Sunday, August 07, 2011

Dalglish Bemoans Midweek Internationals Before Premier League Campaign

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalgish has bemoaned the timing of the upcoming mid-week friendly internationals as he prepares for the start of the Premier League season.

The Reds finished their pre-season schedule with a 2-0 victory at Anfield against Valencia on Saturday. The match came a week before they kick-off their domestic campaign with a trip to Sunderland.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Dalglish voiced his frustration at seeing many members of his stellar squad depart on Sunday after they have been assessed alongside fresh thigh injury victim Glen Johnson.

"We could have done without a mid-week fixture for friendly internationals but we've just got to live with that and hope no-one comes back injured," the Scot stated.

"Everybody is in today and we'll assess how they are before they start to leave for international duty if they're called up as a lot of them are on standby at the moment."

Liverpool had endured a pre-season to forget beforehand, with victories in the Far East followed by defeats to Hull City and Galatasaray and a draw with Valerenga. Dalglish stated his troops deserved "great credit" for Saturday's result against the La Liga giant.

He said: "I think the boys deserve great credit for the work they've done out there.

"I think they got the reward for the hard work they have done in training by not losing any goals and that is just as pleasing for us as it is to score two at the other end. We're delighted with everybody, and their attitude and commitment.

"For us to go and win against a very, very good side, that won't do us any harm."

No comments: