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Match Report: Liverpool 2 - 2 Man City

2012-01-26T17:00:00.000+08:00

Liverpool set up a Carling Cup final against Cardiff after playing out a thrilling 2-2 draw with Manchester City at Anfield to advance 3-2 on aggregate.

Trailing 1-0 from the first leg, City quickly drew level on aggregate thanks to a superb long-range strike from defensive midfielder Nigel de Jong that flew into the top corner.

Liverpool hit back before half-time when Micah Richards was harshly penalized for handball after a deflection off his leg onto the arm, and Steven Gerrard stepped up to score from the spot.

The Reds kept pushing forward at the start of the second half but a number of superb saves from Joe Hart prevented them from moving into a position of complete control.

City then grabbed a goal against the run of play on 67 minutes to make it 2-1 on the night, with Edin Dzeko converting an excellent Aleksandar Kolarov cross from close range.

Liverpool were not to be denied, though, as Craig Bellamy rounded off a flowing move with a fine finish in the 74th minute to leave City with it all to do in the closing stages.

Roberto Mancini's side battled hard in an effort to send the tie to extra time but the hosts held firm to book a spot at Wembley.

Mancini's decision to start with three centre-backs - Joleon Lescott and Richards either side of the nervy Stefan Savic, with top scorer Sergio Aguero dropped to the bench - looked over-cautious and Liverpool seized the initiative.

Kolarov almost gifted Jose Enrique an opener in the fourth minute from a sliced clearance back across goal but Hart's outstretched foot block the left-back's shot and Stewart Downing screwed his follow-up volley wide.

Gerrard, tasked with a watching brief on David Silva, was booked for an early foul on Gareth Barry but it was the tackle of Charlie Adam on Dzeko from Silva's corner which could have done more damage to Liverpool but there were few City appeals for a penalty and referee Phil Dowd was unmoved.

Bellamy was Liverpool's most threatening outlet and he drew another save out of Hart after turning Savic on the edge of the box before having a goal disallowed for offside.

The home side dominated the opening half-hour but they were hit with a career-best goal from De Jong.

Having collected a square pass from Silva 30 yards out the trajectory of his sweetly-struck shot started outside Jose Reina's left-hand post but curled back enough to brilliantly beat the goalkeeper.

De Jong goals are a rarity - it was only his second in 118 appearances - but there was far more familiarity about the goal which put Liverpool back in front on aggregate.

Dowd generously decided Daniel Agger's shot which deflected up off Richards and on to his arm was a penalty and Gerrard, scorer from the spot in the first encounter, fired home to make it four consecutive goals in league cup semi-finals, having scored in both legs against Watford in 2005.

Savic was replaced by Aguero for the second half as City reverted to a flat back four but Liverpool were first to threaten again as Gerrard whipped in a free-kick from the left and Hart half-punched only to redeem himself by tipping over Martin Skrtel's goalbound shot.

The England goalkeeper, as he had done in November's league draw at Anfield, superbly kept the Reds at bay again when he tipped over Downing's downward volley from Dirk Kuyt's cross.

Silva wasted a free-kick from the right after the Spaniard was booked for fouling Zabaleta but there could not have been a greater contrast with Kolarov's cross in the 67th minute.

The Serbian drilled a low ball from wide on the left across Liverpool's six-yard box for Dzeko, who had lost Agger, to tap in at the far post.

Liverpool has a habit of producing fairytale finishes under the Anfield floodlights and so it proved.

Kuyt's pass in from the right to Bellamy was laid off to Glen Johnson who immediately bounced the ball back to the Welshman who curled home with his left foot.

Having effectively had his City career ended by Mancini after a fall-out with the Italian, it is unlikely the delicious irony was lost on the 32-year-old.

Kuyt headed wide Henderson's cross before Bellamy departed to a standing ovation, with even some among the City fans applauding his efforts.

Dalglish Savours Semi Success

2012-01-26T16:58:00.000+08:00

Kenny Dalglish paid tribute to a 'fantastic performance' from Liverpool after watching his side book their place in the Carling Cup final.

The Reds held a 1-0 lead going into the second leg of their semi-final at Anfield but still displayed a positive attitude to finish the job and set up a Wembley showpiece against Cardiff.

Nigel de Jong's opener for Man City was cancelled out by a Steven Gerrard penalty, before City struck again through Edin Dzeko.

Craig Bellamy's fine finish secured a 3-2 aggregate success and left Dalglish bursting with pride after the final whistle.

"I think it was a fantastic performance. Although the game finished as a draw, we were deserved qualifiers for the final," the Scot told Sky Sports.

"The boys were magnificent last night and deserve a great deal of credit, and everybody in the squad has helped us get through.

"The supporters were magnificent and it is a great reward for them and the loyalty they have shown us, so for everybody at Liverpool it has been a fantastic evening."

Dalglish had further words of praise for the impressive Bellamy, who joined Liverpool from City last summer after being deemed surplus to requirements by Roberto Mancini.

"He was unbelievable. If Man City has anyone else like Craig that they don't want to keep, they know where we are," Dalglish said.

"He's been like that since he came in the door and it is fantastic to have him here."

Mancini Unhappy With Decisions

2012-01-26T16:57:00.000+08:00

Roberto Mancini was left to bemoan a couple of refereeing calls that went against Manchester City after seeing Liverpool go through to the Carling Cup final.

Trailing 1-0 from the first leg, City had a lot of work to do at Anfield and opened the scoring thanks to Nigel de Jong's stunning strike from distance.

Steven Gerrard's penalty swung the tie back in Liverpool's favour, before Edin Dzeko scored from Aleksandar Kolarov's cross.

Craig Bellamy then grabbed the final goal of the night to eliminate City from the competition and send the Reds to a Wembley meeting with Cardiff.

While Liverpool dominated for long periods, Mancini felt the game hinged on two penalty decisions.

Referee Phil Dowd handed Liverpool a spot-kick when the ball reared up off Micah Richards' boot and hit his hand, but did not award one when Dzeko went down under Charlie Adam's challenge at the other end.

"We did a good performance, scored two goals. I think it was not a penalty for Liverpool and was for us. This changed the game," the Italian said.

"He (Richards) touched the ball on his leg, for this reason (it was not a penalty)."

When asked why his players did not vociferously appeal for a foul on Dzeko, Mancini added: "There is a referee on the pitch. It is enough.

"It was a penalty, incredible, clear. We did well, scored, we did some mistakes and conceded a stupid goal.

"We can do nothing."

Gerrard - Bellamy To Thank For

2012-01-26T16:33:00.000+08:00

Steven Gerrard recognized the contribution of Craig Bellamy after Liverpool beat Manchester City 3-2 on aggregate in the semi-finals of the Carling Cup.

The Reds booked their place in the final against Cardiff by playing out a 2-2 draw with City at Anfield on Wednesday - to maintain their advantage after a 1-0 win at the Etihad Stadium a fortnight ago.

As he was then, Gerrard was on target from the penalty spot again, equalizing after Nigel de Jong's opener, before Craig Bellamy, a former City striker, scored after Edin Dzeko had put the visitors to Anfield 2-1 up on the night.

Liverpool last reached a domestic final in 2006 when they beat West Ham to the FA Cup in Cardiff, and the 26th February meeting will be their first Wembley appearance since 1996.

"It's a great feeling, it's been a while," Gerrard told Sky Sports.

"Since playing at Cardiff in 2006, it's been too long for this club. I'm delighted for everyone, especially the fans."

Gerrard was in no doubt who his side's star man was, with Bellamy hitting the decisive goal after City goalkeeper Joe Hart had produced a stunning one-man show to keep Liverpool at bay.

"Craig was the difference," Gerrard added.

"His pace was always a threat and we know that if a chance falls to him he can finish. It's a big thanks to him.

"We had to be positive and brave. Man City has so much quality and our decision to attack them paid off.

"Joe is a big character but I don't feel sorry for him. He's a top keeper and he will play in many finals. But it's our turn now and we have to go and lift that trophy."

Bellamy will get to face his hometown club in the final, as well as the side he played for last season.

"The omens were looking good going into the match last night after I saw Cardiff go through," the striker said.

"I was delighted for them and this couldn't be a better final for me.

"Cardiff means so much to me. It's funny how football can work out at times."

Liverpool And QPR Chasing Barcelona Midfielder Alexander Hleb

2012-01-26T16:31:00.000+08:00

Liverpool and Queens Park Rangers have been alerted to the availability of former Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb, with Barcelona ready to make the out-of-favour Belarusian a free agent, after talks over cancelling his contract.

The move comes two weeks after Hleb returned to Barcelona following a failed loan spell with Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg, who had asked to terminate his season-long agreement six months early, after the 30-year-old struggled with form and fitness, making just four appearances this term.

Hleb has also spent time on loan with Stuttgart and Birmingham City in the last two seasons, after manager Pep Guardiola lost patience with the versatile attacker in June 2009, just 12 months after signing him from Arsenal in a £15 million deal.

As Metro reported last month, Barcelona have been offering Hleb around Premier League clubs in a bid to get his hefty £90,000-a-week wages off their books, but with no takers, the reigning Spanish and European Champions are ready to make him a free agent with immediate effect.

Hleb is willing to accept a pay off by the Catalan club, and hopes he can now seal a return to English football, after recently admitting he wasted the best years of his career by opting to quit Arsenal in 2008: 'I've given away the best years of my career. And I hold no one responsible for it.'

Queens Park Rangers have shown a strong interest in bringing Hleb back to London, but Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is also keeping his options open, but has other targets in the pipeline at present.

Hleb is currently contracted to Barcelona until the end of the season.

Reds Hand Youngster Trial At Anfield

2012-01-26T16:30:00.000+08:00

Liverpool have handed teenage Norwegian starlet Jakob Glesnes a one-week trial with the club.

The 17-year-old defender will travel to England on Sunday where he hopes to be enriched by his experience.

"I regard it as an opportunity to get a good week's training," Glesnes told Adresseavisen.

"I want to learn some things, show what I can do and return with some good experience."

Glesnes has previously had trials with Arsenal, Ipswich Town and Nottingham Forest.

Kenny Dalglish is keen to continue the club's recent policy of signing the best young talent from England and Europe.

Evra Set For Anfield

2012-01-26T16:28:00.000+08:00

Mike Phelan has insisted Manchester United would not consider leaving Patrice Evra out of their game against Liverpool if he is fully fit.

United's FA Cup fourth-round tie with Liverpool will be the first time they have faced their old rivals since Evra levelled racism allegations at Luis Suarez that ended with the Uruguay forward landing an eight-match ban.

Suarez will still be suspended this weekend, a fact that is only likely to heighten the normal antagonism for United from the Kop.

Earlier this season, Sir Alex Ferguson left Wayne Rooney out of his starting line-up to face Liverpool due to the adverse reaction the striker receives in his home city, whilst last season, the United boss did not even take his star forward to former club Everton.

However, it seems Evra, likely to continue as captain in the absence of Nemanja Vidic with a season-ending injury, will be involved.

"It wouldn't be a consideration," said Phelan, when asked by Radio Manchester whether United had thought about leaving Evra out.

"Patrice Evra is a football player who plays for Manchester United.

"If he is fit, he is considered to play like any other player.

"What has happened has happened. What has been said has been said.

"You are talking about a football match now and I think it will be a very good FA Cup tie."

Ferguson Asks Fans To Behave At Anfield

2012-01-26T16:27:00.000+08:00

Sir Alex Ferguson, the Manchester United manager, has written to the club's supporters, urging them to behave themselves at Liverpool on Saturday.

Improved behaviour by United fans at the Premier League match in October has led to a large increase in their ticket allocation being released for the FA Cup fourth-round tie at Anfield. However, it will be the first meeting between the teams since the race row between Patrice Evra and Luis Suarez that ended with the Liverpool striker being given an eight-match suspension.

In a letter to supporters who have tickets for the game, Ferguson makes no reference to Evra or Suarez, or the row that he has said will have no impact on relations between the clubs. However, he does ask for "positive, witty and loud" support.

The letter said: "I wrote to fans attending the away match in October urging them to co-operate with stewards and officials at Liverpool so we can make a strong case for restoring our allocation for future United games at Anfield. The fans did almost everything asked of them. Please do everything you can to continue that good work.

"Your support is vital to the team and down the years that has been especially true at Anfield. But please put the emphasis on getting us into the next round and giving the sort of support you are famous for – positive, witty and loud."

Match Preview: Liverpool vs Manchester City

2012-01-25T14:37:00.001+08:00

A trip to Wembley and Liverpool’s first cup final in nearly five years are on the line on Wednesday, with Manchester City heading to Anfield for the second leg of the League Cup semi-final. Liverpool have a 1-0 advantage from the first leg after a Steven Gerrard penalty capped a dominant opening spell for Kenny Dalglish’s squad, but there’s little illusion that they’ll be able to coast into the final, with City more than capable of turning the tie over.

Thankfully there’s not a whole lot of time left to rehash the weekend’s failings, with any prolonged misery interrupted by a match that carries with it stakes, at least from a practical standpoint, that are higher than anything the club’s been involved in since the Europa League tie with Atletico Madrid just under two years ago. So sure, it’s the League Cup, but it’s also a match with some gravity to it at a time the club find themselves in desperate need of something to be positive about.

That it comes against the current league leaders adds to the challenge, particularly when considering that, after a frustrating finish to the match two weeks ago, they’ll be more than ready to press Liverpool relentlessly. They’ve rebounded nicely from the defeat in the first leg, getting past a plucky Wigan side 1-0 before beating Spurs 3-2 on a Mario Balotelli penalty in the final minutes of injury time on Sunday.

As Noel mentioned earlier, however, they’re likely to be without the match-winner on Wednesday, as the FA decided to pursue charges against him for Cobra Kai’ing Scott Parker’s face. Quotes from assistant David Platt indicate the club won’t dispute the retroactive red, which means the ban starts immediately. But as was the case in the first leg, there’s no lack of quality in the rest of the available personnel, even if they’re still missing the Toure brothers to the Africa Cup of Nations and Vincent Kompany in the last of his four-match ban. That leaves their defense as the main question mark, as Stefan Savic had a torrid time in the first leg and looks in line for another appearance on Wednesday.

Gerrard Keen To Finish The Job

2012-01-25T14:34:00.000+08:00

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard wants to maintain focus ahead of Wednesday's Carling Cup semi-final second leg - by banning talk of Wembley.

The Reds hold a 1-0 lead over Manchester City from the first leg and are favourites to progress ahead of the return game at Anfield, but Gerrard insists the team must prepare correctly.

Kenny Dalglish's side go into the tie after a woeful 3-1 defeat at Bolton on Saturday, leading some to conclude the team were already looking ahead to the big cup games this week.

Liverpool face Manchester United in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday but Gerrard believes looking past Manchester City could be costly.

"(Wembley talk) has got to be banned because we haven't made it there yet," said the England international.

"Of course it enters your mind and you dream about it; that helps when it comes to motivation.

"But I don't think any of our players will be getting carried away or thinking we've already done the job.

"We know this is a big game and a tough game."

Liverpool have not won a trophy since lifting the 2006 FA Cup but Gerrard has plenty of big game experience of two-legged ties himself having won Champions League semi-finals in 2005 and 2007.

"I think experience is important, it always is," he told the official matchday program.

"Especially when you have a lead in such an important two-legged fixture.

"We need to play to our maximum. We need every player to turn up and play well to qualify.

"We need to ignore the scoreline and go into this game trying to win it. I think if we're too negative and try to just protect the lead it could be very dangerous."

Kenny - Reds Must Lift Fans

2012-01-25T14:33:00.000+08:00

Kenny Dalglish insists Liverpool will give everything against Manchester City to get the fans back on side following Saturday's deflating defeat.

The Reds put in a woeful performance against Premier League strugglers Bolton at the weekend, going down 3-1 at the Reebok Stadium.

They have a chance to redeem themselves when they host leaders City at Anfield on Wednesday in the second leg of their Carling Cup semi-final, having established a 1-0 lead at Ethiad Stadium last time out.

Manager Dalglish has vowed his players will work hard to ensure Reds supporters are celebrating by the final whistle.

"Hopefully it will be a fantastic occasion for everyone," he told Liverpool's official website.

"The punters will be turning up, there'll be loads of support for us but we need to do something that's going to get the supporters on our side. We can't always leave it for them to lift us, sometimes we need to lift them.

"We can't take it for granted that the fans are going to be there. We should never assume we're going to get the fantastic support that we do - we've got to earn that.

"They've got to see that we're up to put in a tremendous effort on Wednesday night to get a result for the club."

Liverpool are just 90 minutes away from a first Wembley appearance since 1996 but Dalglish is refusing to get carried away.

He added: "Let's not be running away with ourselves, let's make sure we get the hard work done first."

The Reds' poor display against Bolton prompted Dalglish to publicly criticise his players for the first time since returning as manager just over a year ago.

The Scot feels he was justified in his comments, adding: "I think what was said had to be said. At the end of the day I don't think anyone can object to the fact that we never played anything like we're capable of playing.

"In the past we've rightly praised them when they've deserved it, we've given them plaudits when we've done well and we've congratulated them for the way they've gone about their work.

"When you've been critical it doesn't mean to say you're getting any pleasure from it because at the end of the day we're all in it together. It's not the coaching staff and the players, it's everybody."

Liverpool Have Moved On

2012-01-25T14:32:00.000+08:00

Liverpool first-team coach Steve Clarke believes the club has collectively accepted the consequences of defeat to Bolton and has already moved on from the misery.

Kenny Dalglish's men were last weekend embarrassed in a dire 3-1 loss at the Reebok Stadium and the manager for the first time turned criticism onto his players.

The Scot accused his squad of lacking respect for Bolton and blamed them for being preoccupied with Wednesday's Carling Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City.

This weekend's forthcoming FA Cup tie against Manchester United also acted as a distraction, according to Dalglish, who said some of his players' futures were under scrutiny.

But coach Clarke insists the fall-out from the Bolton defeat is now a thing of the past, as he said "There has been a line drawn under it as far as we are concerned.

"Hopefully we've put it to bed.

"We have spoken about the game, we know it wasn't a good performance, we accept that and we try to move on and improve in the future.

"We all have to sort it out together. When things are going well we all take the credit and when they don't go well we have to take the stick."

Liverpool Open Talks Over FC Groningen Striker David Texeira

2012-01-25T14:31:00.000+08:00

Liverpool have opened talks with FC Groningen over exciting striker David Texeira, as manager Kenny Dalglish steps up his transfer activity in the closing stages of the window.

Dalglish had previously made buying a striker his top priority for January, with Luis Suarez missing for eight matches through suspension, and Andy Carroll and Dirk Kuyt struggling to find their feet this term.

The Reds boss has had a whole host of established options under consideration, but after being quoted fees in excess of £20 million for Aston Villa's Darren Bent and Valencia's Roberto Soldado, Dalglish has changed tact, and is now in search of a younger forward who would represent better value for money in the longer term.

Twente prospect Luuk de Jong is Liverpool's preferred target, but Dalglish is thought to be unsure about his suitability to life in England, and has instead moved for another promising Eredivisie prospect, Groningen's David Texeira.

The Uruguayan isn't 21 until next month, but Groningen have a good pedigree for finding quality strikers, having previously had the aforementioned Suarez and PSV forward Tim Matavz on their books, and Liverpool are keen to wrap up a deal now before other interested parties make their moves.

Texeira is valued at around £8 million by Liverpool, but former club Defensor Sporting are believed to have a sell on clause option in his contract, which entitles them to 20% of any fee received.

That means that Texeira could cost closer to £10 million, but the Reds' Director of Football Damien Comolli is hoping to knock them down considerably, during talks this week.

Liverpool are expected to try and sweeten the deal by offering Groningen a pre-season friendly, which would see former hero Suarez return to the Euroborg stadium in a potentially money-spinning run out.

Liverpool Eye Up Spanish Wing Option In Pablo Hernandez

2012-01-25T14:29:00.000+08:00

Liverpool are eyeing Valencia winger Pablo Hernandez according to Madrid-based daily Marca.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish has kept his powder dry in the current transfer window, despite admitting that he has money to spend if he so chooses.

But his side’s recent poor performances are thought to have given the Scot pause for thought.

Liverpool have stuttered in recent weeks, drawing 0-0 at home to Stoke City two weeks ago, with Dalglish bemoaning a lack of creativity, and then going down 3-1 to a struggling Bolton Wanderers at the weekend – a performance which left the Scot fuming.

The Merseyside giants have been heavily linked with Real Madrid midfielder Esteban Granero, with a loan mooted. But Los Blancos boss Jose Mourinho has long stated that he wishes no one to arrive or depart the Bernabeu in the current window.

Valencia winger Hernandez would add real spark and intent to Liverpool’s wide play, allowing Dalglish to stretch the play and also potentially supplying out-of-sorts striker Andy Carroll with further precious service.

The 26-year-old is considered one of Valencia’s crown jewels however and has been increasingly key ever since David Villa and David Silva were sold by Los Che.

Hernandez is under contract at the Mestalla until 2014.

Reina Fears Liverpool Years Away From Title Tilt

2012-01-25T14:28:00.000+08:00

Pepe Reina feels Liverpool are three years away from challenging for the title, with the keeper claiming they are paying the price for a lack of invention.

The Reds have spent huge sums in the past 12 months in a bid to make up ground on the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea. They have shown signs of promise under Kenny Dalglish, but halfway through the season they are five points shy of the fourth place which would bring Champions League qualification.

Liverpool are a mammoth 18 points behind leaders City and Reina feels it will be some time before the Reds are in a position to push for the title.

"I think it will be two or three more years before we are ready to challenge for the Premier League or Champions League again," Reina told the Daily Mirror. "Hopefully it will be as soon as possible but we are within touching distance of the Carling Cup final.

"We have not won a trophy since 2006 and it is very important to the club to collect some silverware this season," Reina said ahead of the Carling Cup semi-final, second leg with Manchester City. "At Liverpool, winning trophies is vital and we have a great chance of doing that in the Carling Cup.

"Of course, we are still working hard to qualify for the Champions League next season but we know it will be difficult. Liverpool is a club that is used to winning."

Reina feels Dalglish has got Liverpool on an upward curve but claims they are lacking a bit of creative spark.

The Spain international said: "We are a good team, especially tactically, but perhaps we have lacked a little imagination to win enough matches.

"We have failed to finish off games and dropped points in matches Liverpool would expect to win.

"On our day, we are a match for any team and we have the players. But we must show more quality. This is what the history of Liverpool demands."

Rodolfo Ready For Direct Approach

2012-01-25T14:27:00.000+08:00

Reserve coach Rodolfo Borrell believes Liverpool might be forced to adopt a more direct style of play as they look to overcome a physical Blackburn side at the Academy on Tuesday.

Rovers have yet to win a reserve game so far in 2011-12, but they did prove a tough nut to crack when the two sides shared the spoils in a goalless draw back in November.

Borrell insists his side have learned some lessons from that encounter.

"What we learnt was that maybe sometimes you cannot always play such beautiful football or such a good style and you have to mix it up sometimes depending who you play against," said Borrell.

With a NextGen quarter-final against Tottenham looming just a week away, Borrell's men will be looking for a confidence boosting victory from the game against Blackburn and the reserve coach knows it won't be easy.

"Blackburn is a very difficult fixture because they are a massive, physical side with some big and experienced players, like we faced in the first game," he said.

"They have a very direct style of football that is not ideal for us but we know we have to face these kinds of sides. We have to take the right approach and get ready for the game.

"It's not going to be easy. We had to give a massive performance - one of the best team performances - at Blackburn away to get just one point. We will have to do the same if we want to get something out of this game."

Borrell also spoke of his frustration after last week's clash with Manchester United was called off due to a frozen pitch at Chester's Exacta Stadium.

"We were building up the whole week and it was frustration when we were told the game was cancelled just two-and-a-half hours before the start of the game," he added.

"It is not only about the build-up, it is also in terms of motivation, in terms of the talking to the players; individually, collectively, trying to put them in the right focus and to make the right approach to the game.

"We must now put our work into practice against Blackburn."

Clock Is Ticking For Dalglish

2012-01-24T16:35:00.000+08:00

In times of adversity, Kenny Dalglish usually resembles the tougher types that populate John le Carré novels. The sort the Circus would happily send to Moscow, safe in the knowledge that, under interrogation, he would not even divulge his shoe size.

It made his post-match interview on ESPN on Saturday night all the more extraordinary. Dalglish is typically the master of evasion, one who turns questions back on the questioner. But after defeat to Bolton Wanderers he presented, unprompted, a comprehensive demolition of his own players' performance. "If anybody has aspirations of staying any length of time at this football club," he said, "they will not be here much longer if that's the way they are going to perform."

Most intriguing was his insight that, "it is all well and good saying they might have been distracted because there's another game on Wednesday and on Saturday." That sounded like the remnants of a conversation he had just had in the dressing room. Who, you had to wonder, had turned to Dalglish and told him that he was preoccupied with the Carling Cup semi-final second leg?

Dalglish's one-year anniversary as Liverpool manager passed earlier this month and it all feels a lot grimmer than it did on those sunny uplands of last season when, in March, the Kop sang "Happy Birthday" to their manager as his team defeated Manchester United, 3-1. That was an afternoon when the club at last emerged from under a dark cloud, most of it brewed up by the previous owners and then the acrimony of Roy Hodgson's brief reign.

Recently, the results have been less consistent and the problems conspicuous. The mishandling of the Luis Suarez affair. The problems Suarez's subsequent absence has left. The never-ending wait for Andy Carroll to come good. Stewart Downing's failure to score. The nagging fear that a net spend of around £48.5m in the summer on the likes of Downing, Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson has not paid dividends.

It was always going to take at least £50m to transform what remained of the Liverpool squad one year ago into something resembling a team capable of competing for a finish in the top four. This is the team's first season together and, by Wednesday night, they could be in their first domestic final in almost six years. As for a top-four finish, that still looks unrealistic.

Liverpool is not the first of the big dogs in the Premier League to teeter on the brink of some form of mini-crisis. Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal have all been there at some point this season. What changed on Saturday was that Dalglish was unwilling to lend anymore of the considerable well of goodwill that he has with the club's supporters to his underperforming players.

As Liverpool manager between 1985 and 1991, his patience with his team was rarely tested because, put simply, his team rarely lost. On Match Of The Day on Saturday night, Alan Hansen recalled a Dalglish team talk he had heard many times. "Effort, attitude and commitment was what he stressed," he said, but there was no mention of Dalglish having to remind his players in public what was expected of them.

The team beaten by Bolton included five players Dalglish brought to the club and Downing, a second-half substitute, was another of his signings. This is, by and large, Dalglish's team and their league form has not been good enough. This is his credibility on the line. His reaction on Saturday night told you that there is a limit to the lengths he will go to in order to protect them.

Taking your players on like that is a big step for any manager and is fraught with risk. You get the impression that Andre Villas-Boas, for all his confidence, is still a long way from telling the world that Fernando Torres has let the club down. Arsène Wenger never criticizes his players. Sir Alex Ferguson only rarely and only when the occasion demands, such as the 6-1 home defeat to Manchester City. Of all of them, Roberto Mancini can be the most publicly critical of his players.

Already this season, Dalglish has blamed referees for Liverpool's misfortune and he has, of course, sanctioned a pretty extraordinary broadside at the Football Association over the Suarez affair. The press are another regular target. Now that he has turned that critical gaze upon his own players, the excuses really are over. And about time too.

Starting with Manchester City in the second leg of that semi-final on Wednesday, Liverpool has a defining run of fixtures: Manchester United at home in the FA Cup, Wolves away, Tottenham at home, United away and then home games against Everton and Arsenal. It is a reasonable expectation that Dalglish should be judged at the end of the season, yet no one can be in any doubt this is a significant six weeks.

"If they think they can turn the clock on and off they will not be turning it on and off at this club," Dalglish said. The clock is a pertinent image at Liverpool. Of all the benchmarks in their wait for a 19th league title, the 2015-16 season looms as large as any other. If they have not won the title by the end of that season they will have gone longer without being champions than Manchester United did between 1967 and 1993.

There is much around the periphery of the business of a modern football club that can make a small difference, but in the end it still comes down to the players. There are times when there is a benefit in shielding them from their own shortcomings but it is not a position any manager, even Dalglish, can afford to adopt indefinitely.

Hamman Highlights Cup Importance

2012-01-24T16:32:00.000+08:00

Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann believes winning the Carling Cup would represent a major step forward for the club and put the Reds "back on the map".

Kenny Dalglish's team takes a 1-0 lead into Wednesday's semi-final second leg at Anfield against Manchester City, another of the ex-Germany international's sides.

The Merseysiders have not won a trophy since their FA Cup final victory of 2006 and a draw in midweek would secure their first appearance at Wembley for 16 years.

Hamann knows how significant winning the league cup can be as he was part of the side which beat Birmingham in Cardiff in 2001 on the way to a famous treble as they also lifted the UEFA Cup and FA Cup.

"I think it is very important for them because the club has not won a trophy for six years now and we all know what an impact it can have," the German, speaking about the Carling Cup at an event at Football League headquarters, said.

"In 2001 we got off on our way to a memorable season with the league cup and I'm not sure whether we would have won the UEFA Cup or FA Cup finals had we not beaten Birmingham on penalties.

"To go to the final and win would be a major step forward for Liverpool.

"It puts them back on the map. We all know the longer you don't win the harder it gets the next year.

"A victory is very important because if breeds confidence and belief and faith in the other players and I think it gives them a better chance of finishing in the top four.

"They won't win the league this year because there are stronger teams but in cup competitions you only have to win six or seven games so that is why Dalglish has played strong sides.

"But other managers have identified that as well because if you look at the winners of the Carling Cup in the last few years apart from Birmingham they are all big teams.

"It is all about winning trophies and the Carling Cup was seen as the fourth cup a few seasons ago but has grown in importance the last few years."

A 3-1 defeat at Bolton at the weekend was the worst possible preparation for Dalglish's side but they will have drawn some comfort from seeing City let slip a two-goal lead against Tottenham, even if they did snatch a late 3-2 win.

Roberto Mancini's side was poor in the first leg but Hamann does not expect to see a repeat performance and believes Liverpool cannot afford to sit back and defend their lead.

"They (Liverpool) have had six years to get a monkey off their back and they have a golden opportunity this year," added Hamann.

"They have put themselves in a great position with a 1-0 win in the first leg and they have every chance.

"It is a big game for Liverpool on Wednesday because I am not sure whether they can shut them (City) out again.

"If Liverpool want to go through they have to score and this is where the problem lies because they find goals hard to come by at the moment.

"It will be a tight and interesting game but Liverpool is probably just marginal favourites because they won the first leg.

"And if they were to get to the final you would fancy them against a Championship side (Crystal Palace and Cardiff contest the other semi-final).

"It would do their confidence the world of good because it makes them believe more and if you have come out of a final successful it gives everyone an extra boost."

He accepts the Carling Cup may not be top of Mancini's priorities but expects to see City come out fighting on Wednesday.

"The league and the Carling Cup are their best two chances of winning trophies," he said.

"Last season they tasted success (winning the FA Cup) and once you have won one you want to win another and they will do everything they can to put another trophy in the cabinet.

"They are missing the Toures (Yaya and Kolo) and Vincent Kompany but I expect a strong team and performance.

"I was disappointed with them in the first leg but I don't think we will see as disappointing a performance as that again."

Luis Suarez Reflects On Bolton Defeat

2012-01-24T16:29:00.000+08:00

Liverpool forward Luis Suarez has insisted that, although he trusts his teammates, he can't wait to get back playing again after seeing the Reds slump to a 3-1 defeat to Bolton.

The Uruguayan, who is currently serving an eight-match ban for racially abusing Patrice Evra, watched on as Kenny Dalglish's side were well beaten at the Reebok Stadium but the 24-year-old is adamant he is still very much behind his teammates.

Suarez posted on his official website, "We couldn't win but I trust a lot on my teammates, I can't wait to play again!!!!!"

Manchester United striker Michael Owen, meanwhile, believes the Reds "have another side to them" when they face teams he suggests they are expected to beat, and claims his former side are "hard to work out."

Owen said, via Twitter, "Hard to work Liverpool out. They look top class at home against the big teams but have another side to them when you expect them to win."

Liverpool Eyeing £10m Udinese Defender

2012-01-24T16:28:00.000+08:00

Liverpool is leading the chase to sign Udinese defender Mauricio Isla.

Isla, 23, has been impressive for the Italian club and has caught the eye of Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish, who is looking to strengthen his squad in January.

The Chile international has also been linked with several big clubs in Italy but reports in South America suggest that Liverpool is winning the race to clinch his signature.

Isla can operate as a wing-back and can also playing across the midfield and his versatility will appeal to the Liverpool boss.

Udinese will be keen to keep their star defender at the club but would consider offers in the region of £10m.

Danes Would Let Starlet Leave

2012-01-24T16:27:00.000+08:00

FC Norsjaelland has confirmed they would not stand in the way of starlet Jores Okore leaving the club.

The 19-year-old is being linked with a host of teams across Europe and a number of Premier League sides are reportedly keen.

Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Tottenham and Newcastle are all understood to have been watching the Danish teenager.

The Ivorian-born defender has also attracted interest from the likes of Borussia Dortmund, Wolfsburg, Dynamo Kiev and Shakhtar Donetsk.

And his club Norsjaelland admits they would not prevent a big move for Okore.

"There is on-going interest in several players, and it is no wonder that Jores is one of those players," Norsjaelland sports director Jan Laursen confirmed to Tipsbladet.

"There are undoubtedly many very strong clubs that follow him.

"We have a principle that we always look at the offers that might come. We want to help our players on."

Lyon Star Ends Liverpool Speculation

2012-01-24T16:26:00.000+08:00

Liverpool target Dejan Lovren is not interested in a move to Anfield and has extended his contract at Lyon.

The central defender was on Kenny Dalglish's radar in the summer and the Scot, whose side was trounced by Bolton at the weekend, is keeping his eye on him.

But Croatia international Lovren does not fancy moving to Anfield and is eager to remain at a club playing in the Champions League.

The 22-year-old has committed his future to Lyon, having penned a new contract that expires in June 2016.

Lucas Returns To Liverpool

2012-01-24T16:25:00.000+08:00

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva has returned to the club to continue his rehabilitation from a season-ending knee injury and hopes to begin gym work in four weeks' time.

The 25-year-old has spent the past six weeks in his native Brazil, where he underwent surgery to repair the anterior cruciate ligament damage suffered in the Carling Cup quarter-final win at Chelsea in November.

Lucas, who is walking with the aid of crutches, will still miss the remainder of the season, but believes his recovery is on course.

He told the club's official website: "I am still a long way away, but the knee is getting better and the rehab is going well.

"I have to make sure I complete a perfect rehab and be back as soon as possible.

"The next stage is to get the knee moving and in the next few weeks I'll start to walk again.

"Hopefully in a month's time I'll start in the gym on my program and be able to work with weights.

"When you're on crutches you cannot do too much, so I can't wait to start my program and get in the swimming pool and things like that.

"The physios and the doctors have told me the rehab is going well and progressing well. I am doing everything I can to help my knee recover."

Back To School With Jose And Seb

2012-01-24T16:22:00.000+08:00

Liverpool stars Jose Enrique and Sebastian Coates went back to school as they took part in some fantastic community department led initiatives.

The duo, who were joined by Liverpool FC Ladies skipper Vicky Jones, visited St. Silas Primary School in Toxteth for the LFC Equality 4 All Scheme, and then Shorefields Community College in Dingle Vale for the LFC Premier League 4 Sport event.

One of the highlights of the day was Enrique, Coates and Jones taking part in a Q and A session with the kids in Spanish. A Spanish teacher was present as the pair were quizzed on their LFC career so far.

The 11-year-olds at St. Silas Primary also took part in a football session under the watchful eye of Enrique and Coates.

Liverpool FC Social Inclusion Officer Rishi Jain said: "To have Jose Enrique and Sebastian Coates come down, meet the kids, join in a session and answer their questions was absolutely brilliant.

"It was really good for both of the players to take part in the Q and A session in Spanish. The school does a lot of work on different languages to reward the kids this way, so to help them practice their Spanish was an absolute pleasure for the club."

"The LFC Equality 4 All Project continues to go from strength to strength. We do 18 hours coaching a week with kids from different areas and ethnic minorities and bring them all together through football."

At Shorefields Community College Enrique and Coates demonstrated their table tennis skills when they took part in the LFC Premier League 4 Sport event, alongside 15 children aged 11 to 13.

The Premier League 4 Sport scheme aims to introduce four different Olympic sports to youngsters in the region - volleyball, table tennis, badminton and netball.

The initiative hopes to curb the drop-off in young people's participation in sports after leaving secondary school, as well as offering five hours of activities to youngsters as part of the government's 2012 legacy plans.

Match Report: Bolton 3 - 1 Liverpool

2012-01-23T18:52:00.002+08:00

Bolton's battle to avoid relegation received an unexpected boost with victory over a Liverpool side who need to improve quickly if their season is not to unravel around them.

Midfielders Mark Davies and Nigel Reo-Coker gave the home side a deserved 2-0 lead inside half-an-hour and although Craig Bellamy's seventh of the season reduced the deficit, Gretar Steinsson restored the two-goal cushion just five minutes into the second half.

The victory saw Wanderers move out of the bottom three with a performance full of desire and tenacity which, especially in the first half, had the visitors' looking at each other quizzically.

Manager Kenny Dalglish will also no doubt want answers to how a side with only one home win all season - and who have lost their last 10 against the Reds - could open up a usually reliable defence so easily.

Prior to this match only Premier League title-chasers Manchester City and Tottenham had scored three or more against Liverpool this season.

Worryingly for Dalglish, they have to face City at home on Wednesday in the second leg of the Carling Cup semi-final holding just a slender 1-0 lead.

If they defend as poorly as this the 16-year wait for a Wembley appearance may go on even longer.

Wanderers made it 10 points from their last six matches and manager Owen Coyle will hope this result will prove to be a turning point for his beleaguered side.

But after watching his players fail to break down Stoke last week - one of many struggles at Anfield - Dalglish has to find a way of lifting a team which has won just once in six league matches, collecting just six points.

Liverpool's excellent record against Bolton counted for little as early as the fourth minute when the home side took the lead.

Martin Skrtel stepped out to meet Chris Eagles' pass into David Ngog but the slightest of touches from the former Reds striker moved it on to Davies who charged into the penalty area to shoot low just inside Jose Reina's left-hand post.

Eagles should have made it 2-0 when he held off the challenge of Jose Enrique as he ran in from the touchline only to fire a cross-shot past the far post from a narrow angle.

Bellamy, playing up front alongside Andy Carroll, was by far Liverpool's biggest threat with his pace getting him behind the Wanderers defence on a number of occasions.

The Wales international had one shot blocked by David Wheater while Carroll, who began to link better with his partner as the match wore on, headed straight at Adam Bogdan from Steven Gerrard's crossfield pass.

After Maxi Rodriguez's penalty appeal for the ball hitting Zat Knight's arm was rejected Bolton all too easily carved open Liverpool's defence for a second time.

Eagles was again the instigator, coming off the right touchline to chip the ball over the centre-backs for Reo-Coker to stab home.

Carroll was coming into the game more and after one first-time pass sent Bellamy racing through to shoot at Bogdan his flick-on led to a goal.

His header from Reina's clearance sent the Welshman racing through and this time he cleverly clipped the ball past the Bolton goalkeeper.

Bogdan then saved well from Gerrard's shot before Reina batted away Martin Petrov's free-kick in first-half added time.

Liverpool's hopes of redressing the balance early in the second half were snuffed out after just five minutes when Wheater headed Petrov's corner back across goal and Steinsson slid a shot inside the post.

With 25 minutes to go Stewart Downing and Dirk Kuyt were sent on for Rodriguez and Charlie Adam in an attempt to rescue the situation.

The chances were still falling to Carroll though but his luck did not improve as he blazed over from Davies' mis-control in the penalty area before completely missing Downing's cut-back.

Defender Daniel Agger had come closer moments earlier when his long-range drive clipped the top of the crossbar.

Carroll, without a league goal since October 29, continued to labour in front of net, typified by his complete miskick from Downing's cut-back.

Liverpool's attacking in the closing stages became even more desperate but they rarely looked like threatening Bogdan.

A first win over the Reds since September 10 did wonders for Bolton's confidence, less so for Liverpool who are looking increasingly ragged by the week.

Dalglish - Heads Will Roll

2012-01-23T18:51:00.000+08:00

Furious Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has threatened some of his players with the chop after accusing them of showing a lack of respect in a 3-1 defeat at Bolton.

For the first time since returning as Reds boss just over a year ago, the Scot publicly criticized his squad.

Dalglish believes they were distracted by Wednesday's forthcoming Carling Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City, which they go into holding a slender 1-0 lead, and the FA Cup fourth-round tie at home to Manchester United next weekend.

As a result, midfielders Mark Davies and Nigel Reo-Coker were able to put their side 2-0 up inside half an hour and although Craig Bellamy's seventh of the season reduced the deficit, Gretar Steinsson restored the two-goal cushion five minutes into the second half.

Dalglish accused his players of disrespecting Bolton and warned if that is repeated in future, they will find themselves heading out of Anfield.

"There is no-one at this football club who doesn't have respect for other people," Dalglish told ESPN.

"If that was what the problem was, if they thought this game was not as important as the next one, then fine - but they won't be here.

"The result is disappointing, but the most disappointing thing for me was I don't think they were ready to play the game.

"I don't think the approach was correct, I don't think the way we went about our work was correct.

"The foundation of this football club has always been built on is respect for other people.

"It is built on the philosophy that the next game is the most important one, not the one that is two or three down the line.

"If they needed a lesson to be taught to them, then this was it.

"If they think they can just turn up and get a result and not be competitive and not match the opposition for effort, then they have had a lesson today.

"If we have learned it, then fine, but we have to look at ourselves - without taking anything away from Owen Coyle and the way Bolton played - and what we can do and try to prevent it happening in the future."

Why Kenny Saw Red

2012-01-23T18:50:00.000+08:00

Henry Winter believes Kenny Dalglish's outburst following the Bolton defeat is "unprecedented" in the history of Liverpool Football Club.

The Reds boss publically criticized members of his squad following the 3-1 loss at the Reebok Stadium, accusing them of showing a lack of respect to their opponents and being distracted by Wednesday's Carling Cup semi-final second leg with Manchester City and next weekend's FA Cup clash with Manchester United.

Dalglish also hinted that some of his players could be sold if they don't change their approach and Daily Telegraph Football Correspondent Winter felt the outburst was out of character for the Scot.

He says Dalglish and Liverpool rarely air such issues in public, so he must have been particularly aggrieved with his players on Saturday.

Winter told the Sunday Supplement: "If you look at Dalglish, has he had a go at his players before?

"I don't think he did at Newcastle, I don't think he did at Blackburn Rovers or in his first incarnation at Liverpool Football Club as manager.

"This is unprecedented. It's unprecedented for Dalglish and it's pretty unprecedented for Liverpool, who like to do their talking on issues like this, team matters, in the dressing room.

"I just think his anger was justified because clearly the players were playing the game ahead, the cup games, rather than giving Bolton the respect they deserved.

"That word respect is huge for Dalglish and he kept on mentioning it in his press conference. They were really poor."

Winter also pointed out that Dalglish must shoulder some of the blame himself.

Alongside Director of Football Damien Comolli he has spent millions of pounds on players such as Andy Carroll, Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson in the last 12 months.

And having signed the players, Winter says Dalglish must accept he is partly responsible for Liverpool's poor performances.

He added: "I think Dalglish has to look at his players because these players are ones that he has brought in.

"You can argue that it's Comolli pushing them in, but Dalglish sanctioned those signings.

"The players that he's substituted and the players - although he's not naming them - that he has criticized are ones that he brought in a year ago.

"I can understand there may be a certain microclimate going on this week with Liverpool in terms of the cup games, but a lot of those players have been underperforming all season."

Coyle - We Deserved Three Points

2012-01-23T18:48:00.000+08:00

Owen Coyle felt Bolton Wanderers ran out deserved winners following their emphatic 3-1 success over Liverpool at the Reebok.

Bolton came into the game having lost 10 straight in league action to the Reds, a record that ended in style on Saturday.

Mark Davies fired the home side ahead early on with Nigel Reo-Coker doubling their advantage in the 29th minute.

Craig Bellamy reduced the arrears before the interval, but Gretar Steinsson's crisp volley ended any hope of a comeback.

Coyle is acutely aware of how difficult it is to beat the leading Premier League clubs, however, he insists no luck was involved this time.

"When you play a club of the stature of Liverpool sometimes you can get a result and sometimes you ride your luck but nothing could be further from the truth today," explained Coyle.

"We were in good form coming into the game so we had great belief in the way we went about it.

"We believed we could win today. The great thing was not just the win but how we won. It was a team performance.

"I can't say it was pleasurable, having a late kick-off and watching the results come in.

"When you are second-bottom of the league it is quite agonizing but when the dust settled we knew a win would take us out of the bottom three.

"But it was not just the win, it was of such a high standard: the passing, the movement and we looked a threat every time we went forward."

Reo-Coker Slams Bellamy

2012-01-23T18:46:00.000+08:00

Nigel Reo-Coker says he has 'no respect' for Craig Bellamy after a bust-up between the pair during Bolton's 3-1 win over Liverpool.

There has been a long-running feud between the pair since 2007 and those hostilities were resumed at the Reebok Stadium.

Bellamy and Reo-Coker clashed just before the half-time interval with Bolton team-mate Zat Knight forced to drag Reo-Coker away as the war of words threatened to explode.

Reo-Coker, who scored for Bolton, continued the spat after the game when he was asked about the row, saying he has no time for Bellamy.

"Craig Bellamy is Craig Bellamy; I have no respect for him so he can do what he wants to do," Reo-Coker told ESPN.

Jelavic Favours Reds Switch

2012-01-23T18:44:00.000+08:00

Nikica Jelavic's father has claimed that the Rangers striker has grander ambitions than to play for West Ham or Queens Park Rangers and is 'most likely' to sign for Liverpool.

The Croatian has been heavily linked with a move away from Ibrox this winter following a series of impressive performances in the SPL over the past 18 months.

Sam Allardyce confirmed at the weekend that West Ham had enquired about the availability of Jelavic, while QPR are also understood to be keeping tabs on his situation.

However, reports have also suggested that Liverpool are interested and the 26-year-old's father says there are several clubs in the running for his signature.

Philip Jelavic claims Liverpool are one of those clubs and believes his son could soon be heading to Anfield.

"We know about the interest of West Ham and QPR," Jelavic senior said in The Sun.

"But Nikica has five or six clubs that are interested, including that of the great Liverpool.

"As for West Ham and QPR, Nikica is more ambitious than that.

"It's most likely that he'll sign for Liverpool.

"But there are a few days until the end of the window, so we'll see."

Liverpool Prepare £8m Bid For Esteban Granero

2012-01-23T18:43:00.000+08:00

Liverpool is reportedly in talks with Real Madrid ahead of a bid to sign midfielder Esteban Granero. The Anfield side is keen to beef up their central midfield options and have earmarked a move for the adaptable 24 year old this month. The Merseyside club is lining up a bid in the region of £8m for the former Spanish Under-21 international.

Jose Mourinho has relegated Granero into something of a bit part player and there is growing speculation that the former Getafe man may be warming to the idea of a move to the Premier League. Thus far this season he has managed just two starts thus far this season and may well be a player that the Real Madrid boss feels he can afford to offload.

Though Liverpool brought in the likes of Jordan Henderson and Charlie Adam to help add more drive to the club’s midfield both have struggled to hit a run of form and Kenny Dalglish is said to be keen on bringing in more creative options and Granero’s touch and intelligent distribution have caught his eye.

Liverpool lost Raul Meireles to Chelsea and loaned out pair Joe Cole and Alberto Aquilani on season long deals so there is space to bring in additions and a move for the Real Madrid man would be a fairly cost effective option to turn to. Granero started his career at the Bernabeu but failed to break into the first team and was sold to nearby Getafe however in July 2009 former boss Manuel Pellegrini opted to trigger his buy back clause and in his first season notched up 35 appearances for the Madristas.

Over the past two seasons Granero has watched as Mourinho signed players like Sami Khedira, Angel Di Maria, Mesut Ozil and new addition Jose Callejon move ahead of him in the pecking order.

Lazio Join United And Liverpool In Chase For Dutch Striker

2012-01-23T18:42:00.000+08:00

Manchester United and Liverpool target Ricky van Wolfswinkel is a wanted man – with Lazio ready to make a £13million bid for the Sporting Lisbon star this month.

United and Liverpool are keen on the striker but were expected to wait until the summer to make bids.

But they could yet be forced into action this month as Lazio are ready to enter the race to sign the highly-rated Dutchman.

The Italians are keen to add firepower to their attacking options and they have enquired about Van Wolfswinkel’s price.

Sporting are holding firm, though, and not entertaining any enquiries or offers this month – unless a large bid is launched.

The Portuguese club is understood to value Van Wolfswinkel, 22, closer to the £22m bracket, but news of Lazio’s firm interest could spark a bidding war.

Sir Alex Ferguson last year claimed he signed Phil Jones a year ahead of schedule as he got wind of interest elsewhere – and he could now be forced into a move for Van Wolfswinkel.

The Dutch striker’s haul of 15 goals in 26 league games for Utrecht last season earned his move to Sporting – and he has continued with seven in 11 league games this term.

Match Preview: Bolton vs Liverpool

2012-01-21T13:04:00.000+08:00

Liverpool travel to Bolton on Saturday evening well aware anything less than three points at the Reebok Stadium will cast serious doubts over their already flagging top-four ambitions.

A seventh Premier League draw of the season at Anfield in last weekend's dire stalemate against Stoke has left the 18-time champions of England five points adrift of fourth place.

And should Kenny Dalglish's team fail to win at a relegation-threatened Bolton, who have themselves been wretched at home in 2011/12, the pressure will mount.

Owen Coyle's team have incredibly lost eight times out of 10 league games at the Reebok Stadium and have conceded 24 goals in that time to leave them 19th in the table.

But a rare win over Liverpool could lift Bolton, who has sold Gary Cahill to Chelsea since their last league game, out of the relegation zone if results elsewhere go their way, given that they only trail 16th-placed Wolves by two points.

Ominously for Bolton, though, Liverpool have won the last 10 Premier League games between the two clubs, including in August a comprehensive 3-1 victory at Anfield and last season a late 1-0 success at the Reebok Stadium.

David Ngog is set to face former club Liverpool for the first time since his £4million summer move.

The striker is likely to replace Kevin Davies, who scored in Tuesday's FA Cup third-round replay win over Macclesfield.

Goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen has returned to training after a thigh injury, although the Finn is not expected to be ready to start.

Midfielder Jay Spearing faces a late fitness test for Liverpool after the 23-year-old missed the game against Stoke with a hamstring injury.

Centre-back Daniel Agger is set to return after being rested, which could mean Jamie Carragher loses his place after his first league start in over two months.

Striker Luis Suarez is still suspended and serves the fifth match of his eight-game ban for racially abusing Manchester United's Patrice Evra.

Possible starting XIs

Bolton: Bogdan, Steinsson, Knight, Wheater, Ricketts, Eagles, Petrov, Reo-Coker, M.Davies, Muamba, Ngog.

Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Enrique, Adam, Gerrard, Henderson, Kuyt, Bellamy, Carroll.

Reina Sets Priorities

2012-01-21T13:02:00.000+08:00

Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina has urged his team-mates to put thoughts of cup showdowns with the two Manchester clubs to the back of their minds ahead of Saturday's trip to Bolton.

The Reds are just 90 minutes away from their first final in six years - and a first visit to Wembley since 1996 - as they hold a 1-0 lead going into Wednesday's Carling Cup semi-final second leg at home to Manchester City.

After that there is more knockout action when they host arch-rivals Manchester United in the fourth round of the FA Cup in what is bound to be a heated affair in the wake of the Luis Suarez affair.

However, it is the club's Premier League form which needs addressing after just one win from their last five matches, which has included frustrating draws at home to Blackburn and Stoke and away at Wigan.

And while the lure of silverware is an obvious one for the players, Reina insists the focus has to be on arresting a slide which has seen them drop to seventh in the table, five points behind fourth-placed Chelsea.

"We know how huge it is to play a Carling Cup semi-final, second leg at home and everybody knows how big the tie against Manchester United is going to be," the Spanish goalkeeper told Liverpool's official website.

"It definitely won't be difficult to put those games to the back of our minds, because the first game is Bolton and is therefore the most important of all three.

"It is vital for us. We have to get some momentum going and keep winning games.

"It's important not to lose - but it's even bigger to win the games and get three points after three points."

Last weekend's goalless draw to Stoke - the seventh time they have been held at Anfield this season - was possibly the most disappointing performance of the campaign.

Liverpool has had problems with converting chances at home, but against the Potters they struggled to even create opportunities.

"It's always frustrating when you don't win at home, but that has been the case so many times this season and it is disappointing, because we want to win," added Reina.

Liverpool's away form has brought them more victories (five), but they have also lost four and scored only 10 goals in as many games, so even though relegation-threatened Bolton have been struggling, Reina knows there is no room for complacency.

"There is a lot at stake for them, but it is a great opportunity for us, because they need to win, so the game will be more open.

"Any team on its day is always going to give you a game, so we need to try to focus on ourselves. If we deliver and perform to our level, we should be okay."

Adam - Euro Hunt Still On

2012-01-21T13:00:00.000+08:00

Liverpool midfielder Charlie Adam insists the club remain in the hunt for a UEFA Champions League spot despite dropping down to seventh in the Premier League.

The Reds were held to yet another home draw against Stoke last weekend, their seventh at Anfield so far this season.

Those dropped points mean the club have fallen out of the European places and are five points adrift of Chelsea in the final Champions League position.

When quizzed on whether Champions League qualification is still the club's main aim Adam told Sky Sports News Radio: "Of course it is, it's still there, there are plenty of points to play for, you never know what is going to happen.

"We have been disappointed with the results as well but that's expected, we are a new team gelling, it takes time but we'll do everything we can.

"For us it's trying to win every game and on the day it's not always happened for us.

"But we'll not stop working hard and keep doing the things that we know is right and trying to win as many matches as we can.

"The most important game is the next game, a difficult game away at Bolton, which we are looking forward to as we have to bounce back after last week."

On a personal level Adam revealed how quickly he has settled at the club following his big-money move from Blackpool and urged other young Scottish players to try and follow his lead in the English game.

"It's been great," he added. "When you join a new club sometimes it takes time to settle in but it's been easy for me with the players that we've got here, they have made me welcome and I'm thoroughly enjoying it.

"Since I've walked into the door at this club I've enjoyed every minute.

"I've always been told to play with a smile on my face as I'm in a very fortunate position where I'm at one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"For our national team manager I think he would expect his best players to be playing at the highest level, playing against the best players to improve.

"For me the Premier League is the best league in the world and it's a top league. Now you see the number of English clubs going to the Scottish market as they know the value for money is there.

"They don't have to pay over the odds for players but they're getting good quality for what they are paying for."

Dalglish - Bellamy Needs Care

2012-01-21T12:59:00.000+08:00

Kenny Dalglish believes Craig Bellamy must be handled carefully if he is to avoid another serious injury.

The Wales striker is keen to play in every game he can, but the Liverpool boss feels a more restrained approach is needed.

Bellamy has made just nine starts in all competitions this season, but has come off the bench 11 times.

And the Reds boss will continue to adopt this approach for the rest of the season in hope of the striker avoiding another serious injury.

"Some players need greater management than others, but the players themselves have got to look after themselves," he said.

"Craig is fantastic in preparing for matches. I'm sure there's many others out there exactly the same - but he's really got a great knowledge of how you prepare.

"Some can go for longer, further, harder than others. We just want them to give themselves the best possible opportunity of performing as best they can.

"We can't run people into the ground, so we have to try and manage how they get on the pitch and how long they are on it.

"For the fitness side of it it's not fair on too many players at this stage of the season to be starting them every single game.

"Our goalkeeper, Pepe Reina, obviously, has started every one - but for the outfield players, it's difficult to get them through every game you play."

Milos Krasic Offered To Liverpool

2012-01-21T12:57:00.000+08:00

Liverpool have been offered Serbia winger Milos Krasic by Juventus.

Krasic is not wanted by new Juve coach Antonio Conte and the Serie A giants have approached Liverpool because ex-boss Rafa Benitez showed interest in him.

Juventus have told the Reds they can have Krasic for the £12million they paid CSKA Moscow for him in 2010.

Liverpool are not interested in paying that much for Krasic, but they may consider taking him on loan.

Krasic, 27, was highly rated at CSKA and could boost the supply line to Andy Carroll from the right wing.

Juventus would prefer a straight cash deal to get Krasic off their wage bill and have circulated his name around Europe and to other Premier League clubs in the hope of finding a buyer.

Aziz Cuts Short Reds Trial

2012-01-21T12:56:00.000+08:00

Sky Sports understands Swedish teenager Abdul Aziz has been forced to cut short his trial with Liverpool because of a heavy bout of flu.

Sky Sports revealed earlier this week how the 14-year-old from ISK Norkopping had been handed a two-week trial with the Reds.

Their scouts had sent back glowing reports to the Premier League club about Aziz's scoring exploits with his club and Under-15 national team.

However, the stocky striker who has been dubbed "baby Drogba" has not been able to display his full range of capabilities because of the bug.

Liverpool now hopes to re-arrange a trial with the teenager during the February half-term, having beaten off competition from both Manchester clubs to land him in the first place.

United, though, are believed to have already contacted the player who will also spend time on trial with them next month.

Kenny Dalglish will be loathe to lose out on such a highly-rated prospect to their north west rivals and is desperately trying to arrange another opportunity for him to return to the club.

Liverpool Expect To Earn £300m From Deal With Warrior Sports

2012-01-21T12:54:00.000+08:00

Liverpool say they expect to earn a staggering £300m through their new six-year deal with the US sportswear company Warrior Sports, and have denied accusations that underachievement on the pitch led to the collapse of their current kit deal with Adidas.

Warrior, owned by New Balance, will become the club's kit supplier from June having agreed a £25m-a-year deal to enter the football industry for the first time. The £25m per year is a guaranteed figure for Liverpool, not performance-related, and eclipses the £23.5m-a-year deal that Manchester United have with Nike but are currently renegotiating.

With Warrior, Liverpool will control all non-branded merchandising – products outside the usual kit range – and are free to open club stores wherever they choose. That is not the case under Adidas, who control Liverpool's kit supply and the sale of non-branded merchandise, and the club believes they can double the £25m a year from Warrior when the current restrictions are lifted this summer.

Liverpool's managing director, Ian Ayre, explained: "Our business is split in two. We have what you call kit, the branded products, the stuff the players wear, and that's the part of the business that the deal with Warrior covers. In our existing deal, there have been some restrictions on that in terms of the other unbranded products we sell, general retail. That sat within our deal with Adidas in certain lines and in certain markets.

"In our new deal, we have complete control of that. We will still work with Warrior, but we will have a much wider opportunity. That area of business currently represents 50% of everything we generate. The new deal represents half of what we currently generate, so we still have another opportunity to develop similar kind of revenues and that's what encouraged us."

Herbert Hainer, chief executive of Adidas, claimed the German company withdrew from negotiations to extend its six-year contract with Liverpool as: "We thought that what Liverpool were asking and what they were delivering was not in the right balance." Liverpool has, however, secured a £25m-a-year deal despite not qualifying for the Champions League for the past two years and Ayre insists the club's global appeal ensured Adidas's requirements were met.

"I'm happy that we delivered absolute value for a partner like Adidas and we will continue to deliver that value for Warrior," Ayre said. "We shared all the numbers with everybody we spoke to and I don't think it would surprise anyone to know that Liverpool are one of the biggest merchandising businesses in football and we wouldn't have had so many people interested if we didn't have a great business. We ran a very exciting process over 12 months. We worked very hard to speak to every major manufacturer in the sportswear category and we had winners and losers. Some people are very disappointed and some people are very happy."

Rather than taking a risk with a company unknown in football – Michigan-based Warrior were synonymous with lacrosse and hockey before last year becoming supplier to the Boston Red Sox, the baseball club that shares owners with Liverpool – Ayre believes the club will benefit as the company's main priority. That, it is suspected at Liverpool, has not always been the case with Adidas. Liverpool's MD added: "What really encouraged us is that this is their first foray into football and so we are their only customer and they will be very focused on Liverpool Football Club and promoting this opportunity around the world."

LFC Open Egypt Football Academy

2012-01-21T12:50:00.000+08:00

Liverpool FC announced plans to open its first ever international football Academy in the Egyptian capital of Cairo.

The groundbreaking venture, a first for Liverpool FC in the Middle East, was officially unveiled by Reds legend Ian Rush at a ceremony attended by media from all over the region.

The Academy, when it officially opens early next month, will have a permanent base in Madinaty, a new 33 million square metre ultra-modern extension city being built within New Cairo, with a supporting soccer school in nearby Al Rehab designed to help identify the best young footballing talent in Cairo.

For Managing Director Ian Ayre, who over the past two years has seen LFC team up with international partners to open soccer schools in Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Greece, Cyprus, Indonesia, USA and St. Vincent in the Caribbean, this announcement demonstrates a genuine commitment to bringing supporters closer to the club, no matter where in the world they live.

"Our international football Academies connect fans around the world and provide young people with an opportunity to be trained by qualified coaches at an official Liverpool Football Club academy," says Ayre. "All of our Academies follow the operating model of our own academy here in Liverpool and we are excited about this latest addition in Egypt as it will also bring children together in local communities through football events and camps."

For Ian Rush, who over the past two years has travelled the world as Club Ambassador for the LFC International Football Academy Soccer schools, this latest project further illustrates the massive global appeal of Liverpool Football Club.

"This is a really exciting time for the club," insists Liverpool's record goalscorer, "because it's no longer just about what happens back home on Merseyside. We have millions of fans all over the world, particularly in Asia and over here in the Middle East, and while they can't all come over to Anfield to attend a match or see the first team play, we can now go to them.

"No matter where in the world you go, and I have been fortunate enough to travel more than most, you meet people who absolutely love Liverpool Football Club. Speaking to people over here in Cairo, the fans love more than just the football that's played on the pitch, they love everything about the club - the history, the fans and what the club stands for. If we can repay that support by coaching the next generation of football fans - the children of our supporters here in Egypt - then that's got to be a positive thing for everybody."

While Liverpool have provided the know-how into setting up and running the venture - Dave Riddler, a former LFC Academy coach and one-time team-mate of Rush in Wales, has recently moved to Cairo to head up the training program - the day-to-day running of the Academy will be looked after by Master Sports, a company with a long history of involvement in Egyptian professional football.

For Master Sports Managing Director Mohamed Hassan, himself a former professional footballer in Egypt whose career was sadly cut short by injury, joining forces with Liverpool is the culmination of a lifetime ambition.

"I started supporting Liverpool in the 1980s when we were the most successful club in the world," he says. "My friends were as passionate as I was but it was very difficult to find a place to watch the games live at that time in Cairo. It wasn't just the fact that we were winning trophies that appealed to me however. Liverpool's philosophy about what football should be about matched my own - to be excellent on the pitch, playing a passing game, but also to be modest off it. Even though they were the best, there was never any arrogance. The players were humble which is how I believe footballers should be.

"In terms of setting up a Liverpool Academy over here, it's something which I've wanted to do for a long time. I first approached the club about five years ago but I don't think the infrastructure at Liverpool was in place to make it happen but a lot has changed at Anfield and now I'm delighted to be able to say that this is the first LFC Academy in the Middle East.

"It's a real dream of mine to be able to work with Liverpool Football Club but more importantly, for me, it's a chance to help the young players in this country improve. There's a lot of very talented young kids in Egypt but they lack that little bit of extra tuition and guidance that Liverpool can help provide. With the right coaching I think we can develop young Egyptian players who can one day play for Liverpool. I know that sounds like a dream but I don't think it's an unrealistic one. Egypt won the African Cup of Nations in 2006, 2008 and 2010 so that proves this is a strong footballing nation. With Liverpool's help, we can help make the next generation of young players even better and that will be good for not just Egypt but Liverpool as well."

Gerrard Return Excites Carroll

2012-01-18T14:20:00.000+08:00

Andy Carroll is hoping Steven Gerrard's comeback can help kick-start the striker's difficult start to his Liverpool career.

Injuries to both players have resulted in Carroll and Gerrard starting just one game together - last week's Carling Cup semi-final first leg win at Manchester City - since the forward's £35million move from Newcastle last January.

Coincidentally, Carroll's debut came as a substitute in Gerrard's last match before groin surgery ruled him out for the remainder of the 2010/11 season.

With Gerrard finally fully fit, Carroll is now determined to add to his tally of six goals in 33 games and is looking forward to the service only the Liverpool captain can provide.

"We haven't had the chance to start many games together," Carroll told LFC Magazine.

"I think I may have been a sub when he's started or he has been a sub when I have so it's nice to see him back.

"When you're on the same team as him in training, some of the passes he puts through for you and the chances he creates are incredible really.

"So hopefully I can keep working hard, get a nice run of games, give some good performances and get a few goals.

"If I can get a good run, hopefully that can kick-start me on again."

Indeed, Carroll feels he is not the only one benefiting from Gerrard's presence back on the field.

"You can see at Melwood that as soon as he comes out on the training pitch he's just different class," he added.

"I think just him being there gives everyone else another lift and another boost.

"He's already scored three goals so you can see straight away the difference that he makes and the impact he has."

Liverpool Scouting Welsh International Midfielder

2012-01-18T14:18:00.000+08:00

Liverpool has made Swansea midfielder Joe Allen one of their primary summer targets reports the Independent.

The 21-year-old Wales international has impressed in the Swans' debut Barclays Premier League campaign, and has captured the attention of a number of rival suitors.

His sensible use of the ball has helped teammate Leon Britton be ranked among Europe's leading passers - beating the likes of Barcelona duo Xavi and Andreas Iniesta.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish was first alerted to Allen's potential during Liverpool's 0-0 draw with Swansea at Anfield back in September, and has deployed scouts to the Liberty Stadium on a number of occasions to monitor his progress.

Allen fits the model of young player that Liverpool director of football Damien Comolli wants to sign – one who can be bought relatively inexpensively and whose value is likely to rise rather than decrease throughout the course of his contract.

However, a transfer during the January window looks to be unlikely, with Dalglish's priority signing a striker to strengthen his forward department this month.

Allen signed a new contract with Brendan Rodgers' side at the start of the 2011-12 campaign that ties him to Swansea, with whom he has been since the age of nine, until 2015.

Scott Dann Attracting Interest From Arsenal And Liverpool

2012-01-18T14:16:00.000+08:00

Arsenal, Liverpool and Aston Villa are waiting in the wings to make a move for Blackburn defender Scott Dann before the transfer window closes according to skysports.com.

The 24-year-old has made 11 Barclays Premier League starts for Steve Kean's struggling side this season, prior to picking up a groin injury just before the busy festive period.

However, Dann is set to return imminently which will be a welcome boost to Rovers, who are facing a battle to keep hold of fellow defender Christopher Samba, and so will not welcome reported interest in their summer signing from Birmingham.

Villa boss Alex McLeish is keen on being reunited with Dann having worked with him during his time in charge at St Andrews, whilst both Liverpool and Arsenal's interest stems from last summer, before the talented stopper made the switch to Ewood Park.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish is a known admirer of Dann's ability, but opted instead to sign Uruguayan international Sebastian Coates, who arrived at Anfield in August.

But having struggled to establish himself in the Liverpool team, Dalglish could rekindle his interest, but is likely to face competition from the Gunners.

Arsene Wenger is equally keen to bolster his Emirates Stadium rearguard, and having seen his defensive options decimated by injuries, he is poised to make a bid for Dann.

McLeish: Darren Bent Will Cost Liverpool Big Money

2012-01-18T14:14:00.000+08:00

Alex McLeish has told Liverpool that they will have to make an ‘attractive’ offer for Darren Bent if they wish to prize the striker away from Aston Villa.

The Reds have been linked with a January move for the England international, as Kenny Dalglish looks to add much needed firepower to their attacking line.

Bent, who only moved to Villa last January for £24million, is said to be keen on the idea, but McLeish insists he was no intention of parting with any of his stars for less than top dollar.

McLeish said: ‘Am I wanting to do (transfer) business? I am not pushing. I am not in any hurry to lose any of my players.

‘Only if it was an attractive proposition would we do anything so it's very unlikely we would let any of our players go.’

Liverpool, having used up the £50million they received for Fernando Torres last January on Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez, are unlikely to be ready to pay a further £24million for Bent, leaving any chances of a deal seemingly dead.

That will undoubtedly suit McLeish, who suggests he’d like to do some business of his own, but acknowledges he has to respect a wider plan in place at Villa.

‘I am happy with my squad. Like every other manager in the world, we're all greedy for players,’ he added.

‘If we had our way, we'd probably have 100 players at our disposal.

‘But we are steering towards a wage stability and we're still heading in that direction. I have agreed to the parameters and the way that the club wants to be run. We will keep doing that.’

Ghana Youth Midfielder Mumuni Abubakar Pleased With Liverpool Trials

2012-01-18T14:11:00.000+08:00

Ghana youth midfielder Mumuni Abubakar was pleased with his two-week trial at Liverpool.

The 18-year old New Edubiase defensive midfielder is hopeful he did enough to earn an offer.

"They were impressed by my performances during training and the match that I played. The technical team like my style of play, so hopefully they will sign me," he told Joy Sports.

"When you go to trials, they talk to your agent and not you the player. Liverpool is talking with my agent (Oliver Arthur) now. They're impressed with my performances so we should get a favourable response."

Fowler And Nando Set For India

2012-01-18T14:08:00.000+08:00

Former Liverpool strikers Robbie Fowler and Fernando Morientes have reportedly agreed to join a revamped Indian football league.

The format, which hopes to replicate the cricketing success of the Indian Premier League (IPL), is apparently attracting stars such as Fabio Cannavaro, Juan Pablo Sorin and Robert Pires.

Fowler has travelled widely since finishing his second stint at Anfield, playing in Australia and Thailand.

Morientes, meanwhile, is set for a comeback after announcing his retirement from the game in 2010 following a year with Marseille.

About 30 players and six coaches from around the world will be auctioned off in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata for the league, to be staged between 25 February and 8 April.

"We have signed seven icon players for the auction and each of the six teams will have one such player with a $600,000 salary cap," said Bhaswar Goswami, the executive director of Celebrity Management Group.

Cricket's IPL excited fans with its Twenty20 format, player auctions and post-game parties. Now football is poised for a similar makeover.

"The league is modelled on Major League Soccer and of course IPL," Goswami added.

"We saw the hype and buzz around the players' auction in IPL and feel it can be an equal success. It's a brilliant concept. We expect owners to make profit much earlier than the IPL franchises.

"We are also in the process of finalizing television rights for live broadcast across south-east Asia."

Fenway Park Could Host Soccer Game Between Liverpool and AS Roma

2012-01-18T14:04:00.000+08:00

Liverpool FC might be coming to Fenway Park next summer. The Boston Globe reports the Reds are in talks with Italian club AS Roma about playing a preseason friendly at the historic park in late June or early July.

"Throughout its 100-year history, Fenway Park has seen some of the best in athletic competition," Fenway Sports Management president Sam Kennedy said. "And while we are exploring the possibility of hosting a Liverpool match -- which certainly rises to that level -- nothing has been finalized."

The game would be part of a nationwide soccer tournament that would also involve Premier League club Chelsea FC and Scottish giants Celtic FC. Other games could be played at Yankee Stadium in New York and either Comiskey Park or Wrigley Field in Chicago.

The report also reveals that Liverpool is making tentative reservations to spend part of next summer in the Boston area.

The LFC-Roma game would be a contest between two European soccer clubs that have Boston-based owners. Liverpool is owned by Fenway Sports Group. Roma is led by a group that includes local businessmen Thomas DiBenedetto and James Pallotta.

Fenway Park captivated area soccer fans in July 2010 when it hosted Celtic FC and Portugal's Sporting CP. More than 32,000 fans were in attendance to see the teams play out a 1-1 draw. The game then went straight to a round of penalty kicks, which Celtic won 6-5.

Gary Ablett's Funeral Unites Blue And Red On Merseyside

2012-01-18T14:02:00.000+08:00

Former team-mates and current professionals were among the mourners who attended the funeral of former Liverpool and Everton defender Gary Ablett.

The 46-year-old died on New Year's Day after a 16-month battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish and Everton boss David Moyes were present at the city's Anglican Cathedral along with many of Ablett's team-mates – including John Barnes, Alan Hansen, Mark Lawrenson, Duncan Ferguson, Matt Jackson and David Unsworth – and other contemporaries from the 1980s and early 1990s.

The likes of Everton players Phil Neville and Tim Cahill were joined by former Toffees managers Joe Royle and Howard Kendall and ex-Reds boss Rafael Benítez.

Roy Keane, who briefly worked alongside Ablett at Ipswich just before his illness was diagnosed, was also present along with England Under-21 manager Stuart Pearce.

The coffin of Ablett, the only man to win the FA Cup with both Merseyside clubs, was carried into church to You'll Never Walk Alone and left to Everton's anthem Z-Cars.

After the service, Everton captain Neville Tweeted: "Sad sad day RIP Gary Ablett."

Echoing his sentiments, Neville's team-mate Cahill posted: "Rest in peace to a legend Gary Ablett. An emotional funeral and also amazing turnout for such a great person."

He leaves behind a wife, Jacqueline, and five children.

Reds Duo Seek Home Comforts

2012-01-17T14:46:00.000+08:00

Liverpool duo Andy Carroll and Jose Enrique believe they need to improve their home form if they are to have any chance of finishing in the top four.

The Reds were held to their seventh draw in 11 games at Anfield this season as Stoke ground out a goalless draw at the weekend.

Kenny Dalglish's men have struggled for goals this season, having netted only 24 goals in 21 Premier League games and Carroll, who started the draw with Stoke on the bench, believes they need to start taking their chances if they are to turn draws into victories.

"The objective is qualifying for the Champions League and we are up there and still in with a great chance of achieving that aim," said Carroll.

"We've done really well against the top teams and our away form has been great but in some of the home games we've struggled to put our chances away and I think that's where we need to make sure we can start to punish teams.

"Hopefully we can start taking our chances and score more goals as a team."

Defender Enrique, who played at the weekend despite a stomach upset, knows they have to start winning matches at Anfield if they are to be serious contenders to reach next season's Champions League.

"We have to improve our home form, because we have lost too many points at Anfield this season," said Enrique.

"We just have to stay positive. I think, maybe the Swansea game aside (a 0-0 draw), we have deserved to win the other games we have drawn at home.

"If we start to take our chances then we can be in the top four, but if we don't then we will make it more difficult for ourselves."

Liverpool now have a full week without a game before travelling to Bolton for Saturday's evening kick-off, when Enrique hopes they can return to winning ways.

"I think it's good we have a break now so we can prepare for Bolton," added Enrique.

"Away from home at the moment we are getting better results than at home, so hopefully we can get the three points next Saturday."

Lille Striker Interested In Liverpool Move

2012-01-17T14:44:00.000+08:00

Lille forward Moussa Sow has spoken of his admiration for Liverpool, amidst rumours that the 25-year-old is thinking of leaving the French champions during the January transfer window.

Sow was the top scorer in Ligue 1 last season with 25 league goals as he helped his side win the title but in recent weeks reports have suggested that he may look to leave and now the Senegal international has spoken in glowing terms about Liverpool.

"I am at Lille now but as we all know I want to play in England one day," Sow told Sky Sports. "Liverpool, well, that is a dream club. Anyone would be happy, scoring goals in front of the Kop can be the highlight of a career."

Much has been made of the Merseyside's club need for a striker after the club played out a goalless draw with Stoke at the weekend, their seventh home draw of the season.

With Luis Suarez out of action, due to his eight game suspension, and Andy Carroll yet to find his best form at the club, Liverpool have struggled for goals all season.

Liverpool would certainly face plenty of competition for the prolific striker with Fenerbahce and Tottenham also linked with Sow in recent weeks.

Newcastle have already seen the results of buying from the French champions with Yohan Cabaye earning rave reviews after making the move from Lille to St. James Park in the summer.

Liverpool Line Up Raid For Exciting Young Celtic Winger

2012-01-17T14:42:00.000+08:00

Liverpool are thought to be lining up a raid on Celtic for their talented winger James Forrest.

The 20 year-old flyer made his debut for the Hoops at the end of the 2009/10 season, but has only truly established himself as a star in the making this season.

He has scored 5 goals in 22 Clydesdale Bank Premier League appearances this season, and great things are expected of the young Scot, who has so far earned 4 caps in his short career.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish was of course once manager at Parkhead too, and the connection between the two clubs may be what helps the deal go through.

Liverpool’s struggles this season are well known.

Stewart Downing, a big money summer signing from Aston Villa, has yet to score a goal or provide an assist in the Premier League this season, while on the opposite flank Dirk Kuyt is also struggling for form.

Perhaps a young and dynamic player, unafraid to take players on, could be the solution.

Perhaps that man is James Forrest.

Reds Trial For 'Baby Drogba'

2012-01-17T14:39:00.002+08:00

Sky Sports understands Liverpool have handed a two-week trial to Swedish teenager Abdul Aziz, who has been dubbed the "baby Didier Drogba".

The 14-year-old, who was born in Sierra Leone, has an excellent scoring record for his club ISK Norkopping and with the SwedenUnder-15 national team.

Manchester United and City had both been watching the youngster, but have been caught napping by their north west rivals who moved swiftly to land Aziz on a trial.

His arrival at Anfield represents a real coup for Liverpool as Aziz is viewed as one of the biggest talents to emerge from Sweden in a generation.

Kenny Dalglish is committed to bringing the best talent from Europe and England to Anfield, as he lays the foundations for a new era of success.

Over the past 18 months the Merseyside club has snared some of the most highly-rated teenagers in the country in Raheem Sterling, Jordon Ibe and Seyi Ojo.

Tony Mowbray Insists Liverpool Target Rhys Williams Is Going Nowhere

2012-01-17T14:38:00.000+08:00

Middlesbrough boss Tony Mowbray has moved to clear up speculation linking his Australian defender Rhys Williams with a move away from the club following links with a series of Premier League outfits.

The likes of Liverpool, West Bromwich, Newcastle and Bolton have all been reported to be keen on the 23-year-old Socceroo but Mowbray insisted they weren't pondering letting him go.

"I'm pretty sure that anyone we don't want to lose won't be leaving," Mowbray told reporters.

"Rhys Williams is not out of contract and talking to him the boy's pretty comfortable here so I don't see that being an issue.

"He wants to try and help us get back to the Premier League."

Perth-born Williams, who can also play in midfield, has been a regular for Boro this term, making 20 appearances in all competitions.

Williams had told The World Game last week: “I’m aware there has been some speculation but I am more than happy at Middlesbrough. I am well settled and it would mean so much to the town and the manager Tony Mowbray to go up."

Liverpool Opt For Original Stanley Park Stadium Plan To Replace Anfield

2012-01-17T14:35:00.000+08:00

Liverpool has decided to proceed with their original, nine-year-old stadium plans once they have secured the finance to start construction.

That means the alternative, futuristic stadium designs proposed by former owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jnr have been ditched for good.

It also ensures there will be no fresh planning application required by the current American owners to restart construction once a lucrative naming rights package is in place.

Fenway Sports Group has been working with Manchester-based architects AFL, the firm which first submitted designs when Liverpool announced their intention to move to Stanley Park as far back as 2000.

It is these proposals, which were put forward for planning permission in 2003 and given the green light a year later, which will become the blueprint for a new 60,000-seat stadium costing around £300 million.

The club must still find the finance to kick-start the scheme, and there is no immediate prospect of work beginning, but AFL’s return to preferred status is another significant twist in the seemingly never-ending saga of Liverpool’s ground move.

The AFL plans were first introduced by former chief executive Rick Parry but were abandoned by Hicks and Gillett shortly after their ill-fated takeover in 2006.

Hicks scrapped the original designs in favour of those he commissioned from a Dallas-based architecture firm, HKS.

The £400 million costs of the second scheme effectively triggered the beginning of the end of the old regime, as Hicks and Gillett could not raise the funds to build it.

It also led to the first major split of the old boardroom, as the plans were seen as too expensive and impractical.

Now Hicks’ grand scheme has been permanently shelved with FSG deciding it will modernize and upgrade the first set of designs.

Since buying the club, John W Henry has worked through a variety of options to establish how to solve Liverpool’s enduring stadium problem.

Henry originally wanted to redevelop Anfield, but after a year of toil working through the planning issues, and the cost of buying nearby residential properties, it was accepted this was not feasible.

FSG has also explored whether to commission new stadium plans, but the time and cost restraint also made that a non-starter.

Liverpool has planning permission for two designs.

If the club submitted a third to Liverpool City Council, it could delay the process by another three years and there could be no guarantee they would be passed, especially given a political fervour to maintain a dialogue with Everton on the controversial issue of a groundshare.

It would be an incredibly risky strategy for FSG to start from scratch.

Liverpool still need to raise around £150 million in sponsorship — around half the costs – before they can start building any arena, but having decided which course to take there will be fewer obstacles in their way if a naming rights package can be secured in the near future.

That in itself remains a difficulty given economic conditions.

The single, desirable legacy of the Hicks and Gillett era was the fact they actually began preparatory work on Stanley Park prior to having to bring it to a halt when they failed to secure investment.

That means technically, and legally, construction of a stadium is considered to have already started by the council.

This has enabled the new owners to avoid missing out on any deadlines to complete a project.

Liverpool City Council is also eager for the club to make progress as soon as possible, so have not issued time constraints.

Some Liverpool fans may be worried that plans nearly 10 years old, which were publicly criticized by Hicks as being ‘out of date’ five years ago, are being given a facelift.

However, Liverpool believes Hicks’s criticism was always unwarranted and the AFL plans — inspired in part by the Millennium Stadium in Wales — were also impressive.

Although the club is limited in terms of altering how the arena will look, its size and the space it will fill from the accepted designs, there is still plenty of capacity to upgrade the interiors to modern standards.

Any suggestion the nine-year-old architects’ plan is out of date will be dismissed by the owners, who recognize AFL’s vast portfolio in stadium design.

The firm is responsible for recent upgrades at Old Trafford and the Nou Camp, and built the Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea and Everton training complexes.

Liverpool's Demands For New Deal Were Unrealistic, Says Adidas Chief

2012-01-17T14:31:00.000+08:00

Liverpool lost their lucrative partnership with Adidas after demanding too much money for their on-field performance, according to the firm’s chief executive.

The Premier League club’s current deal with Adidas, the world’s second biggest sporting goods manufacturer, expires at the end of the season after talks over an extension collapsed last year.

Instead, Liverpool signed a club-record £25 million contract with Boston-based Warrior Sports which will last six years. The deal, which is Warrior’s first major contract in football, is worth almost double the agreement with Adidas.

It had been suggested that Liverpool voluntarily ended the agreement with Adidas after a dispute about control over merchandise not related to the team’s kit.

But on Monday night, the American firm dismissed that claim, insisting the club were demanding unrealistic levels of money for the success they were enjoying on the field.

“The gap between their performance on the field and what the number should be is not in balance,” said Herbert Hainer, Adidas’s chief executive officer.

“Then we said, ‘OK we will not do it’. That’s the end of the story. It all depends on the success and the effort and the popularity, the exposure on TV, revenue you can generate by merchandising,

“This all has to be brought in line between what you offer and what you get. We thought that what Liverpool were asking and what they were delivering was not in the right balance.”

Liverpool’s lack of success on the field may have deterred Adidas, but the Merseyside club has recently enjoyed a lucrative run of new financial agreements with their commercial partners.

London-based bank Standard Chartered has agreed to pay a record £81.5 million to have its logo displayed on the team’s shirts for four years and the club’s sales department has also signed new sponsors such as Turkish tourism.

Norwegian Reds Make LFC Donation

2012-01-17T14:29:00.000+08:00

Vegard Heggem was back on Merseyside last week to hand over a cheque to the LFC Foundation on behalf of the club's Norwegian Supporters' Committee.

The former Liverpool defender and members of the Norway supporters' club presented the Reds with a donation of £1,000 at Anfield on Friday afternoon.

Heggem, who made 65 appearances and scored three goals for Liverpool between 1998 and 2003, also took in Saturday's clash with Stoke City.

Three's A Crowd

2012-01-16T18:31:00.000+08:00

Paul Merson felt Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish got his tactics wrong in their 0-0 draw with Stoke.

The Reds went into the match with three central defenders - Jamie Carragher, Sebastian Coates and Martin Skrtel - looking to deal with Stoke's lone striker Peter Crouch.

Merson said it became quickly apparent that Liverpool didn't need so many bodies at the back, but Dalglish persisted with the formation throughout a frustrating 90 minutes for the Anfield crowd.

The Soccer Saturday expert said those tactics might work in the second leg of Liverpool's Carling Cup semi-final against Manchester City, but felt they should have switched to a flat back-four against Stoke.

Merson said: "Stoke were playing Crouch up front, who's brilliant at holding the ball up, but he's not going to have the pace to hurt you behind.

"They probably thought if Stoke got the ball they'd start playing diagonal balls into Crouch and he's bigger than the three that did play there - and hopefully they could win the second ball.

"But after 10 minutes you knew that wasn't going to be the case. Liverpool played all of the game in their half and they were still playing three centre-halves marking Crouch on his own. It should have been changed, no question it should have been changed.

"I don't know if they're playing like that to get ready for Man City in two weeks' time. They're already 1-0 up so that's the time I probably would play it.

"But I didn't see why they had to keep with it and even when they were chasing the game and Stoke were getting deeper and deeper they still played three at the back.

"It was a strange decision for me."

Dalglish also utilized Dirk Kuyt as a lone striker before bringing on Craig Bellamy and Andy Carroll in the second half and Merson felt that was also a mistake.

He felt Kuyt didn't have the pace or the presence to suit that system and his lack of pace meant captain Steven Gerrard struggled to deliver any killer passes.

"Steven Gerrard was the player who was trying to get things going," Merson added.

"But it doesn't matter how good you are. You can be the best player in the world at number 10 or the player who is going to provide, if you ain't got the players up front and you've got no movement you've got no chance.

"They were paceless. Until Craig Bellamy came on, nobody was quick.

"I thought Carroll was the player who would definitely play on Saturday. When you play three at the back and five in midfield with the full-backs making a five, I thought he would be the player who would go up front, hold the ball up and let people like Gerrard, Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson run off him.

"That wasn't the case. In the first half Kuyt was coming back further than the midfield. He was coming shorter and shorter and they had nobody up front."

Merson admitted he was unimpressed with the home side, but said Stoke deserved to go home with a point.

"I was disappointed with Liverpool on Saturday," he added.

"The only good thing to come out of it was that Stoke never looked like scoring in a month of Sundays. As a defensive unit they were a different class.

"But Stoke, defensively, were unbelievable. They went there for a draw and they got a draw - and they got it very, very easy bar one chance for Kuyt.

"I don't care if you're Man United or Man City, to go to Anfield and keep Liverpool down to one clear-cut chance is very surprising."

Toothless Liverpool Miss Suarez

2012-01-16T18:29:00.000+08:00

"I think I'm in danger of repeating myself here," said Kenny Dalglish when asked one question too many about his team's failure to break down a stubborn Stoke City side.

Over 44,000 Liverpudlians might have thought something similar after seeing their team's seventh draw in 11 league matches at Anfield this season.

Liverpool may rank alongside Manchester City as one of only two teams unbeaten at home in the 2011-12 Premier League but where City have accrued 30 points, for the Merseysiders the figure is 19 – fewer than all six teams above them.

Jose Enrique, one of their brighter performers on Saturday, acknowledged that this home discomfort was damaging Liverpool's Champions League qualification prospects. "If we start to take our chances then we can be in the top four, but if we don't then we will make it more difficult for ourselves," he said. This latest disappointment was down to a worrying lack of creativity. Besides a late free header missed by Dirk Kuyt, there was little serious threat to Stoke's goal.

On the weekend when Liverpool's managing director, Ian Ayre, both in a BBC interview and the match program, conceded that their handling of the Luis Suarez affair had damaged people's "perception" of the club, the on-field consequences of that case were only too evident: Liverpool desperately lacked the spark of the suspended Suarez, who may miss opportunities but also creates them. Stoke's manager, Tony Pulis, who saw him score twice at the Britannia in the Carling Cup in October, admitted: "I could not have picked a better player for us not to play against than Suarez."

In his absence, Kuyt led the line, supported by Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing, but they toiled against a Stoke side who flooded the midfield and defended resolutely. Andy Carroll's introduction for the last half-hour made things more interesting, if only for the fact Stoke risked conceding a penalty when first Robert Huth, then Ryan Shawcross grappled with him at corners, but the referee, Howard Webb, ignored the Kop's loud appeals.

"It is difficult to understand when they [the match officials] talk to the players and explain something to them and they commit the same [offence] immediately after it," said Dalglish, though he acknowledged his team's failings first and foremost. "We have got to be more creative and the deliveries into the box have got to be a lot better than they were."

Stoke's physical approach may infuriate opponents but they had every right to celebrate a point at a ground where they have never won in 49 top-flight visits. Pulis's team sits eighth in the table, having lost just one of their last nine League outings, but the Welshman is not getting carried away. "This is only our fourth year in the Premier League and we shouldn't lose sight of that. The aim is to get to 40 points as quickly as we can and then push on from there."

Anfield In Danger Of Losing Its Fear Factor

2012-01-16T18:27:00.000+08:00

The once-formidable Anfield fortress now resembles a welcoming visitor centre. The sense of overwhelming intimidation, so integral to Liverpool’s success during their prime, is in danger of becoming a memory.

It is revived for special occasions – no doubt the double header with the city of Manchester this month will reawaken passions – but too many Premier League encounters have failed to raise beyond the humdrum.

Stoke City, like the six previous clubs to leave Anfield clutching a point which was generously offered as much as hard earned, have long shaken off any fearful inferiority felt by those passing through the Shankly Gates.

Fourteen points have been squandered by Liverpool on their own turf this season. Recruiting a striker is considered the obvious solution, but given the number of accidents they are encountering at home, a new health and safety officer would not go amiss, either.

Twelve months on from Kenny Dalglish’s appointment, a sweep of the Premier League landscape reveals Liverpool are exactly where they have been for three years.

They are the sixth best side in the division, and although they are consolidating themselves by taking a more scenic route towards a top-four challenge (although not in this game), it must concern the American owners that they have been unable to take advantage of the mediocre standards of Arsenal and Chelsea.

A season has unfolded which confirms the view that whatever methods are employed and changes made at Anfield, the gains and losses have a habit of balancing each other.

In Rafael Benítez, Liverpool possessed the most tactically astute manager in their history – a trait which was magical when he outwitted Jose Mourinho but infuriating when he would select teams to cope with the elaborate formation of Barnsley.

Under Dalglish, broadly speaking the philosophy has been based on the traditional Anfield mantra of ‘letting the opposition worry about us’.

This rather ignores Dalglish’s occasional forays into the strategy room. During his first spell, he was not averse to surprising his own supporters as much as rival managers by using full backs in central midfield, or midfielders in defence. Often with mixed results.

If Wednesday’s rearguard action in the second half at the Etihad Stadium was a reminder of Dalglish’s often underestimated capacity for pragmatism, his choices here marked it in bold capital letters.

There was wisdom in lining up with three centre-halves to combat Stoke’s aerial threat, repeating a successful idea from last season, but few could identify the merit of persisting with it once Tony Pulis reacted by amending his own line-up to play one up front.

It was like watching someone’s cunning plan being undermined by the opponent’s irritating refusal to let it work. In chess terms, Pulis emerged as the grandmaster.

Dirk Kuyt was left to play the Andy Carroll role as a lone striker, and engaged in a perfect impression of the Geordie. Kuyt’s touch deserted him throughout and when the game’s single chance fell on his forehead he somehow missed the target.

As with Carroll at Manchester City, the Dutchman was often isolated against a robust Stoke defence, a problem compounded when he hunted deep for possession. This had the effect of making it seem as though Liverpool were playing with seven midfielders and no striker.

Clearly Liverpool missed Luis Suárez. “I was absolutely delighted not to see him on the pitch,” said Pulis. Since Suárez was present for the previous six Anfield draws suggesting his absence was the difference is simplistic.

A greater loss in such a system was the rested Daniel Agger whose capacity to bring the ball out of defence could have turned a redundant extra defender into an attacking weapon.

When the change did come after an hour, it was Stewart Downing who mystifyingly made way for substitute Carroll, while the assortment of centre-backs was retained, at least two of them marking thin air.

Asked how he thought his plan worked, Dalglish pointed out that his defence looked strong, but admitted “they had only one striker to mark”, which simply added to the bewilderment. Liverpool had evidently identified their problem, but failed to react and rectify it until it was too late.

If they do not sign a striker to turn home draws into wins within the next fortnight, the same will also be true of this season’s attempts to return to the Champions League.

Reds Legend: Liverpool Close On New Striker

2012-01-16T18:25:00.000+08:00

Liverpool is on the verge of signing a new striker, according to legendary goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar.

Liverpool struggled to hit the net again this weekend with a 0-0 draw at home to Stoke and have scored just eight goals in their last nine Premier League games. With Luis Suarez suspended for eight games, strikers Dirk Kuyt and Andy Carroll have come under pressure to perform but Carroll has only scored twice this season, while Kuyt has yet to break his drought.

Manager Kenny Dalglish is believed to be ready to dip into the transfer market to boost his side's attacking threat and Grobbelaar is sure a deal will happen soon.

"There are two strikers [Liverpool are interested in]," Grobbelaar told talkSPORT. "I know that [Kenny Dalglish] is looking at a South American striker who is playing in Holland and I know that he's quite close in getting another striker.

"I'm not going to be the one to actually tell you who, but I'm sure that the striker will be arriving soon." According to the Daily Mirror, Dalglish is ready to offer £10 million for Tottenham's Jermain Defoe, although Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has said recently that he does not want to let the striker depart.

Liverpool Consider January Bid For Scott Sinclair

2012-01-16T18:23:00.000+08:00

Liverpool are considering a January move to sign Swansea City attacker Scott Sinclair after a succession of glowing scouting reports left Anfield boss Kenny Dalglish readying a potential bid for the former Chelsea man.

Dalglish has been monitoring a number of prospective attacking additions as the Scot looks to beef up Liverpool’s fire-power after seeing his Merseyside club struggle to find the back of the net. That need to bring in another forward has been accentuated by Luis Suarez being handed a lengthy ban and Andy Carroll’s continued inability to find his feet almost a year since his £35m move from Newcastle United.

Scott Sinclair spent five years trying to make the grade at Chelsea, being sent out on loan moves to no fewer than six sides before the Bath born adaptable forward opted to make a £500k move to South Wales and hasn’t looked back since. The 22 year old knocked in 27 goals in his first season to help Brendan Rodgers’ into the top flight via the play-offs.

The former England Under-21 international has continued to impress in the top flight notching up six goals from a wide role out on the left, offering support to summer signing Danny Graham and pushing Swansea City into the top half of the table.

Liverpool spent over £100m on new players in 2011 and Dalglish and director of football Damien Comolli have been committed to purchasing youthful players in order to build for the future and Sinclair certainly fits the bill in that respect and the top four chasers may feel they can tempt the Swansea City man to consider a move, especially as he has less than 18 months left to run on his current contract.

The fact that Sinclair can play out wide will also interest Dalglish who will feel that the adaptable Swansea City man can add an extra direct dimension to an attack that has struggled to break down opposition sides, managing just 24 goals in 21 Premier League matches.

United And Liverpool Warned Off Zaha

2012-01-16T18:22:00.000+08:00

Manchester United and Liverpool have made enquiries about Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha, but have been told the teenager is not for sale.

Eagles boss Dougie Freedman has put together an exciting young squad, with 19-year-old forward Zaha the cream of the crop.

Palace moved to offset a potential January exit by tying Zaha to a long-term contract, but that has not stopped the speculation.

Newcastle have been credited with an interest, but recent speculation has suggested the Red Devils and Liverpool are also tracking the forward. This has been confirmed by Freedman, but he stressed that the enquiries were politely batted away.

"I've had chit-chats with Kenny Dalglish and Alex Ferguson, but he is not going anywhere," Freedman said of Zaha.

Carra: Football Is My Focus Now

2012-01-16T18:21:00.000+08:00

Jamie Carragher is flattered by talk of a role at LFC after retirement - but insists extending his playing career for as long as possible is his top priority right now.

Fellow Scouser Steven Gerrard signed a new deal at the club last week which will see him adopt an ambassadorial role once his playing days are over.

Kenny Dalglish later claimed that similar talks may be held with Carragher, who made his first Barclays Premier League start since sustaining a calf injury in October as Liverpool drew 0-0 with Stoke on Saturday.

While Carragher would love to stay at the club for as long as possible, his focus remains on adding to a tally of appearances which currently stands at a staggering 684.

"If the manager has mentioned that role, I'm sure we will discuss it in the future," said Carragher, who turns 34 this month.

"Of course I'd like to stay on but that's not something I want to talk about at the minute.

"I still want to concentrate on playing. I want to get as much out of my playing career as I possibly can.

"I'm the same as Steven - we love playing for the club and we just want to help in any way that we can. Last week was about Steven and rightly so. He is the figurehead of the club as Kenny was 20 to 30 years ago.

"Steven is a legend of the club, known throughout the world and synonymous with the club. He totally deserves what he has been given by the club and I think it is a fantastic gesture."

Jonjo: Why I Look Up To Jay

2012-01-16T18:19:00.000+08:00

Jonjo Shelvey has spoken of his admiration for fellow central midfielder Jay Spearing and commented: 'I look up to Jay'.

Liverpool's No.33 netted his first goal in a red shirt during the FA Cup 3rd round victory over Oldham Athletic as he partnered Spearing at the heart of the Reds' midfield.

"Jay is a top, top player. I think he has proved that when he's in the team," said Shelvey.

"I felt really sorry for him against Fulham when he was shown the red card. I thought it was a proper old fashioned tackle.

"I look up to Jay, even though I've played more games in my career. He's been around the Liverpool squad for a long time where it's harder to get games."

Shelvey played 42 games during the two years he spent at Charlton and he is making great progress under the tutelage of Kenny Dalglish.

He enjoyed an outstanding spell on loan at Championship club Blackpool on including a debut goal in a 5-0 win against Bristol City at Bloomfield Road.

A hat-trick against Leeds in November coupled with a handful of stand-out performances for The Seasiders lead to him being named Championship Young Player of the Month for November.

Shelvey said: "It was a big thing for me. It's nice to win it. I've never won anything like that before; I think the only other trophy I've ever won was for a golf tournament!

"It's good to know people are noticing what you can do."

After injury ruled Lucas Leiva out for the remainder of the season, Liverpool recalled their starlet as cover on November 30, 2011 and he made his first ever Barclays Premier League start with an impressive outing for the Reds in the 2-0 win at Aston Villa.

He added: "In the Premier League you get a little bit more time and space because it's a more technical game.

"You don't get as much time on the ball in the Championship. People are always in your face. If you try to take a touch you usually get tackled straight away. You get pressed all the time.

"Hopefully I can stay playing in the Premier League."

Match Report: Liverpool 0 - 0 Stoke City

2012-01-15T23:59:00.000+08:00

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish failed to come up with the winning formula at Anfield as his side were held to a goalless draw against Stoke.

An unfamiliar line-up to combat the visitors' obvious physical strengths initially appeared to cause more problems for the Reds than it did their opponents.

It took until after the break for Dalglish's side to find their feet but they still struggled to carve out chances against the obdurate Potters and it cost them yet another three points.

They may still be unbeaten at home this season but they have now drawn seven of their 11 matches and the issue is starting to become more of a problem.

The point was exactly what Stoke had come for, however, and they left happy after doing a textbook job in stifling their hosts' creative abilities.

Liverpool lined up in the same 3-4-2-1 formation with which they beat Stoke at home last season but with the personnel different - including summer signing Sebastian Coates being given his first Barclays Premier League start - they struggled to adjust.

Dirk Kuyt, without a league goal since the final day of last season, lacked support up front and while Glen Johnson, on the right of midfield, roamed everywhere on the opposite flank Jose Enrique got forward less than he did playing at left-back.

There appeared to be misunderstanding and confusion everywhere Liverpool turned and Stoke were more than grateful to watch it all unfold in front of them with little intervention required on their part.

Very little quality was evident in the first half - Steven Gerrard's raking 60-yard crossfield ball straight to the feet of Enrique apart - as players ran down the blind alleys Stoke shepherded them into.

In fact the visitors had probably the best chance midway through the first half from a quick counter-attack but even then Matt Etherington's shot from outside the penalty area was easily saved by Jose Reina.

Stewart Downing, Gerrard and Jordan Henderson all had shots from distance but only the latter's troubled goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen.

For all their struggles at home this season, with four wins and six draws in 10 matches before kick-off, it was easily the worst 45 minutes seen at Anfield since Dalglish returned as manager a year ago.

There was a slight improvement after the break but not to the standard expected of a side with top-four ambitions.

Johnson twice cut in from the right to shoot with his left foot, having his first blocked and dragging the second wide, and when Enrique finally got forward his cross from the left byline was too close to Sorensen.

Striker Andy Carroll made his entrance in the 59th minute to replace Downing and immediately caused a problem with Robert Huth putting him a headlock, unseen by referee Howard Webb, from Gerrard's corner.

The England international's next intervention was less helpful, however, blocking Henderson's goalbound volley from Enrique's cross before then deciding he required a change of footwear.

Gerrard's threaded through ball picked out the toiling Kuyt in the area but the Holland international's first touch let him down.

The Dutchman was to miss Liverpool's best two chances in the final 13 minutes when he headed Enrique's deflected cross wide and then nodded into the side-netting at the far post.

Prior to those chances he had also gone down in the area as he tried to reach Johnson's cross after Carroll had twice appeared to be fouled by Huth in the box.

Martin Skrtel's downward header from Craig Bellamy's corner bounced over and with it went his side's chances of getting a winner as the hosts ran out of ideas.

Dalglish Left Frustrated

2012-01-15T23:58:00.000+08:00

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish rued his side's lack of creativity as they dropped more points at home after being held by Stoke.

The Reds have drawn seven of their 11 games at Anfield this season to seriously damage their chances of a top-four finish.

The home side had the majority of possession but struggled to get to grips with their unfamiliar 3-4-2-1 formation and failed to create too many goalscoring opportunities against a resolute Stoke defence.

Dalglish conceded the onus was on his side to try and break Stoke down, but they only had one shot on goal in the whole game much to the disappointment of the home crowd.

"They came for a point and got a point and the responsibility is on us to be more imaginative to try and break them down but we didn't manage to do that," admitted Dalglish.

"The couple of opportunities we did have we never took, and in a game like that you've got to take your opportunities.

"We looked pretty solid at the back and I think they had one shot in the first half and not much more after that, but as I said it was our responsibility to be able to break them down.

"There was nothing wrong with the players' effort or determination, but on the day we just weren't good enough to break them down."

Liverpool had two claims for a penalty waved away in the second half by referee Howard Webb when substitute Andy Carroll and Dirk Kuyt went down in the box, but Dalglish did not have too many complaints with the decisions

"Probably in every game you go through there are a couple of penalty appeals. It's difficult to comprehend sometimes," he said.

"When they (referees) speak to people in the penalty area, I don't know what they say but obviously it must be about holding people back and then it's not punished - but we probably got away with a couple as well."

Dalglish used an unfamiliar 3-4-2-1 formation in the game and the Reds boss insisted he had no choice but to use it after losing Daniel Agger to injury.

"The boys at the back looked pretty comfortable, they were only playing against one person," noted Dalglish. "With the personnel we had, we didn't really have much of a choice.

"We were lucky to get Jose (Enrique) to play because he had a bit of a stomach virus and it was touch and go whether he was going to play.

"We left Daniel Agger out as a precaution because he's got a slight injury. We never had too many options."

Carragher Urges Liverpool To Sort Out Home Form

2012-01-15T23:56:00.000+08:00

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher admits the team's difficulties at Anfield are damaging their hopes of a top-four finish.

Carragher, 34 later this month, has had to watch many of those struggles from the bench but started in the Premier League at home to Stoke City and, though they are currently unbeaten in 11 fixtures at Anfield, the Reds have also dropped 14 points and trail fourth-placed Chelsea.

"It wasn't the result that we wanted but Stoke are a tough nut to crack and they have proved that a lot of times this season,'' Carragher said.”They have got a very strong back four and unfortunately we couldn't break them down.

"It's been a problem a few times at Anfield this season. We need to sort that out before the end of the season if we want to get to where want to be, which is obviously the top four.''

Winning their last two matches in cup competitions, including victory at Manchester City in midweek, coupled with captain Steven Gerrard signing a contract extension meant the team went into Saturday's game full of confidence.

However, that gradually drained out of them over the course of 90 frustrating minutes in which Liverpool did not really create a decent chance until Dirk Kuyt missed two close-range headers in quick succession in the final 10 minutes.

There was little else in the way of action as the hosts struggled to get to grips with a 3-4-2-1 formation and Stoke gratefully welcomed the confusion and misunderstanding it brought, defending resolutely.

Andy Carroll felt he should have had a penalty after coming on as a 58th-minute substitute when he was fouled by Ryan Shawcross but Liverpool were clutching at straws by that point.

"We had a good result a couple of days ago and we wanted to build on that,'' said Carragher. "It is a bit of a comedown from Wednesday (against City) but we have had that plenty of times this season.

"People have been disappointed with some results but then we have got a result that people don't expect. We are still up there, very close to the top four.''

With City to visit Anfield for the second leg of the Carling Cup semi-final trailing 1-0 and Manchester United arriving for an FA Cup fourth round tie in the next fortnight Liverpool's home form will come under more scrutiny.

But Carragher believes they can rise to the occasion against the league's top two sides: "A draw at home against City would be okay - we wouldn't have a problem with that and we would take that now,'' he said.

"You wouldn't want a draw against United, as you wouldn't want to be going to Old Trafford for a replay. I don't think anyone is looking at those games from that point of view. Maybe when you play sides who will come on the front foot, it makes things a bit easier.

"Teams have come here this season and made it difficult but you would expect that City and United will come and try to win the game - that may make it easier for us.''

Dalglish Sets Sights On Spurs Striker

2012-01-15T23:54:00.000+08:00

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish is said to be monitoring the situation around Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe after news emerged that his agent told the club that the striker wants to leave in this transfer window in order to get more regular starts.

Dalglish is said to be considering a number of players to bolster his attacking options due to Luis Suarez's suspension and Andy Caroll's prolonged struggle for form.

Defoe is desperate for first team football as he attempts to break into Fabio Capello's squad for the European championship as the Italian will need an in-form striker to cope with Wayne Rooney's suspension in the group stages.

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp says that Defoe's head may have been turned by a change of agent and confirmed that Struan Marshall had contacted the club on the player's behalf requesting that he be sold this month.

Marshall, who this week secured an extended contract for Steven Gerrard at Liverpool, also represents Stuart Downing and Jordan Henderson who made the switch to Anfield last summer.

Redknapp has favoured Rafael van der Vaart to play off Emmanuel Adebayor so far this season but rejected the notion that he would sanction the sale of Defoe who he has worked with at West Ham and Portsmouth previously.

"Daniel spoke to his agent who said he is not happy because he wants to play and he has got a few clubs in for him," Redknapp told The Guardian.

"I am sure he has got a few clubs in for him but we are not selling him. He is saying this club wants him and that club wants him - that is how they make their money. He is not moving anywhere, though. He is on contract here and is a big player for us."

Reds Eye Llorente

2012-01-15T23:52:00.000+08:00

Liverpool are continuing their hunt for firepower – with Spain striker Fernando Llorente a possible target.

Kop boss Kenny Dalglish and director of football Damien Comolli continue to monitor several options. They are also keeping tabs on other hitmen including Newcastle's Demba Ba but 26-year-old Llorente who would cost at least £20m, is also on their radar after some fine displays for Athletico Bilbao and Spain.

Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina and Maxi Rodriguez have also praised Llorente's performances in La Liga this term to Liverpool's hierarchy.

A move for Serbian wonderkid Lazar Markovic is looking unlikely after his club Partizan Belgrade slapped a £14m price on his head.

People Sport revealed last week that the 17-year-old was a target - but Dalglish will not fork out that kind of cash.

Granero Eyes Reds Move

2012-01-15T23:51:00.000+08:00

The agent of Real Madrid's out of favour midfielder Esteban Granero has admitted that he would relish a transfer to Liverpool.

Teofilo Lazaro has spoken out about the future of 24-year-old Granero, who has slipped down Real boss Jose Mourinho's pecking order at the Bernabeu this season.

And, he revealed that the £8million-rated midfield man would be happy for a move away to secure regular first-team action elsewhere, namng the Reds as a possible destination.

In an interview to International Business Times, Lazaro said: "He's finding his chances limited at Real. He's keen for a move away - possibly to Liverpool. If he can't play at Madrid then he'll play somewhere else. It's as simple as that."

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish has always maintained that he is happy with his current squad, but there is no doubt the addition of Granero - whose acquisition could be funded by the sale of Alberto Aquilani to AC Milan and Joe Cole to Lille - would bolster the side's bid for a top-four finish this season.

Reds Reject Striker Swap Bid

2012-01-15T23:50:00.000+08:00

Liverpool have reportedly snubbed Aston Villa's bid to sign striker Andy Carroll with Darren Bent offered in exchange.

Reports in the Sunday Express claim Villa chief Alex McLeish has approached his Reds counterpart Kenny Dalglish with a plan which would see reported Anfield target, Bent, make the move to Merseyside with Carroll going to Villa Park.

However, it appears that Dalglish turned down the offer because he wants to keep faith with the £35million capture from Newcastle, who has struggled for fitness, form and goals since joining 12 months ago.

It remains to be seen if McLeish will step up his attempts given that England international, Bent, was on target in Villa's 1-1 draw against Everton on Saturday and both player and manager have always insisted that his future is at Villa Park.

Dalglish Plans Carragher Talks

2012-01-15T23:49:00.000+08:00

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish plans to hold talks with Jamie Carragher with a view to offering the veteran defender a future ambassadorial role to compare with Steven Gerrard.

Anfield captain Gerrard this week signed a new long-term contract at the club and accepted an offer to remain associated with the Merseysiders when he retires.

Dalglish would also like Carragher to eventually take up a similar position and discussions are set to take place with the centre-back.

Carragher, who is second in Liverpool's list of all-time appearances after 683 games, turns 34 at the end of January and has been out of the first team in the Premier League.

But Dalglish thinks the ex-England international is of identical importance to Gerrard, as the Reds boss said: "We'll have the same conversations with Carra' to see what his plans and ambitions are and to see what he would like to do.

"We want to try and keep him involved at the football club for as long as we can.

"It's hugely important for us to keep people who have been great servants like Stevie and Carra' have been.

"If they want to be here, we should do what we can to try to accommodate them.

"They are a fantastic asset to the football club both on and off the pitch, and that's something we should be looking to develop."

Ayre Defends Liverpool Racism Stance

2012-01-15T23:47:00.000+08:00

Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre insists any perception that Liverpool's handling of the Luis Suarez affair means they take a soft stance on racism is "totally and utterly rubbish".

The Reds have come in for criticism in recent weeks for the way they have behaved during Luis Suarez's unsuccessful defence against allegations he racially abused Manchester United's Patrice Evra.

Liverpool's players wore T-shirts supporting Suarez before the result of last month's FA hearing had been revealed and the club's reputation has taken a battering in some quarters, particularly after Oldham Athletic defender Tom Adeyemi was allegedly racially abused by a fan at Anfield last week.

The Reds acted swiftly to investigate Adeyemi's complaint of abuse, with a man subsequently arrested, and Ayre is adamant there should never have been any doubt about Liverpool's commitment to fighting racism.

"One of the many disappointing things about recent events is that it has led some people to the perception that Liverpool Football Club's stance on racism and discrimination is not as firm as it is,'' Ayre said. "That is sad for the many fantastic people who work for this club and for our community team.''

"The players showed support for Luis which was fantastic but then some people interpreted that wrongly as the players saying they're not interested in the fight against racism. That is totally and utterly rubbish.''

On the Adeyemi issue, he added in the club's program ahead of Stoke's visit on Saturday: "It is important to us all here that nobody is left in any doubt as to where Liverpool Football Club stand on this. Such behaviour will not be tolerated.''

In the wake of the backlash they received for their approach to Suarez's defence Ayre fully expects the Uruguay international to be the target of abuse from opposition fans.

Suarez has already served half of his eight-match ban after being found guilty of racially abusing Evra and, coincidentally, his first away match is likely to be at Old Trafford where he is likely to be afforded the most hostile of welcomes.

"It will be tough, we shouldn't kid ourselves that opposing fans are going to give him the best of times because that's the nature of football,'' Ayre told BBC Sport.”But he will get 100% support from Liverpool Football Club.

"Luis has come in for a lot of criticism but, we made a decision, Luis made a decision, not to appeal and the reason we did that was to move on. He also made a decision not to appeal the ban.

"Those things have been accepted and he is serving the penalty so we start afresh. The best way Luis can come back is to get on the pitch and score some goals and that's what everyone will expect of him.''

Match Preview: Liverpool vs Stoke

2012-01-14T14:18:00.000+08:00

Liverpool turn their attentions back to the Premier League this weekend when they welcome Stoke to Anfield after two games in the FA Cup and Carling Cup.

The Reds go into the clash boosted by the news that skipper Steven Gerrard has signed a new long-term deal which is likely to see him end his playing career at Anfield.

Liverpool, who sit in sixth spot in the table, know there is no room for error as they look to maintain their push to finish in the top four with Chelsea currently three points clear of them in fourth place.

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is likely to stick to his strongest possible line-up after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Manchester City in the Carling Cup in midweek.

Jay Spearing is set to miss out after picking up a hamstring problem against City so Charlie Adam is likely to start in midfield after coming off the bench at the Etihad Stadium.

Jose Enrique is expected to return to the starting XI after starting the game in midweek on the bench, meaning Glen Johnson will revert to his normal right-back spot with Martin Kelly making way.

Luis Suarez remains absent for the home side as he serves the fourth match of his eight-game suspension, so Andy Carroll will get another chance to impress.

Stoke are looking to complete the double over Liverpool after recording a 1-0 win over the Reds at the Britannia Stadium earlier in the season.

Potters boss Tony Pulis has a number of defensive worries to contend with before finalising his side.

Jonathan Woodgate, Marc Wilson and Ryan Shotton all face late fitness tests as they look to shake off slight knocks.

Full-back Andy Wilkinson could return at the back having overcome his recent knee injury.

The likes of Thomas Sorensen, Matthew Etherington and Peter Crouch are set to be restored to the team after they were rested for last weekend's FA Cup victory at Gillingham.

Possible starting XIs:

Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Enrique, Adam, Gerrard, Downing, Henderson, Bellamy, Carroll.

Stoke: Sorensen, Shotton, Shawcross, Huth, Wilson, Pennant, Delap, Palacios, Etherington, Walters, Crouch.

Molby: Carroll Important Versus Stoke

2012-01-14T14:15:00.000+08:00

Jan Molby believes Liverpool will face a different type of challenge to the one they overcame midweek against Manchester City when they meet Stoke at Anfield on Saturday.

The Dane, who made 292 appearances for the club, also believes Andy Carroll has an important part to play, both in attack and defensively, if the Reds are to take all three points.

"We all know what to expect. Stoke play very direct and take no prisoners," said Molby.

"They will go piling in and we must match them physically.

"We need a physical presence against Stoke and I think Andy Carroll will come in handy in both penalty boxes.

"It certainly won't be easy because after a tough start to the season, Tony Pulis’ side have really picked up over recent months."

Molby also reflected on Wednesday night's win at the Etihad stadium and hinted that Dalglish might look to shuffle his squad for the game against Pulis and co.

He said: "The City game will have taken a lot out of the players and I'd expect Kenny to make a few changes. After a big win, it's all about ensuring the players are mentally prepared to go again.

"Liverpool defended brilliantly against Manchester City and fully deserved their 1-0 lead to take into the second leg at Anfield.

"Having gone one in front, it was a natural reaction that we sat back a bit. It's a two-legged tie and there was no need for us to take risks.

"City had a lot of the ball in the second half but didn't really have any chances. It wasn't pretty with Liverpool playing so deep but Kenny got his tactics spot on."

As for the second leg, Molby is relishing the prospect of another special cup-night atmosphere at Anfield as Liverpool look to secure a trip to Wembley for the first time since 1996.

"There will be a full house and a great atmosphere. There won't be a spare seat and the place will be rocking," he said.

"Liverpool has taken the Carling Cup very seriously this season and winning it would be a reward for that. We're now in a great position to go all the way."

Liverpool Lead The Way For Highly Rated Teenager

2012-01-14T14:14:00.000+08:00

Liverpool are reportedly leading the chase for Crystal Palace's highly-rated teenager Wilfried Zaha with the Daily Mail claiming Kenny Dalglish made a personal call to Dougie Freedman.

The newspaper claims the Reds manager contacted his Palace counterpart to express his interest and to discuss the 19-year-old's ability and character.

The Anfield club has been monitoring Zaha for the past 18 months and it appears they have stepped up their interest ahead of making a formal offer.

Zaha caught the eye last season with a string of impressive performances, but it has been this term where he appears to be fulfilling his huge potential, becoming a crucial part of the Palace attack and playing a key role in their progression to the Carling Cup semi-final.

The Mail also claim that Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has contacted Freedman with regards to the £10m-rated youngster, while Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is also thought to be an admirer.

Palace are reportedly expecting Liverpool to make a formal offer in the coming days and the Reds are considered the favourites for his signature.

Reds Sow Seeds For Striker Arrival At Anfield

2012-01-14T14:13:00.000+08:00

Lille’s determination to sign Joe Cole on a permanent deal could see coveted striker Moussa Sow head in the opposite direction.

Anfield boss Kenny Dalglish has made no secret of his desire to strengthen his attack following a meagre return of 24 goals in 20 Barclays Premier League games this season.

Sow is keen to move to England and has been strongly linked with Arsenal and Tottenham, but reports in France say Liverpool have not entered the race for the 25-year-old.

Le Parisien say Cole, who is on loan at Lille, would join the French champions in part exchange for their Senegal striker, who is on duty with his country at the Africa Cup of Nations.

There is interest from Russia and Lille were also prepared to accept an £8.3million bid from Fenerbahce this winter, but Sow would prefer a move to England and his happy to wait until the end of the season.

The former Rennes striker - who has just 18 months left on his contract - has look distracted this season. He has scored 10 in 25 matches, but was much more prolific last season, when he struck 26 goals in 51 games.

Cole has enjoyed a new lease of life across the Channel and has expressed interest in making the move permanent.

The 30-year-old has played a part in most of Lille's games this season after initially being eased into action and has scored three league goals in 15 appearances.

Dalglish Expects Quiet Window

2012-01-14T14:10:00.000+08:00

Kenny Dalglish admits he is in a position to be able to add to his Liverpool squad if required, but says he has no plans to dip into the market at present.

The Reds took in a busy summer on the transfer front, with a number of fresh faces brought into Anfield.

Dalglish is happy with the business he was able to carry out during that window, with Liverpool having returned to the top-four hunt in the Premier League this season.

With there no obvious areas in need of strengthening, the Scot feels it would be foolish to spend money for the sake of it.

He does have funds available should a suitable target become available, but for now the Reds boss is refusing to be drawn into the endless rounds of speculation which greet the opening of the January transfer window.

"We've got an option to be active if we want to be active, but we said at the outset that we'd be quiet," Dalglish told the club's official website.

"It's work in progress for us. We'll just keep doing what we're doing, and the boys will keep working as hard as they can, and we'll see where we go.

"If we needed somebody to bolster up, we could do it - but I said right at the outset, we don't.

"We're not really chasing after anybody that we want to bring in in January. We've been happy with what they (the players) have done since August."

He added: "I don't think it is unusual when we said at the start we would not be very busy. I think it's unusual when people try to invent things, get it horribly wrong and then ask us to justify it.

"We said right at the outset, if anything there will be very little (transfer activity). It's a wee bit disrespectful to us after trying to be honest and saying there might not be much, that we get accused of not being active."

Adam Targets Silverware

2012-01-14T14:09:00.000+08:00

Charlie Adam is adamant that Liverpool can finally end their long wait for silverware by winning the Carling Cup in February.

The Reds produced a stoic defensive display in the second half as they overcame Premier League leaders Manchester City 1-0 at the Etihad Stadium in the semi-final, first-leg on Wednesday night.

The Anfield outfit has not won silverware since their FA Cup success against West Ham back in 2006 and has not appeared in a Wembley showpiece final for nearly 16 years.

However, they have never lost at home in 14 previous League Cup semi-finals and the Scotland international is keen to help instil a winning mentality back in the side.

Adam said: "This club should be winning trophies and it has been a number of years since it last won one.

"We want to try and win as many as we can. We are in a semi-final and we have an FA Cup game to come against Manchester United."

Adam remains hopeful that Kenny Dalglish's side can finish off the job against cash-rich City at Anfield on January 25th.

He added: "I think the tie is still open. It was only the second game they have lost at home this season, but it is still going to be difficult at Anfield.

"The clean sheet will give us confidence though, especially as we lost three goals the last time we went to City.

"It is nowhere near done. We have got 90 minutes of hard work, but we have terrific support behind us and Anfield will be rocking.

"It will be a great second leg and hopefully we can do the job."

Gerrard Targeting Another Deal

2012-01-14T14:08:00.000+08:00

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has already set his sights on earning another contract at Anfield despite only just signing an extension.

On Thursday, the 31-year-old agreed a new deal which will keep him at the club until the end of his career - but the midfielder has not set a date on when that will be.

"I'm hoping to play beyond the length of this contract," he told the Liverpool Echo. "I'm feeling fit and strong and I want to play for as long as I can.

"I don't want to put any time frame on it. As long as I feel good and I'm performing at the top level I'll keep going.

"Hopefully over the next few years I'll earn another contract with my performances.

"But even if Liverpool doesn’t offer me another contract after this one I don't think I could play for anyone else. I've been at this club since I was eight and I'm living the dream."

Gerrard is sure to get a noisier-than-usual welcome when he leads the team out at home to Stoke on Saturday as Liverpool look to build on the positives of a midweek Carling Cup semi-final first leg victory over Manchester City, their second successive knockout win after defeating Oldham in the FA Cup a week ago.

The captain scored penalties in both those games but the Premier League now takes precedence and manager Kenny Dalglish is looking for his side to build on their last home success against Newcastle in late December having struggled at Anfield this season.

Kenny - Gerrard Could Be The Best

2012-01-14T14:05:00.000+08:00

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish believes that club captain Steven Gerrard could continue playing well into his late 30s if he remains fit.

The England international midfielder, 31 at the moment, signed an extension to his existing deal on Thursday but has already said that he is looking to go beyond his current contract.

Gerrard's last year has been dogged by a groin problem which required surgery and then an ankle infection, and Dalglish admits that fitness will play a big part in his longevity.

"You have to wait and see how they get through injuries," said the Scot.

"(Manchester United winger Ryan) Giggs is 38, isn't he? That's seven years down the line - that's a long time to predict - but if he's fit there's no reason why not.

"I've not got a crystal ball. I'm just delighted he's done what he's done and we have got him here."

Dalglish is considered Liverpool's greatest player but the Reds boss believes that Gerrard must now come into the reckoning.

"I wouldn't disagree he has certainly made a huge contribution to the club but he wouldn't be far away from being mentioned as the best player," he enthused.

"It is not just what he does in and around the first team it is what he stands for at the football club as well - which is more important.

"His standing within the community is fantastic and the way he does other work happily is a great testimony to himself as well."

Liverpool Assess New Striker Transfer Target

2012-01-13T15:22:00.000+08:00

Liverpool is reportedly considering a move for Montpellier striker Olivier Giroud as they bid to solve their profligacy in front of goal.

The Reds have managed just 1.2 goals per Premier League game this season, only scoring more than two goals in a match on two occasions so far.

Their top league goalscorer, Luis Suarez, only has five goals, and is of course currently serving an eight match suspension.

It is clear that improvements are needed in front of net, with the majority of the criticism heading in the direction of Andy Carroll and Stewart Downing.

Olivier Giroud is having a great campaign for Montpellier, the surprise leaders of Ligue 1, and the 25 year-old Frenchman has scored 13 goals in 18 league starts this season.

That’s as many as Suarez, Carroll, Craig Bellamy and Steven Gerrard combined.

Giroud is a tall striker with a powerful strike from distance and a great header of the ball.

He has recently broken into the France national team, and is tipped as David Trezeguet’s successor in the side.

Montpellier owner Louis Nicollin will not make it easy for his player to leave for pastures new though, and balked at the fees mentioned.

“At €10m (£8.3m)? No. Given that he still has more than two years of contract, it will cost more. He has a contract until 2014, [so] €50 (£42m) or €60m (£50m) at least.”

Giroud has also been linked with Newcastle United and Arsenal.

Liverpool Keen On Danish Wonderkid Lucas Andersen

2012-01-13T15:20:00.000+08:00

Danish wonderkid Lucas Andersen could be on his way out of Aalborg in the winter transfer window, with Liverpool keen on a move for the teenager.

The highly rated youngster made his official first team debut for Aalborg in March 2011 at the tender age of 16, and has since developed into an important member of Aab's squad.

A number of strong performances this season have not gone unnoticed abroad, and a string of European clubs, including Ajax and Borussia Dortmund, are closely monitoring Andersen's progress, with Kenny Dalglish hoping to steal a march on the competition.

"I won't mention any names, but there's plenty of interest in Lucas. We are currently not in talks with any team, but a lot of clubs have asked us about his availability," Aalborg sporting director Lynge Jakobsen told Sporten.

Andersen recently received a call-up for the Denmark League XI national football team that will feature in the 2012 King's Cup.