Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Pennant Hopes For More Chances


Jermaine Pennant is hopeful he can force his way back into contention for a regular place in Liverpool's starting line-up after an impressive performance in their 2-1 Carling Cup win over Crewe.

Pennant was a constant menace on the right flank and delivered the cross for Lucas to score the winning goal after Daniel Agger's free-kick had given Liverpool the lead on Tuesday night.

The 25-year-old winger had been linked with a move away from Anfield before the transfer window closed but is now determined to fight for his place.

Pennant said: "It is very frustrating to know that you've been a playing such big part of the team and all of a sudden you are in the shadows but that's the manager's choice and you just have to get on with it.

"If you get your chance you have to make the most of it and when teams come to Anfield it's their cup final so it can be difficult.

"We have got a lot of strength in the squad which is why it is so hard to get in the team so I'll keep plugging away and see what happens.

"It was nice to play a game - whether it's the Carling Cup or any game it's good to get a run out I and enjoyed every minute of it.

"It gives another us chance to play another game and if the draw is good we can go further in the competition."

Manager Rafael Benitez confirmed that Philipp Degen was withdrawn after he broke two ribs in the match and was replaced by Jamie Carragher.

Benitez also admitted he was pleased to give the emerging talents of Emiliano Insua, Nabil El Zhar and Damien Plessis a chance to shine at Anfield.

"It was good to see some young players and it is important for their confidence," Benitez said.

"Clearly to see how the young players do against stronger players is very important and also to see how they perform against these types of teams.

"I think that we have a lot of young players who did well today - their work-rate was good.

"They competed really well, it was a good test and it also allows us to rest some of the senior players."

Crewe first-team coach Steve Holland was proud of the way the Coca-Cola League One outfit acquitted themselves.

"There was a mass brawl to get Fernando Torres' shirt afterwards but overall I think they didn't show any signs of nerves on the night," he added.

"We acquitted ourselves well - we stuck to our game plan and could have even have nicked an equaliser at the end with a couple of late chances."

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