outfit chasing the game, the 29-year-old dropped into a more conventional central midfield role as Benitez sought more creativity from the middle of the park.

And the Liverpool manager may start with Gerrard in that position at the Reebok Stadium as he contemplates a change in his team’s approach.

“I was asked on Monday if teams had worked out our tactics,” said Benitez. “But the most common system in England is 4-4-2, most teams use that. So most teams are using the same tactics against each other, and still lots of goals are scored.

“But we have to change something if it’s necessary. We’re trying to do this. We have to work together and push harder, and I’m sure we will start winning games again.

“Moving Steven back into central midfield is an option, we have done that in a few games. The other day, because we needed different movements in the middle and attack we put him there.

“It’s an option we have, but I still have confidence in Lucas and Javier Mascherano.”

Benitez accepts that Gerrard has so far this season been below the exceptionally high standards he has set himself in recent years.

“We have seen Steven playing really well for a while now,” said the Liverpool manager. “He is one of our big names, a key player. He will continue to be that.

“He will know that he has played a couple of games that are not up to his best level.

“But because he so often plays really well, people maybe can see the difference.

“I know he will be ready now. The players are not stupid, they know when they are not playing well and not up to their best standard. He knows, everybody knows here, that we have to improve.”

However, Benitez does not believe Gerrard has been affected by the summer court case and acquittal following a nightclub incident in December.

“For Steven that has not been a problem,” said the Spaniard. “I was not naming any particular player when I was critical after the defeat by Villa.

“But it is clear that everyone has to improve, we have analysed things and we have talked to all the players.”

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Liverpool draw Lyon,Fiorentina and Debreceni in Champions League

Rafael Benitez is relishing the start of Liverpool's Champions League adventure after the Reds discovered their group stage opponents on Thursday afternoon.

The Reds will face Lyon, Fiorentina and Debreceni in Group E of the competition following today's draw in Monaco - three sides they have never previously met in European competition.

"You know in the Champions League there will always be difficult games and tough teams to play against," Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"Lyon might not have won the league last season but before that they won it many years in a row, so we know they have lots of good players who can play good football.

"Fiorentina are an historic club in a nice city. I know from experience they have fanatstic supporters because I spent some time there when Claudio Ranieri was the coach.

"And we have experience of Hungarian football because of our relationship with MTK, so if Debreceni have won their league then we know it means it's because they're a good side.

"The important thing as always is that the travelling isn't too bad, we don't have too far to go for any of the games. We're just looking forward to starting the competition now."

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Liverpool to know their Champions League fate today

LIVERPOOL will discover their Champions League fate later today – with Pepe Reina convinced Rafael Benitez’s side can overcome their stuttering start to the campaign.

The draw for the group stages of the competition will take place in Monaco at 5pm this evening.

Liverpool are ranked joint second in the seedings, alongside Chelsea and behind only European Cup holders Barcelona.

It means they will also avoid Bayern Munich, AC Milan and Sevilla while the country protection rule ensures the Anfield outfit cannot face either Manchester United or Arsenal.

However, dangers lurk in the second group of seeds that includes Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Juventus.

Indeed, a potential nightmare draw could see Liverpool alongside one of those trio, third seeds Dinamo Kiev and fourth seeds Wolfsburg, the German champions.

Whoever they face, Benitez’s side will have to improve on their form so far this campaign which has already seen defeats to Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa.

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Rafa ready to offload babel to raise funds

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is weighing up cashing in on Ryan Babel, it has been revealed.

As everyone knows Ryan Babel has not been able to get into the Liverpool Style of play properly.

Even in the match against Villa when he came on as a sub , he was just not good at all.

The Daily Mail says new transfer funds could be raised through the sale of Babel. Benitez is believed to be losing patience with the youngster, and a bid of around Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is weighing up cashing in on Ryan Babel, it has been revealed.

The Daily Mail says new transfer funds could be raised through the sale of Babel. Benitez is believed to be losing patience with the youngster, and a bid of around £8 million might tempt the club to sell the underperforming winger.
Arsenal and Turkish club Galatasaray have both expressed interest in the winger.

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Reina asks fans not to push the panic button yet

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina has urged fans to maintain their trust in the Reds' ability to challenge for the Premier League title.

The Reds have already slipped six points behind the early pace-setters, but the Spanish shot-stopper is refusing to press the panic button, saying the team remains strong and capable of challenging.
"The fans can trust us until the end because as a team we have always been strong," he told the club's official website.
"Obviously we are disappointed because it is not normal for us to play three games and lose two of them, but we have to look forward, try to improve and carry on with our title challenge.
"We are the same team as last season - the same team that won 86 points in the league.
"Nothing has changed except that some players have left and some have come in, but we are still a strong team.
"We have plenty of good players in the dressing room and we have to look forward because as soon as we win two or three games in a row things will change a lot."
Manchester United secured 90 points to win last season's Premier League title, but Reina does not believes this year's winners will need anywhere near that mark.
The former Barcelona keeper thinks 82 points could be enough to secure top spot this time around, but that it is too early in the campaign to start thinking about the finishing line.
"Teams like Villa, Tottenham and Man City will be involved in the title race and I think the eventual champions will probably win no more than 82 points this season," he continued.
"Tottenham are playing at a good level. They were probably better than us in the first game of the season, especially in the first half.
"But it is too early to speak about teams. We have to wait a little bit longer."

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Liverpool set to unleash the Beast

Rafa Benitez is looking into the possibility of bringing Julio Baptista to cash strapped Liverpool. The Brazilian international is interested in a season long loan deal in this World Cup year, which would be ideal for the under fire Spaniard.

The Roma player has struggled to find form in Italy and the Serie A club would be pleased to get him off their wage bill.

That would certainly appeal to penniless Liverpool who have had a dreadful start to the season. With no money to spend Benitez is struggling to get any players in before Tuesdays deadline. Benitez sees the Brazilian who is eager to impress international manager Dunga, as a realistic possibility. He believes the Roma midfielder has the crudentials to fit right into Liverpool’s style of play. The powerful midfielder has an eye for goal who can play behind the striker or in a deeper more central role.

Rafa Benitez is unlikely to forget ‘the Beast’ after his time spent in England at Premier League rivals Arsenal. Baptista caught the Liverpool managers eye when he found the net 4 times in a memorable carling cup encounter at Anfield in 2007, ending 6-3 to the Gunners. If Baptista could re-create that majestical form it could well re-ignite Liverpool’s title bid and prove to be the bargain of the season.

The former Real Madrid midfielder has been linked with a move back to England since his loan deal with the Gunners ended. Rumours circulated that the Liverpool boss was preparing a bid for Baptista while he was still at Real, but was put off by his hefty price tag.

His agent had dismissed a return to England after he was linked with West Ham United and Portsmouth. However a move to Premier League giants Liverpool is a totally different proposition and could prove impossible to resist.

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Wenger believes Liverpool to be a threat for the title

Despite suffering their second league defeat in three games, manager Arsène Wenger says that rivals Liverpool cannot be discounted from the Premiership title race.

Defeats to Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have seen Liverpool notch up as many losses in the league as the whole of last season, and the campaign is only three games old.

And some are even wondering if current champions Manchester United are still the same force as last season, after they themselves fell to a shock defeat against Burnley. Perhaps the champions are not the same without star player Cristiano Ronaldo, who left to join Real Madrid in the summer for a world record £80 million.

Wenger said: "Liverpool had two tricky opponents. Tottenham are on a high at the moment, and when you play Aston Villa at home [at Anfield], you know they can be dangerous on the counter-attack.

"But I do not discount Liverpool. I believe they will still be a threat for the title.

"You can expect [shock defeats] at the start of the season sometimes. Some teams have no history handicap and go into the season fresh like Burnley. At the moment they are in the position Hull were in last year.

"They come up with a lot of enthusiasm and a lot of strengths as well - they are good teams. Some top teams are not completely ready to play every game at their best."

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Liverpool look upon creative Madrid ace after losing to Villa

Rafa Benitez has been alerted to the possibility of signing Arjen Robben from Real Madrid but faces a battle with Manchester United.

Robben is a very creative and a flare player and that is something what Liverpool have lacked over years.So it would be a great move by Liverpool to buy Robben.But as far as the Funds are concerned i don't see any funds left for Liverpool.

Rafa has already admitted that he doesn't have any more transfer fund left with him.

The Spanish tactician has been a long time admirer of the winger and the defeat to Aston Villa on Monday night has highlighted the desperate need to add some width to the side.

The Dutch star could be available for around £18m and Benitez could well demand that owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett put their hands in their pockets and stump up some of the cash they received for Xabi Alonso in order for Benitez to strengthen the squad. Reports in Spain suggest that the former Chelsea winger is now available but Benitez is not alone in his admiration as United boss Sir Alex Ferguson also likes him and has the money to hand to buy him.

The arrival of Robben would again cast a doubt over the future of winger Ryan Babel who has failed to live up to his expectations at Anfield since his arrival from Ajax for around £11m two years ago.

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Rafa slams all the Senior Players

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez was forced to admit that his side many too many errors in their 3-1 defeat by Aston Villa.

The Reds slumped to their second defeat of the season at Anfield on Monday, with individual mistakes blighting a disappointing contest for the hosts.

The Merseysiders had gone 31 games unbeaten on home soil until they ran into a resolute Villaoutfit.

The result leaves Liverpool's title dreams in tatters, with the club having already lost as many games term as they did in the whole of the 2008/09 campaign.

An own goal from Lucas Leiva started a miserable night for them on Monday, before Curtis Davies grabbed a second for Villa seconds before half-time.

Fernando Torres pulled one back for Benitez's men after the break, but an Ashley Young penalty put paid to any hopes the Reds had of staging a dramatic comeback.

Benitez said: "In the first 20 minutes we created plenty of chances and played well. Then we conceded the own goal and started to make more mistakes.

"We have lost and we know we have to improve. I felt we had a chance when Fernando Torres scored, but the penalty finished it. It was a clear penalty.

"We now know that we have to go to Bolton on Saturday and win. Everything could change if we do that, our confidence will improve."

Benitez added: "We were not playing well, and we were up against a team who are excellent on the counter-attack.

"Their keeper (Brad Friedel) made some great saves, but when that happens we just have to make more chances.

"This squad is virtually the same as last season, so I believe it is good enough to mount a title challenge. But we must do more, we must win at Bolton.

"We will have to sit down and analyse every player now, and make sure we do the right things in our next match. But our senior players must take more responsibility."

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Liverpool put up a disastrous show against Villa at Anfield

Liverpool slumped to their second Premier League defeat in nine days as they lost 3-1 to Aston Villa to put their title credentials firmly on the line.
Villa produced a defiant, organised display and deserved their first win at Anfield since 2001.

The result also ended Liverpool's 31-match unbeaten home league record stretching back to December 2007, when Manchester United were the last winners at Anfield.

But the spotlight will now be on Liverpool, who only lost twice in the league last season and still did not win the title.

The margin for error is now very fine. You rarely win the crown by losing more than five games in a season, and Liverpool's hopes could already have suffered a mortal blow.

A Lucas own goal and a Curtis Davies header saw Villa 2-0 up at the break. Fernando Torres pulled one back but an Ashley Young penalty settled the points.

Martin Skrtel returned to Liverpool's defence in place of teenager Daniel Ayala, having recovered sufficiently from a jaw injury to be risked.

This was the only change in the Liverpool side from the one that beat Stoke at home last week, with new Greek defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos not included in the squad.

Villa included Curtis Davies, who had recovered from a shoulder injury. Brad Friedel, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Stiliyan Petrov all returned to the side after being rested in the Europa League defeat away to Rapid Vienna last week.

Liverpool produced a vibrant start, but found themselves frustrated by the quick-tackling, quick-thinking Villa midfield.

The hosts could have been ahead in the first minute when Yossi Benayoun's back-header from Torres' chip into the area, beat Friedel but dropped inches wide.

A taste of what was to follow came from Villa's first chance came when Davies met a Nicky Shorey cross with a strong header, but it went straight at Jose Reina.

Torres and Steven Gerrard both saw shots blocked in the six-yard box, before Young was booked after 12 minutes for halting a Dirk Kuyt run.

Then Gerrard struck a first-timer from 20-yards just over from Kuyt's touched pass.

But Liverpool's problems were beginning to mount in a midfield that they were unable to dominate.

Javier Mascherano and Lucas were both fortunate not to be cautioned for fouls on Petrov and Agbonlahor in quick succession.

Torres was also coming in for some rough treatment from Carlos Cuellar, two tackles from behind going unpunished by referee Martin Atkinson.

By now Nigel Reo-Coker and Steve Sidwell were successfully breaking up Gerrard's flow in midfield, and Villa were soon to take the lead.

It came after 33 minutes when Lucas gave away a needless free-kick in midfield. Young swung the set-piece towards the near post, and it was the unfortunate Lucas who rose to head the ball past Reina for an own-goal.

Liverpool's play was sloppy and far too much possession was being conceded with ill-directed passes.

Further calamity came after Reina was booked in first half injury time for kicking the ball away in annoyance when referee Atkinson awarded a disputed corner, Sidwell's shot looking to have clipped a defender.

And from that disputed corner Villa found themselves two up. Shorey's corner swung into the near post and was headed home by Davies.

The hosts have staged some amazing comebacks in this stadium over the years, and they were going to need another massive performance to salvage anything from this situation.

Villa defended with organisation and desire. Roe-Coker was booked for kicking the ball away, and Friedel produced a fine save from a Kuyt header.

Kuyt then saw another header hit a post from a Gerrard corner from the left.

But Villa were still showing great resilience, and breaking quickly to cause Liverpool all sorts of problems at the back, Reo-Coker being only inches away from a third with one sliding attempt.

Liverpool sent on Andriy Voronin for Lucas after 66 minutes, with Friedel producing another fine stop from a Gerrard drive soon after.

But after 72 minutes Liverpool finally gave themselves some hope when Emiliano Insua got down the left and rolled the ball into the six-yard box for Torres to score.

Two minutes later Liverpool were back in despair and Villa celebrating. Shorey's pass into the path of Reo-Coker saw the midfielder surge into the box only to be felled by Gerrard's desperate tackle.

It was a clear penalty and Young stepped up to restore Villa's two-goal lead.

Liverpool's frustration was obvious. Torres was booked for dissent when Young went down injured and asked for treatment. He was eventually replaced by Heskey.

Ryan Babel came on for Benayoun, Liverpool still coming forward. Friedel again made a fine save from a Torres flick, before Kuyt sent a close range effort wide of the far post.

The outstanding Friedel, against his former club, saved from Torres and Glen Johnson, with Skrtel booked in the dying minutes, but Villa held on for a famous victory.

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Ayala to start against Villa

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has indicated that he may hand 18-year-old Daniel Ayala a spot in the starting line-up to face Aston Villa, should Martin Skrtel fail to recover in time.

The Spanish centre-half made his full debut in the 4-0 win over Stoke City, deputising for the injured duo of Skrtel (jaw) and Daniel Agger (back).

Benitez also said that the youngster would be preferred over the club's new signing, Sotirios Kyrgiakos, since the Greece international has not had enough time to settle down on Merseyside.

"Dani [Ayala] did very well against Stoke after a nervous start and it may be difficult to bring Kyrgiakos straight in," Rafa is quoted by ESPNsoccernet as saying.

The Spaniard then focussed on the task at hand, and hoped that the winning mentality would continue against Villa.

"Against Stoke the players wanted to prove they are good enough to win the title after that opening defeat at Spurs [Tottenham Hotspur]," he said.

"It was very important for them to win at home in midweek in front of their own fans, and they will feel the same on Monday against a very good Villa side.

"We scored four against Stoke, did not concede, and won well. But they know that there is still plenty of room for improvement.

"When you lose a game you are so determined to prove something in the next game. We have done that and aim to do the same again on Monday."

The gaffer signed off by warning his charges against complacency after their emphatic win over the Potters.

"Villa have ability and pace, it will be a tough game," he remarked. "They have lost Gareth Barry but they are still a very good team."

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Voronin not for sale claims Hertha Berlin

Liverpool have no plans to let Andriy Voronin leave the club, according to Hertha Berlin.

Hertha had Voronin on a season-long loan last term and he impressed with 11 goals in the German capital.

The Bundesliga club were hoping to bring him back, either on loan or on a permanent basis, but it seems Voronin is back in the plans of Reds boss Rafa Benitez.
"We have been talking to Liverpool and Rafael Benitez, but we have to stay realistic," general manager Michael Preetz told Spox.

"At this moment they do not only refuse to give Andriy (Voronin) another loan spell away from the club, they do not even want to sell him as well.

"The fact is that he is getting match practice at Liverpool and it looks as if we have to forget this possibility."

Reports in Germany claim Hertha are now turning their attentions to Gremio forward Fernandinho.

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Rafa admits to no more transfer funds

Rafa Benitez's hopes of challenging Manchester United to end Liverpool's 19-year wait for a title seem to have been extinguished already after he was told last week that the remainder of his transfer budget for the summer would be £2million - a revelation which seems to have prompted the highly-charged midweek atmosphere at Melwood and the reports that the manager was poised to quit.

Benitez, whose relationship with owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett has been strained since they took over the club, denied that but admitted yesterday that following the signing of AEK Athens defender Sotirios Krygiakos for a fee said to be close to £2m, that his spending looked to be over for now.

'I don't think there will be more,' he said.
Given that the reported £18.5m fee for Glen Johnson amounted to little more than £10m, once money Portsmouth still owed for Peter Crouch had been taken into account, and the £20m fee for Roma's Alberto Aquliani was offset by the £30m received for Xabi Alonso, Benitez in effect has had no additional transfer funds.
It is difficult not to draw the conclusion that Hicks and Gillett's debt has scuppered any chance of building on last year's second-place finish.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1208366/Liverpool-debts-mean-Rafa-Benitezs-spending-days-over.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0Ow5R98Fo

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Rafa backs Sotirios and Ayala to shine

Rafa Benitez has spoken of the qualities the former Rangers man will bring to Anfield. The new signing has even been given his squad number 16.


“He is a tough defender who is strong and good in the air. He has a strong character and we were looking for these things,” Benitez said.

“He can score goals and will be a threat from corners and free-kicks. He’s very strong in defence but he will need time as always to settle into the Premier League.

“We knew the player when he was with Rangers and we’ve been watching videos of him at Frankfurt and the national team. Our scout department had a lot of information.

“We’ve talked about the things he’s done before and the things he’ll have to do for us. He knows what we want and he’s ready to work.”

Daniel Ayala impressed in his full debut against Stoke in mid-week, and with Agger’s back injury, Ayala and Martin Kelly would have been hoping to try and impress Benitez. The Liverpool boss insists the new signing will only help Liverpool’s young defenders – not hinder their progress.

“I was talking with Ayala about this.

“When the young players see someone with experience it is positive because they can learn from them.

“It also means they have more time. If they have to play some games they can but they are not under pressure.”

Daniel Agger faces surgery next week to attempt to solve a long-standing back injury and Martin Skrtel is still a doubt for the visit of Aston Villa on Monday night.

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Xabi Grateful to Liverpool for everything

Xabi had become the Legend for all the Liverpool Fans.All Liverpool Fans were sad to see him leave the club.Still everyone has the same amount of respect for the KOP favourite.Everyone will always remember Xabi at Liverpool.

Xabi Alonso has told AS that he will always be grateful to Liverpool after learning a lot at the Merseyside club.

Alonso joined Liverpool from Real Sociedad in 2004 and won the Champions League in his first season, scoring Liverpool's equaliser in the memorable final against Milan in Istanbul. During his time at Anfield the Basque midfielder made 199 appearances including two Champions League finals.

"I will always be grateful to Liverpool, it is a very special club. I have learned a lot about the history and philosophy of the club," said Alonso.

"I have grown personally and professionally. The experience helped me to grow on the field, and I learned from the experience of playing in Europe and fighting for titles."

Alonso now looks to the future with Madrid, after making a €34 million switch earlier this month and says he is keen to play and let his ability on the field show his value to his new employers.

He also spoke of hs admiration for similar midfielders like former blanco Fernando Redondo and Pep Guardiola, now manager of rivals Barcelona. Alonso says he learned a lot watching these players.

"Both players made their mark with Madrid and Barcelona. They played in the same position as me and i noted a lot of things they did," he added.

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Liverpool confirm Kyrgiakos Signing

Liverpool have today completed the signing of Greek international defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos from AEK Athens.

The 30-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the option of a further year after successfully completing a medical.

Trikala-born Kyrgiakos began his career at the Panathinaikos academy in 1996 before being loaned out to Greek second division club Agios Nikolaos.

He was recalled by his parent club in 2001 and the powerful centre-back quickly established himself as a regular member of the Panathinaikos first team, helping them to a Greek league and cup double in 2004.

In January 2005, Kyrgiakos acquired his first taste of British football as he joined Glasgow Rangers on loan.

After clinching the Scottish title and League Cup, the deal was made permanent in the summer of the same year as the 6ft 4ins defender agreed a one-year contract at Ibrox.

The Bundesliga was his next destination with the tough-tackling stopper sealing a transfer to Eintracht Frankfurt in 2006, where he spent two seasons before joining AEK last summer.

A knee injury kept Kyrgiakos out of Greece's historic triumph at Euro 2004, although he started each of his country's three matches in the same tournament four years later.

In total, he has won 50 caps for the Greek national team.

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Torres has threatened defenders

Curtis Davies admits Aston Villa will have to be at their defensive best if they are to cope with the threat of an in-form Fernando Torres.

El Nino got off the mark for the season with a goal in the Reds' 4-0 demolition of Stoke City on Wednesday and Davies reckons it will be almost impossible to the thwart the Spaniard if he's in the mood when the Villans visit Anfield on Monday night.

"You can't have special plans for a player like Torres because he's one of the best strikers in the world," said Davies.

"If you make a plan for him he'll do something different. He's that good a player. Last year we didn't do well against Liverpool - but at least he was quiet - and the year before we did well when we drew 2-2.

"We play against top players every week but they don't get any bigger than Torres.

"We'll have to be on our game and hopefully it'll be more like the scoreline of two years ago than of last season."

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Agger to be out for two months

Daniel Agger’s hopes of a swift comeback for Liverpool have received a blow with the defender set to undergo surgery in an attempt to cure his ongoing back complaint.

The Danish defender could face at least six weeks on the sidelines as he recovers from the operation.

Agger has been troubled by a back problem throughout the summer and sat out Liverpool’s opening two games of the season.

Rafael Benitez stated earlier this week that Agger would be out for the next three weeks, but the decision has now been taken for the 24-year-old to go under the knife in France next Tuesday.

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Pulis claims people who write off liverpool for title are 'CRAZY'

Tony Pulis saw his brave Stoke side beaten 4-0 at Anfield on Wednesday night and claimed it would be "crazy" to write of Liverpool as potential champions.

The Stoke manager admitted his team were outclassed at Anfield despite a defiant display. For Liverpool, it was the best way to wipe away the memory of their 2-1 defeat at new leaders Tottenham on Saturday.

Pulis, who saw his side achieve a notable 0-0 draw in the corresponding fixture last season, said: "I hold my hands up, we were beaten by a better team and better players."

Fernando Torres put them ahead early on and impressive new-boy Glen Johnson made it two just before the break. Dirk Kuyt and substitute David Ngog completed the scoring in the second half.

He added: "I can't say they will win the title, but they will be right up there fighting for it. Anyone who says anything else is crazy.

"Liverpool created more chances against us here last season, but just did not take them.

"This time they were excellent. They do not only have Torres and Gerrard, who are world class. They have great players right through their team, and they showed that quality against us.

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Johnson admits Playing for Liverpool is a dream come true

Glen Johnson admits he could hardly have expected a better start to his Liverpool career.

The England full-back was the star of the show when Liverpool won 4-0 at Anfield against Stoke on Wednesday.

He scored on his home debut and helped to create two more in a devastating display of attacking full-back play down the right.

Rafael Benitez, Stoke boss Tony Pulis and Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard were lining up to praise Johnson, who turns 25 on Saturday. Even in defeat at Spurs last weekend Johnson was the Liverpool star turn, winning a penalty with a battling run into the box and attacking on the flank whenever the chance came along.

Greenwich-born Johnson reckons his instant form is all down to the speed with which he has adapted to his new surroundings.

He said: It has been absolutely brilliant for me so far at Liverpool. The lads and everyone at the club have been fantastic. It has been great for me and helped me to settle in here quickly, and that has shown in my performances already so I am delighted.”

“It was great to run out at Anfield, and to get the three points and keep a clean sheet made it a perfect night for me.

“To score a goal made it even better. Obviously it was brilliant to score my first for Liverpool and to do it on my home debut was amazing, but the win was more important to get us out of the starting blocks.

“It was great to be part of the home side here for a change. As an opponent the hairs stand up on the back of your neck when the fans at Anfield sing ‘You'll Never Walk Alone,' so to hear them singing it for you is very special.

“At a club like Liverpool you don't want to lose any match, so to lose the first game of the season was disappointing.

“But the lads showed great character to put that behind us and hopefully we can go on a good run now.”

Gerrard praised his England team-mate, saying: “We saw what Glen will offer this team with the run that won the penalty at Spurs. He cut inside and left people for dead. He showed similar form against Stoke and was outstanding for us.”

Benitez's decision to add an attacking full-back to his squad who could make an impact in tough home games where teams defend in depth was vindicated.

The Spanish coach said: “We were looking for a player with quality going forward, to produce more chances from the wide areas.

“We knew Johnson could score goals. From set-pieces he is dangerous, we initially worked with (Javier) Mascherano in that close-in position by the keeper at corners, but decided to change because Johnson was proving to be good in that role.

“His goal was proof of that.”


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Matthew Etherington with all praise for Stevie G

Matthew Etherington believes even the world's best defender would have been mesmerised by Steven Gerrard's superb assist in Liverpool's 4-0 victory at Anfield

The Stoke winger was filling in at left-back when Gerrard produced a stunning high-speed turn on the edge of the box to create the space to set-up Liverpool's third goal for Dirk Kuyt.

Etherington said: "Liverpool have got world-class players, especially when you see what Gerrard did for their third goal.

"I do not think the best defender in the world would have expected him to do that. It was certainly the last thing I was expecting."

But Etherington insisted the 4-0 defeat was a harsh reflection on Stoke's dogged efforts at Anfield, a ground that saw them produce a defiant display last season to claim a 0-0 draw.

Etherington said: "It probably is an unfair score when you look at it. But from the moment we conceded a goal so early in the game, it was always going to be an uphill task against a team of that quality.

"Just before they scored their second, shortly before half-time, we had a sustained period of pressure and I thought we were playing pretty well.

"That second goal killed us, but again I think we did well before their third goal. I suppose that finished it then."

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Liverpool in pole position to sign un-wanted Madrid ace

Reports in Spanish publication Sport have claimed that Liverpool are in pole position to sign Dutch international Rafael Van de Vaart from Real Madrid.

Rafael Van de Vaart will surely be a great addition to the Liverpool team.But the only question which arises is that this news contradicts to the news that Liverpool don't have any transfer money left with them.So unless and untill Liverpool sell someone, this deal seems unlikely.

The 26-year-old playmaker has been told by the Bernabeu hierarchy that he has no future in the famous white jerseys and has been desperately searching across Europe for a new club. Having already rejected a move to former club Ajax and indicated that he does not want to stay in Spain, the former Hamburg man has made clear he pictures a future in either Germany, England or Italy. Linked with Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, the mooted £11.5m fee could represent something of a coup for the Anfield outfit who have already spent £20m securing the services of Alberto Aquilani from AS Roma as a replacement for Xabi Alonso.

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Liverpool thrash Stoke City

Liverpool put the misery of their opening day defeat at Tottenham firmly behind them with a convincing 4-0 victory over Stoke at Anfield.

Last season Tony Pulis' men grabbed a 0-0 draw in this corresponding fixture, one of the results boss Rafael Benitez maintains cost Liverpool the title.

This time around there was no mistake. Steven Gerrard created two of the goals and new boy Glen Johnson had an outstanding game surging down the right at will.

Benitez bought Johnson, he claimed, to provided that extra adventure in difficult home games. And the England defender underlined just what his new manager meant.

He scored a close range goal on half-time on his home debut, to add to Fernando Torres' fourth-minute opener, and aided Gerrard's advance to set up the third for Dirk Kuyt.

Johnson's run and cross in injury-time presented substitute David Ngog with the fourth to cap an outstanding home debut for the new full-back.

Spanish youngster Daniel Ayala made his full Liverpool debut, with Martin Skrtel failing to recover from a damaged jaw sustained in Saturday's defeat at Spurs.

Ayala, 18, came on as a substitute at White Hart Lane for the injured Skrtel for his first senior appearance for Liverpool.

Yossi Benayoun replaced Ryan Babel, while Stoke made two changes from the side that beat Burnley - Glenn Whelan and Richard Cresswell replacing Liam Lawrence and Ricardo Fuller as Pulis reverted to a more defensive system.

Liverpool fans' group, the Spirit of Shankly, organised a mass distribution of red cards ahead of the game to be waved by supporters protesting at the George Gillett-Tom Hicks ownership of the club.

Resentment runs deep at Anfield at the financial mess the club are in and Benitez's limited transfer budget.

But it was his record signing, Torres, who struck quickly to give the Reds the lead.

Lucas Leiva had seen a skidding 20-yarder held by Thomas Sorensen before Liverpool were ahead after just four minutes.

Gerrard burst through on the right to pull the ball back for his Spanish side-kick to drill past a helpless Sorensen.

Dean Whitehead was booked for an ugly 12th-minute foul on Javier Mascherano and Liverpool should have been two goals up when they broke at pace from their own box.

Torres racing away on the right to fire over a cross that full-back Emiliano Insua sidefooted inches wide having made the same high-speed run down the other flank.

But Stoke maintained their determination and organisation, with Liverpool trying to hit them on the break. Much of the hosts' adventure was coming through Johnson.

Kuyt and Torres had shots saved and from a 44th minute corner they struck again. Kuyt's low header was blocked by Sorensen on the line and the ball fell for £17million signing Johnson to hook home from six yards.

Stoke came out after the break determined to get back into the game. A string of dangerous corners resulted in Jose Reina making an outstanding save to his right to keep out a fierce Delap drive.

Johnson then had to clear on the far post as a James Beattie cross-shot fizzed across the area.

But Liverpool increased the tempo of their game and were running at Stoke from all angles.

Gerrard fired in a 20-yard effort which Sorensen blocked, with Johnson now attacking down the right at every opportunity.

The Reds threatened to run away with things as Torres saw a lofted shot saved and Johnson cut into the box again to force Sorensen into a low save.

The third goal arrived after 78 minutes, with Johnson sending Gerrard into the box with a clever pass. The Liverpool captain powered on to drill in a low cross which Kuyt slid past Sorensen from close range.

Liverpool sent on Andriy Voronin and Albert Riera for Gerrard and Kuyt with nine minutes left, then three minutes later Ngog replaced Torres.

And it was Ngog who headed home from under the bar after another fine run and cross from Johnson had deflected into his path in injury-time.

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Liverpool go greek for defender

The Reds have made a surprise move in the Greek market as Rafa Benitez spreads his net wide in the search for reinforcement...

Sotiris Kyrgiakos has officially announced, via his personal website, that he is now a Liverpool player.

"Never in my life have I hidden from the consequences of my choices," a statement from the 30-year-old said.

"I said last week that I would be an AEK Athens player for the next four years and I meant what I said at the time.

"Today, however, I had to make the most important decision in my career. Going back on my word was difficult, but this is life, and life can bring about strange things."

Liverpool have today pulled off a surprise transfer coup, and swooped for Greek international Sotiris Kyrgiakos from AEK Athens, as manager Rafa Benitez looks to reinforce his rearguard, weakened by injury in recent days.

Kyrgiakos has spent only a year back in Greece, after a career which has seen him play in Germany for Eintracht Frankfurt and in Scotland with Rangers.

the player has cost the Reds €3million, after they Merseysiders made an initial bid of €1.5million. AEK themselves began the negotiations holding out for €5million.

The move has seemingly emerged from out of the blue, surprising Greek observers who had little or no inkling that the swoop was on the cards.

Stoke City travel to Anfield on Wednesday night with doubts surrounding the fitness of Martin Skrtel, who has a jaw injury, though he could possibly play, and Daniel Agger, still sidelined with a back injury.

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Benitez sets his sights on Newcastle United Stopper

Newcastle United captain Steven Taylor is being touted as a possible new recruit for Liverpool, according to a report in the Newcastle Evening Chronicle. The news of interest from Rafael Benitez sees the Spaniard join a long list of suitors which also includes Aston Villa’s Martin O’Neill and Everton’s David Moyes. Taylor has repeatedly spoken out about the chaotic off-field situation enveloping the Magpies squad and hinted that Mike Ashley’s inability to sell the club could see further stars follow in the footsteps of Obafemi Martins, Michael Owen, Mark Viduka and Damian Duff.

The news of Liverpool interest comes on the same day that interim boss Chris Hughton has played down speculation linking Taylor with a move to the blue half of Merseyside.
“He is very much still Newcastle’s player and he is desperate to get on with things and do well for the team,” said Hughton.
“As far as I know, he is still at the club at the moment. Whether anything has happened that I don’t know about is a different matter but I’m pretty sure he’ll be playing on Wednesday.
“Him asking to leave or leaving is not something that I’m aware of. I haven’t been told by anyone that there has been a bid and I’m sure that I would be informed by someone if anything like that had happened.
"Obviously, he’s a good player and Steven has been playing well. He is obviously someone who is very important to the team.”

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Diakhate flattered by Liverpool Interest

Pape Diakhate has admitted that he is flattered to be a reported target of Premier League giants Liverpool.

The Reds are believed to be keen to strengthen their defensive options before the end of the transfer window, and have been linked with a number of potential targets.

be thrown into the rumour mill, with the Reds reported to have had the Senegal international watched on several occasions.

The 25-year-old insists no official approach has been made as yet from any of the clubs chasing his signature, but he accepts that anything could happen before the end of the month.

"I am wanted by several clubs," admits Diakhate.

"I am not saying anything about Liverpool, Bordeaux or anyone at the moment.

"I am happy the way things are, I have a contract until 2011, and everything will be sorted out by 31st August.

"To be linked with a huge club like Liverpool does make you feel valued, though, and makes you dream of what could be."

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Aquilani wants to give it all for the title

New signing Alberto Aquilani is confident he can play a key role in Liverpool's efforts to win their first league title since 1990.

The Italian signed a five-year contract with the club earlier this month as a replacement for the departing Xabi Alonso.

Despite an ankle problem likely to keep him on the sidelines until the autumn, Aquilani is sure he can add something different to Liverpool's play and help deliver a coveted championship trophy.

"I have signed for five years, I want to be here as long as possible, though I would prefer to be out of action for a brief period now rather than being out of action for a longer time later on," said Aquilani. "This is a long championship, there are lots of games.

"All I can say is I will give it my best, I will give it my all, and I hope to start as soon as possible."

Aquilani is relishing the prospect of lining up in a Liverpool side for the first time - but he is keen not to rush his rehabilitation.

The 25-year-old is currently working with the club's doctors to ensure his time on the sidelines is not lengthy.

Though not able to play, Rafa Benitez's linguistic talents are ensuring he feels part of things.

"Yes, obviously it is important for me that he speaks Italian, but he has told me that he wants me to speak English," said Aquilani. "He thinks it's important that I learn to speak English, with him, with the players, and with everyone else at the club.

"But obviously it will be an advantage right now because if there is anything I don't understand he can help me."

Aquilani added: "I saw immediately the importance of what a technician he is and how ambitious the club is, and I am very proud to have been chosen to be a part of it.

"Rafa is obviously looking for a player with my qualities, and he hopes I will shine on the pitch. I had a very good impression of him when I first met him, but I had already seen how successful he is from watching in Italy. I saw how well prepared he is every time, and I know that I can improve and learn a lot from him."

Aquilani is also pleased the Reds have another Italian in their ranks - Andrea Dossena.

"It is definitely a good thing that Dossena is here," he said. "We have played together in the national team, and he will be useful, especially at first if there is anything I don't understand, but my plan is to learn English as soon as possible."

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El-Nino expresses his happiness on signing new contract

Fernando Torres has revealed he wants to spend the best years of his career at Liverpool after signing a new and improved deal last week.

The KOP already has made torres a Anfield Legend and want to see him in the merseyside for years to come.

The Spaniard put pen to paper on a new £110,000-a-week contract which will keep at the club until until 2013.
The deal also has a option of a one-year extension and Torres hopes it will not be the last contract he signed with Liverpool.
Torres, who has scored 50 goals in 85 games in two seasons, said: 'I'm happy because I went right from Atletico, I had never played in the Champions League before, and Liverpool gave me the opportunity to play against the best teams in the world.
'I am really happy to sign a new contract with Liverpool and I hope I can sign more contracts in the future here.
'It is one of the most important clubs in Europe with the best fans in the world.'


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Mascherano admits his commitment for the club

Javier Mascherano has admitted that he is very much committed to Liverpool Football Club and is all guns blazing to fight for the title this year.

It is good to hear the commitment from the player itself.Liverpool don't want to loose Mascherano at any cost especially after loosing Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid.

Mascherano said: "Barcelona contacted my agents regarding a possible move.

"But I have always been a professional and have never left a club high and dry, and I was not going to do that this time with Liverpool.

"I will always value the fact Benitez took a chance on me when neither Carlos Tevez nor I were being given chances at West Ham.

"Benitez is someone who is very serious and clear. He spoke with me and told me I was a key player, and that I could not abandon the club just for financial reasons."

Mascherano, who played in Argentina's 3-2 win in Russia in midweek, admits his head was turned by Barca's advances.

But he added: "When Xabi Alonso left for Real Madrid I knew that me also leaving was impossible, but I had already made a commitment with Rafa to stay 100 per cent with the project.

"Last year we were so close to being champions and we'll be back in the title fight again."

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Liverpool start their season with a loss

Liverpool have started their season with a away loss at white hart lane.First half goal from Assou-Ekotto put the home team in the front seat.Liverpool equalised in the second half from the penalty by Steven Gerrard.The penalty given because of the Foul of the new liverpool boy Glen Johnson.

But the goal by spurs new signing Sebastien Bassong put the home team again in the lead.Well as far as liverpool's title credentials are concerned it was big setback for the reds.

But according to my opionion it an be treated as an eye-opener for the rafa benitez and his men for the new campaign and make the necessary changes to their squad before the transfer window closes on 31st August.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez had spent the summer plotting how to overhaul champions Manchester United, having fallen just short last season in the quest for a first title since 1990.

New arrival Glen Johnson, who cost £17million from Portsmouth, started at right-back, Dutchman Ryan Babel was chosen ahead of Yossi Benayoun with Spain forward Fernando Torres expected to again provide the goals along with captain Steven Gerrard, fit following a groin problem.

Given title rivals United had won earlier on Sunday afternoon, coupled with victories on Saturday for both Chelsea and, most impressively, Arsenal, there was little margin for error if Liverpool were to avoid playing catch up after just one match.

However, the Reds never really got going, with Torres particularly disappointing.

Indeed, Liverpool should have been more than 1-0 down at half-time had Anfield old boy Robbie Keane not missed a couple of clear chances before full-back Benoit Assou-Ekotto smashed in a 25-yard effort past Pepe Reina.

Although the visitors were handed a lifeline back into the match when Johnson was upended by keeper Heurelho Gomes to give away a penalty, which Gerrard converted on 54 minutes, Spurs soon regained the lead as Bassong, an £8million signing from Newcastle, headed in a free-kick from Luka Modric.

While there is, of course, plenty of football left to be played between now and May, Benitez knows his men will have to do much, much better if they are to finish ahead of the rest.

After a slow start, there was a stoppage on 14 minutes when Martin Skrtel and Jamie Carragher collided heads after both jumping for a high ball.

The English defender had to go off for treatment on a bloody gash, before returning with some heavy bandages.

Gerrard let fly with a 25-yard effort, which was just wide of Gomes' right-hand post.

Spurs then really should have gone ahead on 30 minutes.

Wilson Palacios got away down the right, and looped the ball across to the far post.

Modric lofted it back into the six-yard box, where Keane arrived with a diving header - but one which was straight at Reina, who reacted brilliantly.

The Liverpool keeper then denied his former team-mate once again, this time standing up well as Keane tried a chip.

On 44 minutes, Skrtel gave away a free-kick in a dangerous position, some 25 yards out, when he fouled Palacios.

Tom Huddlestone drove his effort into the defenders - but the ball fell kindly for Assou-Ekotto, who promptly smashed it back into the top corner.

Liverpool regrouped at half-time and produced a flowing move when Dirk Kuyt touched the ball back to Torres, who laid it on for Gerrard, but the England midfielder struck his low shot just wide from 20 yards.

A fine fingertip save from Reina then denied Palacios a second goal for Spurs following a rasping 25-yard drive towards the top right corner.

Liverpool found a way back into the match when they were awarded a penalty on 54 minutes.

Johnson was upended by Spurs keeper Gomes as the full-back burst into the right side of the box, and Gerrard stepped up to fire the ball past the Spurs keeper.

Tottenham looked to respond straight away, with Defoe's shot on the turn blocked by Carragher.

The defender was then booked for a foul on the striker as the home side pressed again.

It proved a costly free-kick to concede, as from it, Spurs regained the lead on 59 minutes.

Modric, from the right, floated the ball over through a crowded penalty area, where Bassong got up to head into the corner and mark his debut in style.

On 67 minutes, Liverpool replaced Babel with Benayoun as Benitez opted for `Plan B', while Spurs sent on summer signing Peter Crouch for Keane.

Liverpool felt they should have had a penalty when substitute Andriy Voronin went down following a shoulder challenge by Assou-Ekotto - but this time, referee Phil Dowd was not interested.

Tempers frayed on the Liverpool bench, with assistant boss Sammy Lee sent to the stands for continued protests.

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Liverpool to offer new improved contract to Masch

Following a summer where he was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, Liverpool have reportedly offered a new deal to Javier Mascherano that will see the Argentine defensive midfielder double his wages at Anfield.

Widespread reports this morning suggest that Rafa Benitez made the initial offer to Mascherano following his return from Argentina’s friendly win over Russia last week.

Mascherano, who signed a four-year deal in February 2008, has been offered a two-year extension which will double his weekly pay packet from £50,000 to £100,000.

If he signs on the dotted line, Mascherano will be among the highest paid players at Liverpool alongside Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres.

Benitez said late last week: "I have already had talks with him. Barcelona are a top side so it’s not easy for any player if they are interested in you. But he knew from the first day that we didn’t want to sell him. He’s an important player for us. He knows that we have to work together for a long time."

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Reds interested in Milner

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has made an enquiry for Aston Villa winger James Milner but is unlikely to sign him, reports claim.

Villa paid Newcastle £12m for the former Leeds midfielder last summer and the England Under-21 international still has three years left on his Villa Park contract.

Benitez is keen to recruit a creative and industrious English winger and Milner, who made his international debut in the 2-2 draw against Holland in midweek, fits the bill but Villa manager Martin O'Neill is unlikely to sell.

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Liverpool to renew their Interest in Tuncay

Liverpool look set to renew their interest in Middlesbrough's highly-rated striker Tuncay Sanli.

The 27-year-old was linked with a move to Anfield earlier in the summer, and Benitez is back in the hunt for the striker with the Premier League season within touching distance.

A handful of other top flight clubs, including Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa, have been linked with the striker over the past few months, and Stuttgart were believed to be closing in on Tuncay before a deal failed to materialise at the end of July.

Liverpool are very light up-front, with Fernando Torres lacking any serious backup at the Reds.

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate has already resigned himself to losing Tuncay, although the Riverside faithful would be delighted to keep the striker, who has scored 15 goals in 67 games for the club thus far.

"We haven't had any bids for him, but while we have him we want to make the best use of him," said Southgate.

"Unfortunately we don't expect to have Tuncay beyond the end of this month."

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Torres all ready to roar

Fernando Torres acknowledges that Liverpool face an early test of their Premier League title credentials in Sunday's season opener at Tottenham Hotspur. Rafael Benitez's side are expected to mount a strong bid to end Manchester United's three-year reign as champions this term, but Torres knows the Reds must win tricky matches like this weekend's trip to White Hart Lane if they are to improve on last season's second place finish.

Despite taking maximum points from four matches with United and Chelsea last term, Liverpool still ended up four points behind Sir Alex Ferguson's team. Their Achilles heel was an inability to grind out victories against lesser opposition when either Torres or captain Steven Gerrard were injured. With Gerrard in doubt for the Tottenham match with an ankle problem, Liverpool could get a chance to show they can cope without their talismanic leader.

Torres, who signed a new contract improving his wages to over £100,000 pounds a week on Friday, said: "We don't need to improve a lot on last season to win the title. There is only a slight improvement needed to give the fans and players the title they have wanted for so many years now.

"This is the best Liverpool team there has been in years," he said. "That is what many of the experienced players are saying. And now is our time. Second-best is just not going to cut it with me any more."

Liverpool's hopes of laying down an early marker in the title race have not been helped by injuries to centre-backs Jamie Carragher, Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel. Benitez hopes Skrtel and Carragher will be able to start on Sunday, but new signing Alberto Aquilani, brought in to replace Xabi Alonso after the Spain midfielder's switch to Real Madrid, is out for several weeks after ankle surgery.

When all his walking wounded are fit, Benitez believes Liverpool will be right in the title mix again and he said: "We had 86 points last season to finish second, and we have more or less the same squad, so maybe we can do the same again or better.

"As for our title chances, the players know we were very close last season and they want to improve," said Benitez. "We know what this team can achieve and they will be ready."

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Old Boys Looking out for Revenge

Tottenham strike-pair Peter Crouch and Robbie Keane will be looking for revenge against Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez this weekend.

Crouch said: "When I was at Liverpool, I'd be doing well and score a couple - or even a hat-trick one time - and then not play the next week.

"Everyone knows the manager there likes to change the team regardless of form and that's just one of those things I had to accept. I moved on from there because of that. Obviously I'd love to win on Sunday against Liverpool and score but more so for Tottenham than myself.

"I still have a great deal of affection for the club and I hope they go on to win the league if they can. Barring Sunday I hope they go on and have a great season."

Keane lasted just half a season under Benitez amid speculation that the Spaniard did not really want the Republic of Ireland captain.

Crouch is confident Redknapp's new-look Spurs can force their way into the top four.

He said: "I've come to a top club and that we can achieve anything here. Manchester City will have a good go but I believe that if anyone can do it we can."

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Torres Signs a new improved Liverpool Contract

Fernando Torres the 25-year-old Spanish international and Liverpool superstar has signed a new agreed deal.The terms for the deal were agreed by EL-NINO way back in May.

Torres was already tied to Anfield for the next four seasons after signing a six-year deal in 2007.

He completed all the formalities and put pen to paper to the new improved contract offered by Liverpool.

The deal which will see him through in the Anfield Club till 2013 and an option to further extend his contract for a year more till 2014.

El-Nino is already a Anfield Legend and everyone wants him to be there for years to come.

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Liverpool sweating on Gerrard Injury

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard faces a race against time to be fit for his side's Premier League opener at Tottenham on Sunday.

Gerrard was forced out of the England squad ahead of Wednesday's friendly in Holland after suffering a groin injury and Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez confirmed on Thursday that the midfielder may not make the White Hart Lane clash.

"I am not sure about Steven. I was really pleased he was pulled out of the squad as a precaution," Benitez told Liverpool's website.

"You could see there were six substitutions in the game, so Fabio Capello was doing great for the players.

"As our game is on the Sunday, then maybe Steven will have a chance. If it was on Saturday it would be more difficult."

While Gerrard is a dobut, Benitez expects defenders Jamie Carragher and Martin Skrtel to recover from injuries in time to feature.

"Skrtel trained on Wednesday and hopefully he'll be fit," Benitez added. "Carragher has been working with the physios and we think he'll be available. Daniel Agger is also working with the physios but it will be more difficult for him."

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Aquilani eager to play alongside Stevie G

Liverpool new boy Alberto Aquilani insists he does not want to be compared to Xabi Alonso at Anfield.

Aquilani has been brought in from Roma to help fill the void left by Alonso's departure to Real Madrid.

The Italian international, who will miss the start of the season as he recovers from ankle surgery, says he is not a direct replacement for Alonso as he has a different style of play than the Spaniard.

"He was a very important player at this club," said Aquilani as he was unveiled at Anfield.

"But I am not his natural substitute as I do not have the same characteristics as him.

"I have a different style in that I like to move around and not stay in the same place."

Aquilani is not expected to make his debut for Liverpool until October because of his injury, but the midfielder is confident of making a speedy return as the Reds medical staff have got to the root of the injury.
"At Roma my worries were linked with injury. But when I came to Liverpool, the doctor highlighted exactly the problem I have," added Aquilani.

"We now have a very good picture and I hope it will be solved so that I will not be absent again.

"It is a shame I cannot play straight away but it is important to get better, then play well. I am focusing on that."

There have been fears that Aquilani could struggle to cope with the physical demands of the English game, but the 26-year-old is sure he will adapt to the rigors of the Premier League.

"I cannot wait to be involved as it is a different type of league to the one in Italy and a difficult level to play in. I am very excited about what lies ahead," noted Aquilani.

"This is a very important occasion for me as I am joining a big club with a rich history.

"While this is one of the best leagues in the world, Liverpool have to be one of the main candidates for winning the title."

Aquilani is excited about the prospect of playing alongside Reds skipper Steven Gerrardwho he describes as the best midfielder in the world.
"Even before coming to Liverpool, I thought Steven Gerrard was the strongest midfielder in the world," said Aquilani.

"I will be very proud to play alongside him and hope I can learn from his game.

"I am looking forward to playing in the same team with players of that kind.

"Liverpool have had good players for a number of years and I have always liked their system of play."

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Hertha considering Voronin move

Hertha Want To Loan Liverpool Forward Andriy Voronin For Another Season.

According to a report in German newspaper Bild, Bundesliga outfit Hertha are keen to sign Liverpool attacker Andriy Voronin on another one-year loan deal.

The Ukrainian forward played on loan for the Berlin outfit last term, and quickly developed into a key player. Voronin was the club's top scorer, netting 11 goals.

Hertha were keen to land Voronin on a permanent deal following his outstanding performances, but they were unable to meet Liverpool's €4 million asking price, and the Ukrainian therefore returned to England.

The striker is keen to fight for his place with the Reds, but it doesn't look like he will get regular first team action. He may now opt to return to Berlin after all. Hertha's sporting director, Michael Preetz, has reportedly already contacted Liverpool to discuss a possible transfer.

The Berlin side are desperate to land a new attacker in the upcoming days, largely due to the departures of Marko Pantelic and Amine Chermiti. Brazilian forward Raffael is the only experienced striker at Hertha at the moment.

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Carlsberg to be Dumped out of the Jersey

Liverpool look set to end their 17-year partnership with Danish brewers Carlsberg at the end of the 2009/10 season, according to reports.

Carlsberg and the club have not been able to reach an agreement on a new shirt sponsorship deal, with the Reds looking to double their price from the last time the deal was extended.

Reports suggest that financial giants Standard Chartered look set to sponsor the Reds for around £15million per year.

Standard Chartered recently narrowly lost out to Aon in competing to sponsor Manchester United and have extensive overseas interests particularly in the Far East, an area Liverpool are seemingly keen to develop their ‘brand’.

Either way, Liverpool are due to have a change in home kit by Adidas next season after 2 years with the current design.

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Masch foucsed on Liverpool Goal

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez insists Javier Mascherano is now fully focused on the Reds after having his head turned by Barcelona this summer.

The Spanish giants have been constantly linked with a swoop for the Argentina midfielder but Benitez has told Mascherano he is going nowhere.

Liverpool sold Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid for £30m last week and Benitez is keen not to lose two star players in the same transfer window.

"Javier knows he is staying," the Liverpool boss said. "He has accepted his future is here and that he is going to be a key player for us once more.

"Mascherano is now fully focused on us and what we might achieve together this season, I can guarantee that 100%.

"We've spoken about his situation before and we spoke again. Before, it was difficult and he could see Xabi Alonso was on his way.

"There has been a significant improvement in his game over the past 10 days. He has been a lot more focused, and we are seeing the real Mascherano again."

Mascherano's performances since return from international duty have been below par, but Benitez is confident his performance in the 2-1 pre-season defeat to Atletico Madrid on Saturday shows he will once again be a key player this season.

"He played much better against Atletico than he has before," added Benitez. "I am confident he is more focused now. The last week has changed the situation a lot and he is playing much better."

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Benitez gets it right on Aquilani with the Alonso Money received..check it how...

Contrary to all the rubbish printed by the British press regarding a 20 million pound deal for Alberto Aquilani, Roma have themselves revealed the true extent of the payment structure for the Italian (both to the stock exchange as well as their own official site).

The 20 million EURO transfer fee is broken up into the following:

- 4 cash instalments of
- - 5 million EURO upfront
- - 3 million EURO by 4th January 2010
- - 7 million EURO by June 30th 2010
- - 5 million EURO by June 30th 2011.

Further Add ons include:

- 300,000 EURO for every year Liverpool qualify for the Champions League from 2010/11 to 2014/15

- 250,000 EURO everytime the player reaches 35 appearancs, 70 appearances, 105 appeances and then 140 appearances.

- 1 million EURO the first time Liverpool either wins the Premier League or Champions League by 30 June 2014.

- 5% of any future transfer fee will be paid to Roma.

Details can be found here (for those fluent in Italian) - http://www.asroma.it/UserFiles/988.pdf

So next time you read any article and it says we paid 20 million Pounds or any other funny amount, reference this article!

That being said, if we've only paid 5 million EURO for Aquilani, and got 30 million POUNDS for the Alonso deal right away....is there more money to burn or is it going to our esteemed American owners to re-finance their deal?

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