Liverpool FC Forever

Liverpool sign downing and doni

2011-07-17T04:22:00.000-07:00

The 26-year-old, who has been capped 27 times by England, becomes Kenny Dalglish's fourth summer signing following the transfers of Jordan Henderson from Sunderland, Blackpool's Charlie Adam and the acquisition of Brazilian goalkeeper Alexander Doni, which was confirmed earlier on Friday.

Villa confirmed earlier this week that Downing had submitted a formal transfer request and he travelled to Liverpool to discuss terms and complete a medical before signing a long-term deal at the club.

Downing, who moved to Villa Park for around £10million two years ago, had been a prime summer target of Liverpool manager Dalglish, who saw bids of €13.4 million and €17 million rejected before an agreement for an undisclosed fee, believed to be in the region of €22 million, was struck.

Downing made it clear only last month, when on England duty, that he would not sign an extension with Villa, effectively forcing them to listen to offers.

Arsenal were reported last weekend to have joined the competition for his signature but Liverpool were always the front-runners, according to the player himself.

"It's a great feeling and I'm very happy to be here. It's been a long time coming and I've had to wait a few weeks, but I'm really pleased to be here," he told www.liverpoolfc.tv. "With the tradition, the manager and the players they have here, there was a big temptation to come here and once I knew of their interest, there was only one place I wanted to go.

"It will be a great feeling to run out at Anfield. It's always nice to come and play here. The atmosphere is always great and the fans are brilliant. When I wanted to come to Liverpool, it was the first thing I thought of - playing at Anfield in front of those great fans. I'm really looking forward to it."

The idea of winning silverware on a regular basis also appealed to Downing.

He said: "It would be nice to win something. I'm sure that's the same objective for everyone, not just me personally. My aim is to be in the team, to play well and give something back because the manager has pushed the boat out to get me here, so hopefully I can give him something back.

"Getting a few goals and a few assists for the lads up front, that's what I'm hoping for."

Adam could be the second one

2011-06-25T01:55:00.000-07:00

Reds' director of football Damien Comolli set for talks with the Tangerines this weekend & Anfield club are clear favourites to seal £10m deal despite McLeish's interest in Scot

Liverpool are ready to step up their attempts to sign Blackpool captain Charlie Adam in the coming days and are confident of beating off competition from Aston Villa.

Adam is one of Liverpool's top targets for the summer transfer window and director of football Damien Comolli is planning talks with Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston over the weekend.

The Reds want to pay £9 million for the central midfielder but could be forced to up their bid to £10m due to interest from new Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish.

McLeish gave Adam his Rangers debut in 2003 and wants to add his fellow Scot to the Villa squad following the sale of Ashley Young to Manchester United.

United have themselves been monitoring Adam's situation, as have Everton, but it now looks like a straight battle between Liverpool and Villa for the playmaker's signature.

Liverpool are firm favourites to land Adam and Anfield is believed to be the 25-year-old's preferred destination.

Reds manager Kenny Dalglish failed with an £8m bid for Adam in January but has maintained his interest as he makes major changes at Anfield to target a top-four finish next season.

The Tangerines resisted offers in January as they sought to retain their Premier League status but are resigned to Adam's departure this summer following their relegation to the Championship.

Blackpool triggered a 12-month extension to Adam's contract in May but accept they will have to sell their star man, who cost just £500,000 when he arrived from Rangers in 2009.

Adam would become Liverpool's second signing of the summer following the arrival of England Under-21 international Jordan Henderson from Sunderland in a £16m deal.

Second signing does a u-turn!!!

2011-06-18T08:38:00.000-07:00

Sylvain Marveaux has claimed that he joined Newcastle after failing to agree personal terms with Liverpool.

The 25-year-old signed a five-year deal at St James Park this morning after reports in France had alleged that he had failed the medical arranged to finalise his protracted move to Anfield.

But Marveaux, speaking to L'Equipe, has refuted the suggestions and claims that negotiations between his representatives and Reds chiefs hit a stumbling block on Thursday evening.

"I do not want to go into details, but I did not sign for Liverpool because there was a contractual disagreement between the parties Thursday night", said the former Rennes winger.

Magpies boss Alan Pardew is delighted to be able to welcome both Marveaux and former West Ham striker Demba Ba to the North East as he prepares for the new season.

He said: "It's a great coup to have signed Sylvain, who has received interest from a number of other clubs.

"He may not be well known to many of our fans but he is a real talent and a player we have been keeping an eye on for some time.

"It's been a good couple of days for us on the transfer front."

Liverpool to confirm second signing of the season soon...

2011-06-17T09:53:00.000-07:00

Liverpool have moved closer to signing Sylvain Marveaux on a free transfer after the French midfielder underwent a medical on Merseyside.

The 25-year-old is out of contract following five seasons in the Rennes first team and has been linked with a move to Anfield since January.

Talks took place between Liverpool officials and Marveaux's representatives when Roy Hodgson was manager, although the club's director of football Damien Comolli has overseen the transfer and interest has not waned since Kenny Dalglish took charge.

Marveaux made only 10 appearances for Rennes last season due to a serious groin injury but, providing he passes the medical, the left-sided midfielder is likely to become Liverpool's second capture of the summer following the arrival of Jordan Henderson from Sunderland.

Liverpool go from red to blue...............

2011-06-16T11:29:00.000-07:00

Liverpool have unveiled their third kit for season and to the surprise of everyone it features an eye-catching white, blue and black design.

Well it certainly seems to be some kind of marketing strategy but it has certainly raised a lot of eyebrows.

This kit draws inspiration from shirts worn by Liverpool sides of the 1980s with the diagonal stripe, the inclusion of cyan dates back to the club's first home strip, which was blue and white, worn almost 120 years ago.

Well no matter what colour kit it is, but once a RED always remains a RED....YNWA!!!

Hope glory days are back again....

Gerrard raring to unleash himself and hails the new signing

2011-06-10T11:30:00.000-07:00

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes new signing Jordan Henderson has the ability to succeed him as the team's driving force.

The Reds completed the signing of Henderson from Sunderland last night in a deal thought to be worth around £20million.

Gerrard has been the heartbeat of the Reds' midfield for more than a decade but the Anfield hero feels the highly-rated 20-year-old Henderson could prove his natural replacement.

Gerrard, 31, told the club's website: "It's a really positive signing. Let's hope he is the next Steven Gerrard.

"That's what good football clubs do - they replace their best players. Liverpool needs a new Steven Gerrard and it will need a new Jamie Carragher. I saw Jordan at first hand for two or three days with England and he is a good player with energy."

Henderson, who won an England cap against France last November, will increase competition for central midfield places in a squad that already includes Lucas, Jay Spearing, Raul Meireles and Christian Poulsen, as well as Gerrard.

Gerrard missed the end of last season after undergoing groin surgery but has every intention of fighting back to full fitness for the start of the next campaign.

He said: "I have confidence in what I can do. I am going to be in the best condition physically going into this season that I have been for the last ten years. I am working doubly hard on my body, on my core and on strengthening my groin, which I have suffered with.

"The operation went well and I have nearly double the strength in the groin now than before. The physios at Liverpool are measuring that on a weekly basis and the results show that.

"I know I will be rusty in friendlies but I have confidence that I am going to be the freshest I have been, both mentally and physically, for a long, long time."

Gerrard, who has taken up yoga to build up his strength, has not played since the Reds' memorable Premier League win over eventual champions Manchester United on 6 March.

Without him his team-mates finished the season strongly and almost snatched a UEFA Europa League spot until losing their final two games to Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa.

"I've not kicked a ball for a long time, probably the longest I have gone in my career, and I can't wait to get back now," Gerrard added.

"I am excited about playing under Kenny Dalglish, just like the team did at the end of the season, which was going forward. We were playing with bottle and character and going all out to beat teams. And that always suits my style of playing."

Liverpool soon to unveil their first summer signing

2011-06-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

Jordan Henderson has agreed to join Liverpool from Sunderland for £16million.

The 20-year-old midfielder, who is flying out with England’s Under 21 squad for the European Championship in Denmark, will sign a five-year deal on his return.

A Sunderland statement on Wednesday morning read: 'A fee has been agreed with Liverpool for Jordan Henderson and he travels to Anfield today with the club's blessing.'

A Liverpool statement added: 'Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Sunderland midfielder Jordan Henderson. The 20-year-old will today discuss personal terms and undergo a medical on Merseyside after a fee was agreed between the two clubs.'
Henderson is Kenny Dalglish’s first major signing of the summer and the manager will also try again to sign Blackpool captain Charlie Adam and Ipswich’s 18-year-old striker Connor Wickham.

Adam, 25, wanted to move to Anfield in January, only for the deal to collapse. But Liverpool remain keen on a midfielder who fits in with the policy of owners Fenway Sports Group, who want young British talent.

Sunderland had insisted throughout reports of the Merseysiders' interest in their highest-profile academy graduate that he was simply not for sale.

However, the reality which has long been acknowledged by manager Steve Bruce is that every player has his price and for Henderson, that had been set at around the £20million mark.

Bruce had no desire to sell a player who emerged from the ranks last season to hold down a regular place in his hometown club's first-choice XI.

However, as was the case when Aston Villa came calling in January with a deal potentially rising to £24million for Darren Bent, Sunderland were made an offer which represents a significant return on their investment.

If the figures add up favourably, what is not in dispute is that Henderson's departure will leave another major hole in Bruce's squad.

His form suffered in the immediate aftermath of his senior England debut against France in November last year, but the 20-year-old has been a key man for the Black Cats in the last two seasons and will take some replacing.

The manager is already engaged in an extensive recruitment drive with Bent yet to be replaced, while the returns of loan signings Danny Welbeck, Nedum Onuoha, John Mensah and Sulley Muntari to their clubs has left him with a series of sizeable gaps to plug.

Bruce is targeting as many as three strikers and in the circumstances, the inclusion of 22-year-old Ngog in the deal will prove an attractive benefit, although he has been a largely peripheral figure during his three seasons to date at Anfield.

Allowing Henderson to leave will add another item to the shopping list but significantly boost his transfer kitty, with owner Ellis Short remaining supportive but having reined in some of the rather less controlled spending of recent years.

However, it may not go down too well with fans who still blame Bent's shock departure for the club's slump during the second half of last season.

Liverpool have also been linked with Black Cats skipper Lee Cattermole in recent days, although it is unlikely that Bruce would be prepared to part with two members of his first-choice midfield.

Once a RED, always a RED!!!

2011-06-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

Former Liverpool star Xabi Alonso admits he would consider a move back to Liverpool, should the opportunity present itself.

All liverpool fans would welcome him back with open arms.He was a fan favourite and will always remain.He is what liverpool miss the most.

Alonso spent five years at Anfield and made over 200 appearances for the club before moving on to Los Merengues in 2009.

The Spaniard insists he is enjoying his football at Real, but concedes he misses some of his former Reds team-mates and the Anfield atmosphere, which he rates as 'unbeatable'.

Alonso told Liverpool tv: "Why not? I think that in football so many things change, and why not? I have my red passion and if circumstances arrived then why not?

"At the moment I don't know what is going to happen, but it could be a possibility. Never say never."

"It was difficult because Liverpool has been and always will be very special," added Alonso.

"It is in my heart because I have lived very intense things there.

"I miss lots of things. I miss the lads, I miss the atmosphere at Melwood - it was a great place to work, and the scenario of Anfield is unbeatable.

"The special nights I have been privileged enough to live, those will be in my memory forever and they are difficult to compare anywhere in the world."

Official : Liverpool sign Andy Carroll

2011-01-31T09:33:00.000-08:00

Liverpool have completed the signing of Andy Carroll from Newcastle United.

Liverpool to have a new NO 9, will he be a KOP favourite??

2011-01-31T09:05:00.001-08:00

As far it seems, fernando torres looks certain to join chelsea just because he thinks at stamford bridge he can win more trophies then he can do it at Liverpool.

Liverpool are in talks with Newcastle United to bring Andy Caroll to anfield to replace torres.

Is Andy Carroll the right man to replace torres.Well that just needs to be seen what happens when that deal goes through.

If you go by the statistics, Andy Carroll is in the star in the making and the kind of form he has shown, surely the KOP will throw all their support and they will just love him.

There will be mixed reactions from the liverpool fans, whether is carroll really worth the money liverpool is willing to pay.

But fernando has been highly mistaken and im sure he will certainly regret this thing in the future.Every Liverpool fan would be desperate to hear the thing from him that he made a wrong choice by choosing chelsea over liverpool.

Will Torres be convinced to stay put at Liverpool?

2011-01-30T00:29:00.000-08:00

The situation at anfield is not good at the moment with Fernando Torres handing in a transfer request.

I certainly sense there is someone playing a part in turning his head around to quit anfield.As the comments made by him earlier in the month that he is commited and is going to be commited the way he was when he joined liverpool doesn't go well with what he has done with handing in a transfer request.It can even be his spanish player friends at Barca with the like to Iniesta, Gerard pique , David Villa and many more asking him to do so.With no disrespect to their playing capabilities or them but if they influencing nando's decision to quit anfield then certainly no liverpool fan would respect that.It is usually been observed that they making comments on asking him to leave liverpool and join chelsea or barca.

Well whatever the case might have been but its certainly not good for liverpool.

Im sure King Kenny and Steven Gerrard must be doing their best to convince Fernando that it is the right place to be and liverpool is not a sinking ship anymore.The future is bright ahead for liverpool football club.

The owners have showed their intent by signing a top class player like Luis Suarez.So its still clueless why fernando torres has broken hearts of so many liverpool fans.

So i think the other spanish players like Xabi Alonso and Pepe Reina can convince him.If not then im sure Rafa can give him some good advice to stay put.He was always like a father figure for Nando.

I don't know who hell on earth other than these people can convince him.

Make your comments on the current situation and what do u think of it.

Is Torres being a Traitor? Breaking hearts of all Liverpool fans

2011-01-29T10:22:00.000-08:00

Liverpool have turned down a transfer request from forward Fernando Torres, just 24 hours after rejecting a bid believed to be in the regon of £35-40 million from Chelsea. With no rival clubs displaying an interest in the Spaniard's signature, the Blues are expected to make another bid that may prove too good to refuse, but must do so before the closure of the January transfer window in just a couple of days.

A statement released by the club read; “He's under a long-term contract. We expect him to honour the commitment he made to Liverpool and its fans when he signed the agreement.”

Earlier today Liverpool announced they will sign Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez, a player whom many considered an ideal foil for the 26-year-old Spaniard. However, Suarez’s arrival has not been enough to convince Torres about his future at Anfield, as the striker continues to struggle with his own form this season.

"Fernando Torres has submitted a written transfer request,” the statement continued, “ which has been rejected by Liverpool.”

Liverpool’s inability to offer Torres Champions League football has played a major role in the player’s decision to leave the club, though his desire to force a move is running out of time with the January transfer window closing in a matter of days.

Fernando Torres is one of the worlds finest strikers. He's at the peak of his playing career at 26 and like everyone else he's sick of the way Liverpool have been owned, managed and performed.

He wants success and trophies to show for his unbelievable talent so who can blame him for wanting to go to another club where he can play with other top players who can make him even more successful on and off the pitch.

Don't get me wrong. I want Torres to stay. The new owners have just proved their intent to improve the squad by investing in Suarez and now that Kenny is in charge things are really beginning to turn around. So the timing of Torres's transfer request is, to say the least, confusing even more so by the fact that it's come just a few days before the transfer window closes. Why not earlier?

No one wants a player to stay if he isn't committed to club and at times during the past two seasons Torres's body language has not been good. He's been plagued by injuries, which has not helped, so if he truly is unhappy being at Liverpool then we should accept the inevitable.

I will be gutted if Torres leaves but it's not the end of the world. I remember Keegan leaving Liverpool and was gutted by his decision too. How could we replace him? Impossible. But along came the King. Long live the King.

Liverpool complete their first signing in form of Luis Suarez

2011-01-28T10:06:00.000-08:00

Liverpool have agreed a deal worth up to €26.5 million (£22.8 million) to sign Luis Suarez from Ajax.

Liverpool have been in negotiations with Ajax for some time and, with the last offer said to have been worth just half of Ajax's desired €30 million, it was believed the talks may have reached an impasse.

Ajax had set a deadline of Saturday for the deal to be concluded and coach Frank de Boer said he believed the deal had a "50-50 chance" of going through, but the move is now expected to be completed over the weekend.

A statement on the official Ajax website read: "Ajax and Liverpool have reached an agreement over the transfer of Luis Suarez. He will make the move to the English club immediately. The deal is worth up to a total of €26.5 million."

Liverpool will now seek to agree personal terms with Suarez, 24, and the player will undergo a medical.

A Liverpool statement added: "Liverpool Football Club announced this afternoon that they had agreed a fee of up to €26.5 million with Ajax for the transfer of Luis Suarez, subject to the completion of a medical.

"The club have now been given permission by Ajax to discuss personal terms with the player and his representatives."

Liverpool kick start their new regime under the King

2011-01-23T02:27:00.000-08:00

Liverpool defeated Wolverhampton 3-0 Saturday to give Kenny Dalglish his first win in his second stint as Reds manager and only the team’s second away win of the season. In Dalglish’s first three games in charge, the Reds have looked more eager and passed much better without the results following suit. They rectified that against Wolves, playing well and earning a well-deserved victory against the same Wolves team that won at Anfield a month ago by a Liverpool- flattering 1-0 score line.

The Reds played fluidly and lethally getting plenty of players forward throughout and not putting Pepe Reina in too many tight spots either. Fernando Torres had two of the easiest goals he’ll ever score but most importantly worked hard the full 90 minutes earning the praise of his manager. Raul Meireles, who finally earned some love from the Reds’ faithful for scoring in the Merseyside Derby last week, will certainly be a popular fellow in Liverpool now after his fantastic strike gave the Reds a 2-0 lead early in the second half.

The win not only lifted Liverpool, temporarily, into the top half of the table, but it was also the first away game since Bolton (their other away win) on the first weekend on November that the Reds kept a clean sheet. Most importantly, it was Captain Steven Gerrard’s last game on the side lines due to suspension.

Gerrard has missed a number of games this season because of injury, and the team has sometimes lacked inspiration without him, a fine example being the 2-1 loss at Blackpool last week even after Torres broke the deadlock on three minutes.

Meireles has looked good going forward since Dalglish put him in that role, and he can continue to do so now and let Gerrard control the game from the midfield.

Liverpool’s upcoming schedule is not all together tricky in the coming month except for the tie at Stamford Bridge in a week and a half, but Chelsea still isn’t back to its best, making that a tough game to call.

The good thing about a somewhat weak schedule is that defensive stalwart and emotional leader Jamie Carragher will still be out for at least a few more weeks. The Reds have allowed 14 goals in his 11-game absence, and they’ve been lucky. His leadership is sorely missed throughout the team but especially in the backline, and his return late in February should really perk up the team.

The feel-good factor is definitely back around Anfield because no Reds fan would dare question King Kenny, but most importantly, the players have played with real passion in all four games under Dalglish, something they were badly lacking almost every game under Roy Hodgson.

The only downside is most fans have claimed Europa League qualification would mean a good season for the Reds when at the beginning of the season, it was all about getting back in the top four. Liverpool is currently nine points behind fourth-spot, so there’s plenty of time to make that up, but the Reds may just have to try to salvage whatever they can from this season and start anew in the summer.

Game Over for Hodgson - Resign or Get Sacked

2010-11-13T22:56:00.000-08:00

Every liverpool fan is worried by the fact of the team losing week in week out.Fans,Players or any one related to Liverpool football club has not been able to come out of the trauma of last season finishing seventh in the league, certainly not where liverpool belongs.

Roy Hodgsson was appointed as the new manager to put some fresh air into the club,to give confidence and put the horrible last season behind the back of the mind.

There were off the field issues at the start of the season which were a big problem, though cannot be used as an excuse for the resutls on the pitch.The new owners are in place which is not an issue anymore.

As far the new season is concerned, there doesn't seem to be any progress since his arrival.LFC has instead come down to a new low.Many things like being in the relegation zone, losing to blackpool at home and many other things which are simply not acceptable.

Roy has been mentioning the depth of the squad, then why let the likes of Aquilani leave on loan to Juventus.Though most people are not his biggest fans but he could have certainly provided some creativity which liverpool do lack.He could have been sold and a ideal replacement could have been bought from the money generated from the sale.

Last season liverpool had a very tough start to the season and ended up finishing seventh.Start of this season has been far more worse than last season, so no one can predict where liverpool would be at the end of the season.

If Roy Hodgson is just been given more time then who knows how many more defeats everyone has to witness.

So it will be best interest of the club to get King Kenny back to Dugout.As he is the only one who can get Liverpool out of trouble like he did years ago on the pitch.

Liverpool loose at the britannia

2010-11-13T22:47:00.000-08:00

Liverpool's stuttering mini-revival petered out in dismal fashion as they lost 2-0 to Stoke at the Britannia Stadium.

A six-match unbeaten run came to end as they were outfought, outplayed and outmanoeuvred by Tony Pulis' side.

Ricardo Fuller opened the scoring just after half-time and Kenwyne Jones completed a comprehensive victory in the final minute before Lucas Leiva was sent off for a second bookable offence.

The Potters were more than worth their win against a team who appear to have lost their way as quickly as they found it.

They have won away from home only once this season and only three times since last November.

Their first 45 minutes appeared to be a direct continuation of the second half at Wigan, where they had found themselves under almost constant pressure and were lucky to come away with a draw.

Only the returning Sotirios Kyrgiakos had not played in the previous two matches so there may have been an element of fatigue, especially as Stoke played a day earlier on Tuesday.

But no team in the Premier League, let alone a club like Liverpool, can expect to use that as an excuse for an abject and disjointed first-half display.

Roy Hodgson's side appeared unprepared and unable to deal with their hosts' brash, energetic approach which allowed them to dominate the game from first to last.

Stoke were appealing unsuccessfully for a penalty in only the second minute when Maxi Rodriguez leant heavily on Ricardo Fuller as they challenged for Rory Delap's long throw.

It was a sign of things to come as the visitors found themselves being forced back, looking worrying susceptible to Delap's trademark set-piece.

Midfielder Dean Whitehead benefited from weak headed clearances to fire in a low shot which Jose Reina turned around a post and then drill a similar 30-yard effort just past the angle of upright and crossbar.

Jones and former Reds winger Jermaine Pennant also had chances before Steven Gerrard registered Liverpool's first shot in the 29th minute, forcing Asmir Begovic to tip the low effort behind, although the goalkeeper dealt more comfortably with Raul Meireles strike from the resulting corner.

It was a brief retort which was soon forgotten when Jones rounded Paul Konchesky to cross low into the six-yard box, forcing Jamie Carragher to dive in front of Matthew Etherington to prevent the opening goal.

Less than two minutes into the second half Fernando Torres, who had been anonymous previously, was booked for tackling Pennant from behind.

But the real threat was still coming from Delap and Liverpool's inability to cope with his party trick finally cost them in the 56th minute.

A scramble saw the ball break to Etherington at the far post and his cross-shot bounced back off Konchesky to Fuller, whose had his first effort blocked but stabbed home the second from close range.

Despite the stereotype, it was Stoke's first goal from a Delap party-piece in 23 league matches.

Jones almost made it two when Martin Skrtel mistimed his jump but his left-footed effort beat both Reina and the far post.

Liverpool, as they did in the first half, had two chances in quick succession with Rodriguez shooting straight at Begovic from Dirk Kuyt's cut-back and Skrtel firing wide from Kyrgiakos' knockdown of Gerrard's free-kick.

David Ngog and Ryan Babel replaced Meireles and Rodriguez but with Liverpool still unable to gain decent possession of the ball it made little difference they effectively had four strikers on the pitch.

Their embarrassment was completed in the 90th minute when Gerrard gave the ball away and Jones was able to skip past Skrtel to fire home.

The dismissal of Lucas just compounded matters.

In terms of territory and control Liverpool have now lost the last five halves they have played in.

The 45 minutes prior to that had been the electrifying first-half display against Chelsea but team now appear to be on a downward spiral again.

It is a descent Hodgson has to arrest quickly. He left the Britannia Stadium with chants of "Dalglish'' - a reference to former player and manager Kenny - ringing in his ears.

Liverpool and Torres finally hit top gear

2010-11-08T07:07:00.000-08:00

Fernando Torres produced a striker's masterclass to score twice as Liverpool inflicted only a second defeat of the season on Premier League leaders Chelsea.

Torres has a liking for playing the Londoners at Anfield, as his six goals in five matches against them at home shows.

Chelsea were heavily linked with a summer bid for Torres but it never materialised and manager Carlo Ancelotti said he did not need to buy the striker as he was satisfied with his own forwards.

However, Torres was more than happy to give a display of his quality to the Blues boss, whose side had conceded only three goals in 10 league games prior to kick-off.

It was always likely the result would come down to who took their chances and with Didier Drogba left on the bench until the second half, Torres was given a head start.

He did not need a second invitation and in addition to his two expertly-taken first-half goals he was a constant threat to the Chelsea defence

Torres has been short of form this season but he has always been able to produce a performance against Chelsea at Anfield over the years and this was no different.

It took just 11 minutes for him to reopen old wounds with a classic piece of finishing courtesy of a cross from Dirk Kuyt, making a welcome return after a month's absence with an ankle injury, on the left.

The Dutchman chipped a pass over the head of John Terry and Torres took one touch before firing past Petr Cech.

Having looked short of confidence this season the 26-year-old appeared to spring to life, immediately going on a short run and firing wide.

Possession was fairly even but Liverpool created the best chances, having a penalty shout dismissed when Terry's clearance bounced up on to Yury Zhirkov's arm from which Raul Meireles shot at Cech.

Torres did not give the goalkeeper any such chance with his second just before half-time with a strike even better than his opener and reminiscent of his first ever goal for the club - also against Chelsea.

Meireles dispossessed Ashley Cole in the centre of the pitch and rolled the ball out to the Spaniard on the left of the penalty area.

Cutting inside he curled a shot around Branislav Ivanovic and inside Terry and the far post.

It was a fitting end to undoubtedly Liverpool's best first half of the season, which was as much down to excellent organisation at the back as Torres' potency up front.

With Jamie Carragher, restored to centre-back, barking the orders the hosts limited Chelsea to one shot on target - and that a weak Salomon Kalou header straight at Jose Reina.

Drogba's arrival for the start of the second half was inevitable but the Ivory Coast international's first shooting opportunity saw him curl a 30-yard free-kick well wide.

Ramires headed over and Zhirkov's shot was turned around the post by Reina, who also produced a brilliant close-range stop to deny Florent Malouda.

Having got themselves into a winning position it was now a question of holding on to it for Liverpool as Chelsea ramped up the pressure.

Torres may be paid to score goals but the sight of him hoofing the ball into the upper tier of the Centenary Stand was testament to the determination of everyone to hang on at all costs.

Kuyt almost wrapped things up 15 minutes from time only for Cech's outstretched leg to divert the ball wide.

Chelsea knew it was not to be their day when Nicolas Anelka's shot squeezed under Reina, whose slight touch deflected the ball up on to the bar and then Carragher cleared from the lurking Drogba two yards out.

The win moved Liverpool into ninth, the first time they have been in the top half since the opening weekend of the season, after three successive Barclays Premier League victories.

They are still not in a position to challenge Chelsea at the top of the table - where they still have a two-point lead over Manchester United - but they proved, on their day and with Torres on form, they remain a match for any side.

It seems a corner has now been turned in Roy Hodgson's reign, and with matches to come against Wigan, Stoke and West Ham there is a real chance for them to restore some of the damage done by their poor start to the season.

Liverpool bag 3 more points to move out of relegation

2010-11-01T10:37:00.000-07:00

Maxi Rodriguez struck a late winner at Bolton as relieved Liverpool finally climbed out of the Barclays Premier League relegation zone.

The Argentinian latched onto a brilliant Fernando Torres backheel to settle a competitive encounter at the Reebok Stadium four minutes from time.

Both sides created numerous chances in an evenly-matched contest but Liverpool left satisfied knowing their near month-long stay in the bottom three was over.

The match had looked like bringing more frustration for Liverpool and under-pressure boss Roy Hodgson as Sotirios Krygiakos twice went close and Torres squandered a good early opportunity.

The win drew them level on points with Bolton, who had been enjoying their best start for four years and were looking set for a seventh draw of the campaign.

They might even have won it themselves had a late Kevin Davies glancing header fallen the right side of the post.

Hodgson named the same Liverpool team for the third successive Premier League game as he attempted to instil the cohesion they have been lacking. It initially appeared to work as the Reds, hoping to build on last week's morale-boosting win over Blackburn, started confidently and created two early chances for Torres.

The first came after three minutes as Steven Gerrard swung in a corner but Torres could not keep his header on target. His next chance came just five minutes later but, despite netting last week's winner, the Spaniard still showed signs of the rustiness that has hampered him all season.

Torres raced through on goal from a Gerrard pass but delayed a shot and then mis-kicked as he attempted to stab past Jussi Jaaskelainen from close range.

Bolton's first attempt on goal came when Stuart Holden blasted a free-kick at the wall from 25 yards. After that Bolton gave as good as they got and Jose Reina parried a vicious Holden volley from distance after the USA international was teed up by Davies.

The hosts appealed for a penalty as Lee Chung-Yong cut inside from the left and went down under a challenge from Jamie Carragher but referee Martin Atkinson played on to few complaints.

Liverpool attacked back but Cole scooped a long-range effort well over the bar and Gerrard did likewise from a free-kick. Fabrice Muamba shot from long range for Bolton but his effort curved well away from goal. Torres set up Gerrard but the Reds skipper drove wide from the edge of the box.

Taylor tested Reina with two free-kicks just before the break but the Spaniard managed to smother both attempts and Carragher survived another penalty appeal after the faintest of touches with the hand.

Krygiakos, goalscorer in two of the previous three league games, forced Jaaskelainen to save from a Gerrard cross in injury time.

Bolton made the early running in the second half and twice forced Liverpool to clear unconvincingly without creating a clear-cut chance.

Gerrard tried to raise Liverpool's fading tempo with a powerful run and long ball for Torres, but a promising attack was ended as Muamba collided with Lucas.

Gerrard found good space on the edge of the box but his shot was deflected into the air and claimed easily by Jaaskelainen.

Liverpool suffered a blow just after the hour as Cole was forced off with what looked like a hamstring injury and was replaced by David Ngog.

Krygiakos again went close when Gerrard picked him out from a corner but this time headed narrowly over. Krygiakos was then involved at the other end after bundling into Davies but Atkinson deemed the Bolton captain to have gone down too easily.

Liverpool might have been struggling to produce the intensity their fans demanded but pieced together a move of genuine quality as Rodriguez finally got into the game midway through the second half.

Rodriguez sent Gerrard away down the left with a clever backheel and the captain whipped in a cross for Torres. Torres nodded back down for Rodriguez to attempt a spectacular overhead kick which went just inches over. Bolton replied as in-form Johan Elmander, looking for his first home goal of the season after hitting five away, showed great control and drove just wide of the post.

Zat Knight then headed over from the resulting corner and Davies also glanced a header wide from a free-kick as the Trotters enjoyed a strong spell.

But Liverpool roused themselves late on and carved Bolton open with a delightful move to set up the winner for Rodriguez. Torres was the creator as he nutmegged Gary Cahill with a clever backheel and Rodriguez raced through. The Argentinian showed great composure as he clipped the ball in off the body of Jaaskelainen.

New Owner confirms no star players will be sold

2010-10-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

John W Henry, principal owner of New England Sports Ventures, has joined Roy Hodgson in promising that Liverpool's star players will not be leaving.

The Boston based tycoon maintained his intent was to strengthen not weaken the squad. Using the club's official website he labelled recent talk of Fernando Torres and Pepe Reina being lured from Anfield as "destructive and unwarranted".

"We have recently read stories about our intentions for the forthcoming January transfer window and have a sense of humour about this type of inevitable speculation," Henry said.

"As everyone knows we are new to English football, but not to sport, and we are studying all options. Opportunities and value will drive spending in January and in the future.

"Our clear focus from day one of our ownership has been - and will be - to improve the club and focus on what it will take to put Liverpool FC consistently in a position to challenge for trophies.

"We intend to build this club the right way.

He added: "Stories about our top players leaving are destructive and unwarranted but we realise that this kind of speculation is also common.

"We intend to build on the strength of the current squad, not undermine it. And I can reassure our supporters that we have no intention of allowing the team to be weakened going forward."

Meanwhile Hodgson has stated that the Reds will only be looking to recruit top class players from now on in.

However, despite the club being free of the debt George Gillett and Tom Hicks saddled Liverpool with they would only pay market value for players during the upcoming and any subsequent transfer windows.

"We should not be shopping in the bargain basement and quality costs," the 63-year old said.

"If we want the right quality, we have got to be prepared to pay the right price. The owners know that perfectly well. We have got to make certain that if we go out and spend £20m, we are getting a £20m player.

"We want to be attracting the players that Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter are chasing. It would be nice to think that we can shop at a high level.

"I’m like all managers in that I’m wary of the January transfer window. I think it can be dangerous as clubs try to correct mistakes.

"But, having said that, we are going to very interested about trying to improve our squad in January.

"There is no question about that. I am sure we will sign players. What I would hope to do is get this group of players playing well enough so we don’t need to panic.

"Then I can say to the owners, if we are going to spend a lot of money let’s get the right man.

"I don’t want to spend half the money that might be available on someone for the sake of buying when the player we actually want might not be available until the summer."

Torres goal drought finally end with a winning goal for Liverpool

2010-10-25T10:56:00.000-07:00

Striker Fernando Torres ended his six-match goal drought with the winner against Blackburn to provide a much-needed boost at Anfield.

Goalkeeper Paul Robinson had kept the Reds at bay until Sotirios Kyrgiakos' 48th-minute header and although a Jamie Carragher own goal quickly levelled things up Torres struck only his second of the season soon after.

It ended a run of seven matches without a victory in all competitions and although it was still not enough to lift Liverpool out of the bottom three the result came as a welcome relief.

Torres, starved of service, has looked woefully out of form with his only goal coming in the 1-0 win over West Brom at the end of August. However, if the Spain international could have chosen any team to play against it would have been Rovers, against whom he has now scored five times in their last four meetings. And it can be no coincidence Liverpool's only two Premier League victories have been as a result of Torres applying the decisive finish.

It was the very least representatives of New England Sports Ventures, in the crowd after their £300 million buy-out just over a week ago, will have wanted to see.

It may have been for their benefit that there was a guest appearance by Gerry Marsden to sing a live rendition of 'You'll Never Walk Alone'.

The change in the pre-match routine appeared to have the desired effect on Liverpool but, although it was as positive a first half as they had put in under manager Roy Hodgson, it still failed to produce a goal.

That was in part due to Robinson, who was at his sharpest to deny the hosts on several occasions.

His best save came in only the eighth minute when Torres' ball around the corner to Maxi Rodriguez saw the Argentina international cross low for Joe Cole but his first-time shot was blocked by the goalkeeper and a stretching Raul Meireles drove the rebound wide.

Kyrgiakos's header from Steven Gerrard's corner was also kept out by Robinson, with the goalkeeper then diving to his left to deny Gerrard who had launched a quick counter-attack from a Rovers corner.

Blackburn were content to sit back but their task was made slightly more difficult when they lost defensive midfielder Steven Nzonzi to a hamstring injury.

The Red tide continued up to half-time with a Meireles piledriver pole-axing Michel Salgado and Lucas Leiva just failing to get his header on target from Kyrgiakos' flick-on of Gerrard's resulting corner.

After the interval Benjani Mwaruwari came on for Nikola Kalinic but the second half was only three minutes old when Liverpool finally took the lead. Kyrgiakos had been a threat in the air all afternoon and when he rose to powerfully meet Gerrard's corner Martin Olsson could not keep the ball from going into the net.

Two minutes later it should have been 2-0 as Robinson only half-saved Rodriguez's header from Gerrard's quickly-taken corner and Kyrgiakos appeared to be fouled by Phil Jones in challenging for the rebound. The ball dropped to Rodriguez but his effort was charged down.

Such has been Liverpool's luck this season that Rovers went straight down the other end and scored as Paul Konchesky's goalline clearance from El-Hadji Diouf's shot cannoned back off Carragher and into the net.

But a sign the Reds' fortunes were changing came in the 53rd minute when Torres ghosted in at the far post to side-foot home Cole's cross.

Cole was replaced by David Ngog with 11 minutes remaining but it was Blackburn who were the ones pushing for the next goal.

It was not entirely comfortable for Liverpool, who were restricted to the counter-attack with one Gerrard pass almost picking out Torres, but they found the resilience which had been missing for most of the season.

Hodgson had described the match as "must win". His side did that and, despite their lowly position, are just six points from fifth-placed Tottenham.

However, they are going to have to build on this by putting a run of good results together if their campaign is really going to turn a corner.

Hodgson, whose position has come under increased scrutiny in recent weeks, is not out of the woods yet.

Finally some good news for Liverpool, Hicks refinancing plans fail to materialize

2010-09-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

Liverpool look no closer to resolving their ownership issues after the Blackstone investment group ruled out financially backing co-owner Tom Hicks with a full buy out.

Hicks had been linked in a Sunday newspaper to be close to arranging a £280million deal to take partner George Gillett's stake in the Merseyside club and take full charge for the next two years.

It is understood that the Blackstone group held talks with Hicks several weeks ago to allow him to pay off the £237million debt that was owed to the Royal Bank of Scotland in mid-October.

However, it would appear that they have opted against any deal to leave Hicks, who placed the club up for sale alongside Gillett in April this year, no closer to arranging a sale.

The decision is likely to come as a relief to many of the club's supporters, who have lodged fierce protests over their American owners, with the Texan in particular, about the way they have run the club since buying it in 2007.

Liverpool have seen several degrees of interest fall by the wayside in recent months, with Chinese businessman Kenny Huang'sconsortium and one run by Syrian tycoon Yahya Kirdi both ruling out takeovers.

With Martin Broughton installed as a new chairman and go-between for negotiations between potential buyers, a deal to sell the club was thought to be under increasing importance to the future of the club.

However, with no takeover happening in time for the end of the August transfer window, manager Roy Hodgson has had little finances to play with.

Hicks in particular is still desperate to maximise a profit and sell the club for around £600million, but it is thought that he has been advised that a figure rising above £400million is an unlikely prospect.

Liverpool defeated by bitter rivals

2010-09-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reina earns valuable point for Liverpool

2010-09-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

Liverpool were indebted to a superb display from goalkeeper Pepe Reina for earning a point against Birmingham in a goalless Premier League clash at St Andrew's.

Reina produced excellent reflex saves to keep out point-blank headers from Cameron Jerome and Craig Gardner in the first-half and the home side were also left to regret spurning a hat-trick of clear-cut chances.
Birmingham were the more impressive of the two sides and on this evidence, new Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has plenty of work to do to make the Merseysiders a force to be reckoned with.

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

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

The first decent chance fell to Torres after 12 minutes after Glen Johnson made a good break down the right flank before sending in a low cross. But the Spaniard failed to make a clean contact on his attempted shot which he dragged a couple of yards wide.

Reina kept Liverpool on level terms with a superb reflex save away to his right to keep out Jerome's powerful header from Lee Bowyer's left-wing centre and, shortly after, Blues midfielder Gardner became the first player to be yellow carded for a challenge on Lucas.

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

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

In a rare threat to the home goal Roger Johnson's tackle prevented Torres from turning and shooting from inside the box although replays suggested he may have had claims for a penalty. Johnson then missed a good chance to open the scoring when he turned a Ferguson cross over from close range.

Blues keeper Ben Foster made his first save in the opening minute of the second half in clinging onto a dipping drive from Gerrard. But City were soon back on the attack and Liam Ridgewell had a powerful header blocked from a Larsson free-kick.

Paul Konchesky got forward to good effect for the first time and his pass almost played in Milan Jovanovic but he failed to take the ball in his stride. Liverpool continued to look uncomfortable at the back and Dann missed another good chance for the home side. He found himself unmarked from a Larsson free-kick but his downward header bounced over the crossbar.

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

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

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

Reina again did well in racing out of his area to chest clear as jerome chased down a long through ball, while Foster went down to keep out a late drive from Torres.

Liverpool sign Portuguese star Raul Meireles

2010-08-29T05:16:00.000-07:00

Raul Meireles has insisted he is not a Javier Mascherano clone after completing his move to Liverpool.

Meireles has joined Roy Hodgson's side for 14 million euros (£11.5 million), the Premier League club announced on their official website.

Portugal international Meireles has signed a four-year contract and will add weight to a Reds midfield which was looking short on numbers following the departures of Mascherano and Alberto Aquilani.

And, quoted in the Sunday Express, he said: ''Roy Hodgson was key to me coming here because he worked so hard to sign me. I am Meireles and not Mascherano and that will be clear to the fans. I hope one day the Liverpool fans will remember me for being successful.''

Meireles has won four titles with Porto and been capped 38 times by Portugal, playing in all four of his country's games at this summer's World Cup.

Liverpool on Friday agreed a deal to send Mascherano to Barcelona after the midfielder, whose family could not settle on Merseyside, was reportedly unprepared to play for the club.

Aquilani also departed for Juventus in a loan deal which brought to an end, at least temporarily, an underwhelming and injury-hit spell in the city in which he failed adequately to replace Xabi Alonso.

With Liverpool financially constrained as owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks attempt to sell the club, fans have had to make do with limited arrivals this summer - Christian Poulsen from Juventus and Joe Cole on a free transfer from Chelsea being the headline names.

Can he be a ideal Masch replacement?

2010-08-25T04:16:00.000-07:00

Liverpool are reportedly negotiating a deal to sign Real Madrid midfielder Mahamadou Diarra.

The 29-year-old is thought to be on the periphery of the Spanish side's squad under Jose Mourinho, and new Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has lined-up the Malian international as a replacement for Javier Mascherano should he leave Anfield.

Diarra began his senior football career at Greek side OFI, making his debut as a teenager in 1998. A move to Vitesse in Holland came the following season, with the defensive central midfielder spending three years at the Eredivisie club.

Lyon would sign the player in 2002, and Diarra was a revelation in Ligue 1 during his four years at the club. Four consecutive league titles emphasised the point, with manager Gerard Houllier placing a €40 million price tag in his head.

However, Real Madrid's €26 million offer was too good to turn down and Diarra left Les Gones in 2006.

After originally starring at the Bernabeu, Diarra has slowly fallen down the pecking order following a serious knee injury and the signing of Lassana Diarra.

Madrid's Sporting Director hinted last week that a host of non-Spanish stars could leave the club after yet more additions this summer, and Diarra's agent has hinted that a move to the Premier League could suit the player.

"Mahmadou is still a top player and he can do a great job in the Premier League. There is a lot of interest," said Frederic Guerra.

Spanish paper AS reports that the Reds have begun negotiations with an emissary on behalf of Real Madrid with a view to signing Diarra before the close of the transfer window.

With Argentine Mascherano reportedly refusing to take part in the defeat against Manchester City, his exit would appear imminent. The cash from any sale could then be spent on a move for Diarra, who would set the Anfield club back in the region of £7 million.

Liverpool could complete Cole deal on Masch deparutre

2010-08-25T04:04:00.000-07:00

Liverpool and Sunderland have indicated that they are ready to launch bids for West Ham United striker Carlton Cole.

Neither club have, as yet, made an official bid, but the Hammers are well aware of the interest mounting from the two clubs.

Hammers were asking £15 million for Cole and that the player's preference was a move to Anfield. Now Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson is ready to make the long awaited swoop after failing with a succession of moves for other strikers.

Sunderland are the latest club to be linked with the centre-forward this week, while Stoke and Birmingham have been in hot pursuit without success in turning Cole's head.

Cole made it clear he would only quit Upton Park for a big club and West Ham have been anticipating a move from Liverpool.

With the expected sale of Javier Mascherano to Barcelona for more than £20 million, Hodgson has lined up a move for Cole.

Once Liverpool have sold Mascherano, who was rescued from the Hammers bench by his £18 million move to Anfield, the Reds can offer West Ham the inducement of paying a large chunk of the fee up front, which in turn can aid the Hammers' transfer business in the final days of the window.

Co-owner David Sullivan has been busy lining up a replacement for Cole and, once the England international departs, two more strikers are earmarked for Upton Park.

Liverpool could just grab a point on opening day

2010-08-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

Jose Reina's late howler enabled Arsenal to snatch a draw from a thrilling Premier League opener at 10-man Liverpool.

The Liverpool goalkeeper saw the ball rebound off him after Marouane Chamakh had hit the post in the final minute at Anfield to cancel out a David Ngog strike.

The goal was reward for a late spell of Arsenal pressure but it was unfortunate for Liverpool, who had survived most of the second half unscathed after the sending off of Joe Cole.

The big-name summer signing from Chelsea was dismissed on his league debut for a reckless challenge on Arsenal debutant Laurent Koscielny.

Koscielny himself also received a red card, but not until moments before the final whistle when he earned a second booking for handball.

The equaliser denied Liverpool what would have been only their fourth victory over the Gunners in their last 19 league meetings. It remains to be seen how much the new wave of optimism which has swept into the club since Roy Hodgson was appointed as manager has been punctured.

One of the reasons for the upbeat mood had been Cole's arrival but while the midfielder's first league start was one to forget, Hodgson did coax a solid showing from wantaway Javier Mascherano.

Fernando Torres was left in reserve, and later entered to a huge ovation after pledging his future to the club and recovering from a groin injury, but Arsenal missed two of their bigger stars more.

Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie were both said to be lacking match-fitness and while the former was absent altogether, the Dutchman made only a late appearance.

Thomas Vermaelen tested Jose Reina early on with a fierce free-kick but aside from that, the first half was almost devoid of action until exploding into life in the closing moments.

Dirk Kuyt created Liverpool's first opportunity when he turned in the box but Manuel Almunia easily gathered his cross. New signing Milan Jovanovic cut through the Arsenal midfield with a determined run but Kuyt's final ball again found Almunia.

Arsenal's Samir Nasri had another long-range free-kick blocked and Vermaelen put the rebound wide. Gael Clichy had Arsenal's first serious chance from open play when he broke clear down the left after 30 minutes and fired a shot narrowly over from outside the box.

Liverpool thought an opportunity was opening up soon after when Almunia failed to claim a corner but referee Martin Atkinson spotted a foul by Daniel Agger on Vermaelen.

The action on the field was tight with neither side giving much away but Arsenal were almost caught when Jovanovic raced onto a long ball. With Cole walking back from an offside position, the Arsenal defence let the ball bounce and the Serbia international darted into the box, only to blast wide.

The game suddenly came alive in the closing minute of the first half. First Glen Johnson had a shot tipped over by Almunia and Ngog then had a header cleared off the line from the resulting corner.

The complexion of the game then changed completely in injury time as Cole was sent off for his lunge at Koscielny. The defender returned to the dressing room on a stretcher at the interval but ran out to start the second period as normal.

He was greeted by boos from Liverpool fans but replays of the tackle suggested that, although the initial decision may have seemed harsh, the law had been applied correctly.

Liverpool seemed determined not to let their numerical disadvantage bother them and made a blistering start to the second half.

They claimed the lead within two minutes of the restart as Mascherano threaded a ball into the box for Ngog and the Frenchman fired home at the near post. It was his fourth goal of the season after three in Liverpool's first Europa League qualifying tie.

Not content with that, the Reds pushed forward again and Martin Skrtel headed wide from a dangerous Steven Gerrard free-kick. Ngog had an even better chance when he leapt to reach another Gerrard set-piece but could not direct his header on target.

Kuyt created another fine chance after skipping past Clichy on the right but no-one could turn in his ball across goal. Liverpool were reduced to nine men when Agger left the field for treatment after all three substitutes had been used.

Arsenal stepped up the tempo and Tomas Rosicky showed great control with a slaloming run into the area before seeing his shot brilliantly touched over by Reina.

The pressure eventually told in the last minute as Reina and Chamakh collided after Rosicky's cross. The ball spilled loose and hit the post, but in his rush to claw the ball back Reina could only help it over the line.

Gerrard almost snatched victory as the game went into five minutes of injury time but Almunia kept out his free-kick. The game ended on more controversy as Koscielny picked up a second booking for handball, though the decision seemed harsh.

Torres just loves playing alongside Gerrard

2010-08-15T03:37:00.000-07:00

Iniesta has lift the lid that one of the reason why Torres choose to stay because he just loves playing alongside Gerrard and even rates his anfield skipper higher than the likes of Villa and Xavi.

Fernando Torres says Liverpool will terrify the Premier League this season – because of his partnership up front with Steven Gerrard.

The Spanish superstar striker says Kop skipper Gerro is his best strike partner ever – even better than international colleague David Villa.

Torres believes the pair have an almost telepathic understanding.

Midfielder Andres Iniesta was shacked up with Torres as Spain won the World Cup in South Africa last month.

And the Barcelona man also thinks Torres’ love of Liverpool is the reason he pledged his future to the club.

Iniesta said: “I was speaking with Nando during the World Cup.

“Even though he is happy at Liverpool in the sense he loves the club, he is clearly not happy with the results on the pitch.

“Liverpool ran Manchester United so close for the Premier League the season before last.

“The reason it happened is because Nando and Steven Gerrard were strike partners, with Gerrard playing just behind.

“Nando will tell you himself that his best-ever strike partner is Steven Gerrard.

“In his words they had a telepathic understanding when it came to making runs and the right pass.

“I hope the new Liverpool coach has the sense to play them as a strike partnership again.

“If he does it could be a really successful season for them.”

Iniesta also played at the World Cup with former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, now at Real Madrid.

Alonso’s departure was thought by many to be part of the reason Liverpool had such a disappointing campaign last season.

But Iniesta believes new Kop signing Joe Cole could fill the Alonso role at Anfield.

The Spaniard added: “The season they nearly won the Premier League, Xabi was so important for them.

“If they play Joe Cole in the Xabi role – with Gerrard and Nando’s strike partnership – I really do think they can be one of the most successful attacking teams in the Premier League and will score goals for fun.

“I think it’s a big opening game for both Liverpool and Arsenal.

“Both sets of fans would not have been happy with last season and both teams must win something this season.”

Another player potentially heading for the Anfield exit is Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano.

And Iniesta added: “I don’t think it’s any sort of secret that he is a player we would like here at Barcelona.”

Torres in contention for League opener

2010-08-13T10:54:00.000-07:00

Fernando Torres could be in line for a surprise return for Liverpool this weekend after Roy Hodgson refused to rule him out of Sunday's visit of Arsenal.

The Spain striker has undergone a rigorous training regime after suffering a groin strain in last month's World Cup final in a bid to regain fitness ahead of the start of the new Premier League campaign.

Hodgson has been largely impressed with Torres' input since returning to Melwood and insists that the 26-year-old still remains in contention for a place in the squad that will entertain Arsene Wenger's side at Anfield this weekend.

"Fernando has made a remarkable effort to get himself fit and ready for Premier League football and he has a chance," he said.

"He has worked extremely hard in the two and a half weeks he has been back so I certainly don't rule him out.

"His chances were being played down by the sports science people who said in an ideal world he would have a longer preparation period.

"They are rightly concerned if he plays too early he could have a recurrence of a knee problem which could keep him out for longer so it is quite simply a balancing job."

Hodgson denies Mascherano move imminent

2010-08-13T10:41:00.000-07:00

Roy Hodgson insists Christian Poulsen was not brought to the club as a replacement for Javier Mascherano and says he does not expect the Argentina captain to leave Liverpool in the imminent future.

Hodgson brought in defensive midfielder Poulsen, 30, from Juventus this week and many believe the transfer was made as a result of the expected departure of Mascherano to Inter or Barcelona.

However, Hodgson has dismissed those rumours and said Poulsen was simply brought in to give him another option ahead of a potentially busy season.

"It is not a question of Christian replacing Javier," he said. "I believe Javier is going to play for us. We've got a lot of games to play hopefully and we're going to need a lot of players. We didn't take him in to replace somebody - we took him in because we want him to improve the size of our squad and the quality of our squad."

Asked if Mascherano's statement that he had no problem with Liverpool as a club means there is hope he could stay, Hodgson said: "There's no point in me commenting on things Javier has said or supposedly said, because I've had seven or eight training sessions with him now and we talk about football.

"Since our very early meeting where he made it clear that if possible he would prefer to leave, he's been getting on with his work, training properly, playing properly and, as far as I'm concerned, he's a Liverpool player until the day somebody signs him, and that day does not seem to be imminent."

He added: "As far as Javier is concerned, I can quite categorically state there has been no offer from any club for him. As a result, I don't see why every day I should put his loyalty or desire to the club in doubt.

"We made it clear to him that if the offer he wanted came along we probably would not stand in his way but that offer has not come along and he is working hard to play for Liverpool.

"He is a realistic player. He is playing for Liverpool and is not looking for a move to a Spanish second division team - there are very few clubs in the world that can even consider having Javier Mascherano on their books.

"If he wants to leave he will be expecting a club of a similar stature to Liverpool to come along and at the moment they haven't so I'm presuming he is very happy to stay here."

Liverpool confirm Poulsen signing

2010-08-13T10:31:00.000-07:00

Liverpool have confirmed the signing of Juventus midfielder Christian Poulsen for a fee of €5.475 million.

Poulsen, 30, joined Juventus from Sevilla in 2008 and made 33 Serie A starts in two seasons in Turin. He also anchored the Denmark midfield in all three of the country's appearances at the World Cup finals.

A statement from Juventus read: "Juventus Football Club can announce that it has completed the agreement with Liverpool FC for the outright transfer of Christian Poulsen for a fee of €5.475 million (£4.5 million) payable in two instalments.

"The fee will further increase by up to €1.2 million depending on his achievements during the contract period.''

Liverpool also confirmed the deal on their official website and revealed that Poulsen has signed a three-year contract with the Reds.

Roy Hodgson has recruited the player as a like-for-like replacement for Javier Mascherano, who revealed on Thursday morning that while he enjoys playing for Liverpool, he is keen to leave England for a new challenge. Both Inter Milan and Barcelona are known to be interested in the Argentina captain.

"It's a very special club both in England and worldwide," Poulsen told sporten.dk. "I'm incredibly happy to have joined.

"We'll see in the coming days what kind of shape I'm in. I obviously trained at Juventus, but as the move to Liverpool drew closer, I wasn't involved in training, and I haven't played the Europa League matches so I would still be available [for Liverpool]."

Poulsen joins Joe Cole, Danny Wilson, Jonjo Shelvey, Fabio Aurelio and Milan Jovanovic in joining Liverpool this summer, and his international colleague Daniel Agger expects him to be a success at Anfield.

"Christian would be a perfect addition to most of the big clubs in Europe, so he will certainly fit in here," Agger said recently. "He is a top player and will make us stronger. We need to have big signings so we can compete and he is one of those players.

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

Liverpool to become the wealthiest club?

2010-08-04T19:51:00.000-07:00

Kenny Huang has told the Liverpool board that he is being backed by China's largest sovereign fund in a bid to step up his pursuit of the club.

As revealed by Click Liverpool on Monday, the former Wall Street stockbroker has now confirmed to Anfield chiefs, including chairman Martin Broughton, that his benefactors are the China Investment Corporation (CIC).

Huang issued a statement earlier today distancing himself from any bids for Liverpool with the investment arm, who have assets worth $332billion (£208bn), keen to tie up a deal in principal before the end of the month away from the media spotlight.

The Chinese businessman confirmed his interest in Liverpool but has yet to provide proof of CIC's funding to the board of Kop Holdings - the club's parent company before they can be considered as serious contenders to succeed George Gillett and Tom Hicks as owners.

Meanwhile Yahya Kirdi, another of six potential investors, has followed up his claims this morning that talks with the American duo are at an advanced stage by outlining his plans for a new stadium if negotiations are successful.

Speaking from his home in Canada the former Syrian footballer, who is a long-standing friend of Gillett's son Foster, has claimed that he will build a five-star hotel and a shopping centre on the proposed site in Stanley Park despite being dismissed earlier this year as a serious bidder.

"I want to build Liverpool," he said.

"I have a new plan which I have given George Gillett.

"This one is not only a stadium but also a stadium and hotel, five-star, and shopping centre."

British Airways chiief Broughton was installed as chairman of the Premier League outfit in April as part of plans by Barclays Capital to overlook the sale process and remains committed to accepting the 'right bid', ideally before the close of the transfer window on September 1.

El-Nino commits his future to Liverpool

2010-08-03T20:57:00.000-07:00

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has dismissed speculation linking him with a move away from Anfield by insisting he is extremely happy to be at "the best club in the country".

Torres, who returned to training on Monday after winning the World Cup with Spain, has been the subject of persistent transfer rumours after Liverpool failed to qualify for the Champions League and manager Rafa Benitez left the club.

Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester City had both been touted as potential suitors but Torres, 26, has moved to quash suggestions he is ready to move on.

"My commitment and loyalty to the club and to the fans is the same as it was on my first day when I signed. I am looking forward to the challenge ahead," Torres said. "I am really happy to be back, really happy to stay with all my team-mates.

"This is the best club in the country so the targets and expectations are always high. At Liverpool the aim is to fight for every title. It was difficult last season, but we are sure we can improve this season."

New Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson always maintained that he wanted to keep the Reds' record-signing at the club and Torres said he was impressed to have been paid a personal visit.

"I really appreciated the fact that Roy came out to see me while I was on my holidays," Torres said. "He told me about his plans for the club and what he wanted from me and I appreciated that.

"I hope he will be the right man to reach the targets of Liverpool Football Club and I am really looking forward to working with him. At the moment I am training just on my own but as soon as I can I will train with the team and with the new manager."

Torres' commitment to remain with Liverpool follows that of skipper Steven Gerrard, who made a similar pledge when he returned after the World Cup.

Chinese Billionaire confident of Liverpool deal

2010-08-03T20:37:00.000-07:00

Liverpool stand to become the most powerful club in world football if the takeover deal with a Far East Sovereign Wealth fund is completed.

The deal currently being negotiated by Kenny Huang, and his Far East partner has already laid the blueprint to make Liverpool the wealthiest club on the planet.

A Soccernet source has been given an insight into the ambitious plans to launch Liverpool in China, with internet, sponsorship, and promotions aimed to push Liverpool beyond the means of even the richest clubs.

The source describes the plans as taking Liverpool to a scale as yet unseen in English football by tapping into the Chinese markets.

As the Far East group aim to wrest control from American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks, the source believes US companies from Walmart to Apple could seek to work with Liverpool to make enormous inroads within the Chinese markets. That would eventually enable Liverpool to compete to buy the world's best players in every position.

While it has been suggested that there are alternatives bidders, Hicks and Gillett would like the banks and the Anfield board to push up the price to include cash for the two shareholders, but the hedge fund backing this bid is in no mood to be stampeded into paying more for control.

The Far East Sovereign Wealth fund knows it is offering Liverpool their greatest opportunity to compete on a world stage with the financial big hitters, a chance that might not materialise again.

The new investors from the Far East believe that the shares are not worth more than the debt, and are therefore worthless, and they have no intention of paying Gillett and Hicks the premium price they have been demanding.

The Americans valued Liverpool at £800 million, but have since dropped their valuation to £600 million. The offer on the table, though, is to cover the debts of £350m, notably paying off the Royal Bank of Scotland's near-£240 million debt.

That is where Hicks and Gillett's Achilles heel lies, and the RBS is keen for this deal to proceed.

Roy confirms Masch wants out,but not Fernando

2010-07-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson has confirmed that midfielder Javier Mascherano has said he is keen to leave Anfield this summer, although the manager is convinced Fernando Torres remains committed to the club.

Mascherano is believed to have been unsettled at Anfield for some time but on Monday made his position clear to Hodgson when meeting the new manager upon his return to the club.

It is now expected that former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez will attempt to bring Mascherano to Inter Milan. The player's agent recently said Mascherano is keen to join the Nerrazzuri and reunite with his former boss.

As for Hodgson, he is adamant that while Mascherano has expressed a desire to leave, the Argentina captain will only do so on Liverpool's terms.

"Yes, he wants to leave the club,'' Hodgson said. "He has made that perfectly clear. I think he wanted to leave a year go. He wants to leave now but he is contracted to Liverpool so whether he leaves or not will be our decision.''

Torres has also been the subject of sustained speculation, with Chelsea believed to be preparing a bid and Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini expressing an interest on Monday, but Hodgson insists the striker is committed to the club.

"As far as I know he is looking forward to coming back here; he is back on Monday,'' Hodgson said. "He is enjoying a holiday - a well-deserved break as he has not had one for three years.

"He is spending a lot of time with his family, keeping a low profile and as far as I know he is not really speaking to anyone.

"But he has told us that he is looking forward to Monday, looking forward to getting back to work and looking forward to playing for Liverpool next season. That is what I know so other reports, I would suggest, are erroneous.''

Masch wants to quit Liverpool

2010-07-26T23:48:00.000-07:00

Javier Mascherano has reportedly told Liverpool he wants to leave the club following a meeting with new manager Roy Hodgson.

The Argentina midfielder returned for pre-season training on Monday after being given an extended break following his involvement at the World Cup finals.

Hodgson had previously admitted that he had been unable to contact the 26-year-old whilst on holiday, casting heavy doubts over whether he would stay at Anfield this season.

The Reds boss met with Mascherano and the player's agent Walter Tamer to discuss his future and widespread reports claim the tough-tackling anchor man has expressed a wish to leave.

Inter Milan, now coached by former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez, have been heavily linked with a £25million bid for Mascherano before the transfer window closes.

His representative Tamer has previously suggested a move to the European champions would be a 'dream' for Mascherano.

Any departure for Mascherano would leave Hodgson in need of a replacement and reports have claimed Sulley Muntari could be included in part exchange.

West Ham United's influential midfielder Scott Parker has also been mooted as a potential target for Hodgson, who is keen to bolster his squad.

Mascherano joined Liverpool from the Hammers in January 2007 after just six months at Upton Park and he has made almost 140 appearances during his time on Merseyside.

Cole admits he has signed for the best club in the country

2010-07-21T10:19:00.001-07:00

Joe Cole has described Liverpool as the "biggest club" in England after finalising his free-transfer move to Merseyside on Wednesday.

Cole was available as a free agent following his release by Chelsea and spurned interest from Arsenal and Tottenham to sign a four-year deal worth a reported £90,000 per week.

Liverpool are currently in pre-season training in Austria and in his first interview after joining the club, Cole expressed his belief that the Reds represent the pinnacle of English football.

"I set myself a deadline to make a decision and when I made it I sent a text to Christian Purslow and Steven Gerrard and then turned my phone off," Cole told the club's official website.

"I know I have made the right decision and I am looking forward to the challenge. This is a challenge for me. I have played in London all my life. I could have stayed at Chelsea because the fans loved me and I won things, but I wanted to challenge myself and when I knew Liverpool were interested it was a no-brainer because they are the biggest club in the country.

"This is a massive club. I tried to take everything out of the equation, take the financial and location side out and just thought in football terms. I thought about the semi-final of the Champions League in 2005 when I ran onto the field and the hairs on the back of my neck stood up. I was thinking about playing in that atmosphere every week and that swung it for me."

Cole's signing was warmly welcomed by Liverpool fans and also captain Steven Gerrard, who promptly indicated that his long-term future lies with the club. Gerrard had been linked with a move to Real Madrid but Cole is delighted his England colleague will remain at Anfield.

"That was the best bit of news I could have had," Cole said. "I know Stevie, he is Liverpool through and through and I know from playing with and against him for the last ten years what a quality player he is. I know how much this club means to him.

"I think players can play for other clubs but with Liverpool you have to live and breathe it. It's that kind of a place. I am excited by the challenge. I am moving my family and everyone is excited and booking their weekends up here. I am going to make it work.

"I had a chat with the gaffer about football and was impressed with him. The club has had Spanish and French managers over the years and I think it's a breath of fresh air to get an Englishman in. The club finished seventh last year, which wasn't good enough, and he explained where the club wants to go.

"I jumped on board because with the players we have here and the players we are looking to bring in, it's definitely going in the right direction."

Liverpool sign young talented defender from Rangers

2010-07-21T10:01:00.000-07:00

Defender Danny Wilson has penned a three-year deal with Liverpool from Rangers after passing his medical.

The Merseyside club will pay £2million up front to the Ibrox side for the 18-year-old centre-back, with a further £3m dependent on appearances and add-ons.

Wilson, the Scottish Football Associationand Football Writers' Young Player of the Year, insists he is ready for the Premier League move.

"This is a massive challenge for me. This is one of the best leagues in the world and I will be playing for one of the biggest teams in the world," said Wilson.

"Coming here from Scotland, people may say I might not be ready for this, but that is a challenge I want to put on myself and that's the reason I came here.

"It wasn't a difficult decision to come here as Liverpool are not a team who come in for you every day, so I can't wait to get started.

"There were other clubs interested in me who are in the Champions League, but once Liverpool came in for me there was only one team I wanted to go to."

Captain Fantastic commits his future to Liverpool

2010-07-20T10:11:00.000-07:00

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has ended speculation around his future by admitting that he is impressed with Roy Hodgson's plans for the club.

Real Madrid had made no secret of their desire to lure the England vice-captain to the Bernabeu after a disappointing campaign that saw the Reds falter to a seventh-place finish in the Premier League and crashed out of the Champinos League at the group stage.

Despite the La Liga giants publicly withdrawing their interest in Gerrard last week, question marks still remained over his final destination at the close of the transfer window.

However the 30-year-old has now broken his silence on the matter after refusing to speak about it during the World Cup and insists that he is looking forward to the new season as a Liverpool player.

He said: "I made it clear that I simply needed to concentrate on the World Cup and then have a decent holiday with my family.

"I wanted the chance to meet Roy Hodgson privately and having done so I'm very impressed with his plans for the future of the team.

"I've only returned to training today at Melwood with some of the other World Cup players, but I can't wait for the new season to start."

Gerrard also hailed the signing of former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole, who penned a four-year deal with the club yesterday, and admits that he cannot wait to team up with his international team mate.

"It's a great signing for us. I know Joe well through the England set-up and have seen first hand just how good a player he is," he added.

"He's proved his ability over many years in the Premier League, sometimes against us - so it will be fantastic to play alongside him in a red shirt for Liverpool.

"I've told him what a great club this is and I'm sure Joe's the sort of exciting talent our fans will love to see."

Liverpool sign Joe Cole , the best free transfer available

2010-07-20T02:18:00.000-07:00

Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has agreed sign for Liverpool on a free transfer, subject to a medical.

It has been reported that Cole, 28, was offered wages of £90,000-a-week to stave off interest from Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. Cole left Stamford Bridge at the end of last month after Chelsea decided not to offer him a new deal.

Cole will head to Liverpool for his medical in the next 48 hours when his move to Anfield will be rubberstamped. It may be seen as a statement of intent from new manager Roy Hodgson, who was expected to make few major signings this summer due to the club's financial constraints.

With Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard thought to be considering their futures on Merseyside, supporters will hope the signing of Cole will indicate an ability to challenge for a place in the top four this season.

It essentially means that Cole and Yossi Benayoun are swapping clubs, with a payment of £5 million in Liverpool's favour.

Cole is the second summer arrival at Liverpool after Serbia forward Milan Jovanovic joined following the expiration of his contract with Standard Liege. Hodgson is still on the look-out for a new left-back with Fabio Aurelio having left and Emiliano Insua on the verge of completing his move to Fiorentina.

Liverpool's record goalscorer Ian Rush believes the signing has only enhanced Hodgson's reputation - even before a ball has been kicked.

''Liverpool might not have been successful as we would have liked to have been recently but this shows we can still attract top name players, whether that's an England international or a foreign international,'' he said.

''We've got a great new manager in Roy Hodgson and he knows what he wants and he can talk these players into signing for our club. This is the signing supporters wanted and it's a big boost for them.

''You look at last season when we went into it not hoping but thinking we were going to win the league. This season people are thinking, 'Are we going to finish in the top four? I think this sends a sign out to Liverpool supporters that the club do mean business.''

Hodgson confirms Torres not for sale

2010-07-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

Roy Hodgson has reiterated that Liverpool have no intention of selling Fernando Torres after holding talks with the Spanish striker.

It is reported that Torres is considering his future at Liverpool following the club's failure to qualify for the Champions League and Chelsea are believed to retain an interest in the World Cup winner.

However, Liverpool are reluctant to lose any of their leading players this summer and Hodgson has firmly stated that as far as he and the club are concerned, Torres will not be leaving Anfield.

"I have met with Fernando. I found him to be a very pleasant man and we had a nice conversation," Hodgson told reporters.

"As far as we are concerned he is a Liverpool player and we want him to remain a Liverpool player. He is not for sale and we don't welcome any offers for him.

"We want to keep him. My conversation with him was only short because I had to leave to come to the training camp in Switzerland. We spoke about football, the World Cup, his injury, and I told him how much I am looking forward to working with him.

"[Managing director] Christian Purslow was also at the meeting and chatted to Fernando for a lot longer after I left but my chat with him was only about football matters."

Graham Poll answers to the question asked by Liverpool FC Forever on Coral Dugout

2010-07-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

Liverpool FC Forever had asked a question to the Football expert Graham Poll about the England Team Poor Show at the World Cup.

Just Have a Look at what he had to say...

Graham’s responses are available to view on:

Facebook - www.facebook.com/coraldugout

Twitter - www.twitter.com/coraldugout

New manager eager to meet El-Nino

2010-07-08T11:11:00.000-07:00

Hodgson has yet to meet is Torres due to the striker's World Cup commitments.

However, the Spain star announced over the weekend he was pleased with the appointment of the 62-year-old and eager to hear the new gaffer's plans for 2010-11 - and Hodgson admits the feeling is mutual.

"Fernando is a wonderful striker and I understand the fans' concerns about his future," he said.

"Unfortunately with the World Cup still on, I won't be able to meet him face to face for another few weeks. That's just circumstance and you won't hear me complaining about it.

"When I do meet him, I will be doing everything I possibly can to convince him that Liverpool is the place to be.

"If he sees progress, I am confident that he won't want to go anywhere else. I think he understands the club and the city."

Meanwhile, the manager is planning a new role for Dalglish under his Anfield reign.

Hodgson believes the Kop legend has a significant role to play in strengthening communication between the Academy and Melwood as the Reds look to develop new talent.

He explained: "I never doubted that Kenny would leave. He's been offered a role, which I believe is a crucial role for the club - not just in the short term, but in the long term.

"The club will benefit from Kenny's work long after I've left Liverpool and long after he's left as well.

"He is very aware of all the players at the Academy and I understand there are a few promising players emerging.

"He will liaise between Melwood and Kirkby and keep me updated with any developments that he deems necessary.

"There is a bridge between the Academy and the first team that needs to be created and I believe he can help build that bridge."

Hodgson confident Gerrard won't quit

2010-07-08T11:07:00.000-07:00

Hodgson met with Gerrard and Carragher - and later Academy Ambassador Kenny Dalglish - in his new office at Melwood.

And the tactician was left thrilled with the positive nature of the conversations.

"I think they went splendidly," Hodgson told LFC Weekly. "I was very happy to meet the players and, of course, Kenny who I already know so well.

"I was delighted to see how positive they are. Everybody is looking forward to the new season."

He added: "Obviously Steven and Jamie are the playing heartbeat of the club and it's very important we keep people like that with us.

"I anticipate there might be a situation where other big clubs will try and sign Steven, but he gave no indication that he wanted to leave.

"Nobody at the club wants him to go so I will be doing my utmost to make sure he stays. I am confident he will."

Jovanovic arrives at Anfield

2010-07-08T10:55:00.000-07:00

Roy Hodgson has made his first signing as Liverpool manager, bringing Serbian forward Milan Jovanvoic to the club on a free transfer from Standard Liege.

Liverpool have confirmed the Bosman signing of Serbia forward Milan Jovanovic on a three-year deal.
The 29-year-old joins the Merseyside club from Belgian club Standard Liege after weeks of speculation as to whether he would honour a pre-contract agreement signed when Rafael Benitez was still in charge.

Benitez has since been replaced by Roy Hodgson, but Jovanovic has kept his word and will now join the squad at their Switzerland pre-season training camp. The Serbian becomes Liverpool's first signing of the summer and the first under Roy Hodgson's reign.

Speaking to the official club website, Jovanovic said: "It is an honour for me to sign for one of the biggest clubs in football.
"I cannot wait to start working with the manager and I'm looking forward to joining up with my new teammates on our Swiss training camp."

Jovanovic is predominately left-footed and can play on the left-hand side of midfield or up front. The club's well-documented financial problems mean Liverpool supporters may have to get used to several low-key signings over the summer.

But Jovanovic will be hoping to shake off any possible 'bargain basement' label; interest from several Premier League clubs, as well as AC Milan, Valencia and Real Madrid, suggest he has been brought to the club on merit rather than not commanding a transfer fee for his services.

Hodgson and Liverpool supporters will be hoping he can replicate his Standard Liege form for his new club. He won Belgian Footballer of the Year in 2008 and was the league's top scorer in 2009. He also scored the winner for Serbia against Germany at this year's World Cup in an otherwise disappointing campaign.

Welcome to "The Dugout"

2010-07-04T23:25:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the "The Dugout" , the place where you'll get all the information about the World Cup.

Check out the insider stories from the world cup.A global forum to discuss the world cup.All the football fanatics from around the world have gathered at The Dugout.So don't miss a chance to express your view and opinion on your favourite team and your favourite Player.

This world cup if you cannot go to South Africa then this is the place to be.

For football opinion, news and latest odds people should go to Coral Dugout
If people want their chance to Ask a Pro they should check out the Coral Facebook app http://www.facebook.com/coraldugout
Or, if you like twitter, follow @coral_dugout via www.twitter.com/coral_dugout

Carra confident Gerrard and Torres wil stay put

2010-07-04T14:38:00.000-07:00

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher is confident star players Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres will still be at the club next season.

The pair have both been the subject of speculation this summer following the Reds' failure to qualify for the Champions League and the departure of manager Rafael Benitez.

Some observers believe retaining their services is one of the first tasks facing new boss Roy Hodgson but Carragher expects them to stay at Anfield.

The 32-year-old told talkSPORT: "I think there is a lot of talk about this but the people who say these things, a lot of them are doing this to create a bit of pressure around the club. I don't think anyone knows these people personally to come out and say that.

"I am sure they will still be involved at the club next season and if they are the aim for the club will be to get back into the Champions League. We didn't just miss out, we finished seventh. That is a big disappointment.

"If we could get back in there that would be a great achievement for the club and the manager. It is going to be a tough season but if we keep the players we have got and get back to where we were a few years ago I am sure we will give everyone a run for their money."

Carragher is looking forward to working with veteran boss Hodgson, who led Fulham to the Europa League final last season. "I think it is a great appointment by the club," he said. "I am sure we can move on from this and it will go well."

Benayoun makes stamford bridge switch

2010-07-04T14:34:00.000-07:00

Chelsea have completed the signing of Yossi Benayoun from Liverpool on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee. And Fernando Torres, Steven Gerrard and Javier Mascherano could soon follow him out of the door.

As revealed by Soccernet two months ago, Benayoun had been made one of Carlo Ancelotti's primary targets for the summer. And now the Israel international has put pen to paper on a deal thought to be worth around £5 million.

"I am very excited to come to a club like Chelsea, it is a big club and I think it is a dream for every player. Hopefully we will be successful," Benayoun said on the club's official website.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti added: "We are happy to have this new player. Yossi has a lot of quality in midfield and can play in lots of positions. I like his behaviour on the pitch and he will do a great job for us next season."

The sale of Benayoun to Chelsea was completed personally by owner Roman Abramovich, who will now step up his efforts to capture Torres.

Roy keen on keeping Kenny on board

2010-07-04T14:10:00.000-07:00

New Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson is keen to retain the services of club legend Kenny Dalglish.

Hodgson, 62, officially took over on Thursday after signing a three-year contract having impressed in a final round of interviews at the weekend against one other unnamed candidate.

Dalglish, who given the role of identifying candidates to replace Rafael Benitez, had wanted a return to the role he successfully undertook in the late 1980s and early 1990s but was not even considered by Liverpool's board.

The man generally regarded as the club's greatest player may see that as something of a slight but Hodgson, a friend of Dalglish, very much wants him to remain on board. Dalglish is currently involved in youth development at the academy and is an ambassador for the club.

"Kenny will play a very big part in bringing youth players through," Hodgson said. "If he is going to take on the role of head of football development, his role in making that bridge between Kirkby (where the academy is based) and Melwood (the first team training ground) is going to be a vital one.

"I think he has lots of other roles to play. With his position at the football club I compare him to Giacinto Facchetti at Inter or Bobby Charlton at Manchester United - they have such a role to play. When this club needs representing, especially on a foreign stage, who better to represent it than Kenny Dalglish?

"I am hoping that between those two roles, ambassador and head of youth development, and the advice and help he is going to give me in my job, we will get great currency out of Kenny if he wants to be part of that and I hope he does.

"I had a long conversation with Kenny before I got the job and we need to sit down together now to work out how it will work in practice. With goodwill on his side - and there is plenty of goodwill on my side - we should find a solution."

Chairman Martin Broughton was somewhat dismissive when asked about how Dalglish's expression of interest in the manager's job had been received by the board.

"Kenny put his name forward for wanting the job and we appreciated the fact he was keen to do it but for us he was never a candidate and I explained that to him," he said. "We see Kenny as having an excellent long-term future at this club.

"He is happy in his current ambassadorial role but we would like to build on that role - although we haven't defined what that will be yet because it is for Roy and Kenny to work beyond that."

For his part, Dalglish has backed the appointment of Hodgson as the new Liverpool manager.

"I look very favourably on the appointment," he told the Daily Mail. "I have known Roy a long time and have a great respect for him. We've not had detailed conversations yet but my interests are in Liverpool."

New Manager determined to keep star players

2010-07-04T13:57:00.000-07:00

New Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson hopes to persuade star players such as Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres to stay with the club.

Hodgson officially took on the job vacated by Rafael Benitez on Thursday, and he will have to overcome the doubts of players and supporters ahead of Liverpool's first Europa League qualifier at the end of July.

Another player, Javier Mascherano, seems certain to leave with Benitez eager to take him to Inter Milan. Mascherano has already admitted to learning Italian.

First up for Hodgson was a meeting with experienced Anfield pros Gerrard and Jamie Carragher when he would outline his vision.

"It will be actions more than words,'' said Hodgson. "But my talk with them will be about how much I want to work with them, how much I want them to stay at the club, how much the club and fans want them to stay and that by staying at the club we can achieve as much success as they could find by leaving the club.

"That is all I can say to them. Then of course it is a case of making certain with your actions on the training ground and match days they see you are not just talking but are practising what you preach. I will be trying to persuade them that their future is with the club they love and have always played for.

"They are more than just Liverpool football club players, they are the heartbeat and very much the soul of this team. My hope will be is that they will give me the benefit of their services, just as they have given other managers the benefit of their services.

"I hope they won't be tempted, on the back of one disappointing year, to jump ship. I personally can't nail their feet to the floor. I'll try to convince them that if they stay here and have a good season then it's a good club to play for. It's out of my hands to an extent, but I do know the club is anxious to keep the players, I'm anxious to keep the players.

"We'll do all in our power to keep them. The fans are intelligent and know the situation. They can't expect me to give guarantees they'll stay on.''

Chairman Martin Broughton said of possible sales and thoughts star players may have of leaving: "I haven't personally had any conversations with them but conversations have taken place and we remain optimistic on that. I know there are rumours out there about the club needing to sell players.

"If I can just go on record again and say they are not for sale, we don't need the money. We don't have any desire or need to sell players in order to pay down the debt.''

Liverpool have their new coach in Roy Hodgson

2010-07-04T13:47:00.000-07:00

Roy Hodgson is their new Liverpool manager after agreeing a compensation deal with Fulham.

Hodgson, 62, has signed a three-year contract at Anfield and will be officially unveiled to the media at a press conference on Thursday, having overseen the first day of pre-season training at Melwood.

The former Inter Milan and Switzerland boss had been heavily linked with the post since Rafael Benitez left the club for Inter last month and Liverpool finally got their man after agreeing a deal with the Cottagers for Hodgson to be released.

Hodgson impressed at Fulham last season - guiding the Cottagers to the Europa League final - and was voted Manager of the Year by the League Managers' Association for his efforts.

"This is the biggest job in club football and I'm honoured to be taking on the role of manager of Britain's most successful football club," Hodgson told Liverpool's official website.

"I look forward to meeting the players and the supporters and getting down to work at Melwood."

Hodgson is likely to be joined at Anfield by his trusted assistant Mike Kelly, although Sammy Lee - brought in by Benitez because of his coaching credentials and links to the club's successful past - is expected to be given a role somewhere in the new set-up.

In a bid to stave off any future interest from England, it is reported that there has been no get-out clause included in Hodgson's contract should the national team job become available.

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has praised the appointment of Hodgson and believes that the former Fulham boss is "the right man for the job".

"The club have made a good appointment in Roy Hodgson,'' Gerrard said. "Rafa left a few weeks ago and I know the club were determined to take their time and get the right man for the job.

"Roy is hugely experienced and I believe he is the right man for Liverpool. "I think it's been worth the wait and I'm sure he's just keen now to get on with it and start to quickly put in place his plans for the new season.''

Liverpool to be rich than City and Chelsea,if this take over goes through

2010-06-08T21:35:00.000-07:00

According to latest reports surfacing, an Abu Dhabi billionaire might be on the cards for a comlplete takeover.

Nothing has been agreed upon or finalized, no press release or media report, so don't celebrate just yet.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan is the current President of the United Arab Emirates and Emir (Ruler/ Leader) of Abu Dhabi. His one of the wealthiest Arab businessmen in the World. He is wealthier than his half-brother, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who is the owner of Manchester City FC.

Sheikh Khalifa as his known is said to be the third wealthiest royal with his net-worth around $19 billion, he also has major interest in Abu Dhabi and UAE developments.

If he successfully takes over Liverpool, he will look to make major investments in the club and according to stats, with his wealth Liverpool could have more financial power than both Manchester City and Roman Abromovich's Chelsea.

With so much money been spent around in recent years on club takeovers and player transfers, this could be exactly what Liverpool need. And in terms of the club, it could be perfect as they hope and wish to keep their most prized assets, Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard, at Anfield.

Recently we also heard of a bid by a wealthy middle-eastern businessman said to also be from Abu Dhabi who prepared a multi-billion dollar bid for Manchester United but was unsuccessful as the Glazers turned it down.

King Kenny in the front seat for Anfield Job

2010-06-08T21:33:00.000-07:00

Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish has asked to be taken off the selection panel to find a new manager as he feels he may be able to take the job himself.

The Anfield club are on the prowl for a replacement for Rafael Benitez and installed Dalglish to lead the search with managing director Christian Purslow.

But reports suggest that Dalglish may put himself forward for the job after seeing the shortlist of candidates.

The top name on that list is Fulham’s Roy Hodgson but it is believed that he will remain in London so Dalglish now has interest in taking the reins at his beloved club.

He had a stint as manager of the Reds in between 1985 and 1991 before moving onto Blackburn, Newcastle and Celtic. He then returned to Anfield last year in an ambassadorial role as well as overseeing the youth academy but it now seems he wants to do more for a club who has struggled for silverware in recent times.

Eriksson wants dream Liverpool job

2010-06-05T10:32:00.000-07:00

The race for the newly vacant Liverpool manager's job is hotting up as Sven-Goran Eriksson threw his hat into the ring and former winger John Barnes gave his backing to Kenny Dalglish - if the Anfield legend wants to reprise his old role.

Meanwhile, media reports claim managing director Christian Purslow and Dalglish, the duo in charge of the search for a replacement for Rafael Benitez, have set their sights on Fulham boss Roy Hodgson as the number one target for the role, with Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill also in the running.

Former England and Manchester City manager Eriksson admitted he is a life-long Liverpool fan and that he wants to manage the club. Eriksson said he was shocked to learn Benitez had left Anfield and said he hopes to be in contention to take over at Liverpool once his short stint in charge of the Ivory Coast comes to an end in South Africa.

Eriksson told the Sun: "I have been a Liverpool fan all of my life. I never mentioned it when I was in charge of England because I didn't think it was fair. I was shocked when I discovered Rafa Benitez had left. Would I want to be the manager of Liverpool? It is every manager's dream to manage Liverpool.''

Eriksson told how he used to watch Liverpool games on TV at home in Sweden and how he also visited Anfield when he was learning his way as a coach.

"My father was also a Liverpool supporter and every Saturday we would watch an English match on television. It was the highlight of the week. Liverpool matches were televised quite regularly and we would cheer them on. They have always been my team and nothing has changed.

"When I was starting out in coaching I was invited to Liverpool to see how they did things. Joe Fagan was the manager at the time. I remember him showing me around Anfield and taking me into their legendary boot room. It was such a privilege and an honour for me to be invited in there. I will never forget that moment. Liverpool will always hold a special place in my heart.

Former Anfield star Barnes believes the club must quickly put their faith in a new manager to ensure stability. He told BBC Radio Five Live: "Whoever comes in should come in now and say 'I'm the manager of Liverpool' - not short term, and you can't really say long term because as a manager you know two years and you're not going to be there. I think Kenny would do a fantastic job, but I've no idea (whether he wants to go back into management).''

With limited funding available, Barnes admits the incoming manager must get the best out of a squad whose lack of depth was exposed in last season's seventh-place finish in the Premier League.

"The new manager has got to be someone who can come in and work with the existing squad,'' he said. "I hope Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres stay because I think they've been our best players.''

Alonso hopes for Gerrard reunion at Madrid, but Anfield reunion should be much better

2010-06-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

Xabi Alonso would be delighted to see former Liverpool team-mate Steven Gerrard join him at Real Madrid.

Jose Mourinho, who attempted to prise Gerrard away from Anfield during his time at Chelsea, has hinted that he could be interested in the England midfielder and the Spanish press reported on Friday that a €30 million bid is in the offing.

Alonso says he still holds his former club in high regard but suggested he would relish the chance to play alongside the Liverpool captain once more.

"We will see what happens," he said. "Steven is a legend at Liverpool and I have a lot of respect for Liverpool's fans and also the club, but it is clear that he's an awesome player. He has incredible quality."

Madrid are also believed to be considering a move for Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi.

Liverpool captain to get the England armband at the world cup

2010-06-04T12:16:00.000-07:00

Steven Gerrard has declared he is ready to captain England at this summer’s World Cup after Rio Ferdinand was ruled out of the tournament.

Gerrard was vice-captain going into the tournament and is prepared to step up to the plate.

“Every player in the squad wants Rio to be fit and available and leading us at the World Cup," he told reporters

"But I will be ready to lead the country if called upon."

This comes after England captain Rio Ferdinand was ruled out of the World Cup after picking up an ankle injury in England’s first training session in South Africa and Gerrard reaffirmed his commitment to England and the World Cup campaign.

"There is still a lot of ambition in myself to go and achieve big things,” he said.

"The biggest thing you can do as a player is to win the World Cup so that's the challenge. The hunger [to win the World Cup] is still there.

"The World Cup is the pinnacle for any player. It's a fantastic stage to go and do well on. That's the challenge for me."

With Ferdinand now out of the World Cup, Michael Dawson, who was included in the 30-man provisional squad, will join up with the England team in South Africa.

England’s World Cup preparations are now underway and the team’s first World Cup fixture against the USA is just eight days away.

England face a reasonable group with matches against Algeria, the USA and Slovenia and Fabio Capello’s team will be looking to progress further.

Toure linked to Liverpool

2010-06-04T02:57:00.000-07:00

Yaya Touré could be in line for a move to Liverpool after his agent claimed that the Barcelona midfielder has already agreed a deal to join a Premier League club.

Chelsea and Manchester United have both been in the hunt for the 27-year-old, who has also been linked with a move to Manchester City where he would link up with brother Kolo, as Barcelona continue to eye Cesc Fabregas.

But after Arsenal rejected a £29million bid earlier this week, the La Liga champions have once again turned their attention to Javier Mascherano after failing to lure the Liverpool holding midfielder to Spain last summer.

A swap deal has been mooted with Mascherano, 25, keen to leave Anfield whilst Liverpool are unable to meet Barca's €36million asking price, but Touré's agent, Dimitri Seluk, has remained tight-lipped until the Ivory Coast international returns from the World Cup.

He said: "If everything goes well, Yaya will go to England.

"But we can't talk about definite clubs. We already have a closed deal, and all will be resolved before the World Cup."

Liverpool supporters also claim that managing director Christian Purslow hinted at a deal for Touré was imminent when he was bombarded with phone calls yesterday following Rafael Benitez's departure.

Rafa Benitez quits Liverpool

2010-06-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

Rafael Benitez has left Liverpool by mutual consent.

Benitez, who took over from Gerard Houllier in 2004, found his position untenable after a disappointing season which saw Liverpool finish seventh in the Premier League, just 12 months after being runners-up to Manchester United.

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

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

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

After a poor start to the campaign, which included an exit from the Champions League in the group stage, Benitez guaranteed he would qualify for the competition in 2010-11. But Benitez failed to deliver on that guarantee and only booked a place in the Europa League due to Portsmouth's perilous financial state, with Liverpool losing 19 matches in all competitions.

Failure to qualify for Europe's elite competition has ramifications for Liverpool's own finances, leading to speculation that star names such as Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres could be sold off to balance the books.

News of the 50-year-old's impending exit broke on Wednesday evening with talks underway to agree a compensation package. It is thought Benitez will receive a £6 million pay-off.

The Liverpool board feels that the club needs a new direction to stand any chance of finishing in the top four next season.

Liverpool released the following statement: "Liverpool FC today confirmed that Rafael Benitez is to leave the club by mutual consent. Mr Benitez relinquishes his position as team manager after six years and the board of directors would like to place on record their grateful thanks for his services and wish him all the best in his future career.

"The board has now asked managing director Christian Purslow, with the assistance of club ambassador Kenny Dalglish, to begin a formal search to identify and assess potential candidates for the managerial position. No timescale has been placed on the process and Liverpool FC will make no further statement until a new manager is appointed."

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

Benitez, who won the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005 and also reached the final 2007, is now the favourite to take over at Inter Milan following Jose Mourinho's exit for Real Madrid and Fabio Capello's decision to stay with England.

"We really like Rafa Benitez and he is in our favour since the Champions League final in Istanbul [when Liverpool beat rivals AC Milan in 2005]," Inter director Gabriele Oriali told Corriere dello Sport.

Valencia playmaker linked to Liverpool again

2010-06-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

Liverpool are being linked with a move for Argentine international midfielder Ever Banega.

The Valencia star has been linked with a move to Anfield in the past, and now reports in Spain and Argentina suggest Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is ready to make his move with the transfer window back open.

Banega enjoyed a rapid rise to success in his homeland, graduating from youth to senior level at Boca Juniors. After only one teenage season in the Argentine Primera División, Spanish side Valencia snapped up the youngster for a fee in the region of €18 million.

An unconvincing start to life at the Mestalla saw a loan move to Atletico Madrid, but that failed to reap any rewards for either party as Banega struggled to make an impact for Los Colchoneros.

A return to Los Che has failed to reignite his career, and now the Champions League qualifiers are thought to be looking to recoup some of the money spent on Banega with a summer sale.

Financial problems for the La Liga side only adds up the reasons why the club are looking for a sale, and this coupled alongside Benitez's relationship at the club means a deal is more possible than first thought.

An £8.5 million transfer fee could prove to be a major stumbling block in the deal, and the Spaniard will have to work some magic in bringing that figure down amidst reports that the Merseyside giants don't have much of a transfer kitty to play with at this time.

£15 Transfer Kitty on the cards

2010-05-31T11:50:00.000-07:00

Liverpool have moved to reject reports their summer transfer kitty is empty, and insist manager Rafael Benitez has £15 million to spend.

The Anfield outfit were rumoured to have less than £5m to splash in the transfer window, after failing to qualify for the Champions League last season and accruing debts of £473 million. According to the News of the World, the club's hierarchy have handed the under-fire Spaniard the money to spend, as well as giving him permission to invest any cash generated from player sales.

Yossi Benayoun has been tipped to leave the club in the summer, while Benitez will also look to offload the likes of Albert Riera as he attempts to rebuild his squad.

There will be no big-money splashes on superstar names though, as Liverpool feel the pinch after a season to forget on and off the field.

La Liga winger almost certain to join Liverpool

2010-05-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

Winger Simao Sabrosa could be set for a transfer to Liverpool this summer, where he will be paired with fellow former Atletico Madrid star Fernando Torres.

The 30-year-old wide man is being lined-up by Rafael Benitez in a bid to solve the Reds' left-sided problems, with Albert Riera currently out of favour.
Despite having only three years or so left at the top level, Simao could end up costing Liverpool as much as £8million - although cash-strapped Atletico are reportedly keen to sell the player to raise funds.

Simao never actually played alongside Torres, as he arrived in the summer of 2007 at the same time as the Spanish striker left for Anfield.
Benitez believes Simao's pace and crossing threat could reduce the pressure on his star striker by adding a creative element down the left.
But the Portuguese has played down talk of a move.
'Nobody has spoken with me in the last days about this subject,' he said.
'I only say that some people in Madrid have suggested that Atletico are preparing my sale, but I don’t know too much.
’I have always been interested in playing in the Premier League, but my head is in the World Cup and I have a deal with Atletico.'
Simao has one year left on his contract at Atletico, meaning a sale could be pushed through this summer or the Spanish outfit risk losing him for free in 12 months' time.

Torres not aware about his agent's comment's

2010-05-26T23:11:00.000-07:00

Fernando Torres has refused to commit his long-term future to Liverpool and claims he is unaware of quotes from his agent on Tuesday which indicated he would be staying at Anfield this summer.

Torres' future has been the subject of some debate after a poor season for Liverpool in which they finished seventh in the table and failed to qualify for the Champions League. Chelsea, Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid have all been linked with the striker.

His agent, Jose Antonio Peton, appeared to settle the question of his client's future on Tuesday when telling a Spanish radio station, "For the moment, I can assure fans that Fernando will continue at Liverpool next season."

However, Torres would not endorse those comments in a press conference with his national team on Wednesday and said he was unaware that his agent had spoken to the media.

"I didn't read them," said Torres when questioned about his agent's comments. "The most important thing for me now is the World Cup. My future is the World Cup and then we'll see later.

"For now and hopefully for the next two months the only thing I am thinking about and talking about is the World Cup."

On a day when former Liverpool owner David Moores called on George Gillett and Tom Hicks to end their ownership of the club, Torres admitted that off-the-field issues were a concern.

"That is one of the ways we need to improve," Torres said. "I know the situation, I speak to the chief executive and Rafa every week and I am aware of what is going on. But because I am focusing on the World Cup I don't know what the situation is right now."

The striker is currently preparing for the World Cup finals in South Africa and is recovering from a knee operation that curtailed his impact for Liverpool at the conclusion of the season.

However, Torres is optimistic of being fit for Spain's World Cup campaign which begins with a fixture against Switzerland on June 16.

"I feel better," Torres said. "I have been training on my own for five weeks with just me and the fitness coach. Hopefully next week I'll be training with the rest of my team-mates. If all goes well I'll be in normal training on Monday."

Good news from unusual source as rest is all bad news

2010-05-26T23:08:00.000-07:00

Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks has vociferously defended his record at Anfield, claiming that the club have improved under the stewardship of himself and George Gillett and revealing that Rafael Benitez will be given a "substantial" transfer budget this summer.

Hicks and Gillett decided last month to sell the club after more than three tempestuous years of infighting and fan protests, with Hicks confirming that the duo hope to complete the sale by the end of the year.

But despite mounting criticism over the way the pair have conducted their affairs since taking over in March 2007, Hicks claimed Liverpool had actually improved under their leadership.

Having posted their worst Premier League finish for 11 years - seventh - speculation has grown about the futures of Benitez, striker Fernando Torres and captain Steven Gerrard.

However, Hicks said although they were in the process of finding new buyers, he and Gillett did not want to cash in on their prize assets - despite the debt of parent company Kop Holdings rising to £351 million last summer - and were prepared to invest heavily in the squad.

"We have no intention of selling any of our top players and we have a substantial transfer budget in place,'' Hicks told Sky Sports News. There's so much misinformation about transfer spending.

"It's more than doubled under the ownership of George and myself from the previous three years and we will make a significant investment this summer. It's really about getting the right players.

"There's been so much misinformation put out by people who have their own agendas and it's unfortunate. But the truth is the club is much better off than it was three years ago.

"We've done our best. I'm disappointed on a personal level that are efforts have not been received as well as I wish they had have been.''

Benitez has suggested he needs at least £50 million to get the club back on track in terms of challenging for the Champions League places never mind the Premier League as they did in the 2008/09 season. Torres has also called for "four or five'' quality signings this summer.

Hicks said he was prepared to make allowances for one season, after watching the club struggle badly over the recent campaign.

"We're all disappointed with where we finished this year," Hicks said. "People forget that we almost won the Premier League last year (finishing a close second to Manchester United with a record 86 points). We had injuries and players performing below their level of expectation.''

Former chairman David Moores admitted on Wednesday that he "hugely regrets'' selling to the Americans. In 2007 they paid £470 million for Liverpool, but having incurred so much debt in the purchase and subsequent running of the club, many potential investors baulked at the asking price of almost double that set by Hicks last month.

However, the Texan believes that could be a fair price for a club which has reached two Champions League finals, winning one, since 2005.

"I think I have said £600-800million is not an unrealistic value range, but the market's the market. We'll see,'' he said. "We will sell the club. We're not going to sell it to the wrong group, we're not going to sell it for the wrong price, we're going to do it in a very thoughtful way.

"I don't anticipate it will be done necessarily before the beginning of the next season. We hope it gets done by the end of the calendar year.

"We're more concerned about finding the right next owner, somebody that can make the investment in the club to get the stadium built, and to let Liverpool be the best possible football club in the world.

"The new stadium is fully designed now and the global financing markets are back so I think with the change of ownership coming we'll be able to have the new stadium built for Liverpool.''

Liverpool looking at City surplus

2010-05-26T23:00:00.000-07:00

Liverpool will reportedly attempt to snare Manchester City winger Shaun Wright Phillips this summer. Rafa Benitez is keen to add more natural width to his Anfield side and is willing to offer attacking midfielder Yossi Benayoun as part of any potential deal to land the Eastlands man.

Having found himself surplus to requirements under Roberto Mancini the former Chelsea man is hoping to get his career back on track and may feel that the only way to do so is to leave the club he has served for eight years over two spells.

Rafa Benitez has played Dirk Kuyt out on the right wing for the best part of two seasons but now feels it is necessary to bring in an out and out winger as he looks to add more balance to his Liverpool side. Reports have suggested that Mancini could accept as little as £8m for the 28 year old England international and the fact that City have been linked with a move for Yossi Benayoun may present the possibility of a player swap which could suit all parties.

He will be there with us

2010-05-23T11:18:00.000-07:00

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

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

But Reina spoke to his compatriot this week and claims Torres is committed to turning the club's fortunes around. "I am calm about Fernando," Reina said in quotes reported by The People. "I spoke to him about his future and he has told me that he intends to continue with us.

"Fernando suffered so many blows last season, but he is a professional and has always wanted to do well for us. That is what he remains - committed to this club," he said.

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

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

Carragher admits Liverpool do not need players who wish to leave

2010-05-20T20:15:00.000-07:00

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has warned that no player in the Anfield dressing room is irreplaceable, following rumours that a host of stars could be leaving this summer.

Speculation has linked several players, including Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Javier Mascherano, with moves away from the club after a disappointing season under Rafael Benitez, and Carragher has stressed that no player is bigger than the club.

"I want the people to come back who want to be there. If anyone doesn't want to be here, no problem. No one is bigger than Liverpool Football Club,” he said.

"People always talk about players leaving and saying 'this is the end of Liverpool'. No chance.

"Better players than the ones we have now have left and we have replaced them."

Carragher is currently training with the England squad in the Austrian Alps after accepting Fabio Capello’s call to return from the international wilderness after announcing his retirement in 2007.

And the long-serving Liverpool defender has confessed he has no time for those who do not wish to demonstrate their full commitment to the Anfield cause.

Stars such as Mascherano have made no secrets of their desires to leave the club, with the Argentine midfielder admitting that it was a "shame" that his proposed move to Barcelona fell through last season.

But Carragher is determined to redeem matters at Anfield after a poor campaign, and is eager to begin as soon as the World Cup ends.

"I know what it is like after a poor season. There is a lot of negativity. We have had it all season and I am sure we will have it again throughout the summer.

"Obviously I want to enjoy the World Cup and do well. But I can't wait to get back to Liverpool and try to put it right."

Swap deal on the cards

2010-05-19T21:07:00.000-07:00

Alberto Aquilani could be leaving Liverpool and heading to Juventus in an exchange deal involving Brazil international Felipe Melo.

Aquilani has struggled with fitness since joining Liverpool from Roma in a £20 million deal last summer.

The midfielder has not convinced he can adapt to the needs of the Barclays Premier League and Juventus are keen to bring Aquilani back to Italy.

Defensive midfielder Melo, who was heavily linked with Arsenal last summer, has not had a happy season with Juventus since joining them from Fiorentina a year ago in a deal worth over £20m.

Despite making 25 appearances for the Old Lady, the 26-year-old was voted the worst player in Serie A last season by listeners of an Italian radio station and was rewarded with the Bidone d'Oro or Golden Bin - a prize whose 'winners' include Rivaldo and Adriano.

Sources in Turin say the exchange deal would be in both clubs' interests with Aquilani happy to resume his career in Serie A after an unhappy debut season in England.

Liverpool interested in Valencia attacker

2010-05-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

Liverpool are looking to make a hopeful bid to bring Valencia attacker Juan Mata to Anfield. Rafa Benitez is willing to offer Spanish international Albert Rieira as part of a cash plus player bid for the impish 22 year old.

Benitez is currently unsure of what sort of transfer budget he will be given this summer as the Merseyside outfit looks for new investment so is looking at ways to bring in new additions by offering players he deems as surplus to requirements.

Rieira has never really got going at the club since his move from Espanyol in September 2008 and was reportedly close to making a move to Russia two months ago but may now be used as a makeweight in a deal to sign £16m rated Mata who can play in a number of attacking positions ranging from an orthodox winger to part of a two man strike pairing.

Valencia are in dire financial straits and are more likely to consider offers for Juan Mata so as to avert the need to cash in on the likes of David Silva and David Villa.

Rafa wants to continue at Liverpool

2010-05-19T21:00:00.000-07:00

Rafa Benitez believes he made the mistake of being successful too early in his reign as Liverpool manager and expectations have been too high since.

"I made a big mistake, which was to start off by winning four titles," Benitez, who took over at Anfield in the summer of 2004, told a forum in his native Madrid on Wednesday.

"Then people ask more of you, when in reality in the Premier League it's taken for granted that a manager needs time at the start to adapt."

Benitez, who has been linked with jobs in Italy, said he intended to see out his contract, which runs until 2014, and was determined to build a competitive team.

"My future is Liverpool and I have had no offers (from other clubs)," he said.

In his first season in charge, Benitez led Liverpool to a Champions League triumph and European Super Cup in 2005 followed by the FA Cup and Charity Shield in 2006.

A title drought has followed and Liverpool finished seventh in the league last season, 23 points behind champions Chelsea.

Senior Liverpool players, including Spain striker Fernando Torres and captain Steven Gerrard, have urged the club to make some high profile signings before next season.

But American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett put the club up for sale last month and British media have reported the club's debts are more than 350 million pounds ($499 million).

"I have had a couple of meetings with the new (chairman Martin Broughton) to clarify the situation," Benitez said.

"We need to know how much money we have, and that also depends on (player) sales."

Rafa confident of attracting top talent to anfield

2010-05-18T20:14:00.000-07:00

Rafael Benitez is confident Liverpool will still be able to attract high-class signings this summer despite the absence of Champions League football next season and doubts remaining about his future at the club.

"Liverpool is a massive club and can attract top-class players because of their name and their history and the quality we have in the squad," Benitez said. "Always we have targets in mind. We have been working and preparing the targets and every year is the same."

Inter want Rafa to replce Jose

2010-05-18T20:10:00.000-07:00

Inter Milan have contacted Rafael Benitez over the prospect of being installed as Jose Mourinho's successor.

The Serie A champions have approached the Liverpool manager, with Mourinho expected to depart for Real Madrid following Inter's Champions League final, coincidentally at the Bernabeu Stadium, on Saturday night.

Marco Branca, the Nerazzurri's technical director, has sounded out Benitez to take the managerial reins at the San Siro after Juventus ended their search for a long-term replacement to Alberto Zaccheroni with Sampdoria’s Luigi Del Neri agreeing to join them.

Inter's city rivals AC Milan had also been keeping tabs on Benitez's situation following a disappointing season but have been forced to play the waiting game as he hammers out talks with chairman Martin Broughton over what he stands to gain by remaining at Anfield.

With Liverpool unable to offer guarantees over transfer funds recouped on players sold being reinvested in the playing squad, Inter are hoping that a huge offer lined to help retain the Serie A title and the Champions League, should they win it, will be enough to tempt the Kop boss.

However if Benitez opted to switch to the blue half of Milan, he would be charged with reinventing an ageing side as well as a tough act to follow in the shadow of Mourinho's footsteps; something which AC Milan are hoping will swing in their favour.

The seven-time European champions have a similar rebuilding process to their local rivals after Leonardo was dismissed by club president Silvio Berlusconi following Sunday's 3-0 win over Juventus.

Masch finding life difficult at Liverpool

2010-05-18T20:03:00.000-07:00

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has admitted that he still harbours regrets about not joining Spanish giants Barcelona last summer.

The Argentinian scrapper held talks with Barca over a transfer directly before the start of last season and has now confessed to The Liverpool Echo that, after the move failed to materialise, the distraction of the protracted negotiations left him struggling to find his form;

“The situation with Barcelona really affected me, It was a shame it didn’t happen as [Barcelona] was the city where I wanted to live.

There were many discussions and problems during that month-and-a-half. They were difficult times for me. One day I was off to Barcelona, the next I wasn’t, and Liverpool said I was non-transferable.

Psychologically, it affected me as I couldn’t think in Liverpool and I was focused on other stuff and not on my work – my training and playing.

Also, we were having problems with Argentina as our qualification to the World Cup was in danger. There was a lot of complicated stuff at that time.”

The 25-year-old scrapper then went on to insist that he is happy with life in England, but hinted that he (or at least his wife) would still welcome a move from Merseyside to Catalonia;

“I have no problem living in Liverpool, but my wife and daughters deserve to enjoy every day to the full and live their lives, but they have to be home all day.

My wife doesn’t speak a word of English so she depends 100 per cent on me. I live here with them. That’s my world, that’s my life.”

Rafa has no room for Yossi

2010-05-16T03:40:00.000-07:00

Yossi Benayoun has been told he has no future at Liverpool by manager Rafa Benitez.

But despite several clubs, including Sevilla and Spurs, hunting the £9million-rated midfielder, Liverpool will block his sale until the Anfield managerial crisis is resolved. Benayoun's fate is being seen as the acid test of whether Benitez will avoid the sack this summer.

Benitez and Benayoun's relationship has broken down and tensions came to a head when the Israeli was left out of the squad for the final league game at Hull a week ago.

No major deals will be sanctioned until the board determines who will lead the team next season, and Benayoun says he is willing to fight on at Anfield under new management.

Benitez will see his decision on Benayoun as a test of how much authority he still has at the club.

If he's over-ruled, he'll know he no longer has the backing of the board, although they're stalling on whether to sack him because of the cost. The sale of Benayoun, who a new manager may wish to keep, would be a clear signal Benitez is staying.

Benayoun won't be the only high profile departure unless there is a change of manager.

But Liverpool are adamant they can bide their time and wait until just before pre-season before clarifying the situation.

What's certain is the only way Benitez will leave is if he's sacked. Despite hints he was considering quitting towards the end of the season, it's clear he would never walk away from his lucrative contract.

Liverpool to go italian again

2010-05-16T03:33:00.000-07:00

Liverpool are lining up a bid for Italian striker Giampaolo Pazzini this summer as Rafa Benitez looks to bring in new attacking options to his faltering Anfield side. After a break out season at Sampdoria the 25 year old has become a target for many sides looking to lure the former Fiorentina man away from the Genoa side.

The Merseyside club have found themselves too reliant on Fernando Torres over the past two seasons and Benitez is looking to bring in reinforcements. Whilst the club have secured Milan Jovanovi? on a free deal they are still hopeful of bringing in another striker to the club.

Pazzini is valued at around £11m and whilst Liverpool are in financial difficulties Benitez believes he can finance any deal for the Italian international by selling some of his squad players. The likes of Albert Rieira, Philipp Degen and Ryan Babel could all be set to leave the club this summer and their sales would help bring in money to help any move for the Italian international.

Tottenham consider swap deal

2010-05-12T20:08:00.000-07:00

Tottenham Hotspur could make a move that would send striker Roman Pavlyuchenko to Liverpool in exchange for midfielder Yossi Benayoun.

The Reds were looking to bring the Russian international to Anfield in the winter but Spurs asking price of Benayoun and £2million was too high for Liverpool.

Liverpool could decide to just sell the Israel international in a money deal and could get up to £10m from Spurs, Aston Villa, Roma, Sevilla or Dynamo Moscow, who have shown interest in Benayoun.

Spurs were close to selling Pavlyuchenko to Russian Premier League side Lokomotiv Moscow for £10m in the winter but with the striker returning to Harry Redknapp’s starting line-up Lokomotiv manager Yuri Semin fears that a move for the Russian will be tough.

“The situation has changed,” Semin told the Daily Mail.

“I'm afraid it will be difficult to get Pavlyuchenko.

“His team qualified for the Champions League and he regained the coach's confidence.”

Valencia midfielder open to Liverpool move

2010-05-12T20:04:00.000-07:00

Valencia midfielder Ever Banega is keen on securing a summer move to Liverpool

It appears that Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is set to raid his former club to fill the void left by the departure of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid last summer and it is believed that Banega is fully in favour of a move to Anfield despite the lack of UEFA Champions League football on Merseyside next season.

It is understood that Liverpool have made a bid of around €10 million, which is rumoured to match Banega's new buyout clause but is considerably less than the €18 million los Che paid Boca Juniors to take him from the Bombonera two years ago.

Valencia's financial problems are well publicised and despite talk of potential big money departures from the Mestalla, such as David Villa and Juan Mata, the transfer income from such sales would not be sufficient to plug holes in their massive debt and so los Che now seem willing to cash in on Banega, even at a loss.

Syrian consortium confident of Liverpool buyout

2010-05-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

A Syrian consortium hoping to takeover Liverpool insist that they are confident a deal will be reached shortly.

Yahya Kirdi flew to London last week for talks with the Reds new chairman Martin Broughton and co-owner George Gillett.

The group, who publicly expressed their interest in ending the American´s ill-fated three-year spell at the Anfield helm as well as that of Gillett´s business partner Tom Hicks.

Kirdi, a Syrian ex-professional footballer, has enlisted the services of former Celtic captain Andy Lynch, who confident of a £400million buyout being reached to herald a new era at Anfield.

He said: "Mr Kirdi confirmed to me that he had encouraging discussions with both Martin Broughton and George Gillett.

"He is hopeful that the deal could be done very soon."

Broughton is set to meet with Rafael Benitez on Wednesday for further talks, with the Spaniard´s future still unresolved after a disappointing campaign.

Chinese interest in buying Liverpool

2010-05-11T19:19:00.000-07:00

A chinese multi-millionaire internet gaming tycoon from Shanghai has held provisional talks about buying Liverpool.

No offer has been tabled yet but Zhu Jun (44) the founder, chairman and chief executive of The9 Ltd -- one of China's leading online gaming firms -- is described by local sources as "sincerely interested" in the club.

When Zhu's gaming firm floated on America's Nasdaq stock exchange in 2004, Zhu pocketed around £60m and his personal fortune has expanded considerably since. Zhu has a long-term active interest in football and is the chairman and majority owner of Shanghai Shenhua of the Chinese Super League.

An informed source in Shanghai says Zhu has already had two exploratory meetings about buying Liverpool with Barclays Capital (BarCap), the global investment bank.

BarCap was hired by the club's new chairman, Martin Broughton, to find a buyer after owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett formally put the club on the market last month.

One of Zhu's meetings with BarCap took place in Hong Kong at the end of April and a second was in Shanghai in the past week, according to a business source in China. A spokesman for BarCap declined to comment.

Broughton wants a "leak-free" media strategy until a deal is done with whoever eventually buys the club. This is understandable, given the attention likely to be given to any potential buyer. But the revelation of Zhu's interest and meetings is significant in that it suggests BarCap is now actively engaging with potential bidders.

Before Broughton and BarCap were brought on board, Liverpool's owners had struggled to attract any interest from would-be partner investors that was satisfactory to Hicks and Gillett.

"There is certainly a mood change now," one insider said. "But we're not close to any done deal yet."

Zhu is one of dozens of parties contacted across the world by BarCap already, as the firm chases up previous interest in the club and explores new leads. He proposes to head a consortium of businessmen, perhaps including one or more other owners of Chinese Super League clubs, to make a bid. It is known, however, that he feels the owners' nominal asking price of £800m is double a realistic valuation.

Price will be a sticking point but is acknowledged on all sides as negotiable. A swift sale is clearly in Liverpool's best interests because it would allow a new owner to take decisive action over whether to keep Rafa Benitez in charge before the summer transfer window closes.

Hicks and Gillett will not sack Benitez. A senior club insider insisted last night that there is "no chance at all" of that happening because a £16m pay-off would be necessary to facilitate it and the American owners will not spend that cash. Yet the Spaniard's position remains in the balance, as does the club's transfer policy.

The £800m price tag has been circulated in China as a starting point for negotiations among rich potential bidders. Sources say the price tag has deterred many potential investors from even coming to the negotiating table.

However, the verbal 'prospectus' that BarCap has been touting highlights Liverpool's potential growth, and Zhu is among those willing to explore the possibilities of buying at a "decent" price.

BarCap is looking for a buyer committed to the new stadium, and is stressing to would-be buyers that it is as integral to Liverpool's long-term stability and growth as monetary investment. Zhu is confident he can raise or borrow funds to build it, if the purchase price is right.

Zhu's background has been romanticised on his firm's own website, with a description of his early business life talking about how he graduated from a delivery man who used a tricycle to do his rounds in the 1980s to someone who sold clothing and then cars before moving into non-specific "international trade".

The last 12 years are easier to track: he started a gaming company in 1998, moving into online virtual communities in the early part of the last decade as the internet boomed, and then floating The9 six years ago.

Rafa feels he can trun around Anfield fortunes

2010-05-10T11:35:00.000-07:00

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes he should be given the time and resources to correct the mistakes of this season.

A goalless draw at Hull just about summed up the Reds' campaign as they missed an opportunity to capitalise on Aston Villa's defeat to Blackburn and move up a place in the Premier League table.

The resulting seventh spot represented Liverpool's worst league performance since 1999.

Although Benitez has been linked with Juventus and now Inter Milan the prospects of him leaving Anfield seem to be more remote than they were a couple of months ago.

The Spaniard stressed in his post-match press conference at the KC Stadium that he was inclined to stay if the club were able to meet certain conditions.

If Liverpool wanted to sack their manager, who has four years remaining on a lucrative contract signed only 14 months ago, it would most likely cost them somewhere between £12million and £16million.

And with their current financial difficulties - figures relating to last season published a few days ago showed the debt of Liverpool's parent company Kop Holdings had risen to £351million - that would be a major undertaking.

Benitez is set to meet chairman Martin Broughton, appointed last month by co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett to oversee the sale of the club, for a second time this week.

It is anticipated the pair will try to find some common ground on how to take the club forward, which the manager appears keen to do providing further barriers are not put in his way.

"For any manager, when you have a bad season, you want to improve and change things and I think it has to be this way," said Benitez, who has now gone four years without a trophy having won the Champions League and the FA Cup in his first two years in charge.

"I think all the managers, especially when they are in England and are at a club for a long time, will have good moments and bad moments.

"In football every year you cannot win and win and win. You can see Chelsea winning (the Premier League), not winning and now winning again so it can happen."

Asked if he deserved another chance after such a dismal season, Benitez added: "It depends. 'Senior sources' maybe will say different but it has been the same in the history of football."

The mention of 'senior sources' is in reference to Benitez's belief that a campaign is being waged against him in the media. In his post-match comments he used the phrase half a dozen times in relation to reports which claimed he was prepared to sell captain Steven Gerrard and striker Fernando Torres - a suggestion he dismissed out of hand.

But until he can come up with an agreeable plan for the future with Broughton nothing can be seen as definite.

"Every meeting helps, in one way or another, and at this moment we have to talk about everything," said the Reds boss.

"Hopefully the second meeting will be as positive as the first one...but the press continue with the same agenda.

"I think for the stability of the club it is important because we have to move forward on everything.

"Hopefully we can progress with our next meeting."

Kuyt uncertain over Anfield future

2010-05-10T11:30:00.000-07:00

Dirk Kuyt expects Rafael Benitez to remain at Liverpool but admits he does not know who will be leaving Anfield this summer.

Liverpool have endured a disappointing season and, with substantial debts and no Champions League football next season, there are widespread reports that Benitez could be set to leave along with the likes of Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard.

With the club up for sale, Kuyt admits the future remains unclear, but he believes Benitez is likely to stay and hopes new owners will come in to provide the funds needed to strengthen ahead of next season.

"The manager has four years left on his contract so I don't expect him to leave unless something else happens," Kuyt said. "In football, you can never be sure what is happening and at this time we know the club looks very bad.

"We are looking for new owners and you don't know which players are going to stay or go, but Liverpool is a club with a great history and great supporters and we have to stay close together and fight really hard.

"Every player is interested in what is going on but, if I am honest, I can't blame that side of things for some of our performances.

"For me the most important thing is keeping the main players. Hopefully we can then buy a few more key players and start winning trophies."

Benitez admits his desire to stay

2010-05-10T11:15:00.000-07:00

Rafael Benitez has today spoken of his desire to remain as Liverpool manager and insisted that "no-one" at the club wants to sell Fernando Torres or Steven Gerrard.

The boss revealed he has held positive talks with Chairman Martin Broughton and will hold another meeting with the Reds chief next week.

"I had a meeting with the chairman and it was positive," Benitez told his post match press conference at Hull City. "We will have another one this week and we will talk about the future again.

"I have shown my commitment for years, and if I stay I am not thinking about selling Gerrard or Torres. I do not want to sell them.

"The stability of the club is important because we need to move forward, we will have another meeting and hopefully we can progress."

He added: "Nobody wants to sell them (Gerrard and Torres). I think the Chairman was very clear."

Asked if he wanted to remain as Liverpool manager, Benitez said: "Yes, it is always the same situation. I have wanted to stay and I would like to stay."

The Reds brought a disappointing season to a close with 0-0 draw at Hull City, a result that leaves them in seventh place.

Benitez admits it was a frustrating afternoon in Humberside and feels the draw was symptomatic of their season away from home.

"I think you could see we tried to win," he said. "We had chances, we could have scored at the end, but it has been a special season with a lot of things happening. We had three or four chances but couldn't take them.

"We were really good away last season, but this year there has been a big difference. We didn't win the games we won last season and haven't scored as many goals."

One positive from the draw with the Tigers was the debut of Academy starlet, Jack Robinson, who became the youngest Liverpool player in history when he replaced Ryan Babel late on.

Benitez said: "We have been lucky because the reserve team have been away and we had problems with injuries, with Fabio and Insua. He was training with us one day, so we felt he could be an option.

"We knew he was a young player. I am really pleased. He is now clutching his shirt and doesn't want to give to anyone."

Liverpool's seventh place finish means they will now face a Europa League qualifier in July, a fixture that Benitez admits will cause issues with the Reds' pre-season preparations.

"We were working hard and had the pre-season more or less sorted. But now we have to analyse the schedule and see if we can organise the fixtures properly.

"It was the same last year, we had too many players away with the Confederations Cup. The teams are suffering with these tournaments, but it's not easy, we will try to manage."

The boss was also quizzed about potential transfer targets.

He said: "We have been working and looking at targets. Every year is the same."

He added: "I don't think it will be a problem attracting players because Liverpool is massive club with a great history and we have big players with quality in the squad.

"You cannot win every year. This season has been bad, but when you are at a club for a long time you have good times and bad times."

MON is the replacement lined up if Rafa leaves

2010-05-08T23:10:00.000-07:00

Liverpool have chosen Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill as their top choice to replace Rafael Benitez this summer.

Sunday’s match at Hull City is likely to be Benitez’s final game in charge of Liverpool as reports have suggested that Benitez will be moving to Juventus.

O’Neill is set to meet with Villa owner Randy Lerner to discuss his future with the club and some believe that the Irishman could leave in the summer, according to the Daily Star.

The last two Liverpool bosses have been Frenchman Gerard Houllier and Benitez, who is from Spain, but should the club hire a new manager they would prefer a British manager.

Fulham manager Roy Hodgson, Birmingham’s Alex McLeish and Kenny Danglish are also being considered for the Liverpool job.

However, O’Neill would be the main target to lead the Reds if Benitez completes a move to Juventus this summer.

Ancelloti rules out Torres move

2010-05-08T23:04:00.000-07:00

CARLO Ancelotti has delivered a sensational snub to Fernando Torres by insisting: We don’t need you at Chelsea.

The Blues boss’s remarks come at the end of a week in which his club have been heavily linked with an £80million summer swoop for the unsettled Liverpool ace.

But, according to Ancelotti, a deal for Torres is a non-starter as he is more than happy with his present strikeforce of Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka.

The pair have cracked 47 goals between them this season while firing Chelsea to the brink of a first-ever Premier League and FA Cup Double.

And Ancelotti is adamant that, rather than break up the red-hot partnership – and blow millions on a player surplus to requirements – he would prefer to unearth a new Torres from within Chelsea’s considerable ranks of young talent.

On the eve of their crunch home clash with Wigan, the ex-AC Milan coach said: “We won’t be interested in Torres over the summer because we already have Drogba and Anelka here.

“And when we have these two players at the club, I don’t think there is any need to go for him.

“I think Torres is a fantastic player but I believe for any club it is much better to grow and develop this sort of player in your own academy.”

Chairman insists Gerrard and Torres not for sale

2010-05-07T20:23:00.000-07:00

Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton insists there's no chance of Steven Gerrard or Fernando Torres being sold this summer.

With their rivals sensing weakness there have already been reports of Chelsea preparing a £70million bid for Torres and Real Madrid considering a £35million offer for Gerrard.

Broughton said neither instances would be considered as both players remained integral to manager Rafael Benitez's team.

"There is absolutely no reason to sell either Torres or Gerrard," said the British Airways chairman, brought in last month by the co-owners to oversee the sale of the club.

"I don't want to sell either of them. Rafa does not want to sell either of them, the club is not looking to sell them.

"We don't need to do it to pay off any debt.

"Torres is one of the great players and every club would love to have him. We have got him and there is no intention of selling him."

Carragher in shock England call-up

2010-05-07T20:20:00.000-07:00

Fabio Capello intends to select Jamie Carragher in England's provisional 30-man squad for the World Cup after the Liverpool defender indicated a willingness to come out of international retirement for the tournament in South Africa.

Carragher made himself unavailable for selection after the friendly against Brazil in the summer of 2007 having grown frustrated at a perceived lack of opportunities in his favoured centre-half role. Capello's predecessor, Steve McClaren, failed to persuade him to change his mind and the defender also politely declined when the current manager revisited the issue on his appointment over two years ago.

The defender, capped 34 times, had preferred to concentrate on club commitments and has been a consistently fine performer for Liverpool over the last decade. Yet Capello and England's general manager, Franco Baldini, who are braced to be without their first-choice defensive midfielder, Gareth Barry, at the finals because of an ankle injury, became aware of a shift in Carragher's stance and have seen an opportunity to integrate more experience into their squad.

The 32-year-old has been sounded out over a possible return and, although the situation is still delicate, Capello is intent upon picking him for his initial 30-man party, to be named on Tuesday, ahead of the pre-tournament training camp in Austria. Carragher's worth as a seasoned centre-half is clear and is more significant because Rio Ferdinand and Ledley King, who will also be in the squad, have struggled with injuries.

Ferdinand has started only 11 Premier League games all season having suffered from back and groin complaints but could begin Manchester United's game tomorrow against Stoke City. King, long since restricted by chronic knee problems, has played only four times since the end of February but impressed Capello by excelling twice in five days against Bolton and, on Wednesday night, at Manchester City.

John Terry and Matthew Upson will retain their places, though there is a certain irony in the appeal of Carragher's versatility given his preference for playing at centre-half. He has been employed at full-back and in defensive midfield for England in the past and, in the likely absence of Wes Brown and Joleon Lescott with foot and hamstring injuries respectively, he could potentially be utilised in either wide defensive role yet again.

Whether he features at Hull tomorrow remains to be seen because he is troubled by a slight ankle injury. His international return would still represent an eye-catching selection, with the England management team seeking to bolster a squad disrupted by a recent spate of injuries.

Michael Dawson and Phil Jagielka have impressed in recent weeks, though it is uncertain whether either has done enough to get into the squad that will play friendlies against Mexico and Japan this month before being slimmed down to 23.

Capello was initially due to attend Arsenal's game against Fulham on Sunday but will now be at Stamford Bridge where Chelsea hope to win the Premier League title for the first time in four years. The head coach has dispatched Baldini to Upton Park to scrutinise the credentials of West Ham's Scott Parker given the potential absence of Barry for the finals.

The Manchester City midfielder damaged ankle ligaments during Wednesday's defeat to Tottenham and his club manager, Roberto Mancini, fears Barry could be absent for up to a month. "I'm very sorry for Gareth," said Mancini. "He is a fantastic guy and a fantastic player. I hope he can play in the World Cup, but I think that's a decision for the England medical staff and Fabio Capello."

The loss of a player who has been a consistent selection under successive England managers would represent a considerable blow to England's chances in South Africa and, aside from Parker, could yet earn Michael Carrick or the Spurs midfielder Tom Huddlestone, capped against Brazil last November, inclusion in the squad

Liverpool accounts show huge loss

2010-05-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

The parlous financial position at Liverpool was underlined today when accounts were released showing the club £350m in debt. The figures covered the year to 30 July 2009, so included Liverpool's relative success last season, yet still the club recorded the biggest loss in its history, £55m, having paid £40m in interest on its loans.

The bulk of the loans, owed to Royal Bank of Scotland and Wachovia, are the borrowings originally made by the two United States owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, to buy Liverpool in the first place, which they then imposed on the club to pay off. The accounts detail how impatient the banks have been for the debts to be reduced; Liverpool were formally due to repay the £250m owed on 24 January this year and the banks extended that loan by only six weeks, to 3 March.

Since then, following further negotiations with the banks, Hicks and Gillett agreed to sell the club, and a chairman, Martin Broughton, was appointed to get a sale agreed. The banks extended their loans – which the club says stand now at £237m – until the sale, which Broughton said today will be "a matter of months".

The club's auditors, KPMG, summed up that Liverpool are now "dependent on short-term [bank loan] facility extensions" until investment arrives and for the second year running raised a stark warning about the club's financial health. "This fact indicates the existence of a material uncertainty which may cast significant doubt upon [Liverpool's] ability to continue as a going concern," they said.

It is understood that the Premier League last month sought detailed reassurances from Liverpool that it does have the backing from the banks to fulfil its fixtures next season and not go bust.This debt-laden, loss-making predicament is not what Hicks and Gillett were promising when they bought the club for £174m in February 2007. Hicks promised that work on a 70,000-seat stadium in neighbouring Stanley Park would start within weeks, but the pair made the club responsible for paying their own borrowings, and failed to raise money for the stadium project.

Since July 2009, the date of these accounts, Liverpool's position can be assumed to have worsened, although commercial deals, including sponsorships, have improved. Last season Rafael Benítez's team, featuring Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres in devastating form, finished second to Manchester United in the Premier League and reached the quarter-finals of the European Champions League, where they were knocked out by Chelsea.

The club's income went up from £162m the previous year to £185m and it said "a large part of this increase" was due to Premier League TV and merit payments for finishing second. Liverpool received £20m from Uefa for their run in the Champions League and made around £7m more from hosting the European matches at Anfield. This season, having been knocked out of the Champions League in the qualifying round and finishing below fourth in the Premier League, Liverpool's income will be significantly reduced. Next season, with no Champions League football Liverpool will again miss out on the £27m made in that competition in 2008-09.

Constructive meeting held between the Chairman , Managing director and the Manager

2010-05-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

Liverpool have claimed Thursday's meeting between Rafael Benitez, chairman Martin Broughton and managing director Christian Purslow was "constructive

The Spaniard was hoping to be given an idea of what transfer budget is likely to await him in the summer, although it is unlikely Broughton - as a non-executive director - has the authority to give definite assurances.

Benitez was hoping to get a better idea about what the future holds both for the club and himself personally at the meeting, although unless a buyer is found it seems improbable co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett will invest any more money.

A Liverpool spokesman said on Thursday evening: "We are pleased that the first of what is intended to be a series of meetings took place today between the chairman, managing director and the manager. The meeting was constructive.

"The chairman shared his views about plans for the future of the club. There was an exchange of views on issues of concern to both the board and the manager which were either addressed or to be picked up in forthcoming meetings."

Carragher waiting for new contract , as he wants to end career at Liverpool

2010-05-06T20:47:00.000-07:00

Jamie Carragher has expressed his desire to remain with Liverpool for the rest of his career and hopes to discuss a new deal with Rafael Benitez.

The former England international is keen to refute reports that negotiations with Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres will leave him as a forgotten man at Liverpool.

Carragher could miss the Reds final game against Hull City on Sunday with an ankle injury, but the Englishman hopes that he can agree to a new deal with Liverpool this summer.

“I’ve spoken to the manager about it and we both agreed that it would be better if we talked about it at the start of next season,” Carragher told the Daily Star.

“I don’t want to retire.

“I understand, at my age, you can only make decisions season by season.

“But I want to finish my career at Liverpool. I don’t want to play for anyone else.”

Carragher has spent his entire career at Liverpool, making 627 appearances and helping Liverpool win the Champions League in 2005.

Liverpool hold talks with Madrid Star

2010-05-06T20:21:00.000-07:00

Liverpool have reportedly opened talks with Real Madrid midfielder Rafael van der Vaart over a potential summer switch.

Anfield chiefs held talks with a fortnight ago with representatives from Los Blancos following the Reds' Europa League semi-final first leg in the Spanish capital against Atletico Madrid.

However any deal will be dependent on the future of manager Rafael Benitez, who is set to meet chairman Martin Broughton this afternoon for showdown talks.

It is understood that Benitez was not consulted on an approach to Los Blancos for the Holland international with Juventus still confident of luring him to Turin despite a reluctance by the Kop boss to meet their deadline before the end of the week.

Highly-rated van der Vaart, 27 is one of several Galacticos expected to leave the Bernabeu as part of a summer clear-out.

Fiorentina interested in Aqua

2010-05-05T19:50:00.000-07:00

After a disappointing first season at Liverpool, Alberto Aquilani could be quickly on his way back to Italy, according to his agent.

The 25-year-old has spent plenty of time on the sidelines this season after a hefty transfer from Roma, and only recently begun to hit his stride for the Reds as the campaign winds to a close.

But with interest from his former stomping ground - namely Fiorentina - Aquilani could be soon returning to Serie A.

"It's too soon [to speak about a possible deal]. First of all he must finish the season well and then once we understand Liverpool's future plans we can make concrete decisions," his agent Franco Zavaglia told firenzeviola.it.

"The interest of the Viola is not new. People have talked about it for three years.

"There are many things to consider. If [coach Rafa] Benitez is taking his time to understand Liverpool's future then you must imagine what it's like for Aquilani."

Torres likely to miss world cup opener

2010-05-04T09:12:00.000-07:00

Injured striker Fernando Torres could miss Spain's opening match of the World Cup, according to Liverpool's new head of sports medicine and sports science, Peter Brukner.

Torres is currently recovering from a second knee operation in three months to repair a torn meniscus, but Brukner has warned that he must get the balance right between rehabilitation and rest if he is to make the showpiece in South Africa.

European champions Spain begin their quest for global glory with their Group H clash against Switzerland on 16th June, before further meetings with further games against Chile and Honduras to follow.

"He's doing well and he's certainly tremendously committed to his rehab, as are the staff here, and if anyone can recover from an injury, he can," said Brukner.

"You can't be absolutely certain of anything but at this stage, if he continues to progress the way he is, he should be fit to play at some stage during the World Cup.

"Whether he'll be fit for the first game or not is uncertain."

Brukner is also wary of Torres returning to action too soon because of the long-term impact for Liverpool, who are desperate to have their main striker fit for the start of next season.

Brukner added on the club's official website: "We're anxious not to hurry him along too much because we want the long-term benefit, but we're aware he's got the short-term goal of playing in the World Cup.

"Hopefully we can get a compromise between those two where he plays in the World Cup and he's fit and well for Liverpool next season."

Rafa has no offers insists Agent

2010-05-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

Rafael Benitez has not received any offers and wants to stay at Liverpool, according to his agent.

Benitez has been strongly linked with a move to Juventus and it had been believed that the deal was all but done, with the manager seeming to hint at an imminent move ahead of the weekend's crunch clash when he said: "Hopefully I will still be here on Sunday against Chelsea."

However, reports on Tuesday have suggested his move to Juventus could now be in doubt and, as Benitez prepares to meet with new chairman Martin Broughton to discuss the future of the club, his agent has said the Spaniard has no plans to walk away.

"We have not received any offers from any club," Manuel Garcia Quilon said. "Benitez's aim is to remain at Liverpool and try to help the team improve with new owners. He is under contract and his wish is to remain at Liverpool."

Quilon had earlier been less clear about his client's future when he said: "This week Rafa will meet the president of the club. From what I know, he wants to stay on at Liverpool.

"Benitez wants to know the club's plans for future, what the investment in players will be like. For him, this is a very important detail.

"I have not made any agreement with Juve. Benitez has four years on his contract with Liverpool."

The news comes amid reports Benitez has twice cancelled his planned meetings with Broughton. BBC Sport claims the Spaniard pulled out of a face-to-face meeting last week and another the week before, although his reasons for doing so are not clear.

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, meanwhile, has said he would be happy to see Benitez take charge at the club.

"Rafa Benitez's CV is really good," he said on Sky Sports News. "Tactically he's a very good manager and he's also shown he can deal with problems off the pitch. Benitez is a great professional that every team would like to have."

Liverpool is on DIC radar.Would DIC be lucky third time?

2010-05-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

DUBAI International Capital are closing in on a £500million buy-out of Liverpool as manager Rafa Benitez prepares to join Juventus.

It will be all change at Anfield over the coming weeks with unpopular American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks relinquishing control and the club being forced to find a new boss.
In fact, the search for a new manager is already under way, with high-ranking Liverpool officials aware that Benitez has verbally agreed to join Serie A side Juventus at the end of the season on a £4.5m four-year deal.

Now it’s just a case of the Italians agreeing compensation with Liverpool for Benitez to end his six-year reign on Merseyside.
There will also be a major upheaval in the boardroom with DIC, the investment arm of Dubai’s ruling family led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the front runner in the process to agree a deal with Gillett and Hicks.
DIC attempted to purchase the club in 2007 when major shareholder David Moores declared he was open to offers but then former chief executive Rick Parry recommended a sale to the Americans.
They were also in negotiations a year later to buy Gillett’s 50 per cent shareholding only for talks to break down.
Now it could be third time lucky for Sheikh Mohammed, a regular visitor to this country through his passion for horse racing.
DIC will also commit funds to build the much-anticipated new ground and make a considerable sum of money available for transfers.
Prominent in the discussions is DIC chief and self-confessed Liverpool fan Sameer Al Ansari.

Rafa set to have crunch meeting with the Chairman

2010-05-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez meets new chairman Martin Broughton this week during which his future at the club could be decided.

A 2-0 defeat to Chelsea in their final home Premier League match of the season finally put paid to hopes of securing Champions League football next season, the first time they had missed out on Europe's elite club competition since they finished fifth in 2002-03.

It also meant Liverpool will finish the season with their lowest points tally in five years, since accruing 58 in Benitez's first campaign in charge back in 2004-05.

"I will have a meeting with the chairman in a few days," said the Reds boss.

"I have four years of a contract [left] so we will see.

"The fans want to know (whether Benitez will be in charge next season) but I want to know what is going on next week against Hull.

"Always in the past two years, the manager here has been taking responsibility for everything.

"The reality is that if you compare with other teams in terms of money, power and the option you have in the market, so you can analyse carefully and then you have answers.

"The fans are very clever, they know what is going on. It is very clear that things are like this now and still we have to carry on going forward.

"Next season we have to do almost everything perfect and if we make one or two mistakes we don't have the possibility to react, so it is more difficult for us.

"We will prepare for the next game (at Hull) and then start thinking about things for the future."

Benayoun unsure over his Liverpool future

2010-05-03T09:18:00.000-07:00

Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun has revealed that he is unsure about his Anfield future, despite signing a new contract with the club last July.

Benayoun's deal expires in 2013 but he was heavily linked with a move away from Liverpool in the January transfer window, and reports have begun to circulate again that he could be set to leave this summer.

It has been an extremely difficult season for Liverpool, with the future of the club shrouded in uncertainty.

Speculation is rife that manager Rafael Benitez will be heading to Juventus in the summer, while the club are also searching for new owners to replace the departing Tom Hicks and George Gillet.

And while Benayoun admitted he does not know if he will be at the club next season, he insisted that if he could choose, he would love to stay at Anfield for the remainder of his career.

"It's very difficult to speak now about next season," Benayoun said. "We don't know what changes there will be [in the] players, the staff so I think it's too early to speak. I don't know personally even if I will be here or I will not be here. A lot of things can happen, so we have to wait and see."

"It's nothing to do with [Benítez's future]. I'm enjoying here at this moment. If it depended on me, I would stay here and retire in Liverpool. The fans are the best in the world but it depends on a lot of things. It will be very clear soon and we will just have to see in a few weeks."

"When you're at a big club, it's normal when things go bad it puts the pressure on the manager, because you cannot change all the players. But there are people who decide. I don't need to speak for Rafa because he's proved himself during his time here that he's a big manager. The people above will take the right decision for the club."

Rafa on the brink on Juve move

2010-05-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez looks to be on the verge of confirming his switch to Juventus.

Benitez has been under heavy pressure this season and, following the Europa League exit to Atletico Madrid on Thursday, he refused to answer questions over his future.

"At the moment I can't talk about the future long-term," Benitez said on Friday. "I know the future clearly and it is Chelsea on Sunday.

"I decided to stay last year because of the fans and for one year I have been working hard, trying to do my best. We will see what happens in the future."

Asked if he would be at the club next season, Benitez said: "I want win against Chelsea and then Hull, and that is all. I am here now, and hopefully I will still be here on Sunday against Chelsea."

Widespread reports in England and Italy now suggest the move is on the verge of completion and Soccernet spoke to its Italian contact in Turin, who confirmed: "Here in Turin, it is more or less accepted that the deal has been done.

"The reality is that it is actually the same strength as a month ago when I last told you that Juve believe they have got their man. They still do. In fact, here they are just waiting for Liverpool to come out and confirm it. Certainly there is no one at Liverpool who is in a position to say they want Benitez to stay.

"There is one last sticking point and that is that Benitez is seeking a golden handshake, compensation for going. He is expecting compensation. The Italian media are heading off today to Liverpool for what we believe will be the final chapter at Anfield for Benitez."

Following the news that owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr were ready to sell Liverpool, Benitez spoke enthusiastically about a potential takeover from China that would release funds for new players that might tempt him to stay.

However, Benitez does not trust the owners to sell, and there have been indications that prospective new investors or owners have been scared off because of the price being quoted.

Benitez would be due £16 million in compensation if he were to be sacked and, as such, may be eager to delay confirmation of his departure. Sources at Anfield have suggested he will threaten to stay on if he is not paid off.

Benitez plans to sit down with Christian Purslow, the managing director, after the final Premier League fixture away to Hull City to discuss his future, but in Italy they are sure he is heading to Turin.

A report in Gazzetta dello Sport stated Benitez would be allowed to work with a budget of around €80 million at Juventus, with Fernando Torres, Dirk Kuyt and Javier Mascherano apparently targeted. That budget would be dependent, however, on off-loading a number of players.

Corriere dello Sport has said Benitez has lined up Simon Kjaer of Palermo and Juan Manuel Vargas of Fiorentina.

Support for Liverpool from a very unusual source

2010-04-30T10:43:00.000-07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson is confident Liverpool will not "throw away their history" by standing aside for Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday.

Manchester United head into the penultimate weekend of the campaign knowing their last realistic chance of overhauling Carlo Ancelotti's side depends on Liverpool avoiding defeat this weekend.

If Chelsea are denied maximum points, United can seize the advantage by beating Sunderland at the Stadium of Light a couple of hours later.

All this has been noted at an increasingly agitated Liverpool.

And quite apart from drawing a veil on what has been a disastrous season for the Merseyside giants, that took another downturn last night with a Europa League semi-final exit at the hands of Atletico Madrid, the sub-plot is United attempting to clinch a record 19th league championship.

That would eclipse Liverpool, a situation that seemed impossible when Ferguson came south from Aberdeen in 1986.

It has led a number of Liverpool supporters to voice their desire for their team to lose, even though it would cost them what slender chance they still have of finishing in the Champions League places.

Ferguson cannot see that eventuality and is convinced Liverpool have too much to lose by not trying.

"I am confident they will do their maximum," he said.

"Great clubs don't throw their history and traditions away for one game.

"They have been in 11 European finals. They have won 18 titles.

"That is a fantastic history. You don't throw that away. The fans know that too.

"Do you think the fans want to go home saying their players capitulated and they didn't try and thinking it wouldn't happen again?"

There is a precedent. On the last day in 1995, United headed to West Ham knowing it would take a victory at Upton Park and a Liverpool win over Blackburn at Anfield to give them the title.

Given Kenny Dalglish was the Blackburn manager, the attachment was arguably even greater.

As it turned out, Liverpool did their job, but United were unable to capitalise.

"We were depending on Liverpool producing - and they did," recalled Ferguson.

"You have to earn a right to win the title. Okay, there were a lot of English players in their team that day and they understood the history of Liverpool FC.

"But I don't think there has been such a swing that the current players do not understand the history of Liverpool."

They presumably also know they are tired, weary and unhappy given they slogged through 120 minutes last night before falling to Diego Forlan's extra-time decider.

It leaves Rafael Benitez in a similar position to the one Ferguson found himself in when United crashed out of the Champions League at the hands of Bayern Munich.

And it also gave the United boss a chance to air his long-held view about the Premier League not giving any assistance to clubs sidetracked by European commitments.

"It is difficult to say how Liverpool's players will feel," said Ferguson. "It is Rafa's job to prepare his players.

We gave it all we had in ourselves - Gerrard

2010-04-30T10:36:00.001-07:00

Steven Gerrard today reflected on Liverpool's Europa League semi-final defeat by Atletico Madrid and admitted a failure to score the decisive goal in the first leg ultimately proved to be their downfall.

The Reds skipper felt the players gave everything they possibly could on the night after a grueling 120 minutes at Anfield and claimed defeat was tough to take.

"I am very tired and so are the rest of the boys because we put a lot of effort into the game but unfortunately we came up a bit short in the end," Gerrard told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"I am sure the majority of the supporters know we all gave everything we have got. When I was at the training ground this morning lads were getting treatment, they had bruises all over them and they are tired.

"We gave every inch of blood and sweat on the pitch but unfortunately it just wasn't enough.

"I know we won the game on the night but unfortunately we lost on the away goals rule. I am very frustrated and disappointed, but looking at both games overall I think us not getting the away goal in Madrid ultimately was the key to us not reaching the final.

"I think we did enough at Anfield on the night. You can only ask to win the game and we did that. I thought we did it quite comfortably to be honest but unfortunately in Europe it's about two legs and away goals do play a big part.

"We just never had enough quality in the final third of the field in Madrid to get that important away goal.

"We are disappointed because we went out of the Champions League, FA Cup and Carling Cup too early and we felt the Europa League was very important because we wanted to win a trophy for the supporters."

Liverpool win but crash out of Europa League

2010-04-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

Atletico Madrid striker Diego Forlan scored against Liverpool for the second time in a week to end the Merseysiders' dreams of a third European final in five years.

The former Manchester United forward, who hit the only goal in the first leg, stabbed home the crucial extra-time away goal which booked their place in May's Europa League final despite a 2-1 defeat at Anfield.

Alberto Aquilani's 44th-minute strike had ensured the game went into the additional 30 minutes and despite Yossi Benayoun putting his side ahead, Forlan - much derided during his time in English football - had the last word.

Twice previously in this competition Liverpool had come back from first-leg deficits - against Lille and Benfica - but on this occasion even a win was not enough.

How they missed injured striker Fernando Torres, watching his former club take on his current employers from the stands, after dominating most of the game but failing to finish off their opponents in normal time.

But it was not the lack of goals which did for them in the end, but the one they let in at the Kop end to a familiar foe.

Liverpool had needed an early boost and they almost got it after just nine seconds.

Daniel Agger's long ball picked out Benayoun in the penalty area and his low shot from a narrow angle was turned behind by goalkeeper David de Gea, who had an easier save when Aquilani shot straight at him in the 11th minute.

It was a sign of things to come as Atletico's gameplan of sitting back and counter-attacking was restricted to just the former.

But the Spanish side, driven by the knowledge an away goal would strengthen their position considerably, still posed an occasional threat and Jose Reina dived low to his right to turn Raul Garcia's long-range effort around the post midway through the half.

Still Liverpool pushed forward and Dirk Kuyt, who recovered from a calf injury to lead the line, was only inches over as he slid into the six-yard area to deflect Javier Mascherano's cross.

The game was becoming more open but when Sergio Aguero went round Reina from Jose Antonio Reyes' perfect through-ball he opted to cross rather than shoot from a narrow angle and Forlan could not make up the ground.

Liverpool thought they had scored the goal they desperately wanted when Steven Gerrard curled in a 32nd-minute free-kick and Agger headed into the bottom corner only to be flagged offside.

Gerrard was booked for a needless foul on Aguero as the half drew to a close and frustration levels began to rise at Anfield.

But a minute before the interval the breakthrough finally came with the simplest of moves and the most exact of finishes.

Stand-in right-back Mascherano's throw down the wing was picked up by Benayoun whose cross was missed by Kuyt but found Aquilani who curled a low shot just inside De Gea's left-hand post.

With honours even Liverpool's approach play was more patient and measured as the second half began.

But the optimism around Anfield which was tangible before the break had been replaced by a growing sense of anxiety and the players could feel it, with Benayoun shooting well over from 25 yards.

Urged on by the Kop, Liverpool found an extra gear and when left-back Glen Johnson cut in and whipped in a right-footed shot De Gea could only parry it over the crossbar, but the goalkeeper was able to claim Gerrard's corner unchallenged.

The last 10 minutes saw Atletico have probably their best spell of the game but Forlan crucially mis-controlled the last chance of regulation time having sprung the offside trap.

Five minutes into the added period Liverpool went ahead for the first time.

A Gerrard free-kick was only half-cleared and Lucas lobbed the ball over the inside-left channel where Benayoun, played onside by Antonio Lopez, drilled home left-footed with De Gea getting a hand to the shot but failing to keep it out.

Substitute Jose Manuel Jurado's 20-yard effort inches wide of the post was a warning Liverpool failed to heed as in the 102nd minute Atletico scored a the vital away goal when Reyes beat Johnson to cross for the unmarked Forlan to stab home.

The second period was notable only for Simao Sabrosa firing just over as Liverpool's European dreams - and their hopes of a successful conclusion to their season - were extinguished.

Benitez unsure over his future as Liverpool remain silent

2010-04-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has voiced concerns about the lack of reassurances over his future at the club and hit out at press "rumours" of an impending departure and discussions of potential candidates for his job.

Benitez has been linked with a switch to Juventus for months now while a raft of managers have been mentioned as possible replacements for the Liverpool hotseat should Benitez leave - or be pushed.

Liverpool's so-far disappointing season could get worse on Thursday if they fail to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit in their Europa League semi-final return meeting with Atletico Madrid at Anfield.

Benitez's side crashed out of the Champions League at the group stage and look like falling short of qualification for that tournament through the Premier League, despite the Spanish manager's infamous "guarantee" Liverpool would finish fourth.

Benitez insisted his focus is solely on the next match and not on his future, although he felt compelled to mention the lack of public support coming out of the Liverpool hierarchy in the wake of press speculation about possible future Liverpool managers.

"I don't like the (Juventus) rumours," Benitez said ahead of the Europa League tie. "I would like to see news in the press about trophies or goals or fantastic performances by players, but you cannot control everything.

"My future is (playing against) Athletico Madrid. We have to concentrate on this game and try to win because it's the best for the club.

"I have spent a year listening to names like Martin O'Neill, Jose Mourinho, Jurgen Klinsmann and Frank Rijkaard (being linked with his job), but I've just kept doing my job.

"All my focus is on the next game, that's the future for me, but no one from the club has spoken to me about mine. For me the next game is always the most important and playing in a European final again would be massive for any club.''