Premier League Preview: LiverpooL vs. Newcastle United

Kevin Keegan returns to Anfield having endured a torrid start to his second coming at St. James’ Park. His first spell holders fonder memories: Keegan was the manager of Newcastle when his side succumbed to a last minute Stan Collymore goal in a 4-3 defeat that is possibly still the most entertaining Premier League game ever.

That Newcastle team had flair - Ginola, Beardsley and Asprilla, as well as the goals of Les Ferdinand, and they went so close to winning the championship under Keegan’s guidance. This time, it's been different: sections of the Toon Army were delighted when Keegan returned but, to be honest, Keegan could not have imagined such a dreadful sequence of results in his darkest nightmares.

Newcastle are sliding slowly towards the bottom three with a squad of ageing and unmotivated players who are underperforming massively. Having not won in 11 league games, Newcastle now face the daunting prospect of a trip to Anfield, a side that have already beaten them 3-0 this season.

Newcastle concede goals far too readily and Liverpool’s in-form Fernando Torres will fancy his chances of scoring a third consecutive hat-trick at Anfield here. Rafa Benitez, in fact, has seen his side finally start to play like a top four club in recent weeks, winning four on the spin and scoring plenty of goals on the process.

With a solid defensive midfield duo of Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso dictating play, Benitez has released Steven Gerrard to support the scintillating Fernando Torres and it has worked well. Dirk Kuyt has found some form playing wide where he is not expected to score goals, and Ryan Babel’s pace on the opposite flank stretches teams creating space for Torres and Gerrard to exploit.

Benitez has not rotated as much since that shocking Cup defeat at the hands of Barnsley, and so long as he continues to do this The Red’s can expect an excellent end to the season. A victory on Saturday looks like a formality, but Newcastle have to win sometime and what better ground to win on than Anfield where manager Keegan and captain Owen enjoyed so many glorious games in the colours of Liverpool.



FORM GUIDE

Liverpool

05 Mar v West Ham (h) WON 4-0 (Prem)

02 Mar v Bolton (a) WON 3-1 (Prem)

23 Feb v Middlesbrough (h) WON 3-2 (Prem)

19 Feb v Internazionale (h) WON 2-0 (CL)

16 Feb v Barnsley (h) LOST 1-2 (FA Cup)

10 Feb v Chelsea (a) DREW 0-0 (Prem)



Newcastle

01 Mar v Blackburn (h) LOST 0-1 (Prem)

23 Feb v Manchester United (h) LOST 1-5 (Prem)

09 Feb v Aston Villa (a) LOST 1-4 (Prem)

03 Feb v Middlesbrough (h) DREW 1-1 (Prem)

29 Jan v Arsenal (a) LOST 0-3 (Prem)

26 Jan v Arsenal (a) LOST 0-3 (FA Cup)



TEAM NEWS

Liverpool

Rafa is becoming more consistent with his team selections in recent weeks, and probably won’’t tinker much with the side that thrashed West Ham in midweek. Steve Finnan and Andriy Voronin (ankle) will miss out, but Daniel Agger is back in contention after getting some action in the reserves on Tuesday night.

Newcastle

King Kev has not had any luck since returning to Newcastle and that has continued with Shay Given sidelined. Elsewhere, Stephen Carr, Mark Viduka, Peter Ramage and Emre are missing, as is Joey Barton who is not allowed to play in Liverpool due to the terms of his bail. Expect a central midfield role Charles N’Zogbia.



PLAYERS TO WATCH

Liverpool - Fernando Torres has scored hat-tricks in his last two home games, and the former Atletico Madrid forward will be rubbing his hands at the prospect of another against a confidence stricken Newcastle on Saturday. Torres ripped Newcastle to pieces at St. James’ Park earlier in the campaign, yet somehow failed to convert any of the chances he created for himself. Do not expect the best striker in the country to be as forgiving this weekend.

Newcastle - Michael Owen returns to Anfield as captain of a Newcastle side that find themselves in freefall. Owen rose to prominence after coming through the Liverpool youth ranks, and many Koppites were angered when Benitez chose not to bring back the England man from Real Madrid. Owen has lost some pace due to injuries but he is still a predator, and if Newcastle can supply him with decent chances, it is only a matter of time before he starts hitting the net again.

Reds Cannot Afford To Ease Off - Rafa

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has stressed to his players the importance of maintaining their vastly-improved form over the coming weeks.

The Anfield boss is rightly happy with a dramatic change in fortunes which has seen the team emerge from frustrating inconsistency to win four of their five unbeaten league matches since losing at West Ham in January.

Fernando Torres' third hat-trick of the season helped the side to a 4-0 victory over the Hammers on Wednesday to put Liverpool back into fourth spot in the Barclays Premier League but with competition so tight Benitez knows the club's revival must be maintained.

"We have been growing in confidence and the whole side believes that Fernando Torres is in the sort of form that will produce us goals," said the Spaniard.

"But now we must take this on. Winning three games on the trot has helped our quest for fourth place, but we must now beat Newcastle before we turn our attention to the Champions League at Inter Milan next week."

Liverpool legend Kevin Keegan brings his relegation-threatened Newcastle to Anfield on Saturday still without a win after seven matches since his return to St James' Park as manager.

Keegan - who joined Liverpool in 1971 as a £33,000 signing from Scunthorpe by Bill Shankly - can be assured of a great welcome from the Kop but that is where the sympathy will end.

Few will ever forget the two famous clashes between the clubs in 1996 and 1997 which both ended in 4-3 wins for Liverpool and remain timeless classics.

But Keegan's side were title contenders then and the fear is there could be plenty more goals on Saturday with Liverpool on a roll - although no-one is expecting the visitors to score three times on this occasion.

Newcastle's only Premier League win at Anfield came in 1994 on Keegan's first visit as Magpies manager. They have not won in 13 visits since and, considering their current form, it will be a major shock if they reverse that trend.

Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen, who scored 158 goals in 297 games for the club, also returns.

He has never quite been forgiven for the manner of his departure to Real Madrid after saying he wanted to win trophies - ironically, the season he departed Liverpool won the Champions League.

But when he first played for Newcastle at Anfield on his return to England after one season in Spain the Kop sang "Where were you in Istanbul?" at their former hero.

Liverpool have a doubt over defensive midfielder Javier Mascherano, who picked up a muscle injury against West Ham.

Benitez - Torres Can Eclipse Ruud

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes Fernando Torres is more than capable of breaking an impressive record currently held by former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Torres will run out at Anfield on Saturday for the visit of Newcastle having scored hat-tricks in his last two matches at the stadium.

He will also be presented with the Barclays player of the month award for February beforehand.

With 24 goals in 33 games since joining from Atletico Madrid in the summer Benitez claims Torres believes he will score every time he walks onto a pitch.

So far he has scored 18 league goals, five short of Van Nistelrooy's total of 23 in the 2001-02 season, the highest league tally by a foreign player in his Premier League debut season.

Torres is also on course to become the first Liverpool player for 12 years to hit 20 league goals in a season - something Michael Owen, returning to Anfield with Newcastle, never achieved in his time at Liverpool.

For Benitez, Torres' speedy adaptation to English football is a genuine plus.

"We knew when we signed Fernando that he had quality, pace and strength," said the Spanish manager.

"But I am a little surprised to see him scoring so regularly at this level straight away, it is not easy for someone in their first season in England.

"But he believes he can score in every game now and the sort of records that are being mentioned are within his capabilities.

"He has such confidence the prospect of scoring 24 league goals is within him."

Benitez will be forced into changing a winning side against Kevin Keegan's strugglers, with midfielder Javier Mascherano out with a muscle injury.

Benitez could bring in young Brazilian Lucas Leiva or switch Steven Gerrard back to a central midfield role with Dirk Kuyt coming in off the right wing to partner Torres up front, meaning Yossi Benayoun would be likely to start.

Mascherano is expected to be fit for Tuesday's trip to face Inter Milan in the Champions League but right-back Steve Finnan is more doubtful as he struggles with a hamstring problem which will sideline him against Newcastle.

Benitez knows Torres has become the key to Liverpool's ambitions for the remainder of the season after a shockingly inconsistent campaign but he admitted: "Fernando is not the perfect striker yet. He has things he can learn - and you cannot find a perfect manager either!"

The Reds boss also made sure he did not get dragged into commenting on the club's takeover saga, which is close to a solution.

"For us at the moment it is more important to keep our concentration on the matches we have. They are coming fast now, and hugely important," he added.

"I am thinking only of that. Together, myself and the players need to concentrate on the football."

Benitez also accepts Saturday's game will be an emotional one for Liverpool legend Keegan, who has yet to win any of the seven matches he has been in charge for since returning to manage Newcastle.

"My memories of Keegan come from watching him play for Hamburg against Real Madrid in the European Cup," said the Spaniard.

"In Madrid he was marked out of the game but in Hamburg it was a different matter.

"Madrid's defenders never saw him, he was always getting in behind them and showed what a great player he was."

As for Keegan's current managerial problems, Benitez said: "Newcastle were in a bad position before he took over but they have quality and experience and he will soon show that he is a manager of equal experience."

Of Owen's return, as Newcastle captain, Benitez said: "He was a great servant to Liverpool and an excellent finisher. I am sure he will start scoring again but hopefully not until after this match."

With Liverpool returning to fourth place in the Barclays Premier League with their win over West Ham, the manager stressed the players knew exactly what they have to do to secure Champions League qualification.

"It is back in our own hands now. If we win all our games from now we will finish fourth," he added.

"But Everton and Aston Villa are fighting for the position as well. It makes our derby game with Everton at the end of the month very significant, but there are plenty of games before that we must win, it will not depend on just one game."

Liverpool’s Benitez: Newcastle Have Enough Quality

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez feels Newcastle United’s current position is not due to lack of quality but because they are not playing at their highest level.

The Reds take on Kevin Keegan’s side, who are only three points above the relegation zone, at Anfield tomorrow.

“I think they have enough quality in their squad, and also the manager has a lot of experience. It's a surprise where they are because they have very good players, so hopefully after this game they will start winning,” Benitez said on the club’s official website.

“I think that, because they were in a bad position, and then they couldn't win the first games, they have been a little bit under pressure. When you are under pressure you cannot play at your level. But they have enough quality and experience in the squad, so I think after this game they will start winning.

Former Reds favourite, Michael Owen returns to Merseyside as the skipper of the Toon tomorrow and will be keen to spark the revival of the Tynesiders by scoring against his old club.

“We know Michael is a very good player and a great finisher. We'll have to take care of him tomorrow and if he is calm against us then maybe he can go and score 20 goals,” quipped Benitez.

Gerrard Hungry For More

It is not easy waiting to play your UEFA Champions League quarter-final when seven of the eight places have already been decided. Liverpool FC have had an extra week before concluding their tie with FC Internazionale Milano, and with three English sides already through, the onus is on the 2005 champions to join them.

"It's something I've never experienced before," Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard tells uefa.com. "But we've just got to get over that final hurdle and get ourselves into that draw. Some fantastic teams have qualified already and it would be nice to join them." Speaking the morning after his side's 4-0 defeat of West Ham United FC, the trip to the San Siro cannot come soon enough. It is one of the few great European stadiums Gerrard has never played at and he is eager to return to the competition that has brought him and the club so much success.

Patience, though, has been the buzz word of the tie. Liverpool were made to wait for the two late goals that finally beat Inter at Anfield and have had to wait again as they look to finish the job in Italy. "You just have to keep going all the way to the end," says Gerrard, who once again struck when it mattered most in the dying seconds against Inter. "A lot of goals in football are scored late on when teams are tired, especially when teams are down to ten men, like against Inter [following Marco Materazzi's 30th-minute dismissal]. We had to be patient. A 1-0 lead is a good enough result but 2-0, that's the icing on the cake. It gives us a good cushion and confidence is really high for the second leg, but this tie is not over yet."

Former Reds have been drilling that point home, particularly those that played in the 1965 semi-final when Liverpool were knocked out by Inter after winning the first leg 3-1 at Anfield. "We can learn an awful lot from what they're saying," Gerrard says. "They say the tie is not over and that we've got to go and perform just as well as we did at Anfield. That's the message, from me the captain to the rest of the boys: we can't go there thinking we've got this tie won. We've got a really difficult 90 minutes ahead of us."

Liverpool fans will not be taking anything for granted. Inconsistency in the Premier League and the pain of their FA Cup defeat by Barnsley FC have made sure of that. Since that nadir, though, Rafael Benítez's men have risen again. Victory against Inter was followed by three straight league wins and the brilliant form of Fernando Torres has got the Kop buzzing again. Gerrard too is thriving, playing in behind the Spaniard, whose hat-trick against West Ham took him to 24 goals for the season. Following his treble against Middlesbrough FC, it was the first time a Liverpool player had scored back-to-back hat-tricks at home in 62 years.

"Yeah, I'm enjoying it," Gerrard says. "Playing behind Fernando Torres is always a pleasure. Fernando's on fire. He just gives me so many options when I turn and have space. His direct running and good movement in that role helps me an awful lot and with [Xabi] Alonso and Javier Mascherano tidying up behind me, I think this team is looking really strong. With players like Fernando, Ryan Babbel, Dirk Kuyt and with the way I'm playing myself, we've got a great chance going forward to cause Inter Milan some problems. I think we've got to be positive there. A goal virtually kills the tie. We need to obviously be very strong defensively, but with a game plan of going forward to try and cause them problems like we did at home."

Gerrard's committed approach has won him fans far beyond his native Liverpool. He was voted into uefa.com's Team of the Year for the third year in succession after leading Liverpool to the 2007 UEFA Champions League final and was also chosen to captain the side. "It's a surprise to be captain of that team with so many top, top players," Gerrard said. "It's a fantastic honour, especially because it is voted for by the supporters. To get in the team full of star names and big, big players for the third year running is a big achievement and I'm really proud of that."

Gerrard has had much to be proud of this year, including being named as England captain for new manager Fabio Capello's first match last month. Seeing off the Italian champions would be further cause for celebration, something that did not look likely after Liverpool collected just one point from their first three games in the group stage. Since then they have won four in a row, scoring 18 and conceding just once. Gerrard admits: "We were guilty of being slightly over-confident in the group. As a team, we thought it was going to be easy and that we would easily top the group but Marseille, Porto and Beşiktaş caused us some problems and made it a really difficult group to get out of. That emphatic 8-0 win against Beşiktaş gave us a lot of confidence."

Gerrard is determined to ensure there is no complacency on Tuesday. Having led Liverpool to the European crown in 2005 then back to the final last term, the 27-year-old knows what it takes to succeed. "Hard work and a little bit of luck along the way. This team knows what's needed to get to the final, we're experienced and we realise it's going to be difficult. But you've got to be confident, believe it can happen and go and make the most of it. We've got a fantastic chance of going through to the last eight and we can't let that slip through our fingers."

Particularly with three English clubs already there. "If we qualify against Inter, that's four teams out of eight so no one can argue with the fact that the Premiership's been the strongest league this year. And I think it's going to get even stronger. I know a lot of players around Europe want to play in this league so it is only going to get better. [Arsenal beating Milan] was a surprise. Arsenal were fantastic on the night. When they got drawn together, I thought Arsenal would come unstuck against Milan because of the experience I have had playing against them. They're a fantastic team, a difficult team to beat, so I think Arsenal deserve a lot of credit."

Gerrard knows that better than most. A 2-1 defeat by the Rossoneri in the Athens final last May provides motivation to go out and reclaim the trophy, but it is the taste of victory in 2005 that most spurs on the Liverpool talisman. "It is great memories, memories I'll never forget. It was the best night of my footballing career so far – I'd love nothing better than to go and achieve it again."

Reds Fans Form Splinter Club

A group of Liverpool fans are looking to form a breakaway club in response to what they see as a decline in 'the Liverpool way'.

AFC Liverpool say there has been 'enormous' interest in the idea to start up a team in the North West Counties League next season, a move that would be similar to that made by Manchester United rebels FC United in 2005.

However as on-going protests towards the club's American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks continue, AFC officials insist the idea is more geared toward making football affordable again rather than a reaction to the current state of the club.

Organiser Alun Parry, an Anfield season ticket holder for 17 years, said: "This is a pro-Liverpool idea rather than an anti-Liverpool one.

"The 39th game idea proved once and for all that the people in charge of football are not interested in the people. They are not interested in the integrity of the opposition.

"In real terms, football is now seven times more expensive to watch than it was in 1985 - three games now could buy you a season ticket then.

"Football is too expensive now for a lot of people and we want to give Reds fans the opportunity again to feel part of the club."

Parry added: "Despite the obvious rivalries we have in The Premier League, everyone at FC United have been really supportive and all the forums have urged us to go for it.

"It is about more than football, it is about the match becoming a 'day out' again.

"AFC Wimbledon have also been in touch and offered their help. Every non-league club we have spoken to have been really supportive."

Torres Is So Good He's Frightening - Gerrard

Fernando Torres has put the fear factor back into Liverpool, says Steven Gerrard.

The Spanish striker scored a hat-trick for the second successive home match in midweek, and now has an unprecedented treble in his sights against Newcastle tomorrow.

It was his third hat-trick of the season – the last Reds star to achieve that feat was Michael Owen in 2002/03, who will line up against Torres – and now he is aiming to become the first Liverpool player since Ian Rush in November 1982 to score a hat-trick in successive games.

Gerrard declared: “Fernando is frightening. From the opening home game of the season against Chelsea when he scored a cracker, he has been consistent all the way.

“He got off to a good start then and now he has hit 18 Premier League goals, the first person to do that here since Michael Owen. So hopefully he can continue like this to the end of the season.

“He has pace, power and is very direct but the most important thing for us is his work rate. He hasn’t come here as a star, he is chipping in with his work as well and when you get that from a player as well you cannot ask for much more.”

Gerrard, who took his own tally for the season to 18 in all competitions against West Ham, was delighted to see the Reds move back above Everton in the table.

“I know I called for an improvement recently and the way the performances have gone I am obviously pleased,” he added.

“We were all disappointed with the inconsistency at home but against West Ham we started to put that right.

“It was a good team performance, I said well done to all of them. But we have another big game tomorrow and must keep doing this to the end of the season.

“There is still a lot of pressure on us to get fourth place. This is now a massive month for us, it will be tough all the way.

“We have won the last three and if we can beat Newcastle on Saturday we will be able to focus on a huge game away to Inter Milan on Tuesday. That’s so important for us now.”

Liverpool Boss Benitez Finds An Unlikely Ally In United Striker Rooney

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has come out in support of the rotation of players, the same system Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has been criticised for using.

The Liverpool boss has been pilloried for most of the season for his rotation policy, but now former Everton striker Rooney has admitted that United boss Sir Alex Ferguson does exactly the same and it works.

Benitez will be forgiven a wry smile at that, because he has long insisted in the face of fierce opposition that all top clubs rotate their players.

Benitez said on the subject: "When I change players it is rotation, when other managers do it, they call it resting people."

And now Rooney has come out in support of rotation, as it is revealed that Fergie has not named the same side for successive matches since August.

Despite an injury to Ryan Giggs, Ferguson was able to name Paul Scholes, Owen Hargreaves and Carlos Tevez among the substitutes in midweek in the 2-1 aggregate victory over Lyon in the Champions League, with Cristiano Ronaldo's 30th goal of the season winning the second leg 1-0.

Rooney said in an interview on UEFA.com: "Last season we had a lot of injuries and we had a few players who played a lot of games and they were tired.

"Now we have a big squad so hopefully the rotation policy will help us. I think we are a lot fresher.

"A lot of players have not played so many games this season. We brought players in, the squad is bigger and we have not really got any serious injuries at the moment."

After brushing aside Roma 7-1 in the Champions League last eight at Old Trafford last year, United ran out of steam against AC Milan in the semi-finals, a combination of fatigue and injuries taking their toll.

It is a situation Ferguson is clearly determined to avoid in a bid to keep his squad fresh.

While the defence is largely settled he rotates his midfield and attack, with summer arrivals Nani, Anderson and Tevez giving him plenty of options.

Ronaldo, now the Champions League's joint leading scorer with six goals, believes the side is "more mature" than last year and Ferguson's ability to keep a harmonious squad while ringing the changes backs that up.

For the record, Benitez is approaching 300 changes to his side, match by match, from the first day of the season.

He is now on 298 and will almost certainly top that on Saturday against Newcastle.

DIC Confident Of Closing Deal For Liverpool

Tom Hicks is expected in London early next week to discuss the future of Liverpool with Dubai International Capital, with indications that that American's stance has softened somewhat and that a deal to sell the club could be imminent.

The club’s co-owner has been in a stand-off with DIC all week over their attempts to buy Liverpool for £400 million. However, he is now believed to have assured Amanda Staveley, DIC’s chief negotiator in the UK, which he will be prepared to talk business at the same time as Liverpool will be in Italy preparing for their Champions League match with Inter Milan.

By the time Liverpool return from the San Siro, the future ownership of the club could be known - and a DIC source appeared confident that a deal could be in the offing, saying: “We are in the end zone.”

DIC is the financial arm of Dubai’s ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Staveley reports directly to him and chief executive Sameer al-Ansari - a lifelong Liverpool fan who has been the driving force behind two attempts to buy the club.

DIC have been encouraged today by claims that Hicks has agreed not to block the sale of his co-owner George Gillett’s 50 per cent holding.

Hicks has also intimated he is still not prepared to sell any of his stake - but DIC appear prepared to go with that suggestion, for now at least.

The source said: “To accommodate a deal, DIC, within reason, would accept certain agreements. It looks as if we are in the home straight. A deal involving both parties could be imminent.”

After a week of constant cross-Atlantic negotiations through Staveley, lawyers and accountants, DIC are confident they will eventually control Liverpool.

It is also believed that Gillett, who has wanted ’out’ for some while, is not willing to sell a small percentage of his stake to Hicks.

DIC dispatched a representative to Anfield last night to watch the Barclays Premier League match against West Ham from the Kop - where he was able to judge the mood of fans and hold general discussions with members of the ‘Spirit of Shankly’ group who have been campaigning for the end of the Americans’ rule at Anfield.

Fans chanted against the Americans before the game and at half-time, but not during the match or at the end.

Hicks Denies Gillett Talk

Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks has refuted claims he is open to George Gillett selling his stake in the club.

Reports had suggested Hicks would not stand in the way of Gillett selling his 50 per cent stake in the Anfield outfit.

Gillett is understood to be in negotiations with Dubai International Capital (DIC) concerning the potential sale of his shares, but required the backing of Hicks in order to complete any deal.

The two Americans entered into an agreement at the time of their purchase of the club that stipulated that if either of them should decide to walk away from Anfield then the other would have first refusal on buying their partner out.

Hicks' camp have now denied the suggestions that they have given Gillett the green light to sell his 50 per cent stake in Liverpool to DIC.

Hicks is believed to be sticking to his plan to try and obtain complete control of the Reds rather than parting with his stake in the club to DIC.

Liverpool Sweat On Mascherano But Voronin Back In Training

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano is reportedly doubtful to take part in tomorrow’s home game against Newcastle.

The Argentina international, who has been a key player for Rafa Benitez’s side, is said to have picked a muscle injury from the Reds’ 4-0 win over West Ham United on Wednesday night.

And with the Reds slated to play Inter Milan away in the Champions League last-16 second leg on Tuesday, Benitez is unlikely to risk the defensive midfielder.

Meanwhile forward Andriy Voronin is reportedly back in training after an ankle problem, but the Toon clash is too soon for the Ukrainian to make a comeback.

LiverpooL 4 - 0 West Ham United

Fernando Torres swept Liverpool back into the top four of the Premier League, on a night when the Kop made it clear they wanted the club's American owners to leave Anfield.

Torres, the shining light of Liverpool's season, became only the fourth player in the club's history to score hat-tricks in successive home matches.

But despite moving above city rivals Everton, the dark cloud of the war for control of the club was never far away at Anfield on Wednesday night.

Before and at half-time fans all around the ground sung and chanted their anger at the American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

Fortunately Rafael Benitez's players - and Torres in particular - gave the supporters something to take their minds off the behind-the-scenes turmoil.

The Spanish striker was declared fit despite missing training all week with a stomach bug, while John Arne Riise and Alvaro Arbeloa came in at the expense of Fabio Aurelio and Sami Hyypia, following Sunday's win at Bolton.

Julien Faubert, suffering with an ankle injury following Claude Makelele's tackle in Chelsea's 4-0 win at Upton Park on Saturday, missed out for the visitors - Nolberto Solano took his place.

Liverpool were on the attack from the start, with West Ham prepared to concede space and leave Carlton Cole on his own up front.

The visitors had a half chance when Robert Green's clearance was nodded down by Cole and only half-hit at Jose Reina by Mark Noble.

But Liverpool were more decisive and Torres put them ahead after eight minutes, having already sent a header just over from Dirk Kuyt's knock-down.

The Reds took the lead when Kuyt's low cross from the right was volleyed fiercely past Green by Torres from 12 yards.

West Ham should have equalised after 13 minutes when Luis Boa Morte was played in on the left, but from a tight angle his shot was hooked over his own bar by Arbeloa.

Liverpool were always a threat out wide, and West Ham struggled to deal with the resulting crosses.

The same applied to corners and after 29 minutes Steven Gerrard fired one in from the left which Martin Skrtel, arriving fast at the near post, headed onto the roof of the net.

Seven minutes later Ryan Babel fashioned a cross from the left and Gerrard's close-range effort was superbly turned round a post by Green at full-stretch.

Cole was booked after 39 minutes when his flaying elbow caught Xabi Alonso on the head, while West Ham survived at the back until the break.

The Hammers continued to live dangerously after the break and only a fine save from Green stopped Babel after Gerrard had cleverly played the Dutchman into the box.

The hosts got their second goal on the hour - with Kuyt again the provider.

The Dutchman's chipped cross from the left enabled Torres to neatly lift a header into the top corner from six yards.

West Ham's own fans started to chant for an extra striker, declared their own side "boring" and subjected Alan Curbishley's men to chants of: "It's just like watching Charlton."

Liverpool sent on Yossi Benayoun for Kuyt after 62 minutes, with West Ham replacing the injured Matthew Upson with Jonathan Spector.

Torres saw a diving header hit a post, with Green scrambling to pick up the ball as it rolled across the six-yard box.

The visiting fans finally got their two strikers when Bobby Zamora and Dean Ashton replaced Solano and Cole - but it was too late.

Torres completed his hat-trick after 80 minutes when he took a knockdown from Riise to sidestep his way into the six-yard box before rolling the ball past Green.

The Spaniard's goal tally now reads 24 in 33 matches - 12 of them coming from his last 11 games.

Gerrard capped the win two minutes later, blasting home the fourth goal with a blistering drive from outside the box, as Liverpool eased back above Everton in the table.

Rafa Benitez: Liverpool Finding Form At Just The Right Time

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez believes his side are finding their form at a “crucial” point in the season after they ignored boardroom turmoil to regain fourth place in the Barclays Premier League.

The Reds moved above rivals Everton last night with a 4-0 win over West Ham and Benitez could manage a smile at last after a match.

For 90 minutes, Liverpool’s in-form stars gave their fans something else to think about rather than the takeover battle, which now seems to have reached stalemate.

West Ham boss Alan Curbishley admitted he had been forced into a near-crisis meeting in the dressing room with his team after their second four-goal drubbing in five days.

Benitez had Fernando Torres to thank as the Spaniard climbed from his sick-bed to grab his second successive home hat-trick, the first time a Liverpool player has done that in 62 years.

That took Torres’ total for the season to 24 in 33 games, while Steven Gerrard weighed in with his 18th of the campaign.

Now Liverpool must continue in this vein at home to Kevin Keegan’s Newcastle on Saturday to send themselves into next Tuesday’s Champions League trip to Inter Milan full of confidence.

Benitez said: “It is good that we are running into form at a crucial time of the season.

“We are playing well as a team, working as a team, that is the difference in our play now.”

He added: “Torres is in great form and he is on fire. Everyone has confidence now that we will score.”

Liverpool have now won three league games on the trot, and Benitez said: “It is now in our own hands whether we qualify for the Champions League.

“But we need to win at home to Newcastle on Saturday so we can then turn our attention to Inter Milan in the Champions League next week high on confidence.”

West Ham boss Alan Curbishley was fuming afterwards, saying: “We made no impression on Liverpool in any area of the pitch.

“We have had two tough games against Chelsea and now Liverpool, and made no impression on either side. I expected it to be hard, but I did not expect it to be like this.

“But this is the first four days of our season that we have let ourselves down. These last two performances have not been good enough, so now we have to go to Tottenham on Sunday and get back on track.”

He added: “I heard our fans voicing their disapproval, they think that playing 4-5-1 is negative. But that is how Liverpool played tonight, even if they had top players who could change a game.

“A lot depends on the players that we have available and what suits them. We have been missing so many of our signings through injury, this is the best way for us to play.

“But we had a meeting in the dressing room, not a crisis one, but we needed to say that this cannot continue.”

Fernando Torres Will Help Liverpool Keep Fourth Place, Says Rafa Benitez

Rafael Benitez feels Fernando Torres’s soaring confidence will help them achieve their goals this season.

The Spaniard has 24 goals in all competitions for Liverpool this season following last night’s hat-trick in the 4-0 demolition of West Ham.

It was Liverpool’s fourth win in five Premier League games since they lost away to the Hammers at the end of January and took them back into fourth place.

Torres, who shook off a bout of sickness to take part in the game, also scored three in the previous league game at Anfield, the 3-2 victory over Middlesbrough. And Benitez is convinced that his current form will help inspire his team-mates to qualification for the Champions League – and progress to the quarter-finals in this year’s competition.

“Torres is on fire and that is the difference because everyone has confidence that we will score,” said Benitez, whose side take a 2-0 first-leg lead to Inter Milan next week following Saturday’s home league game with Newcastle United.

“If he continues scoring he will always be a threat but if the defenders are thinking about him other players, like Ryan (Babel) or Stevie (Gerrard), can make an impact.“

And we are creating different situations now so you see different types of goals – that is his quality but it also says a lot about the quality of the players.”

The manager also feels that Liverpool are in their best form since the opening weeks of the campaign. They went above Everton into fourth on goal difference with last night’s win, which was their game in hand, and will go three points clear if they overcome Newcastle.

Their Merseyside rivals will then be the team with a game less, which will be played on Sunday at Sunderland, but Liverpool’s destiny is still in their own hands.

“We have confidence now,” added Benitez. “We started really well this season and played really well in some Champions League games but in this crucial period of the season we are playing well and with confidence.

“You could see the team working as a team and working hard and that is the difference for me.

“It’s important for us because we were talking about our one game in hand so when you see those three points in the table it’s much better for the confidence so it depends on us now.

“If we can beat Newcastle we can approach the game with Inter with a lot of confidence. But we have that now anyway because we are playing really well so that’s important for the rest of the season – but we must beat Newcastle on Saturday.”

Benitez revealed that he wasn’t tempted to rest Torres despite his far from ideal build-up to the game.

But he did have Peter Crouch ready to come on seconds before he completed his third hat-trick of the season nine minutes from the end.

“I was waiting with Crouch and told him to be ready and then Fernando went and scored his third,” said Benitez.

“Maybe he was thinking, ‘just in case it’s me coming off I’ll push harder’.”

Javier Mascherano emerged from the game as Liverpool’s only injury concern with a dead leg, although Xabi Alonso played the second half with a bandage on his head after Carlton Cole headed him instead of the ball.

Meanwhile, West Ham manager Alan Curbishley was despondent as his side slumped to their second four-goal defeat in four days after Chelsea inflicted similar agony at the weekend.

He said: “We made no impression on Liverpool in any area of the pitch. We have played two top sides and knew they would be tough, but we’ve let ourselves down. The last two performances just haven’t been good enough. We’re in no man’s land at the moment.”

DIC and George Gillett At Deadlock Over Liverpool FC Deal

The ownership of Liverpool FC last night remained uncertain after talks between Dubai International Capital (DIC) and co-owner George Gillett reached a deadlock.

DIC had not managed to persuade Gillett to sell his 50% stake with a revised bid that would have given him a profit of at least £40m.

The Daily Post understands DIC and Gillett remain on “cordial” terms but talks have now stopped, although the bid remains on the table. The size of the profit Gillet is now being offered varies between £40m and £80m according to different sources.

Those close to DIC suggest the bid would allow Gillett to walk away from the club with an £80m profit, but sources in the Gillett camp argue it is nearer £40m.

“There is a desire on DIC’s part to conclude the deal or move on quick-ly. But there is no immediate pros-pect of a deal,” said a source.

It is understood Gillett is holding out for more money, but DIC have made it clear there is no more.

The latest offer Gillett is now contemplating marks a vast improvement on DIC’s original bid.

Tom Hicks, who owns the other 50% of the club, is still sticking to his guns that he wants to become a majority shareholder in the club.

Fans showed their opposition to US ownership of the club at last night’s game against West Ham.

Les Lawson, secretary of the official supporters association, said: “As far as Liverpool supporters are concerned, they want Hicks and Gillett out. They should do us all a favour and walk away.”

Premier League Preview: LiverpooL vs. West Ham United

This game should have taken place way back in August, but so hectic has the fixture schedule been that only now can this game-in-hand be played.

Both sides are slightly adrift of their respective season aims – a win would put each of them right back in contention.

Everton keep on getting results, and as such Liverpool need to keep matching them and hope the Toffees stumble along the way. But this game in hand gives the Reds the chance to overhaul their city neighbours and regain fourth spot, albeit only on goal difference.

The calamity against Barnsley apart, Liverpool have shown significant improvement since they last met West Ham at the end of January. With the exception of a (still useful) 0-0 draw at Chelsea – a place where they so regularly lose – Liverpool have notched maximum points in the Premiership, and beaten Inter Milan 2-0 to boot.

It won’t bring them closer to the Premier League title – everyone knows that’s well gone – but it does help boost confidence. Sunday’s stroll at Bolton was particularly encouraging. Benítez has tinkered with his team less than usual in recent weeks (Barnsley aside), which some might say is responsible for the upturn in form. Fan favourites like Gerrard and Torres are now involved in practically every match.

But what was particularly promising at the Reebok – another ground where Liverpool traditionally have a rough time of things – is that the Reds netted three times without having to rely on either Torres or Gerrard for the goals. Great sides are packed with midfielders and defenders who can pop up with goals when the usual suspects are off form.

But either way, the most important thing on Wednesday will be to score, secure all three points and leapfrog Everton.

Sections of the Upton Park faithful have been getting restless with their side’s repeated involvement in low-scoring, unentertaining games. Before Saturday, only one West Ham United match (2-1 against Fulham) had featured more than two goals since New Year’s Day.

But supporters would surely have rather witnessed another drab 1-0 win when Chelsea came to East London rather than the 4-0 reserve they were served up instead. In five first-half minutes the Blues tore the Hammers to shreds, notching three quick goals as Alan Curbishley’s side looked clueless.

They may have beaten both Liverpool and Manchester United at Upton Park this season, but at the weekend West Ham were well and truly put in their place. Even Frank Lampard’s rather harsh dismissal failed to redress the balance as Chelsea extended their lead after the break.

Sure, West Ham fans probably prefer their current predicament to the one that so nearly saw them relegated last season, but there is nevertheless slight disappointment as the dream of European football slips further out of sight. Curbishley cautiously targeted 9th spot in the league this season, while more optimistic supporters envisioned a top six finish.

Injuries have more than played their part in the setback, but a win at Anfield would cap a tremendous league double over Liverpool and bring the likes of Blackburn, Manchester City and Portsmouth within touching distance. The form might not be great but the omens are good: in recent years no side from the rest of the league has proved more adept at winning away to the big four sides.



FORM GUIDE

Liverpool

Bolton - Liverpool 1 - 3 02/03/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Liverpool - Middlesbrough 3 - 2 23/02/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Liverpool - Inter Milan 2 - 0 19/02/2008 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Liverpool - Barnsley 1 - 2 16/02/2008 FA CUP
Chelsea - Liverpool 0 - 0 10/02/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Liverpool - Sunderland 3 - 0 02/02/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE

West Ham

West Ham - Chelsea 0 - 4 01/03/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Fulham - West Ham 0 - 1 23/02/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
West Ham - Birmingham 1 - 1 09/02/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Wigan Athletic - West Ham 1 - 0 02/02/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
West Ham - Liverpool 1 - 0 30/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Manchester City - West Ham 1 - 1 20/01/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE





TEAM NEWS

Liverpool

Steve Finnan's groin problem will keep him out again, but Alvaro Arbeloa may start in place of Skrtel, allowing Carragher to return to his preferred position of centre-back. Peter Crouch and Yossi Benayoun are pushing for recalls - we'll have to see whether Benítez sticks closely to the XI used at Bolton or opts to rotate with Newcastle and Inter in mind. Pennant, Agger and Voronin are still injured.

Likely XI (4-2-3-1): Reina - Arbeloa, Carragher, Hyypia, Aurélio - Mascherano, Alonso - Kuyt, Gerrard, Babel - Torres

West Ham

Julien Faubert took a knock at the weekend and it doubtful for the Anfield trip. Nobby Solano may start on the right instead. The Hammers’ injury list remains lengthy: Craig Bellamy misses the return to his former club, while Bowyer, Parker and Etherington are also sidelined. Alan Curbishley refused to criticise his players after the Chelsea game and should keep faith with most, though Dean Ashton may get a recall.

Likely XI (4-4-1-1): Green – Neill, Ferdinand, Upson, McCartney – Solano, Mullins, Noble, Ljungberg – Boa Morte – Ashton




PLAYERS TO WATCH

Liverpool – Dirk Kuyt

As is always the way with Liverpool we can’t be totally sure he’ll play, but nobody can deny that Dirk Kuyt has upped his game in recent weeks. The Dutchman could never be accused of laziness – it’s clear he always tries hard – but he appears have become that much more clinical in recent outings.


Goals against Barnsley and then against Inter have boosted his confidence, as has a more regular run in the side, and by hitting the bar at Bolton he indirectly set-up Liverpool’s second goal. If Liverpool struggle to find the net early everybody will be looking to Torres, but Kuyt has a chance to prove he can deliver important goals too.

West Ham – Freddie Ljungberg

The Swede played a prominent role in a few smash-and-grab Anfield victories during his time with Arsenal. His West Ham career hasn’t taken off in the desired manner yet, partly due to injury, but Ljungberg nevertheless bagged his first goal of the season against Birmingham a few weeks back and – after failing to do so on Saturday – will seek to prove he’s still useful against big-name opposition.

Hicks, Gillett Reject DIC Bid To Buy Liverpool

Liverpool co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr. rejected Dubai International Capital's bid for the Premier League club Tuesday, The Associated Press has learned.

The 400 million pound (US$800 million) offer for the English club was turned down, a person involved with the negotiations told the AP. He spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.

Hicks "turned down their offer immediately upon receipt,'' the person said, adding the Texan is still willing to allow Gillett to sell 49 percent of his stake as long as Hicks gets the other 1 percent.

Hicks and Gillett have the power to block the other from selling.

"They (DIC) want control but they can't get it,'' the person said.

Gillett, whose relationship with Hicks has reportedly broken down, believes the private-equity investment arm of the Dubai government underestimated the value of his 50 percent stake. He was "low balled,'' the person said.

DIC has given the Americans 24 hours to accept its offer, an executive working on the bid told the AP.

Gillett has been in close contact with DIC in recent weeks after deciding to end his troubled spell at Anfield.

Hicks, however, has said he is committed to retaining his share of Liverpool and can block Gillett from selling his stake. The Texan is also looking into buying all or part of Gillett's equal stake by raising private equity.

The DIC bid was made a day after chief executive Sameer al-Ansari said Hicks and Gillett had "come out of dreamland'' over the worth of the Premier League club.

Hicks and Gillett bought Liverpool for 218.9 million pounds (then US$431 million; ₤333 million) in March 2007. This included an agreement to pay off about 45 million pounds (then US$89 million; ₤68 million) of debt and a pledge to build and finance a new stadium.

Gillett and Hicks refinanced their Liverpool deal with a 350 million pound (then US$682 million; ₤470 million) package from two banks on Jan. 25. But the package left the 18-time English champions with debt of 105 million pounds (then US$205 million; ₤141 million).

Rotation's Back As Rafa Benitez Shuffles Pack For West Ham Game

With three key matches in seven days, Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez could shuffle his pack for tomorrow’s home Barclays Premier League game with West Ham, where a win will send the Merseysiders back into fourth place.

Liverpool have Newcastle at home on Saturday and then Inter Milan away in the Champions League next Tuesday. Although the Spaniard has intimated that he will not be rotating as much now as the season draws to a climax, he could well change the side that won at Bolton on Sunday.

Steve Finnan is definitely out with a groin strain, but it unlikely that he will continue with Jamie Carragher at full-back, so Alvaro Arbeloa is a likely replacement.

Youngster Martin Skrtel could step down to allow Carragher back into central defence, while Peter Crouch and Yossi Benayoun - both unused substitutes at the Reebok Stadium - could come into contention.

Defender Daniel Agger continues his comeback from injury in tonight’s home reserve game against Bolton’s second string.

Provisional squad: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Hyypia, Aurelio, Riise, Benayoun, Gerrard, Mascherano, Alonso, Babel, Kuyt, Torres, Crouch, Skrtel, Lucas, Martin.

Rafa: We Must Keep Eye On The Ball

Rafael Benitez has stressed Liverpool's players must lift themselves above the club's current off-the-pitch turmoil to secure success on it.

The current intrigue over the future ownership of the club could easily distract the team for Wednesday night's Premier League home match against West Ham.

If Liverpool win they will reclaim fourth place in the table, and be in pole position to ensure qualification for the Champions League next term.

"This is now a really important for us," their manager said.

"That fourth spot is always important; if we win this game we are there, and from then on everything will depend on us and what we do."

Liverpool would be fourth only on goal difference from Everton if they are successful against the Hammers, but Benitez would know that if they match their Merseyside rivals' results for the rest of the campaign they will almost certainly hold on.

He added: "I have confidence. It's not easy at this stage when you play in the Champions League as well, but we have some experience.

"We know we have to concentrate and be focused on every game, and see if we can progress in both competitions."

Benitez is still smarting from the 1-0 defeat at West Ham last month, following an injury-time penalty.

He said: "I can promise you I was very disappointed. We controlled the last 20 minutes; we attacked and attacked but then conceded after one of our own corners when they broke quickly to the other end. It was very frustrating for me.

"The lesson is that sometimes, if you cannot win the game in 90 minutes, you must not lose the game in the last minute."

Benitez, who will be without Steve Finnan for the match because of a groin problem, is unsure how West Ham will react to their 4-0 home drubbing by Chelsea at the weekend.

He said: "Maybe they will be low on confidence, but maybe they will say to themselves 'We need to show character and quality'.

"I prefer to say they will be positive but really I don't know."

Benitez is aware of the potential dangers from a side who have won more away league games than they have at home this term.

He said: "They have some good players. Carlton Cole is a decent target man, as is Dean Ashton when he plays.

"They also have good wingers. Freddie Ljungberg can get into the box and be dangerous, while they have some key players who can also be dangerous.

"They are also good on the counter-attack, because they have pace and energy.

"It has been a difficult season for their manager Alan Curbishley, because he has had a lot of injuries to contend with, but I think he is doing a good job now."

Liverpool Fans Unsure Over Bid

Liverpool fans have given a cautious welcome to Dubai International Capital's takeover bid, urging their American owners to accept the offer.

Not for the first time in recent weeks, supporters are expected to express their dissent towards the regime of George Gillett and Tom Hicks during tonight's Barclays Premier League match with West Ham.

Neil Atkinson, spokesperson for the Liverpool Supporters Union 'Spirit of Shankly', told the Daily Telegraph: "Should DIC make their way into the club, they should be welcomed with caution - they may or may not have the best interests of the club at heart."

Atkinson listed a number of perceived injustices by the current Liverpool owners - including delays in the construction of a new stadium and holding talks with Jurgen Klinsmann - before adding: "(DIC chief executive Sameer) al-Ansari talks about Tom Hicks' valuation of the club being 'in dreamland'. Mr Hicks is further in dreamland if he thinks he will ever be accepted at LFC.

"If he tries to grin and bear it then it emphasises what we already know - he's only in it for one reason: the money and the money alone.

"I'm sure Liverpool supporters will make their feelings known at the West Ham game - let Mr Hicks and Mr Gillett go now with their profit.

"Let us start again with new owners, keep our eyes open and work with them within our heritage and tradition."