Liverpool centre back Daniel Agger has suffered a recurrence of the metatarsal injury which has kept him out of action since September.
The Dane, who was days away from making a first team return, is now not expected to feature for the rest of January and could be out for longer.
"It's not easy to say when he will be back," said Reds manager Rafa Benitez.
"He is going to see different surgeons and then we'll be able to analyse the situation," Benitez added.
The news is a significant setback for Liverpool, as the 23-year-old has been their prefered partner for Jamie Carragher in central defence since he signed from Brondby in January 2006 for £5m.
Agger's absence means Benitez is likely to accelerate the introduction of new defensive signing Martin Skrtel into the team.
The Slovakian international replaced Agger as the most expensive defender in the club's history following his £6m from Zenit St Petersburg on Friday.
Specialists have yet to confirm how long Danish international Agger will be out of action.
He featured as an unused substitute at Middlesbrough on Saturday and has made 36 first team appearances for the club, scoring two goals.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Liverpool Are Not For Sale, Insists Hicks
Liverpool co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks insist they remain 'fully committed to the club' despite Dubai International Capital reportedly preparing another bid to acquire a share of the Anfield team.
A year ago this month DIC were stunned by the last-minute failure of their bid to take control of the club but it is believed they are now set to try to buy the American's 50% stake in Anfield.
DIC yesterday made no attempt to play down speculation when a spokesman said: 'We do not comment on such things, we have nothing to say on this.'
However, a spokesman for Hicks was less equivocal.
He said: 'Mr. Hicks and Mr. Gillett remain fully committed to the club.
'Any suggestion that Messrs Hicks and Gillett are contemplating a sale of the club or any portion thereof to DIC or anyone else is categorically untrue.'
Liverpool will step out on Monday for their Barclays Premier League home game with Aston Villa with their minds focused just as much on beating non-league Havant and Waterlooville five days later.
By the time the troubled Reds walk out at Anfield, they expect to be even further adrift of the top three.
Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea all play tomorrow away to teams in the bottom half of the table - Reading, Fulham and Birmingham respectively.
So no-one would be surprised if the gap between Liverpool and the top spot is a massive 15 points by then, with the Gunners and Chelsea also pulling further away from the Anfield men.
And that would even further reduce the chances of the Merseysiders making even a dramatic last-ditch bid to stay in the hunt.
But less than a week later, Liverpool are at home to the little Hampshire club in the FA Cup fourth round, a game they surely will win to keep themselves at least with the hope of one domestic honour this term.
The future ownership of the club will still hang like a dark cloud over Anfield, and boss Rafael Benitez knows that he must keep his side in with a chance of winning something.
But even the ever-optimistic Jamie Carragher, who made his 500th appearance for the club in the midweek cup win over Luton, knows time is up on the title bid.
He said: 'We are not stupid. You never throw the towel in, but for us to get back into contention for the title we would have to have an unbelievable second half to the season.
'And the rest would have to have an unbelievably bad second half to the campaign. We realize our best chance of silverware is the cup competitions. That is why they are so important.'
Liverpool need to beat Villa to maintain their hopes of a fourth-place finish and a Champions League spot, now clearly the minimum requirement for Benitez.
And Carragher insists that the players must not allow themselves to be affected by what is happening off the field at Liverpool. He said: 'You have to be strong mentally to play for Liverpool. Things happen off the pitch but you do not let it affect you.'
A year ago this month DIC were stunned by the last-minute failure of their bid to take control of the club but it is believed they are now set to try to buy the American's 50% stake in Anfield.
DIC yesterday made no attempt to play down speculation when a spokesman said: 'We do not comment on such things, we have nothing to say on this.'
However, a spokesman for Hicks was less equivocal.
He said: 'Mr. Hicks and Mr. Gillett remain fully committed to the club.
'Any suggestion that Messrs Hicks and Gillett are contemplating a sale of the club or any portion thereof to DIC or anyone else is categorically untrue.'
Liverpool will step out on Monday for their Barclays Premier League home game with Aston Villa with their minds focused just as much on beating non-league Havant and Waterlooville five days later.
By the time the troubled Reds walk out at Anfield, they expect to be even further adrift of the top three.
Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea all play tomorrow away to teams in the bottom half of the table - Reading, Fulham and Birmingham respectively.
So no-one would be surprised if the gap between Liverpool and the top spot is a massive 15 points by then, with the Gunners and Chelsea also pulling further away from the Anfield men.
And that would even further reduce the chances of the Merseysiders making even a dramatic last-ditch bid to stay in the hunt.
But less than a week later, Liverpool are at home to the little Hampshire club in the FA Cup fourth round, a game they surely will win to keep themselves at least with the hope of one domestic honour this term.
The future ownership of the club will still hang like a dark cloud over Anfield, and boss Rafael Benitez knows that he must keep his side in with a chance of winning something.
But even the ever-optimistic Jamie Carragher, who made his 500th appearance for the club in the midweek cup win over Luton, knows time is up on the title bid.
He said: 'We are not stupid. You never throw the towel in, but for us to get back into contention for the title we would have to have an unbelievable second half to the season.
'And the rest would have to have an unbelievably bad second half to the campaign. We realize our best chance of silverware is the cup competitions. That is why they are so important.'
Liverpool need to beat Villa to maintain their hopes of a fourth-place finish and a Champions League spot, now clearly the minimum requirement for Benitez.
And Carragher insists that the players must not allow themselves to be affected by what is happening off the field at Liverpool. He said: 'You have to be strong mentally to play for Liverpool. Things happen off the pitch but you do not let it affect you.'
Miller: Liverpool's Subs Must Prove Themselves
Liverpool training coach Alex Miller has warned Liverpool's forgotten men that they'll need to improve on the practice pitch if they're to fight their way back into the team.
Speaking to LiverpoolFC.tv, first-team coach Alex Miller told Anfield's fringe players to do their utmost to get back into the side.
In the aftermath of the fine win over Luton Town, he said, "Confidence had definitely dipped in recent weeks because personal performance had dipped – when one goes the other goes. It takes a player of extremely strong mentality to retain their confidence when they are not playing well.
"The players who played in the 5-0 will now have a lot of their confidence back and the players within the pool have to realise that the team won 5-0 and they weren't in it. They have to now perform to the best of their abilities on the training ground."
Additionally, he spoke of the need for a coherent style of play.
"The important thing at this club has always been the football and hopefully that's the way it will remain," added Miller.
"I think the players responded very well to the manager on Tuesday with a 5-0 victory and it's nice to get a few goals for the fans after recent results.
"Is the FA Cup our best chance of silverware? No, I don't think that because it depends on who you draw and where you draw them.
"The important thing here is that we don't believe we are out of the championship race yet. If we win our game in hand it will help, and we've got all the other top teams to play and it is up to us how we do in these games."
Two players whose first team places are all but assured are Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres, who are battling it out for the top scorer accolade this season. Who will prevail?
"I think you'd have to bet on Fernando because he's a forward and will get more scoring opportunities," mused Miller.
"Stevie is coming from deeper positions and not getting so many chances. But he can score from any angle or distance, as everybody knows.
"He's fantastic at coming on to the ball and is within the top players in the world at that."
Speaking to LiverpoolFC.tv, first-team coach Alex Miller told Anfield's fringe players to do their utmost to get back into the side.
In the aftermath of the fine win over Luton Town, he said, "Confidence had definitely dipped in recent weeks because personal performance had dipped – when one goes the other goes. It takes a player of extremely strong mentality to retain their confidence when they are not playing well.
"The players who played in the 5-0 will now have a lot of their confidence back and the players within the pool have to realise that the team won 5-0 and they weren't in it. They have to now perform to the best of their abilities on the training ground."
Additionally, he spoke of the need for a coherent style of play.
"The important thing at this club has always been the football and hopefully that's the way it will remain," added Miller.
"I think the players responded very well to the manager on Tuesday with a 5-0 victory and it's nice to get a few goals for the fans after recent results.
"Is the FA Cup our best chance of silverware? No, I don't think that because it depends on who you draw and where you draw them.
"The important thing here is that we don't believe we are out of the championship race yet. If we win our game in hand it will help, and we've got all the other top teams to play and it is up to us how we do in these games."
Two players whose first team places are all but assured are Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres, who are battling it out for the top scorer accolade this season. Who will prevail?
"I think you'd have to bet on Fernando because he's a forward and will get more scoring opportunities," mused Miller.
"Stevie is coming from deeper positions and not getting so many chances. But he can score from any angle or distance, as everybody knows.
"He's fantastic at coming on to the ball and is within the top players in the world at that."
Liverpool, Chelsea, Madrid, After Caceres
Liverpool and Chelsea have joined Real Madrid in the chase to sign Uruguayan centre back Martin Caceres, who has been in outstanding form for Recreativo Huelva this season.
Caceres, who is 20 years of age, joined Villarreal last season and was immediately loaned out to Recreativo Huelva. At the Decano, his impressive performances have attracted interest from a number of top European clubs.
Earlier in the week The Sun revealed that Premier League giants Liverpool and Chelsea are fighting for the signature of the talented youngster, while La Liga league leaders Real Madrid are hoping to lure him to the Spanish capital.
The highly-rated charrua is aware of the interest, and has explained that, while he is comfortable at Recreativo at the moment, he would be interested in a move elsewhere if it will be an improvement for his career.
Although the English clubs have shown huge interest in Caceres, Real Madrid seem to be the front-runners to secure his services.
Sources indicate that the asking price for the former Defensor Sporting centre back is around 13 million euros.
Caceres, who is 20 years of age, joined Villarreal last season and was immediately loaned out to Recreativo Huelva. At the Decano, his impressive performances have attracted interest from a number of top European clubs.
Earlier in the week The Sun revealed that Premier League giants Liverpool and Chelsea are fighting for the signature of the talented youngster, while La Liga league leaders Real Madrid are hoping to lure him to the Spanish capital.
The highly-rated charrua is aware of the interest, and has explained that, while he is comfortable at Recreativo at the moment, he would be interested in a move elsewhere if it will be an improvement for his career.
Although the English clubs have shown huge interest in Caceres, Real Madrid seem to be the front-runners to secure his services.
Sources indicate that the asking price for the former Defensor Sporting centre back is around 13 million euros.
Liverpool FC Deal Soon, Amount May Change
The keenly awaited refinancing of British soccer club Liverpool FC is set to be closed before the end of February, a source familiar with the deal said on Thursday.
The 300 million pound ($589 million) debt refinancing, expected to be completed by the end of November, has been delayed amid turmoil in the credit markets.
Banks, facing multi-billion pound losses linked to the U.S. sub-prime crisis, have tightened up lending, or are charging more to assume risk.
The deal will go ahead, although it may not include an additional amount, of about 40 million pounds, earmarked for the start of building a new stadium, the source said.
Liverpool's debt facility with Royal Bank of Scotland, taken out by U.S. billionaires Tom Hicks and George Gillett to acquire the club, expires in February.
Wachovia Corp, the fourth-largest U.S. bank, is arranging the refinancing.
The 300 million pound ($589 million) debt refinancing, expected to be completed by the end of November, has been delayed amid turmoil in the credit markets.
Banks, facing multi-billion pound losses linked to the U.S. sub-prime crisis, have tightened up lending, or are charging more to assume risk.
The deal will go ahead, although it may not include an additional amount, of about 40 million pounds, earmarked for the start of building a new stadium, the source said.
Liverpool's debt facility with Royal Bank of Scotland, taken out by U.S. billionaires Tom Hicks and George Gillett to acquire the club, expires in February.
Wachovia Corp, the fourth-largest U.S. bank, is arranging the refinancing.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Riise Firmly Behind Rafa
Liverpool star John Arne Riise has expressed his disappointment at the treatment being dished out on Rafa Benitez by the club's increasingly unpopular American owners.
The Spanish manager’s already tenuous relationship with his bosses was further fractured by the curious decision by Reds co-owner Tom Hicks to reveal that he had lined up Jürgen Klinsmann as a replacement back in November. Whatever the motivation behind the admission, it has only served to undermine Benitez publicly, as well as to rally the fans and players even more strongly behind their manager.
"It is sad that he (Benitez) has to experience what he has right now." said Riise. "The only way we can help him is by getting good results, to give him more confidence (from the owners)."
Benitez also would have been pleased and proud to receive the vociferous backing of an Anfield full house during the FA Cup third-round replay on Tuesday, as his name rang out before during and even a few minutes after the 5-0 demolition job.
The former Valencia coach's position at Liverpool has been the focal point of intense speculation over the last few months after his much-publicised row with the American owners over the club's transfer policy. It is now increasingly evident that clear-the-air talks held in December only resulted in temporarily sweeping the problem under the carpet.
The Spanish manager’s already tenuous relationship with his bosses was further fractured by the curious decision by Reds co-owner Tom Hicks to reveal that he had lined up Jürgen Klinsmann as a replacement back in November. Whatever the motivation behind the admission, it has only served to undermine Benitez publicly, as well as to rally the fans and players even more strongly behind their manager.
"It is sad that he (Benitez) has to experience what he has right now." said Riise. "The only way we can help him is by getting good results, to give him more confidence (from the owners)."
Benitez also would have been pleased and proud to receive the vociferous backing of an Anfield full house during the FA Cup third-round replay on Tuesday, as his name rang out before during and even a few minutes after the 5-0 demolition job.
The former Valencia coach's position at Liverpool has been the focal point of intense speculation over the last few months after his much-publicised row with the American owners over the club's transfer policy. It is now increasingly evident that clear-the-air talks held in December only resulted in temporarily sweeping the problem under the carpet.
Carragher Doubts Pool's Title Chances
Liverpool thrashed lowly Luton 5-0 in their FA Cup third round replay to seal their first win in five. Nevertheless, captain on the night Jamie Carragher has admitted that his side are out of this season's league title race.
Liverpool are way off the pace in the league after a succession of draws and many of the Anfield faithful are disillusioned following manager Rafael Benitez's heavy spending in the summer transfer window and the club's subsequent failure to progress.
Benitez's future has been cast in doubt in the past few weeks for various reasons, and matters on the field are equally unpredictable.
Carragher, who was made captain for the Luton game in honour of his 500th appearance for the club, was honest in his assessment of the Reds' title chances.
He said: "Only time will tell. I haven't got a clue."
Though behind his manager, there was a subtle jibe that he, like many of the fans, would prefer domestic success in the league to cup runs in Europe, as has been Benitez's priority during his Anfield tenure.
"It doesn't look like it is going to be this season," he admitted. "He [Benitez] has done very well but the league is the one we want."
"[It] would be lovely [to win the title] before I finish of course."
Carragher refused to excuse Liverpool's ability to keep pace due to lack of transfer funds.
"It makes it more difficult, the spending power of other clubs, but you only have to look at Arsenal – they don't spend the big money and they have won a lot under Arsène Wenger," he mused.
As is his style on the pitch, he remained defiant and determined that the side would fight in all competitions until the last day of the season.
"We are not stupid, you never throw the towel in but for us to get back into contention for the title we would have to have an unbelievable second half to the season and the rest would have to have an unbelievably bad second half," he declared. "We realise our best chance of silverware is the cup competitions. That's why they are so important."
Liverpool are fourth in the Barclays Premier League, 12 points off leaders Manchester United.
Liverpool are way off the pace in the league after a succession of draws and many of the Anfield faithful are disillusioned following manager Rafael Benitez's heavy spending in the summer transfer window and the club's subsequent failure to progress.
Benitez's future has been cast in doubt in the past few weeks for various reasons, and matters on the field are equally unpredictable.
Carragher, who was made captain for the Luton game in honour of his 500th appearance for the club, was honest in his assessment of the Reds' title chances.
He said: "Only time will tell. I haven't got a clue."
Though behind his manager, there was a subtle jibe that he, like many of the fans, would prefer domestic success in the league to cup runs in Europe, as has been Benitez's priority during his Anfield tenure.
"It doesn't look like it is going to be this season," he admitted. "He [Benitez] has done very well but the league is the one we want."
"[It] would be lovely [to win the title] before I finish of course."
Carragher refused to excuse Liverpool's ability to keep pace due to lack of transfer funds.
"It makes it more difficult, the spending power of other clubs, but you only have to look at Arsenal – they don't spend the big money and they have won a lot under Arsène Wenger," he mused.
As is his style on the pitch, he remained defiant and determined that the side would fight in all competitions until the last day of the season.
"We are not stupid, you never throw the towel in but for us to get back into contention for the title we would have to have an unbelievable second half to the season and the rest would have to have an unbelievably bad second half," he declared. "We realise our best chance of silverware is the cup competitions. That's why they are so important."
Liverpool are fourth in the Barclays Premier League, 12 points off leaders Manchester United.
Prandelli Lined Up As Benitez’s Successor?
Cesare Prandelli has sparked speculation that he could be set to succeed Rafa Benitez as manager of Liverpool.
It is widely expected that Benitez will not be on the Liverpool bench at the start of next season due to his frosty relationship with the club’s American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.
Hicks recently revealed that they had approached Jurgen Klinsmann about possibly replacing Benitez if the Spaniard left.
"We attempted to negotiate an option as an insurance policy to have him [Klinsmann] become manager if Rafael left for Real Madrid or other clubs that were rumoured in the press - or in case our communication spiralled out of control for some reason," Hicks said.
Fiorentina boss Cesare Prandelli, who is one of Italy’s best coaches, was asked about the possibility of him taking over at Liverpool, to which he replied: "In football never say never."
Prandelli is preparing his side for this evening’s Coppa Italia second leg tie against Ascoli in Florence. The scores are 1-1 from the first leg.
“We want to win tonight against Ascoli and get through first of all,” Prandelli explained to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“We can go far in this competition. I will play players who haven’t had much of a run recently and hope that they will make my future selections tough for me. Anyone who is picked will demonstrate what it means to be a Fiorentina player.”
It is widely expected that Benitez will not be on the Liverpool bench at the start of next season due to his frosty relationship with the club’s American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.
Hicks recently revealed that they had approached Jurgen Klinsmann about possibly replacing Benitez if the Spaniard left.
"We attempted to negotiate an option as an insurance policy to have him [Klinsmann] become manager if Rafael left for Real Madrid or other clubs that were rumoured in the press - or in case our communication spiralled out of control for some reason," Hicks said.
Fiorentina boss Cesare Prandelli, who is one of Italy’s best coaches, was asked about the possibility of him taking over at Liverpool, to which he replied: "In football never say never."
Prandelli is preparing his side for this evening’s Coppa Italia second leg tie against Ascoli in Florence. The scores are 1-1 from the first leg.
“We want to win tonight against Ascoli and get through first of all,” Prandelli explained to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“We can go far in this competition. I will play players who haven’t had much of a run recently and hope that they will make my future selections tough for me. Anyone who is picked will demonstrate what it means to be a Fiorentina player.”
Havant Heading To Anfield
Non-league Havant & Waterlooville booked a dream trip to Anfield after shocking League One leaders Swansea in their FA Cup third-round replay.
In an action packed game, the Blue Square South side stormed into a three-goal lead through Garry Monk's own goal and strikes from Jamie Collins and Rocky Baptiste.
Swansea hit back through Guillem Bauza and Jason Scotland but it was Tom Jordan who sealed a fourth-round clash with Liverpool on 65 minutes.
The Hawks were ahead after just four minutes when Mo Harkin's curling cross was headed past his own goalkeeper by Monk.
And Havant grabbed a second on 25 minutes when an unmarked Collins poked home Brett Poate's corner.
Incredibly on 37 minutes Baptiste made it three after tapping in from Richard Pacquette's cross-shot.
Bauza pulled one back straight away with a brilliant 25-yard strike before Leon Britton saw his penalty saved by Kevin Scriven after Bauza had been brought down in the area.
The drama did not let up in the second half with Scotland tapping in after Bauza hit the post.
But despite Swansea piling on the pressure, Jordan grabbed the decisive fourth when he headed in Poate's cross.
Roberto Martinez's side struck the woodwork through Thomas Butler and Britton but it was Havant's night.
In an action packed game, the Blue Square South side stormed into a three-goal lead through Garry Monk's own goal and strikes from Jamie Collins and Rocky Baptiste.
Swansea hit back through Guillem Bauza and Jason Scotland but it was Tom Jordan who sealed a fourth-round clash with Liverpool on 65 minutes.
The Hawks were ahead after just four minutes when Mo Harkin's curling cross was headed past his own goalkeeper by Monk.
And Havant grabbed a second on 25 minutes when an unmarked Collins poked home Brett Poate's corner.
Incredibly on 37 minutes Baptiste made it three after tapping in from Richard Pacquette's cross-shot.
Bauza pulled one back straight away with a brilliant 25-yard strike before Leon Britton saw his penalty saved by Kevin Scriven after Bauza had been brought down in the area.
The drama did not let up in the second half with Scotland tapping in after Bauza hit the post.
But despite Swansea piling on the pressure, Jordan grabbed the decisive fourth when he headed in Poate's cross.
Roberto Martinez's side struck the woodwork through Thomas Butler and Britton but it was Havant's night.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
More Trouble At Liverpool - Reports
The future of Liverpool and their American owners has once again been cast in doubt amid fresh reports of financial trouble.
The Independent reports that Tom Hicks and George Gillett are at loggerheads with the rest of the club's board.
The cause of the dispute is the way in which the pair plan to refinance the loan with which they secured ownership of Liverpool last year. The loan from the Royal Bank of Scotland is due to be repaid at the end of next month and, rather than inject their own money, Hicks and Gillett are intent on securing a second loan of around £350m to pay off the first.
'The businessmen want to put the new debt directly on to Liverpool's books, guaranteed, crucially, against club assets, not their own,' reports newspaper.
The club's board are understandably aghast at this proposal, not least because it directly contravenes the American's pledge not to plunge the club in 'Glazer-style' debt. 'Now, it seems, that is exactly what they were planning. Neither has spent any of their own cash yet. Unless they guarantee the new loans with their own money - which they may be unwilling or unable to provide - the impasse will continue,' says the newspaper.
With neither party willing to budge, a sale becomes increasingly likely. The newspaper cites a 'major football financier' claiming that 'Hicks and Gillett had agreed a deal in principle to sell the club for £350m, and that a process of due diligence was under way.'
The Independent reports that Tom Hicks and George Gillett are at loggerheads with the rest of the club's board.
The cause of the dispute is the way in which the pair plan to refinance the loan with which they secured ownership of Liverpool last year. The loan from the Royal Bank of Scotland is due to be repaid at the end of next month and, rather than inject their own money, Hicks and Gillett are intent on securing a second loan of around £350m to pay off the first.
'The businessmen want to put the new debt directly on to Liverpool's books, guaranteed, crucially, against club assets, not their own,' reports newspaper.
The club's board are understandably aghast at this proposal, not least because it directly contravenes the American's pledge not to plunge the club in 'Glazer-style' debt. 'Now, it seems, that is exactly what they were planning. Neither has spent any of their own cash yet. Unless they guarantee the new loans with their own money - which they may be unwilling or unable to provide - the impasse will continue,' says the newspaper.
With neither party willing to budge, a sale becomes increasingly likely. The newspaper cites a 'major football financier' claiming that 'Hicks and Gillett had agreed a deal in principle to sell the club for £350m, and that a process of due diligence was under way.'
Benitez Focuses On Victory
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez refused to be drawn over his future with the club, after watching the Reds beat Luton Town 5-0 in an FA Cup third round replay at Anfield.
Comments from co-owner Tom Hicks about an approach to Jurgen Klinsmann hit the headlines earlier on in the week, but Benitez focused solely on his side's victory over the Hatters.
Benitez told Sky Sports: "We weren't really thinking about it because we know it's important to progress in the FA Cup.
"I was not thinking too much about this, I was thinking about the game. I'm really happy because we won 5-0 and progressed in the competition.
"We knew it would be difficult to score the first goal, but afterwards it would be an open game.
"We had a lot of chances and they worked really hard with a lot of players behind the ball. We were trying to do our job and they were trying to do theirs."
Comments from co-owner Tom Hicks about an approach to Jurgen Klinsmann hit the headlines earlier on in the week, but Benitez focused solely on his side's victory over the Hatters.
Benitez told Sky Sports: "We weren't really thinking about it because we know it's important to progress in the FA Cup.
"I was not thinking too much about this, I was thinking about the game. I'm really happy because we won 5-0 and progressed in the competition.
"We knew it would be difficult to score the first goal, but afterwards it would be an open game.
"We had a lot of chances and they worked really hard with a lot of players behind the ball. We were trying to do our job and they were trying to do theirs."
Tom Hicks Is 'Undermining' Rafa Benitez, Says Alan Hansen
Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks’ admission that he held talks with Jurgen Klinsmann can only “undermine” manager Rafael Benitez.
That is the verdict of former Liverpool star Alan Hansen, who is at a loss as to why Hicks went public on the situation.
In his column on the BBC Sport website, Hansen said: “I haven’t got a clue why he has come out and said this.
“Maybe the story was going to come out and he thought he’d be better off making a statement first.
“Whichever way you look at it though, these events cannot do anything but undermine manager Rafael Benitez.
“His position is not untenable, but for one of the owners to come out and publicly say he had talks with the man who was heavily linked with Benitez’s job - well, it puts even more pressure on the Spaniard.
“Insurance policy or whatever Hicks wants to call it, the fact is he met Klinsmann and offered him the job if Benitez went, which is remarkable.”
That is the verdict of former Liverpool star Alan Hansen, who is at a loss as to why Hicks went public on the situation.
In his column on the BBC Sport website, Hansen said: “I haven’t got a clue why he has come out and said this.
“Maybe the story was going to come out and he thought he’d be better off making a statement first.
“Whichever way you look at it though, these events cannot do anything but undermine manager Rafael Benitez.
“His position is not untenable, but for one of the owners to come out and publicly say he had talks with the man who was heavily linked with Benitez’s job - well, it puts even more pressure on the Spaniard.
“Insurance policy or whatever Hicks wants to call it, the fact is he met Klinsmann and offered him the job if Benitez went, which is remarkable.”
Liverpool Anger As Hicks Reveals Secret Approach To Klinsmann
Tom Hicks's admission that Jürgen Klinsmann was approached to succeed Rafael Benítez has spread internal division at Liverpool into the boardroom, with the other co-chairman, George Gillett, and the chief executive, Rick Parry, enraged by the public revelations which have undermined the Spanish manager and exposed the Americans' ownership to ridicule.
Hicks had intended to draw a line under the uncertainty about Benítez's future - at least until the end of the season - by saying that although he had spoken to Klinsmann last November he now backed Liverpool's current manager after the club qualified for the Champions League knockout stages. Instead the Texan has fuelled the infighting at Anfield as well as damaging Benítez's long-term prospects at the club.
Gillett is understood to be livid with his business partner at the embarrassment the Klinsmann revelations have caused and the fury it has provoked against their reign among the Liverpool support. It is not the meeting with the former Germany national team coach which has irked Gillett, however, because he himself was present at Hicks's Californian retreat when the Liverpool owners tried to secure their "insurance policy" against Benítez's rumoured departure. Klinsmann has since accepted an offer to coach Bayern Munich from July 1 and Gillett had intended the clandestine meeting to remain private.
The falling-out comes at a sensitive time for the Liverpool co-chairmen, given that they have six weeks to secure a £350m loan that would refinance their purchase of the club and enable work on a revised stadium project to commence. Failure to finalise a deal with the Royal Bank of Scotland and the US investment bank Wachovia, which rests on personal guarantees from the American pair, would heighten problems for Gillett and Hicks and increase the prospect of Dubai International Capital launching a fresh takeover bid. Sources close to the owners, however, are adamant the loan will be in place within the next few weeks.
Benítez could sue Hicks for constructive dismissal after this week's comments but he would have to resign from a job he cherishes before taking legal action and he is not considering that option at present. He would also risk losing a £6m pay-off should he walk away from Anfield.
Liverpool's former manager Kenny Dalglish yesterday insisted Benítez did not deserve to be treated so poorly for his public outburst against the Americans' transfer policy last November and said instability at the club had begun to affect the playing staff. "I think it's a disappointing phase when Liverpool, who have never washed the dirty linen in public, have contributed over the past two or three months to a lot of headlines which really you had never seen before," he said.
Hicks had intended to draw a line under the uncertainty about Benítez's future - at least until the end of the season - by saying that although he had spoken to Klinsmann last November he now backed Liverpool's current manager after the club qualified for the Champions League knockout stages. Instead the Texan has fuelled the infighting at Anfield as well as damaging Benítez's long-term prospects at the club.
Gillett is understood to be livid with his business partner at the embarrassment the Klinsmann revelations have caused and the fury it has provoked against their reign among the Liverpool support. It is not the meeting with the former Germany national team coach which has irked Gillett, however, because he himself was present at Hicks's Californian retreat when the Liverpool owners tried to secure their "insurance policy" against Benítez's rumoured departure. Klinsmann has since accepted an offer to coach Bayern Munich from July 1 and Gillett had intended the clandestine meeting to remain private.
The falling-out comes at a sensitive time for the Liverpool co-chairmen, given that they have six weeks to secure a £350m loan that would refinance their purchase of the club and enable work on a revised stadium project to commence. Failure to finalise a deal with the Royal Bank of Scotland and the US investment bank Wachovia, which rests on personal guarantees from the American pair, would heighten problems for Gillett and Hicks and increase the prospect of Dubai International Capital launching a fresh takeover bid. Sources close to the owners, however, are adamant the loan will be in place within the next few weeks.
Benítez could sue Hicks for constructive dismissal after this week's comments but he would have to resign from a job he cherishes before taking legal action and he is not considering that option at present. He would also risk losing a £6m pay-off should he walk away from Anfield.
Liverpool's former manager Kenny Dalglish yesterday insisted Benítez did not deserve to be treated so poorly for his public outburst against the Americans' transfer policy last November and said instability at the club had begun to affect the playing staff. "I think it's a disappointing phase when Liverpool, who have never washed the dirty linen in public, have contributed over the past two or three months to a lot of headlines which really you had never seen before," he said.
Steven Gerrard: We Must Start Making The Right Headlines Again
Steven Gerrard admits Liverpool must ensure they command the headlines for the right reasons after helping the Anfield outfit into the fourth round of the FA Cup last night.
The midfielder netted a hat-trick as Coca-Cola League One outfit Luton Town were overwhelmed 5-0 in their third round replay.
Ryan Babel and Sami Hyypia were also on target to secure Liverpool a home fourth round tie against Swansea City or non-league side Havant and Waterlooville on Saturday week.
Last night’s game came after the admission from the club’s co-owner Tom Hicks that Jurgen Klinsmann had been approached in November with a view to taking over from manager Rafael Benitez.
But Gerrard believes the players are focused on winning games to help ease the uncertainty at Anfield.
“A lot was said in the media about the club so it was important that the headlines were about the football and a good win,” said Gerrard, who now has 15 goals for the season.
“We’re aware of it (the off-field situation), every time we pick up a paper or switch on the TV, so it’s important we stay focused on winning football matches.
“It’s not particularly about the manager, it’s about the team, about progressing into the fourth round, so we’re happy we’ve done that.
“It’s important we keep winning football matches and making sure the only headlines are about football and not what’s happening off the pitch.”
Benitez would not be drawn on the revelations of the past few days, instead choosing to focus on the backing offered to him by the Anfield crowd last night.
“The supporters were amazing as always,” he said. “I was really pleased with them, and I don’t really need to say anything else because they are fantastic.”
Of questions on his future, Benitez added: “I know you must ask about this, but I prefer to enjoy the day; we have won 5-0 and progressed in the FA Cup and had a good day.
“I would like to talk about the performance on the pitch and that means the team is winning games. I am really pleased to be here.”
Gerrard handed over the captain’s armband last night to Jamie Carragher, who was celebrating his 500th appearance for Liverpool.
The two teams formed a guard of honour to welcome the centre-back on to the pitch before the game, with the defender’s son James the Liverpool mascot for the evening.
And Benitez said: “There were celebrations tonight for Carra’s 500th game, but the players were concentrating on doing a professional job and did very well.
“The FA Cup has always been important for us. We will try to progress and win the competition if we can.”
It took Liverpool until the stroke of half-time to break down a stubborn Luton rearguard with Babel’s opener, and Benitez said: “We knew that we needed to score and early goal and open the game up.
“We couldn’t do that and Luton defended well and we had a lot of opportunities, but as soon as we scored the first goal the game opened up and it was easier for us.
“The supporters enjoyed the game. We scored five goals, Carra celebrated his 500th game and Gerrard got a hat-trick, so it was really good.”
After criticism of his team selection in the 1-1 draw at Kenilworth Road in the original tie last week, Benitez fielded a strong line-up that included both Gerrard and Fernando Torres.
And the manager explained: “We will play against Villa on Monday so there is plenty of time to rest the players before then. You know my idea is to protect the players and keep them with fresh legs, and we can do that.”
Luton manager Kevin Blackwell admitted his patched-up side were outclassed but he was proud of the way his players performed against a team he feels could win the competition.
He said: “There is no doubt they (Liverpool) have ability in abundance and have done exceptionally well for Rafa. It was an awesome team they put out. Clearly they have done a great job for the manager.”
Blackwell announced last week he would be leaving the cash-strapped club next month, but despite news of a potential deal to safeguard the future of the Hatters, he insisted he had not thought about changing his mind.
He said: “I don’t know what is around the corner.”
The midfielder netted a hat-trick as Coca-Cola League One outfit Luton Town were overwhelmed 5-0 in their third round replay.
Ryan Babel and Sami Hyypia were also on target to secure Liverpool a home fourth round tie against Swansea City or non-league side Havant and Waterlooville on Saturday week.
Last night’s game came after the admission from the club’s co-owner Tom Hicks that Jurgen Klinsmann had been approached in November with a view to taking over from manager Rafael Benitez.
But Gerrard believes the players are focused on winning games to help ease the uncertainty at Anfield.
“A lot was said in the media about the club so it was important that the headlines were about the football and a good win,” said Gerrard, who now has 15 goals for the season.
“We’re aware of it (the off-field situation), every time we pick up a paper or switch on the TV, so it’s important we stay focused on winning football matches.
“It’s not particularly about the manager, it’s about the team, about progressing into the fourth round, so we’re happy we’ve done that.
“It’s important we keep winning football matches and making sure the only headlines are about football and not what’s happening off the pitch.”
Benitez would not be drawn on the revelations of the past few days, instead choosing to focus on the backing offered to him by the Anfield crowd last night.
“The supporters were amazing as always,” he said. “I was really pleased with them, and I don’t really need to say anything else because they are fantastic.”
Of questions on his future, Benitez added: “I know you must ask about this, but I prefer to enjoy the day; we have won 5-0 and progressed in the FA Cup and had a good day.
“I would like to talk about the performance on the pitch and that means the team is winning games. I am really pleased to be here.”
Gerrard handed over the captain’s armband last night to Jamie Carragher, who was celebrating his 500th appearance for Liverpool.
The two teams formed a guard of honour to welcome the centre-back on to the pitch before the game, with the defender’s son James the Liverpool mascot for the evening.
And Benitez said: “There were celebrations tonight for Carra’s 500th game, but the players were concentrating on doing a professional job and did very well.
“The FA Cup has always been important for us. We will try to progress and win the competition if we can.”
It took Liverpool until the stroke of half-time to break down a stubborn Luton rearguard with Babel’s opener, and Benitez said: “We knew that we needed to score and early goal and open the game up.
“We couldn’t do that and Luton defended well and we had a lot of opportunities, but as soon as we scored the first goal the game opened up and it was easier for us.
“The supporters enjoyed the game. We scored five goals, Carra celebrated his 500th game and Gerrard got a hat-trick, so it was really good.”
After criticism of his team selection in the 1-1 draw at Kenilworth Road in the original tie last week, Benitez fielded a strong line-up that included both Gerrard and Fernando Torres.
And the manager explained: “We will play against Villa on Monday so there is plenty of time to rest the players before then. You know my idea is to protect the players and keep them with fresh legs, and we can do that.”
Luton manager Kevin Blackwell admitted his patched-up side were outclassed but he was proud of the way his players performed against a team he feels could win the competition.
He said: “There is no doubt they (Liverpool) have ability in abundance and have done exceptionally well for Rafa. It was an awesome team they put out. Clearly they have done a great job for the manager.”
Blackwell announced last week he would be leaving the cash-strapped club next month, but despite news of a potential deal to safeguard the future of the Hatters, he insisted he had not thought about changing his mind.
He said: “I don’t know what is around the corner.”
LiverpooL 5 - 0 Luton Town
Under-pressure Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez saw his side ease their way into the fourth round of the FA Cup thanks to a hat-trick from Steven Gerrard.
League one Luton collapsed in tonight's replay at Anfield after going behind to a late first-half goal from Ryan Babel.
Sami Hyypia was also on the scoresheet to give Benitez some breathing space after the shock revelation that Jurgen Klinsmann had been sounded out about the possibility of becoming the club's next manager.
Benitez selected a strong side, knowing defeat was not an option after the shock admission from co-owner Tom Hicks.
Jamie Carragher was named captain on his 500th appearance for the club while Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Xabi Alonso were also in from the start.
Luton received a boost ahead of the game with the news a deal had been agreed with a consortium led by television presenter Nick Owen to buy the club.
The Kop made their feelings know about the manager from the start with chants of "Rafael Benitez" ringing around the ground.
Jermaine Pennant split the Luton defence after three minutes and found Gerrard. He raced forward but was crowded out.
Pennant then found Peter Crouch three minutes later, only for the striker to miss a good chance, heading wide from close range when it seemed easier to score.
Babel almost gave Liverpool the lead in the ninth minute after being released by Gerrard.
He beat goalkeeper Dean Brill with a curling shot from 20 yards but his superb effort came back off the post.
Then Crouch hooked the ball high over the crossbar following a cross from Gerrard and Torres followed suit in the 14th minute.
Liverpool, as expected, were running the show and Babel again came close in the 17th minute when his effort was blocked by Richard Jackson.
Luton were making a decent fist of it after shipping out a number of players in the past week.
Despite their lowly status, the third-tier club were being backed by a good number of supporters, who made themselves heard.
Babel was wasteful in the 38th minute when he sent his effort over the crossbar from the edge of the area after Crouch had played the ball back to him.
Veteran Luton defender Don Hutchison then launched himself at a shot from Gerrard on the stroke of half-time to make a clearance.
The breakthrough finally came in first-half stoppage time when Babel rifled a shot beyond Brill and into the corner after being released by Torres.
Alonso tried his luck straight from the kick off by trying to lob Brill but the goalkeeper was alert to the danger.
John Arne Riise strode forward for Liverpool in the 51st minute, only for his effort from distance to finish wide.
Gerrard made it 2-0 a minute later when he headed in from close range after Crouch flicked on a cross from Pennant.
Liverpool raised the tempo and Torres saw his shot deflected to safety by Kevin Keane in the 56th minute.
They extended their lead a minute later after Gerrard swung in a corner from the left.
Hyypia claimed the goal although Luton defender Matthew Spring seemed to get a touch at the last minute.
Gerrard scored his second of the game and made it 4-0 in the 64th minute, stroking the ball into the corner.
It came after Hutchison had only partially cleared a shot from Torres inside the area.
Gerrard completed his hat-trick in the 72nd minute with a thumping 30-yard drive that wrong-footed Brill after being set up by Riise.
Substitute Dirk Kuyt should have made it 6-0 only to head wide from close range 10 minutes later following a cross from Pennant.
Luton were happy to play out time but at least the cash-strapped club have the promise of a financial windfall and new owners.
Liverpool, meanwhile, can now look forward to a visit from either Swansea or non-league Havant and Waterlooville.
League one Luton collapsed in tonight's replay at Anfield after going behind to a late first-half goal from Ryan Babel.
Sami Hyypia was also on the scoresheet to give Benitez some breathing space after the shock revelation that Jurgen Klinsmann had been sounded out about the possibility of becoming the club's next manager.
Benitez selected a strong side, knowing defeat was not an option after the shock admission from co-owner Tom Hicks.
Jamie Carragher was named captain on his 500th appearance for the club while Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Xabi Alonso were also in from the start.
Luton received a boost ahead of the game with the news a deal had been agreed with a consortium led by television presenter Nick Owen to buy the club.
The Kop made their feelings know about the manager from the start with chants of "Rafael Benitez" ringing around the ground.
Jermaine Pennant split the Luton defence after three minutes and found Gerrard. He raced forward but was crowded out.
Pennant then found Peter Crouch three minutes later, only for the striker to miss a good chance, heading wide from close range when it seemed easier to score.
Babel almost gave Liverpool the lead in the ninth minute after being released by Gerrard.
He beat goalkeeper Dean Brill with a curling shot from 20 yards but his superb effort came back off the post.
Then Crouch hooked the ball high over the crossbar following a cross from Gerrard and Torres followed suit in the 14th minute.
Liverpool, as expected, were running the show and Babel again came close in the 17th minute when his effort was blocked by Richard Jackson.
Luton were making a decent fist of it after shipping out a number of players in the past week.
Despite their lowly status, the third-tier club were being backed by a good number of supporters, who made themselves heard.
Babel was wasteful in the 38th minute when he sent his effort over the crossbar from the edge of the area after Crouch had played the ball back to him.
Veteran Luton defender Don Hutchison then launched himself at a shot from Gerrard on the stroke of half-time to make a clearance.
The breakthrough finally came in first-half stoppage time when Babel rifled a shot beyond Brill and into the corner after being released by Torres.
Alonso tried his luck straight from the kick off by trying to lob Brill but the goalkeeper was alert to the danger.
John Arne Riise strode forward for Liverpool in the 51st minute, only for his effort from distance to finish wide.
Gerrard made it 2-0 a minute later when he headed in from close range after Crouch flicked on a cross from Pennant.
Liverpool raised the tempo and Torres saw his shot deflected to safety by Kevin Keane in the 56th minute.
They extended their lead a minute later after Gerrard swung in a corner from the left.
Hyypia claimed the goal although Luton defender Matthew Spring seemed to get a touch at the last minute.
Gerrard scored his second of the game and made it 4-0 in the 64th minute, stroking the ball into the corner.
It came after Hutchison had only partially cleared a shot from Torres inside the area.
Gerrard completed his hat-trick in the 72nd minute with a thumping 30-yard drive that wrong-footed Brill after being set up by Riise.
Substitute Dirk Kuyt should have made it 6-0 only to head wide from close range 10 minutes later following a cross from Pennant.
Luton were happy to play out time but at least the cash-strapped club have the promise of a financial windfall and new owners.
Liverpool, meanwhile, can now look forward to a visit from either Swansea or non-league Havant and Waterlooville.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
FA Cup Preview: Liverpool vs. Luton
League One strugglers Luton Town travel to Anfield for their lucrative FA Cup third round replay against Liverpool.
You could virtually copy and paste the previews of Liverpool’s last two matches, for nothing has changed. Off the field politics continues to play a prominent yet unwanted role. On the field the Reds look lethargic, drawing games against lesser sides and relying as always on the exceptional Fernando Torres to dig them out of holes.
Two more points were dropped against Middlesbrough on Saturday – the first half was particularly shambolic, something Liverpool fans have almost resigned themselves to as their side’s stuttering start to 2008 (three 1-1 draws) continues.
The gap to leaders Manchester United is now 12pts, but the bitter truth is that Liverpool’s rivals are no longer United, Arsenal and Chelsea, but actually Everton, Manchester City and Aston Villa. As far as the Premier League goes, the aim must now realistically be fourth spot, a step backwards from previous seasons.
Nobody knows what will transpire at Anfield in the summer (you have to question the sense in Hicks making public his approach to Jürgen Klinsmann, a move that has strongly undermined Benítez) but Liverpool need trophies to appease their owners and, most crucially, the fans.
Thus this FA Cup replay against Luton Town just got a whole lot more important. Supporters expect the Reds to win Tuesday night’s game at Anfield, but it is the manner of the win that is significant. Hitting the League One strugglers for four or five will yield greater satisfaction and boost squad morale far more than a drab 1-0.
This may be a game against inferior opposition, but it remains an opportunity for those not named Torres or Gerrard to step up to the plate.
Convention says a win is better than a draw, but for Luton Town, a club on the brink of insolvency, nothing could have been finer than the 1-1 FA Cup draw with giants Liverpool nine days ago. John Arne Riise’s own goal gave the Hatters that all important equaliser, earning them a lucrative rematch at Anfield and a windfall of up to £500,000.
It all helps, but until a buyer is found this continues to be a club in dire straits. The latest setback occurred as boss Kevin Blackwell tendered his resignation. Unlike a well known brand of quick drying wood stain, Blackwell stated that Luton Town “did not do what it said on the tin.”
Disillusioned with the club's predicament, Blackwell released a statement last Friday: "We have ended up managing a squad of players who do not know if they are being paid or have a future with the football club,” he said. “It is now our belief that no possible future scenario for this club can match in any way shape or form what we came here to do.
"Ironically we no longer have contracts that would require us to give notice but we are acutely aware that just to walk away would simply add to the short-term problems. We will therefore continue work under our basic terms and conditions for approximately one month, leaving the club after home game against Bournemouth on February 9th."
The final straw proved to be a broken promise that nobody would be sold before the Liverpool rematch. As it is, star players David Edwards (Wolves) and Chris Coyne (Colchester) have been cashed in, with three others out on loan and further bids placed for Brill, Calvin and Talbott – all of whom started against Liverpool last weekend – being considered.
FORM GUIDE
Liverpool
Middlesbrough - Liverpool 1 - 1 12/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Luton - Liverpool 1 - 1 06/01/2008 FA CUP
Liverpool - Wigan Athletic 1 - 1 02/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Manchester City - Liverpool 0 - 0 30/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Derby - Liverpool 1 - 2 26/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Liverpool - Portsmouth 4 - 1 22/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Luton
Luton - Swansea 1 - 3 12/01/2008 LEAGUE ONE
Luton - Liverpool 1 - 1 06/01/2008 FA CUP
Luton - Yeovil 1 - 0 01/01/2008 LEAGUE ONE
Port Vale - Luton 1 - 2 29/12/2007 LEAGUE ONE
Bristol Rovers - Luton 1 - 1 26/12/2007 LEAGUE ONE
Luton - Tranmere 1 - 0 22/12/2007 LEAGUE ONE
TEAM NEWS
Liverpool
It’s fantasy Rafa time once again as we try to guess Benítez’ team selection. Inevitably enough, rotation should be the order of the day in a game that should not need Gerrard or Torres to be won. Jamie Carragher will captain the Reds in his 500th matchMartin Skrtel may gain his first taste of English football but Daniel Agger has suffered another injury setback. Ryan Babel could return to the side after impressing as a substitute against Middlesbrough, while Peter Crouch and Dirk Kuyt look likely to start up front.
Luton
The Hatters really are in deep trouble as Blackwell has revealed players may pull out of the match for fear of getting injured and scuppering potential transfers elsewhere. Members of the squad have received just four-and-a-half weeks' wages in three months. New captain Chris Perry is a doubt with a thigh strain, but more worryingly so is goalkeeper Dean Brill - the club have no fit reserve. Matthew Spring returns from suspension and Sam Parkin from a long-term injury.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Liverpool – Peter Crouch
Crouch appears to have become fourth choice striker at Anfield now as he jostles with Voronin and Kuyt for the right to partner Torres in the big games. Looking at the stats gives you an inclination as to why: midway through January, Crouch has yet to score a goal in the Premier League.
The big man was left out again at Middlesbrough, but the last of this season’s five goals was against Luton in the original third round tie. This may predominantly be a game for the Reds’ second-string but with Kuyt and Voronin also misfiring the England international must take his chances to convince Benítez of his worth.
Luton – The whole team
Desperate times call for innovative measures... recommending readers keep an eye out for Luton Town during this difficult time. The club appears to be on its last legs but all fans of football must hope a buyer is found and the Hatters' future secured. As the world's richest teams become increasingly financially and sportingly dominant it is easy to forget about the trials and tribulations of those beyond the Premiership.
You could virtually copy and paste the previews of Liverpool’s last two matches, for nothing has changed. Off the field politics continues to play a prominent yet unwanted role. On the field the Reds look lethargic, drawing games against lesser sides and relying as always on the exceptional Fernando Torres to dig them out of holes.
Two more points were dropped against Middlesbrough on Saturday – the first half was particularly shambolic, something Liverpool fans have almost resigned themselves to as their side’s stuttering start to 2008 (three 1-1 draws) continues.
The gap to leaders Manchester United is now 12pts, but the bitter truth is that Liverpool’s rivals are no longer United, Arsenal and Chelsea, but actually Everton, Manchester City and Aston Villa. As far as the Premier League goes, the aim must now realistically be fourth spot, a step backwards from previous seasons.
Nobody knows what will transpire at Anfield in the summer (you have to question the sense in Hicks making public his approach to Jürgen Klinsmann, a move that has strongly undermined Benítez) but Liverpool need trophies to appease their owners and, most crucially, the fans.
Thus this FA Cup replay against Luton Town just got a whole lot more important. Supporters expect the Reds to win Tuesday night’s game at Anfield, but it is the manner of the win that is significant. Hitting the League One strugglers for four or five will yield greater satisfaction and boost squad morale far more than a drab 1-0.
This may be a game against inferior opposition, but it remains an opportunity for those not named Torres or Gerrard to step up to the plate.
Convention says a win is better than a draw, but for Luton Town, a club on the brink of insolvency, nothing could have been finer than the 1-1 FA Cup draw with giants Liverpool nine days ago. John Arne Riise’s own goal gave the Hatters that all important equaliser, earning them a lucrative rematch at Anfield and a windfall of up to £500,000.
It all helps, but until a buyer is found this continues to be a club in dire straits. The latest setback occurred as boss Kevin Blackwell tendered his resignation. Unlike a well known brand of quick drying wood stain, Blackwell stated that Luton Town “did not do what it said on the tin.”
Disillusioned with the club's predicament, Blackwell released a statement last Friday: "We have ended up managing a squad of players who do not know if they are being paid or have a future with the football club,” he said. “It is now our belief that no possible future scenario for this club can match in any way shape or form what we came here to do.
"Ironically we no longer have contracts that would require us to give notice but we are acutely aware that just to walk away would simply add to the short-term problems. We will therefore continue work under our basic terms and conditions for approximately one month, leaving the club after home game against Bournemouth on February 9th."
The final straw proved to be a broken promise that nobody would be sold before the Liverpool rematch. As it is, star players David Edwards (Wolves) and Chris Coyne (Colchester) have been cashed in, with three others out on loan and further bids placed for Brill, Calvin and Talbott – all of whom started against Liverpool last weekend – being considered.
FORM GUIDE
Liverpool
Middlesbrough - Liverpool 1 - 1 12/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Luton - Liverpool 1 - 1 06/01/2008 FA CUP
Liverpool - Wigan Athletic 1 - 1 02/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Manchester City - Liverpool 0 - 0 30/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Derby - Liverpool 1 - 2 26/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Liverpool - Portsmouth 4 - 1 22/12/2007 PREMIER LEAGUE
Luton
Luton - Swansea 1 - 3 12/01/2008 LEAGUE ONE
Luton - Liverpool 1 - 1 06/01/2008 FA CUP
Luton - Yeovil 1 - 0 01/01/2008 LEAGUE ONE
Port Vale - Luton 1 - 2 29/12/2007 LEAGUE ONE
Bristol Rovers - Luton 1 - 1 26/12/2007 LEAGUE ONE
Luton - Tranmere 1 - 0 22/12/2007 LEAGUE ONE
TEAM NEWS
Liverpool
It’s fantasy Rafa time once again as we try to guess Benítez’ team selection. Inevitably enough, rotation should be the order of the day in a game that should not need Gerrard or Torres to be won. Jamie Carragher will captain the Reds in his 500th matchMartin Skrtel may gain his first taste of English football but Daniel Agger has suffered another injury setback. Ryan Babel could return to the side after impressing as a substitute against Middlesbrough, while Peter Crouch and Dirk Kuyt look likely to start up front.
Luton
The Hatters really are in deep trouble as Blackwell has revealed players may pull out of the match for fear of getting injured and scuppering potential transfers elsewhere. Members of the squad have received just four-and-a-half weeks' wages in three months. New captain Chris Perry is a doubt with a thigh strain, but more worryingly so is goalkeeper Dean Brill - the club have no fit reserve. Matthew Spring returns from suspension and Sam Parkin from a long-term injury.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Liverpool – Peter Crouch
Crouch appears to have become fourth choice striker at Anfield now as he jostles with Voronin and Kuyt for the right to partner Torres in the big games. Looking at the stats gives you an inclination as to why: midway through January, Crouch has yet to score a goal in the Premier League.
The big man was left out again at Middlesbrough, but the last of this season’s five goals was against Luton in the original third round tie. This may predominantly be a game for the Reds’ second-string but with Kuyt and Voronin also misfiring the England international must take his chances to convince Benítez of his worth.
Luton – The whole team
Desperate times call for innovative measures... recommending readers keep an eye out for Luton Town during this difficult time. The club appears to be on its last legs but all fans of football must hope a buyer is found and the Hatters' future secured. As the world's richest teams become increasingly financially and sportingly dominant it is easy to forget about the trials and tribulations of those beyond the Premiership.
Rush: Red Faces All Round
Liverpool are in danger of becoming a laughing stock under the ownership of George Gillett and Tom Hicks, according to Kop legend Ian Rush.
Rush accused the American tycoons of undermining the great traditions at Anfield after they admitted lining up Jurgen Klinsmann to replace Rafael Benitez as manager.
"Now people are going to say the club is a laughing stock," said Rush, who scored a record 346 goals in 640 Liverpool appearances.
He added in The Sun: "In many ways, you can understand that because this is not the way Liverpool normally do things.
"The tradition of the club - and the very thing that has made them so hugely respected throughout the world - is to do everything in-house, not out in the open like this.
"Look at Newcastle - we certainly don't want to get like that. That's just change for the sake of it. With Harry Redknapp turning them down, it's just going to drag on and on. That doesn't help anyone.
"Now we all know that in football these days there's only one winner - the owners.
"But admitting that Klinsmann was approached is poor timing and puts a lot more pressure on Rafa.
"It's not just upsetting for Rafa but for the players and the fans as well. Everything seemed to be dying down a bit but now it's all been blown up again."
Benitez fell out with Gillett and Hicks towards the end of last year over the clubs transfer policy and the co-owners claim their fear the Spaniard would walk away prompted them to seek "an insurance policy" in the shape of Klinsmann.
They also said they wanted to learn more about English and European football from Klinsmann, who had two spells at Tottenham as a player.
But Rush questioned their motives, insisting Benitez knew far more about both areas of the game than the German.
The former striker fears Benitez will now be seen as "a dead man walking" but urged Gillett and Hicks to give him until the summer to show progress was being made at Anfield.
Rush accused the American tycoons of undermining the great traditions at Anfield after they admitted lining up Jurgen Klinsmann to replace Rafael Benitez as manager.
"Now people are going to say the club is a laughing stock," said Rush, who scored a record 346 goals in 640 Liverpool appearances.
He added in The Sun: "In many ways, you can understand that because this is not the way Liverpool normally do things.
"The tradition of the club - and the very thing that has made them so hugely respected throughout the world - is to do everything in-house, not out in the open like this.
"Look at Newcastle - we certainly don't want to get like that. That's just change for the sake of it. With Harry Redknapp turning them down, it's just going to drag on and on. That doesn't help anyone.
"Now we all know that in football these days there's only one winner - the owners.
"But admitting that Klinsmann was approached is poor timing and puts a lot more pressure on Rafa.
"It's not just upsetting for Rafa but for the players and the fans as well. Everything seemed to be dying down a bit but now it's all been blown up again."
Benitez fell out with Gillett and Hicks towards the end of last year over the clubs transfer policy and the co-owners claim their fear the Spaniard would walk away prompted them to seek "an insurance policy" in the shape of Klinsmann.
They also said they wanted to learn more about English and European football from Klinsmann, who had two spells at Tottenham as a player.
But Rush questioned their motives, insisting Benitez knew far more about both areas of the game than the German.
The former striker fears Benitez will now be seen as "a dead man walking" but urged Gillett and Hicks to give him until the summer to show progress was being made at Anfield.
Liverpool Seek Cup Win While Luton Happy With The Cash
Jamie Carragher will captain Liverpool on his 500th appearance for the club when they face Luton Town in an FA Cup third-round replay at Anfield on Tuesday.
The Reds should end a poor run of four successive draws when they face the League One (third division) side, who surprisingly held them to a 1-1 draw at Kenilworth Road nine days ago.
Since then the financial problems which have forced Luton into adminstration this season have bitten even deeper with several players having left and manager Kevin Blackwell announcing that he will be departing next month.
At least impoverished Luton should bank around 500,000 pounds ($980,600) from the match. The only result beleaguered Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez wants is a resounding win to help quash, for a while, the never-ending speculation surrounding his position.
Tuesday's only all-Premier League replay is at the Madejski Stadium where Reading face Tottenham Hotspur for the third time in 18 days following their 6-4 league defeat at White Hart Lane on Dec 29 and their 2-2 Cup draw there the following week.
Two Premier League sides are on a hiding to nothing with Fulham visiting League One club Bristol Rovers and Derby County, with only one league win all season, facing Sheffield Wednesday of the Championship.
The Reds should end a poor run of four successive draws when they face the League One (third division) side, who surprisingly held them to a 1-1 draw at Kenilworth Road nine days ago.
Since then the financial problems which have forced Luton into adminstration this season have bitten even deeper with several players having left and manager Kevin Blackwell announcing that he will be departing next month.
At least impoverished Luton should bank around 500,000 pounds ($980,600) from the match. The only result beleaguered Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez wants is a resounding win to help quash, for a while, the never-ending speculation surrounding his position.
Tuesday's only all-Premier League replay is at the Madejski Stadium where Reading face Tottenham Hotspur for the third time in 18 days following their 6-4 league defeat at White Hart Lane on Dec 29 and their 2-2 Cup draw there the following week.
Two Premier League sides are on a hiding to nothing with Fulham visiting League One club Bristol Rovers and Derby County, with only one league win all season, facing Sheffield Wednesday of the Championship.
Benitez - We Must Do Better
Rafa Benitez believes that Liverpool need to improve if they are to get anything from this season, starting in the FA Cup third round replay against Luton on Tuesday night.
The Spaniard has seen his side record four consecutive draws in all competitions and are yet to post a victory in 2008.
The disappointing cup draw at Kenilworth Road was followed up by another 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough on Saturday, a result which leaves the Reds 12 points behind leaders Manchester United in the race for the Premier League title.
Benitez is well aware that performances must improve quickly and has challenged his players to show their quality over the next few weeks.
"We know we must improve," he told the club's official website.
"Clearly we talked about this after the game, but the players know when we have played badly.
"The mentality and the attitude must always be 100 per cent commitment, must always be 100 per cent for winning from the first minute. We must think about this.
"All of us need to improve. The players know that some players are playing well and scoring goals, so we need to see the other players doing what they were doing at the beginning of the season when we were scoring goals from everywhere.
"The players and the staff know we must play better and give the fans more. We will try and do that against Luton at Anfield.
"The quality is there. We were playing some fantastic football at the beginning of the season and also in some of the Champions League games. The football is there, but maybe it's a little bit of confidence that we need at the moment.
"When you have chances and you don't score, everybody starts talking about how we got another draw, so the players can maybe lose confidence.
"But it's simple how you can change this: winning, scoring goals and playing well."
The Spaniard has seen his side record four consecutive draws in all competitions and are yet to post a victory in 2008.
The disappointing cup draw at Kenilworth Road was followed up by another 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough on Saturday, a result which leaves the Reds 12 points behind leaders Manchester United in the race for the Premier League title.
Benitez is well aware that performances must improve quickly and has challenged his players to show their quality over the next few weeks.
"We know we must improve," he told the club's official website.
"Clearly we talked about this after the game, but the players know when we have played badly.
"The mentality and the attitude must always be 100 per cent commitment, must always be 100 per cent for winning from the first minute. We must think about this.
"All of us need to improve. The players know that some players are playing well and scoring goals, so we need to see the other players doing what they were doing at the beginning of the season when we were scoring goals from everywhere.
"The players and the staff know we must play better and give the fans more. We will try and do that against Luton at Anfield.
"The quality is there. We were playing some fantastic football at the beginning of the season and also in some of the Champions League games. The football is there, but maybe it's a little bit of confidence that we need at the moment.
"When you have chances and you don't score, everybody starts talking about how we got another draw, so the players can maybe lose confidence.
"But it's simple how you can change this: winning, scoring goals and playing well."
Hicks Confirms Klinsmann Talks
Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks has cast more doubt over Rafa Benitez's future at Anfield after confirming the club lined up a move for Jurgen Klinsmann before the German moved to Bayern Munich.
Benitez's position at Liverpool has been the subject of virtually constant speculation ever since his row with Hicks and fellow co-owner George Gillett.
During that time, Klinsmann was strongly linked with a move to Liverpool with the American pair believed to be big admirers of the former Germany coach.
And Hicks has now sensationally admitted that the tried to negotiate an option to bring the former Tottenham hero to Anfield as a replacement for Benitez.
He told the Liverpool Echo: "We attempted to negotiate an option, as an insurance policy, to have him become manager if Rafa left for Real Madrid or other clubs that were rumoured in the UK press."
"Or in case our communication spiralled out of control for some reason."
Benitez has played down the rumours over his future saying he is happy at Anfield, but Hicks' comments could see the Spaniard's position become untenable.
Hicks does, however, insist Benitez does now have his full support.
He added: "After George and I had our long and productive meeting with Rafa following the Man United match, we put all of our issues behind us and received Rafa's commitment that he wanted to stay with Liverpool.
"We never reached agreement on an option with Jurgen, and we are both pleased for him that he has a great opportunity to return to Germany and coach a great club team.
"Rafa has both of our support, and our communication has greatly improved."
Benitez's position at Liverpool has been the subject of virtually constant speculation ever since his row with Hicks and fellow co-owner George Gillett.
During that time, Klinsmann was strongly linked with a move to Liverpool with the American pair believed to be big admirers of the former Germany coach.
And Hicks has now sensationally admitted that the tried to negotiate an option to bring the former Tottenham hero to Anfield as a replacement for Benitez.
He told the Liverpool Echo: "We attempted to negotiate an option, as an insurance policy, to have him become manager if Rafa left for Real Madrid or other clubs that were rumoured in the UK press."
"Or in case our communication spiralled out of control for some reason."
Benitez has played down the rumours over his future saying he is happy at Anfield, but Hicks' comments could see the Spaniard's position become untenable.
Hicks does, however, insist Benitez does now have his full support.
He added: "After George and I had our long and productive meeting with Rafa following the Man United match, we put all of our issues behind us and received Rafa's commitment that he wanted to stay with Liverpool.
"We never reached agreement on an option with Jurgen, and we are both pleased for him that he has a great opportunity to return to Germany and coach a great club team.
"Rafa has both of our support, and our communication has greatly improved."
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