Javier Mascherano has written to the referee Steve Bennett to apologise for the persistent dissent that caused him to be sent off against Manchester United last Sunday. The Liverpool midfielder, whose dismissal after running 20 yards to harangue Bennett was the low point of a petulant display, has been fined £20,000 by the club but also faces a Football Association charge and has asked for a personal hearing, at which he could have his one-match ban increased to three.
"The player wants to show that he has apologised," said Rafael Benítez, who will be without Mascherano against Everton tomorrow. "He accepts he lost control after the sending-off and has said sorry to the referee. I have also talked with him now and told him he would be fined by the club, and he has accepted that and wants the money donated to charity.
"It is clear that Javier is a player who was working hard and playing well. He was giving balance to us. Normally when a player is playing at this level you will miss him, but I have a lot of confidence in Lucas [Leiva], or [Peter] Crouch and [Andriy] Voronin, if we want to change the system."
Benítez does not consider indiscipline to be a problem among his players and trusts them to act with maturity amid the passion of Anfield. "You can see our record during the season. We didn't have any problems and you could see that was not the case with some other sides.
"[Tomorrow] is a derby and people will be more excited but the players have experience. We say before all the games, try and do the right things, watch the tackles, don't have problems with the referees."
Everton will be without their midfielder Tim Cahill for the rest of the season with a broken metatarsal. "It is the same toe he has broken before but, from what I've been told, I don't think it's a really big problem for his future," said his manager, David Moyes. "Tim has not had a rest from football for a good while with World Cups, Asia Cups, Confederation Cups etc, and maybe the workload has taken its toll. He will have an operation soon and a summer to recover."
Everton have taken one point from their past two games and Moyes conceded yesterday that they might ultimately have to settle for fifth place. "Our first priority is to finish fifth at worst, so that we can at least get back into Europe again," he said.
The Lyon midfielder Kim Kallstrom admits he would relish a summer move to Everton. "At this moment I'm focusing on playing well in France," he told L'Equipe. "England? Maybe. It's a great championship, so why not? And why not Everton? They're a great club who play at the top of the Premier League table. You never know. We'll see next summer, after the European Championship."
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Penitent Mascherano Says Sorry To Referee After Being Fined By Club
Talking Tactics: Steven Gerrard's Deja Vu
Steven Gerrard will suffer a severe case of deja vu if David Moyes gets his way at Anfield.
The Everton manager will have noticed how Liverpool captain was so successfully stifled by Claude Makelele when England played France in Paris the other night and he will ask Lee Carsley to perform a similar role today.
Gerrard has really been hitting it off playing 10 or 15 yards deeper than Fernando Torres for Liverpool because he has been granted the time and space in 'the hole' to drive forward.
Makelele ensured Gerrard didn't get either at the Stade de France by fulfilling the role of anchorman in exemplary fashion. He hardly moved from his post in front of the back four, an area Gerrard was out to exploit and so his opponent hardly got into the game.
Gerrard has been successful in that role with Liverpool because he doesn't have to deal with Makelele every week but Carsley is one of the nearest things you'll get to the French international.
Carsley might not be as disciplined as Makelele and he does like to wander forward but, on this occasion, he will be told to smother Gerrard and generally get in his way to make his afternoon an awkward one.
There is, however, a way for Gerrard to get the better of a good solid operator like Carsley and that will be to launch his attacks from a wider berth in the old outside right position and the same could apply when he's on England duty.
That's an area where he used to do best attacking work for Liverpool before Torres arrived and maybe Rafael Benitez will want him to return to his old ways in the derby so he can be more influential for his club than he was his country.
The way Gerrard plays will probably prove pivotal to how the game unfolds and maybe who finishes fourth and fifth this season.
Sometimes it appears as if David Moyes has his team playing the match in quarters. For starters, he'll adopt more direct tactics which are designed to force opposing defences to turn around. Only then will his team's pass-and-move tactics kick in as things settle down and opposing defenders have been given the run-around. It's a process that is repeated after half-time with the change in tactics so finely tuned it's as if the players hear an alarm clock.
Meanwhile, Carragher knows he won't have to chase Yakubu out wide because the Nigerian striker rarely wanders out to the wings, instead preferring to make angled runs between the centre-halves because he's quick on to the ball, strong, sharp and has a terrific eye for goal. He also has a powerful shot.
The Everton manager will have noticed how Liverpool captain was so successfully stifled by Claude Makelele when England played France in Paris the other night and he will ask Lee Carsley to perform a similar role today.
Gerrard has really been hitting it off playing 10 or 15 yards deeper than Fernando Torres for Liverpool because he has been granted the time and space in 'the hole' to drive forward.
Makelele ensured Gerrard didn't get either at the Stade de France by fulfilling the role of anchorman in exemplary fashion. He hardly moved from his post in front of the back four, an area Gerrard was out to exploit and so his opponent hardly got into the game.
Gerrard has been successful in that role with Liverpool because he doesn't have to deal with Makelele every week but Carsley is one of the nearest things you'll get to the French international.
Carsley might not be as disciplined as Makelele and he does like to wander forward but, on this occasion, he will be told to smother Gerrard and generally get in his way to make his afternoon an awkward one.
There is, however, a way for Gerrard to get the better of a good solid operator like Carsley and that will be to launch his attacks from a wider berth in the old outside right position and the same could apply when he's on England duty.
That's an area where he used to do best attacking work for Liverpool before Torres arrived and maybe Rafael Benitez will want him to return to his old ways in the derby so he can be more influential for his club than he was his country.
The way Gerrard plays will probably prove pivotal to how the game unfolds and maybe who finishes fourth and fifth this season.
Sometimes it appears as if David Moyes has his team playing the match in quarters. For starters, he'll adopt more direct tactics which are designed to force opposing defences to turn around. Only then will his team's pass-and-move tactics kick in as things settle down and opposing defenders have been given the run-around. It's a process that is repeated after half-time with the change in tactics so finely tuned it's as if the players hear an alarm clock.
Meanwhile, Carragher knows he won't have to chase Yakubu out wide because the Nigerian striker rarely wanders out to the wings, instead preferring to make angled runs between the centre-halves because he's quick on to the ball, strong, sharp and has a terrific eye for goal. He also has a powerful shot.
Rafa Benitez Focused Despite Anfield Board Rift
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez says he will not be distracted by boardroom turmoil as he prepares for a massively important Premier League game against Everton tomorrow.
Off-field matters are grabbing the headlines after co-owner George Gillett described his relationship with Tom Hicks as "unworkable".
Gillett said Hicks' admission that they had courted Jurgen Klinsmann as a possible replacement for Benitez at the end of last year, was a key reason why he had received death threats.
"This partnership has been unworkable," Gillett said. "We have tried to be co-operative, we have tried to be supportive but when your public persona is more important than the facts, which make it difficult to have a rational relationship.
"We were very fair. We gave our partner a long period of time to try to make arrangements to buy us out. We didn't put pressure on him but he ultimately did not get to the finish line. Because of the things he said, the fans' reaction has been so negative towards him and towards us if we sold to him, which has now made that an untenable alternative for us.
"He threatened to block me selling to Dubai - that was certainly one of the things that made the fans upset.
"Lord knows, DIC have the money with oil prices going up every day, that's not an issue. They certainly have the history and they are fans. I think they would have been very responsible owners."
Ahead of the derby, Benitez said: "There is nothing I can do but concentrate on the game and prepare properly. I will just be thinking about Everton."
Benitez also said that Javier Mascherano, who has admitted a charge of improper conduct for his reaction to being sent off on Sunday, has been fined £20,000 by the club, with the money going to charity. Mascherano yesterday asked the FA for a personal hearing which is expected to take place in London next Friday.
Benitez said: "Javier knows he made a big mistake, he apologised to his team-mates and the supporters and he has now apologised to the referee. He accepts he lost control after the sending-off."
Liverpool Fine Javier Mascherano £100,000 For Red Card
Liverpool have fined midfielder Javier Mascherano after he admitted a Football Association charge of improper conduct following his sending-off away to Manchester United last weekend.
Mascherano today asked for a personal hearing which is expected to take place in London next Friday. But today Anfield boss Rafael Benitez also revealed that Mascherano had been fined by the club - believed to be the maximum two weeks’ wages of around £100,000 - with the 23-year-old asking that the money be donated to charity.
Benitez said today: “Javier is a fantastic professional and he knows he made a big mistake, he apologised to his team-mates and the supporters and he has now apologised to the referee.
“He accepts he lost control after the sending-off and has said sorry to the referee. I have also talked with him now and told him he would be fined by the club, and he has accepted that and wants the money donated to charity.
“We would like a personal hearing now. This was the first red card of our season and we do not have problems of this kind. We will now await the outcome of the hearing and the lawyers are now working on it.”
Mascherano will serve an initial one-match ban in the Merseyside derby on Sunday. It is possible that that suspension could be extended for two more matches if he loses the appeal.
Mascherano today asked for a personal hearing which is expected to take place in London next Friday. But today Anfield boss Rafael Benitez also revealed that Mascherano had been fined by the club - believed to be the maximum two weeks’ wages of around £100,000 - with the 23-year-old asking that the money be donated to charity.
Benitez said today: “Javier is a fantastic professional and he knows he made a big mistake, he apologised to his team-mates and the supporters and he has now apologised to the referee.
“He accepts he lost control after the sending-off and has said sorry to the referee. I have also talked with him now and told him he would be fined by the club, and he has accepted that and wants the money donated to charity.
“We would like a personal hearing now. This was the first red card of our season and we do not have problems of this kind. We will now await the outcome of the hearing and the lawyers are now working on it.”
Mascherano will serve an initial one-match ban in the Merseyside derby on Sunday. It is possible that that suspension could be extended for two more matches if he loses the appeal.
George Gillett Claims Liverpool FC Fans Have Sent Him Death Threats
Liverpool Football Club’s joint owner George Gillett said he and his wife have received death threats from angry fans.
The American said supporters made the telephoned threats in the middle of the night because of the club’s ongoing turmoil.
Gillett, 69, confirmed that his partnership with Tom Hicks - who also owns 50% of the historic club - had completely broken down and had been untenable for some time.
He spoke for the first time about the controversy surrounding Anfield on a Canadian radio station.
He said Hicks, 62, threatened to block a proposed sale of his shareholding to Dubai International Capital - a move widely supported by Reds fans.
Referring to Hicks’s disclosure that manager Rafael Benitez’s job was offered to ex-Germany boss Jurgen Klinsmann last year, Gillett said: “We get as many as 2,000 emails a week.
“I would say 95% of them have been directed at some of the comments made by my partner and 5% aimed at both of us, ’Go home Americans’.”
He added: “The fans don’t want him to have even one share of my stake in the club, based on what they are sending to me.
“As a result of that we have received many phone calls in the middle of the night threatening our lives - death threats.”
Gillett, owner of the Montreal Canadiens ice hockey team and Nascar racing team, bought Britain’s Liverpool football club with Hicks in February 2007.
The American said supporters made the telephoned threats in the middle of the night because of the club’s ongoing turmoil.
Gillett, 69, confirmed that his partnership with Tom Hicks - who also owns 50% of the historic club - had completely broken down and had been untenable for some time.
He spoke for the first time about the controversy surrounding Anfield on a Canadian radio station.
He said Hicks, 62, threatened to block a proposed sale of his shareholding to Dubai International Capital - a move widely supported by Reds fans.
Referring to Hicks’s disclosure that manager Rafael Benitez’s job was offered to ex-Germany boss Jurgen Klinsmann last year, Gillett said: “We get as many as 2,000 emails a week.
“I would say 95% of them have been directed at some of the comments made by my partner and 5% aimed at both of us, ’Go home Americans’.”
He added: “The fans don’t want him to have even one share of my stake in the club, based on what they are sending to me.
“As a result of that we have received many phone calls in the middle of the night threatening our lives - death threats.”
Gillett, owner of the Montreal Canadiens ice hockey team and Nascar racing team, bought Britain’s Liverpool football club with Hicks in February 2007.
Tom Hicks And George Gillett Take Centre Stage Ahead Of Merseyside Derby
Liverpool confront the most important 10 days of their season with the club’s ongoing boardroom crisis again grabbing centre stage in the build-up to Sunday’s crucial Merseyside derby.
A showdown with Everton will be followed by three games against Arsenal - two in the Champions League - which will stretch Liverpool to the limits.
With the repercussions of Javier Mascherano’s red-card tantrum at Old Trafford more than enough for boss Rafael Benitez to contend with, he was ambushed by co-owner George Gillett’s extraordinary claims that he has been the victim of death threats over his desire to sell his stake in the club.
As if facing their fired-up rivals from across Stanley Park was not enough of a challenge to overcome, once again an American owner has shown scant regard for timing.
Tom Hicks’ battle to fight off Dubai International Capital’s bid to buy the club dominated the last few months, and now on the eve of the 207th derby - one of the most important in history - Gillett’s astonishing claims from across the Atlantic threaten to deflect Liverpool’s concentration.
Benitez did his level best today to straight-bat probing questions.
He said: “I have been told about the comments (from George Gillett), but my response is to be really focused on the derby, that is all that I am concerned about.
“But if we win everything will be happier, particularly if it is against Everton.”
He added: “Whatever comments are made there is nothing I can do but concentrate on the game and prepare properly.
“I will just be thinking about Everton. I put it out of my mind by working on the games, analysing our opponents and I do not talk too much with anyone. All I want is to have 11 players fit for the game.”
He will be without Mascherano, serving an initial one-match ban for the red card against Manchester United, which has been followed by an FA charge for improper conduct, which the Argentina midfielder has admitted.
Mascherano has also been fined two weeks’ wages - donated to charity - and has requested a personal hearing in London next week despite the guilty plea.
He can expect another two matches added to that suspension, regardless of the work being put in by lawyers, to whom Benitez is no doubt grateful to pass on the problem.
Brazilian youngster Lucas can expect to be hurled into the cauldron of a Merseyside war in Mascherano’s place, with Benitez confident he can cope.
Benitez said: “Lucas can come in for Mascherano. He played well against Inter Milan, so why can he not play well against Everton? He can do the job.”
Liverpool, two points clear of fifth-placed Everton, dare not allow the Toffees to take anything away from Anfield.
With behaviour and respect at the top of the current agenda, a Merseyside derby could potentially be a fixture everyone at Anfield would rather have avoided.
But Benitez says: “We do not have problems as a club. People are talking about the number of red and yellow cards, but the players know how to behave.
“They know they must do things properly, they must challenge, but not foul. I have not felt the need to talk to the players about such disciplinary issues because we have a good record this season.
“We will approach the games from now on just like before. We will play with the heart and also the head.
“We do not need to change too many things. The behaviour of the team all season has been good, and just because it is a derby next does not mean things will be different.
“The key now and the message for everyone is to try to support our team and for the players to be good professionals.”
He added: “The game is really important for both clubs, with a position in the top four at stake. It may have more passion than before, if that is possible.
“There needs to be discipline, we have not had problems during the season and our behaviour has been very good.”
Benitez does not believe that a Liverpool win will end Everton’s challenge.
He says: “I do not think that if we win it will kill off Everton. They are winning a lot of games and they are near the top of the table. These games are different, exciting for everyone.
“We must continue winning games in succession regardless of the result, we have to keep going.”
A showdown with Everton will be followed by three games against Arsenal - two in the Champions League - which will stretch Liverpool to the limits.
With the repercussions of Javier Mascherano’s red-card tantrum at Old Trafford more than enough for boss Rafael Benitez to contend with, he was ambushed by co-owner George Gillett’s extraordinary claims that he has been the victim of death threats over his desire to sell his stake in the club.
As if facing their fired-up rivals from across Stanley Park was not enough of a challenge to overcome, once again an American owner has shown scant regard for timing.
Tom Hicks’ battle to fight off Dubai International Capital’s bid to buy the club dominated the last few months, and now on the eve of the 207th derby - one of the most important in history - Gillett’s astonishing claims from across the Atlantic threaten to deflect Liverpool’s concentration.
Benitez did his level best today to straight-bat probing questions.
He said: “I have been told about the comments (from George Gillett), but my response is to be really focused on the derby, that is all that I am concerned about.
“But if we win everything will be happier, particularly if it is against Everton.”
He added: “Whatever comments are made there is nothing I can do but concentrate on the game and prepare properly.
“I will just be thinking about Everton. I put it out of my mind by working on the games, analysing our opponents and I do not talk too much with anyone. All I want is to have 11 players fit for the game.”
He will be without Mascherano, serving an initial one-match ban for the red card against Manchester United, which has been followed by an FA charge for improper conduct, which the Argentina midfielder has admitted.
Mascherano has also been fined two weeks’ wages - donated to charity - and has requested a personal hearing in London next week despite the guilty plea.
He can expect another two matches added to that suspension, regardless of the work being put in by lawyers, to whom Benitez is no doubt grateful to pass on the problem.
Brazilian youngster Lucas can expect to be hurled into the cauldron of a Merseyside war in Mascherano’s place, with Benitez confident he can cope.
Benitez said: “Lucas can come in for Mascherano. He played well against Inter Milan, so why can he not play well against Everton? He can do the job.”
Liverpool, two points clear of fifth-placed Everton, dare not allow the Toffees to take anything away from Anfield.
With behaviour and respect at the top of the current agenda, a Merseyside derby could potentially be a fixture everyone at Anfield would rather have avoided.
But Benitez says: “We do not have problems as a club. People are talking about the number of red and yellow cards, but the players know how to behave.
“They know they must do things properly, they must challenge, but not foul. I have not felt the need to talk to the players about such disciplinary issues because we have a good record this season.
“We will approach the games from now on just like before. We will play with the heart and also the head.
“We do not need to change too many things. The behaviour of the team all season has been good, and just because it is a derby next does not mean things will be different.
“The key now and the message for everyone is to try to support our team and for the players to be good professionals.”
He added: “The game is really important for both clubs, with a position in the top four at stake. It may have more passion than before, if that is possible.
“There needs to be discipline, we have not had problems during the season and our behaviour has been very good.”
Benitez does not believe that a Liverpool win will end Everton’s challenge.
He says: “I do not think that if we win it will kill off Everton. They are winning a lot of games and they are near the top of the table. These games are different, exciting for everyone.
“We must continue winning games in succession regardless of the result, we have to keep going.”
Friday, March 28, 2008
Inter Rule Out Benitez Approach
Massimo Moratti has rubbished reports linking Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez and former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho with the Inter Milan job.
Speculation remains rife about Inter manager Roberto Mancini's future after he announced in the aftermath of the Champions League defeat to Liverpool that he would step down at the end of the season.
He later made a made a U-turn and decided to stay after holding talks with Inter president Moratti, but speculation has continued about a possible change.
The future of Liverpool boss Benitez has also been the subject of conjecture for some time, while Mourinho has been linked with several jobs since leaving Chelsea.
Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli is another name reportedly in the frame to come to come in for Mancini, but Moratti insists there is no truth in any of the rumours.
"These are all baloney," Moratti said. "Despite what you are saying and writing, there has been nothing.
"These would all be things to deny, but we have not got the patience to do it.
"I hope these rumours do not have an influence on Saturday's performance because we have a big game against Lazio."
Torres Fit For Derby Clash
Fernando Torres has overcome any fears that his fitness would be in doubt for Sunday’s 207th Merseyside derby with Everton at Anfield.
Top scorer Torres needed precautionary scans on back and ankle knocks after the controversial defeat at Manchester United last weekend. The Spaniard only played 50 minutes of his country’s win over Italy in midweek, an agreement that boss Rafael Benitez had struck with Spain boss Luis Aragones.
Torres looked sharp in the international and will play against Everton. Javier Mascherano will be suspended, while Steve Finnan is close to a return after a groin problem. Yossi Benayoun scored in Israel’s midweek 1-0 win over Chile to stake his claim for a place in the side, while John Arne Riise is also in contention, having been on the bench for the past three games.
Provisional squad: Reina, Arbeloa, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Skrtel, Riise, Arbeloa, Babel, Benayoun, Gerrard, Alonso, Lucas, Torres, Kuyt, Voronin, Crouch, Pennant, Itandje.
Top scorer Torres needed precautionary scans on back and ankle knocks after the controversial defeat at Manchester United last weekend. The Spaniard only played 50 minutes of his country’s win over Italy in midweek, an agreement that boss Rafael Benitez had struck with Spain boss Luis Aragones.
Torres looked sharp in the international and will play against Everton. Javier Mascherano will be suspended, while Steve Finnan is close to a return after a groin problem. Yossi Benayoun scored in Israel’s midweek 1-0 win over Chile to stake his claim for a place in the side, while John Arne Riise is also in contention, having been on the bench for the past three games.
Provisional squad: Reina, Arbeloa, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Skrtel, Riise, Arbeloa, Babel, Benayoun, Gerrard, Alonso, Lucas, Torres, Kuyt, Voronin, Crouch, Pennant, Itandje.
Gerrard Out To Make England Striker Role His Own
Steven Gerrard will need more time to fully adapt to being the second striker for England - but the Liverpool captain is confident he can 'make things happen' in the role behind Wayne Rooney.
Gerrard played just behind Wayne Rooney in Wednesday night's 1-0 defeat against France in Paris and looked dangerous in the first half when Fabio Capello's side dominated possession, before falling behind to a Franck Ribery penalty.
He has enjoyed success in the position in partnership with Fernando Torres at club level but concedes he is still learning what is required if he is to become fully effective.
Gerrard said: 'I've been playing that role for Liverpool. I've been enjoying it. To play with players like Torres and Rooney is always a pleasure, and I'm involved and I can get forward.
'I don't know if it's my best position. I'm a central midfielder; I've played there all my life but I do feel as if I can cause problems in there and I can adapt to the role - but I'll need more time.
'I am still learning that position. I think I've played it 10 to 15 times but I am confident I can make it happen in there.'
Gerrard believes Rooney, who has sparkled himself in the past in the second striker role, will have to adapt his game and play further forward.
He said: 'I think Wayne slightly has to adapt his game as well - because, for me to get space in there and for it to work, he has to play a lot higher and stretch the defence.
'I think that is why I and Torres are having a lot of joy, because he is so direct and plays high up.
'With two holding midfielders behind us, the team are a lot more secure when they lose the ball. Wayne will have to adapt his game - but if anyone can do it, it is him.
'I've seen him do it with Manchester United. He destroyed us at the weekend with his direct running and making it difficult for defenders. I am sure both of us can make it work.
'It is going to take time. We've had two games together, four or five training sessions - and it is a brand new set-up, not just the manager but the whole coaching side.
'It will take time for us to adapt to each other, but I think there were signs of improvement there against France.'
Gerrard can see positive indications from the two games Capello has been in charge - but has called for patience in giving time for things to gel.
He said: 'You don't want to lose a football match. But you look at the game as a whole, and there was a slight improvement on the performance against Switzerland.
'It is all about patience and getting used to what the manager wants. I think there were signs of that in Paris, certainly in the first half.
'We were happy, controlling the game. But we conceded a stupid goal - which we will have to eradicate in the future.
'The message is that everyone has to be patient. We need time to work on different formations and tactics.'
The intention is that England are ready to start the World Cup qualifying campaign as a well-organised team.
'The important thing is we peak in September,' said Gerrard.
'We all know when the important games are in the World Cup qualifiers, but it is important now to start getting it right before we go into those games.
'The manager wants us to be a lot more aggressive without the ball and pass it a lot more - and we controlled the game first half.
'Without the ball, France couldn't play. Up until the goal, which was a stupid goal to concede, we were comfortable and in charge.'
Gerrard played just behind Wayne Rooney in Wednesday night's 1-0 defeat against France in Paris and looked dangerous in the first half when Fabio Capello's side dominated possession, before falling behind to a Franck Ribery penalty.
He has enjoyed success in the position in partnership with Fernando Torres at club level but concedes he is still learning what is required if he is to become fully effective.
Gerrard said: 'I've been playing that role for Liverpool. I've been enjoying it. To play with players like Torres and Rooney is always a pleasure, and I'm involved and I can get forward.
'I don't know if it's my best position. I'm a central midfielder; I've played there all my life but I do feel as if I can cause problems in there and I can adapt to the role - but I'll need more time.
'I am still learning that position. I think I've played it 10 to 15 times but I am confident I can make it happen in there.'
Gerrard believes Rooney, who has sparkled himself in the past in the second striker role, will have to adapt his game and play further forward.
He said: 'I think Wayne slightly has to adapt his game as well - because, for me to get space in there and for it to work, he has to play a lot higher and stretch the defence.
'I think that is why I and Torres are having a lot of joy, because he is so direct and plays high up.
'With two holding midfielders behind us, the team are a lot more secure when they lose the ball. Wayne will have to adapt his game - but if anyone can do it, it is him.
'I've seen him do it with Manchester United. He destroyed us at the weekend with his direct running and making it difficult for defenders. I am sure both of us can make it work.
'It is going to take time. We've had two games together, four or five training sessions - and it is a brand new set-up, not just the manager but the whole coaching side.
'It will take time for us to adapt to each other, but I think there were signs of improvement there against France.'
Gerrard can see positive indications from the two games Capello has been in charge - but has called for patience in giving time for things to gel.
He said: 'You don't want to lose a football match. But you look at the game as a whole, and there was a slight improvement on the performance against Switzerland.
'It is all about patience and getting used to what the manager wants. I think there were signs of that in Paris, certainly in the first half.
'We were happy, controlling the game. But we conceded a stupid goal - which we will have to eradicate in the future.
'The message is that everyone has to be patient. We need time to work on different formations and tactics.'
The intention is that England are ready to start the World Cup qualifying campaign as a well-organised team.
'The important thing is we peak in September,' said Gerrard.
'We all know when the important games are in the World Cup qualifiers, but it is important now to start getting it right before we go into those games.
'The manager wants us to be a lot more aggressive without the ball and pass it a lot more - and we controlled the game first half.
'Without the ball, France couldn't play. Up until the goal, which was a stupid goal to concede, we were comfortable and in charge.'
Arbeloa Admits 'Inhumane' Start
Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa has described his first few weeks under manager Rafa Benitez as 'inhumane'.
Arbeloa joined the Reds for £2.5million from Deportivo La Coruna in January 2007 and the Spanish international admits he was shocked by his first few weeks.
But the right-back - who made his debut for Spain in Wednesday's 1-0 victory over Italy - insists he is now settled on Merseyside ahead of Sunday's crucial derby with Everton at Anfield, which can be seen live on Sky Sports 1.
Arbeloa has made 35 appearances for Liverpool this season after taking advantage of the injury and inconsistent form of Steve Finnan, but he admits he struggled to settle in his early days in England.
"I didn't know where I was in my first week with Liverpool," Arbeloa told the Daily Mail.
"It went badly, and the image I remember from those early days is of the manager (Benitez) criticising everything I did, from the way I did some basketball practice to how I played my football.
"My first fortnight at the club was inhumane, but I am grateful to him now for filling me in on how the team works. It is a well-run club and I found it easy to adapt to their way of working.
"People say the manager is grumpy but I have only seen that once. He is serious-minded, though, and I can assure you nobody enjoys themselves during the training sessions."
Arbeloa has also described Jamie Carragher as Liverpool's 'boss' in the dressing room, but insists Steven Gerrard is the team's on-field leader.
"Jamie is the true boss in the changing room," Arbeloa added. "He orders everyone around and yells a lot but, to be fair, he has a CV equal to Fernando Hierro's for Real Madrid and the Spain national team. He sees and hears everything and keeps us informed about what is happening.
"Gerrard is also important. He is like Zinedine Zidane - a genius who doesn't like to be the centre of attention. He is the first to make runs, to lend a hand or to get stuck in when necessary."
Arbeloa joined the Reds for £2.5million from Deportivo La Coruna in January 2007 and the Spanish international admits he was shocked by his first few weeks.
But the right-back - who made his debut for Spain in Wednesday's 1-0 victory over Italy - insists he is now settled on Merseyside ahead of Sunday's crucial derby with Everton at Anfield, which can be seen live on Sky Sports 1.
Arbeloa has made 35 appearances for Liverpool this season after taking advantage of the injury and inconsistent form of Steve Finnan, but he admits he struggled to settle in his early days in England.
"I didn't know where I was in my first week with Liverpool," Arbeloa told the Daily Mail.
"It went badly, and the image I remember from those early days is of the manager (Benitez) criticising everything I did, from the way I did some basketball practice to how I played my football.
"My first fortnight at the club was inhumane, but I am grateful to him now for filling me in on how the team works. It is a well-run club and I found it easy to adapt to their way of working.
"People say the manager is grumpy but I have only seen that once. He is serious-minded, though, and I can assure you nobody enjoys themselves during the training sessions."
Arbeloa has also described Jamie Carragher as Liverpool's 'boss' in the dressing room, but insists Steven Gerrard is the team's on-field leader.
"Jamie is the true boss in the changing room," Arbeloa added. "He orders everyone around and yells a lot but, to be fair, he has a CV equal to Fernando Hierro's for Real Madrid and the Spain national team. He sees and hears everything and keeps us informed about what is happening.
"Gerrard is also important. He is like Zinedine Zidane - a genius who doesn't like to be the centre of attention. He is the first to make runs, to lend a hand or to get stuck in when necessary."
Transfer Talk
Xabi Alonso has handed Liverpool a major boost ahead of Sunday's Merseyside deby by insisting he wants to stay at Anfield.
Real Madrid are among the club in Spain interested in the Reds midfielder but he has no intention of leaving the Premier League outfit.
There have been fears on the Kop that influential Alonso would be lured to la Liga but he is adamant he is happy to play under the command of Rafael Benitez as he sees a bright future ahead under the Spanish boss.
Liverpool are preparing a major spending offensive in the summer and David Bentley, the heir apparent to David Beckham in the England side, is at the top of their list.
But Blackburn are determined to keep a firm grip on their prize asset and manager Mark Hughes will not let him leave Ewood Park unless the fee is exorbitant.
Ipswich are favourites to sign Northern Ireland crackerjack David Healy as he will be allowed to leave Fulham at the end of the season but Crystal Palace and Derby could also be interested.
West Ham defender John Pantsil will also be looking for new employers in the summer as he is determined to leave Upton Park for regular first-team football.
But Manchester United defender Jonny Evans is happy to stay at Sunderland on a permanent transfer after enjoying his loan spell at the Stadium of Light.
The Black Cats could move for Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson, who wants to leave the Riverside Stadium for first-team football.
And Andreas Isaksson and Kasper Schmeichel are both edgy at Eastlands as they cannot see a way part first-choice Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart.
Real Madrid are among the club in Spain interested in the Reds midfielder but he has no intention of leaving the Premier League outfit.
There have been fears on the Kop that influential Alonso would be lured to la Liga but he is adamant he is happy to play under the command of Rafael Benitez as he sees a bright future ahead under the Spanish boss.
Liverpool are preparing a major spending offensive in the summer and David Bentley, the heir apparent to David Beckham in the England side, is at the top of their list.
But Blackburn are determined to keep a firm grip on their prize asset and manager Mark Hughes will not let him leave Ewood Park unless the fee is exorbitant.
Ipswich are favourites to sign Northern Ireland crackerjack David Healy as he will be allowed to leave Fulham at the end of the season but Crystal Palace and Derby could also be interested.
West Ham defender John Pantsil will also be looking for new employers in the summer as he is determined to leave Upton Park for regular first-team football.
But Manchester United defender Jonny Evans is happy to stay at Sunderland on a permanent transfer after enjoying his loan spell at the Stadium of Light.
The Black Cats could move for Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson, who wants to leave the Riverside Stadium for first-team football.
And Andreas Isaksson and Kasper Schmeichel are both edgy at Eastlands as they cannot see a way part first-choice Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart.
Deadline Extended For Mascherano
The Football Association will allow Javier Mascherano an extra 24 hours to respond to his improper conduct charge.
The Liverpool midfielder will now have until 6pm on Friday to answer the charge as he has been on international duty with Argentina.
Mascherano was charged by the FA for his reaction towards referee Steve Bennett following his sending-off against Manchester United on Sunday.
He will serve a one-match ban and could miss two more games if found guilty.
The date for the case - scheduled to be heard by a regulatory commission - has been brought forward to Thursday 3 April.
Mascherano, 23, appeared to question Bennett's decision to caution Fernando Torres, and was then shown a second yellow card himself.
The Argentine will definitely miss Sunday's Merseyside derby at Anfield.
If the charge is upheld then he will also miss Premier League games against Arsenal on 5 April and Blackburn eight days later.
Liverpool 'Too Reliant' On Stars
Former Liverpool defender Stephane Henchoz says the Reds are too reliant on Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres to challenge for the Premier League.
The 33-year-old, now at Blackburn, won three trophies with Liverpool in 2001 but was one of the first to leave the club when Rafa Benitez joined in 2004.
"If Gerrard and Torres are not playing at their best, you hardly see where the goals are coming from," Henchoz said.
"They probably need two or three very good players if they want to compete."
Gerrard and Torres have scored 30 of Liverpool's 55 league goals this season.
Their title hopes were effectively dashed against Manchester United last Sunday when a 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford put them 14 points behind the reigning champions with seven games left.
Henchoz left Anfield in January 2005 - just seven months after Benitez took over - and the defender made no secret of his anger at the way he had been treated by the Spaniard.
The 33-year-old has not been impressed by Benitez's squad rotation policy this season.
"The rotation system sometimes in the league was not the best," said the Swiss speaking at the Liverpool leg of BBC Your Game.
"They drew too many times and if they kept their best XI, they would have won a few more games."
On a personal level, Henchoz is on the verge of a comeback from a disrupted season at Ewood Park where he has had two operations on an injured knee.
But with his contract up at the end of the season, he has already begun planning for the future.
"I've been injured since September, (I've had) two operations and it did not go well at all," he said.
"I'm hoping to be back in first-team training next week, and then it's nearly the end of the season so I will try to get back and play a few reserve games in April and then see what happens.
"But I'm starting a coaching badge next week with some lads at Blackburn, but that takes a couple of years to do that. Then maybe, if the opportunity comes, why not try management?"
Stephane Henchoz attended Your Game in Liverpool as a guest of the Swiss Embassy in London. The Swiss Embassy are supporting Your Game by taking the 2008 Your Game All Stars to Switzerland during the European Championship.
The 33-year-old, now at Blackburn, won three trophies with Liverpool in 2001 but was one of the first to leave the club when Rafa Benitez joined in 2004.
"If Gerrard and Torres are not playing at their best, you hardly see where the goals are coming from," Henchoz said.
"They probably need two or three very good players if they want to compete."
Gerrard and Torres have scored 30 of Liverpool's 55 league goals this season.
Their title hopes were effectively dashed against Manchester United last Sunday when a 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford put them 14 points behind the reigning champions with seven games left.
Henchoz left Anfield in January 2005 - just seven months after Benitez took over - and the defender made no secret of his anger at the way he had been treated by the Spaniard.
The 33-year-old has not been impressed by Benitez's squad rotation policy this season.
"The rotation system sometimes in the league was not the best," said the Swiss speaking at the Liverpool leg of BBC Your Game.
"They drew too many times and if they kept their best XI, they would have won a few more games."
On a personal level, Henchoz is on the verge of a comeback from a disrupted season at Ewood Park where he has had two operations on an injured knee.
But with his contract up at the end of the season, he has already begun planning for the future.
"I've been injured since September, (I've had) two operations and it did not go well at all," he said.
"I'm hoping to be back in first-team training next week, and then it's nearly the end of the season so I will try to get back and play a few reserve games in April and then see what happens.
"But I'm starting a coaching badge next week with some lads at Blackburn, but that takes a couple of years to do that. Then maybe, if the opportunity comes, why not try management?"
Stephane Henchoz attended Your Game in Liverpool as a guest of the Swiss Embassy in London. The Swiss Embassy are supporting Your Game by taking the 2008 Your Game All Stars to Switzerland during the European Championship.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Torres Injury Worry For Liverpool After Materazzi Clash
Liverpool are sweating on the fitness of star striker Fernando Torres after he was replaced at half-time during the Spain clash with Italy following a challenge from Azzurri defender Marco Materazzi.
The Spaniard had scans on rib and ankle injuries following Liverpool's match against Manchester United at the weekend and, following a session with the national team's physio on Monday, only returned to training on Tuesday.
The Italian defender's lunge looked to connect with Torres' right ankle - the same one that had concerned the striker following the game at Old Trafford.
Torres had been at the centre of a row during the incident-packed United match with Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez saying after the match that the forward was substituted for his own protection following some hefty challenges from the United defenders.
Liverpool will now have to wait for the 24-year-old to return from international duty so that he can be assessed by club doctors.
An injury to the striker, who has spearheaded the Reds attack with 27 goals so far this season, would be a serious blow to Liverpool at this key stage of the season.
Their next four games are Sunday's Merseyside derby before three matches against Arsenal including the Champions League quarter-final ties.
David Villa hit a spectacular volley to earn Spain a 1-0 win over world champions Italy.
The Valencia striker, who replaced Torres at half-time, fired the ball into the top corner past Gianluigi Buffon 13 minutes from time after Fabio Cannavaro had failed to get enough distance with his headed clearance.
The Spaniard had scans on rib and ankle injuries following Liverpool's match against Manchester United at the weekend and, following a session with the national team's physio on Monday, only returned to training on Tuesday.
The Italian defender's lunge looked to connect with Torres' right ankle - the same one that had concerned the striker following the game at Old Trafford.
Torres had been at the centre of a row during the incident-packed United match with Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez saying after the match that the forward was substituted for his own protection following some hefty challenges from the United defenders.
Liverpool will now have to wait for the 24-year-old to return from international duty so that he can be assessed by club doctors.
An injury to the striker, who has spearheaded the Reds attack with 27 goals so far this season, would be a serious blow to Liverpool at this key stage of the season.
Their next four games are Sunday's Merseyside derby before three matches against Arsenal including the Champions League quarter-final ties.
David Villa hit a spectacular volley to earn Spain a 1-0 win over world champions Italy.
The Valencia striker, who replaced Torres at half-time, fired the ball into the top corner past Gianluigi Buffon 13 minutes from time after Fabio Cannavaro had failed to get enough distance with his headed clearance.
Three Spanish Clubs Now Chasing Benítez
A report in this morning's Times has added Atlético Madrid and former club Valencia to the list of potential suitors for Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez. The boss himself wants to stay at Anfield, however, and is already making plans for the summer.
Several Italian clubs and Barcelona have already been linked with the Reds manager, whose future at Anfield is less than clear after another poor domestic campaign and tense relations with the club's owners.
The Times say that Benítez' priority is to remain where he is since his family are settled on Merseyside, but such is the situation at Liverpool that he cannot rule out a move elsewhere this summer even if Dubai International Capital do eventually succeed with their takeover bid.
Manuel García Quillon, Benítez' agent, has been approached by Valencia, Atlético and Barcelona, with the latter thought to favour the Liverpool boss ahead of José Mourinho in the likely event that current boss Frank Rijkaard steps down at the end of this season. Michael Laudrup, currently boss of Getafe, is also in the running for the Barça hotseat.
Should Benítez remain at Anfield, it is understood he will ask for considerable backing in the transfer market Liverpool seek to close the gap to the league's leading sides, which - as evidenced in Sunday's 3-0 defeat to Manchester United and the points difference in the table - is still considerable.
David Bentley of Blackburn Rovers is among those purchases being considered in the summer. Meanwhile, the Spaniard is intent on clearing out some of the Anfield deadwood, with Harry Kewell almost certain to leave and John Arne Riise likely to follow. Benítez would also be prepared to part with Peter Crouch and Xabi Alonso should the right offers come along.
Several Italian clubs and Barcelona have already been linked with the Reds manager, whose future at Anfield is less than clear after another poor domestic campaign and tense relations with the club's owners.
The Times say that Benítez' priority is to remain where he is since his family are settled on Merseyside, but such is the situation at Liverpool that he cannot rule out a move elsewhere this summer even if Dubai International Capital do eventually succeed with their takeover bid.
Manuel García Quillon, Benítez' agent, has been approached by Valencia, Atlético and Barcelona, with the latter thought to favour the Liverpool boss ahead of José Mourinho in the likely event that current boss Frank Rijkaard steps down at the end of this season. Michael Laudrup, currently boss of Getafe, is also in the running for the Barça hotseat.
Should Benítez remain at Anfield, it is understood he will ask for considerable backing in the transfer market Liverpool seek to close the gap to the league's leading sides, which - as evidenced in Sunday's 3-0 defeat to Manchester United and the points difference in the table - is still considerable.
David Bentley of Blackburn Rovers is among those purchases being considered in the summer. Meanwhile, the Spaniard is intent on clearing out some of the Anfield deadwood, with Harry Kewell almost certain to leave and John Arne Riise likely to follow. Benítez would also be prepared to part with Peter Crouch and Xabi Alonso should the right offers come along.
Hyypia Poised To Extend Anfield Stay
Liverpool veteran Sami Hyypia looks set to stay on at Anfield and sign a new contract.
The 34-year-old Finn, who has been at Liverpool since 1999, is out of contract at the end of the season. But Reds boss Rafa Benítez is keen to extend the defender's stay to complete a decade of service at Anfield.
"(Chief executive) Rick Parry is due to talk to Sami's agent this weekend and hopefully everything will then be finished," said Benítez, who has called extensively on the centre-back this season following the almost season-long injury to Daniel Agger.
Hyypia himself commented earlier this year: "It would be very nice to get to ten years at the club but I'm just concentrating on playing well.
"Whether I stay wouldn't depend on how many games I play," he continued. "I'm not like that. I'm not interested in somebody promising me something. If we have four centre-backs then everyone fights for their place and performances should determine who plays. If I keep playing well then it'll be difficult for the manager to change things."
The 34-year-old Finn, who has been at Liverpool since 1999, is out of contract at the end of the season. But Reds boss Rafa Benítez is keen to extend the defender's stay to complete a decade of service at Anfield.
"(Chief executive) Rick Parry is due to talk to Sami's agent this weekend and hopefully everything will then be finished," said Benítez, who has called extensively on the centre-back this season following the almost season-long injury to Daniel Agger.
Hyypia himself commented earlier this year: "It would be very nice to get to ten years at the club but I'm just concentrating on playing well.
"Whether I stay wouldn't depend on how many games I play," he continued. "I'm not like that. I'm not interested in somebody promising me something. If we have four centre-backs then everyone fights for their place and performances should determine who plays. If I keep playing well then it'll be difficult for the manager to change things."
Real Target Xabi Swoop
Real Madrid are ready to offer midfield star Ruben de la Red plus £8million for Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso.
Kop boss Rafa Benitez wanted to nab De La Red last season but Madrid decided to do a deal with Getafe instead.
De La Red, 22, was sold for £2m but Real inserted a clause allowing them to buy him back this summer for £3.5m.
And now the Madrid giants are planning to use De La Red as bait to land Spanish international midfielder Alonso, 26.
A Real insider told SunSport: “It is a case of the club deciding whether to keep De La Red or to try and get Alonso. The Liverpool player is the one they have wanted to sign for a long time.”
De La Red has impressed this term and earned his first call-up to the Spain squad for today’s friendly with Italy.
Liverpool left-back John Arne Riise will consider quitting Anfield this summer if he keeps warming the bench.
Riise, 27, has struggled to force his way into the team this season as Benitez continues to pick Fabio Aurelio.
The Norwegian said: “I am not happy. I’m used to playing 80 per cent of games. If I don’t play as much as I want, I must decide if I should stay.”
Kop boss Rafa Benitez wanted to nab De La Red last season but Madrid decided to do a deal with Getafe instead.
De La Red, 22, was sold for £2m but Real inserted a clause allowing them to buy him back this summer for £3.5m.
And now the Madrid giants are planning to use De La Red as bait to land Spanish international midfielder Alonso, 26.
A Real insider told SunSport: “It is a case of the club deciding whether to keep De La Red or to try and get Alonso. The Liverpool player is the one they have wanted to sign for a long time.”
De La Red has impressed this term and earned his first call-up to the Spain squad for today’s friendly with Italy.
Liverpool left-back John Arne Riise will consider quitting Anfield this summer if he keeps warming the bench.
Riise, 27, has struggled to force his way into the team this season as Benitez continues to pick Fabio Aurelio.
The Norwegian said: “I am not happy. I’m used to playing 80 per cent of games. If I don’t play as much as I want, I must decide if I should stay.”
Torres Boost For Liverpool As He Trains With Spain
Fernando Torres has helped ease Liverpool's concerns over his fitness by coming through an hour-long training session with the Spanish national side.
Rafa Benitez had sent Torres for a scans on injuries to his ribs and ankle and the manager complained he needed to substitute the striker against Manchester United for his own protection after some hefty challenges from the United defenders.
Torres sat out Monday's first training session with physiotherapy work performed on his sore ankle and ribs.
But he was declared fit to take part in training yesterday.
He took a knock on the right ankle that was believed to be injured but continued to exercise and completed his training.
The 24-year-old striker has scored 27 goals since leaving Spanish club Atletico Madrid for England last year and Spain is expecting a lot from Torres at this year's European Championship.
He has scored only twice in the last 18 months to take his overall tally for the Spanish team to 15 goals in 46 matches.
"He's matured impressively to this point. Spain will benefit the most from this great moment he is living," goalkeeper Iker Casillas was quoted as saying by Marca newspaper on Tuesday.
Rafa Benitez had sent Torres for a scans on injuries to his ribs and ankle and the manager complained he needed to substitute the striker against Manchester United for his own protection after some hefty challenges from the United defenders.
Torres sat out Monday's first training session with physiotherapy work performed on his sore ankle and ribs.
But he was declared fit to take part in training yesterday.
He took a knock on the right ankle that was believed to be injured but continued to exercise and completed his training.
The 24-year-old striker has scored 27 goals since leaving Spanish club Atletico Madrid for England last year and Spain is expecting a lot from Torres at this year's European Championship.
He has scored only twice in the last 18 months to take his overall tally for the Spanish team to 15 goals in 46 matches.
"He's matured impressively to this point. Spain will benefit the most from this great moment he is living," goalkeeper Iker Casillas was quoted as saying by Marca newspaper on Tuesday.
Javier Mascherano To Ask For Hearing Over Red Card Ban
Javier Mascherano is likely to request a personal hearing in response to his charge for improper conduct.
Liverpool have until 6pm tonight to answer the charge, which the Football Association issued in response to Mascherano’s reaction to his dismissal from Sunday’s 3-0 defeat by Manchester United.
The club could seek an extension to that deadline as they attempt to contact the player, who was in Egypt last night playing for Argentina.
But as the case is scheduled to be heard by a regulatory commission on Friday, April 4, Liverpool will almost certainly have to plan for their Premier League game at Arsenal at 12.45pm the following day without the midfielder.
Mascherano will miss the game if the charge of improper conduct is upheld and he could also miss the Premier League game against Blackburn eight days later if his ban is extended by more than one game.
But pleading his case and escaping further punishment is a scenario manager Rafael Benitez can’t risk allowing for as he prepares his squad for the second of three crucial meetings with Arsenal in a week.
Mascherano is currently serving a one-match suspension for the dismissal, ruling him out of Sunday’s Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield.
But any ban further would exclude the Champions League quarter-final first and second legs against Arsenal on April 2 and 9. A statement released by the FA yesterday said: “Liverpool’s Javier Mascherano has today been charged with improper conduct.
“The charge relates to his reaction towards referee Steve Bennett after being sent off against Manchester United on Sunday 23 March.”
Liverpool have until 6pm tonight to answer the charge, which the Football Association issued in response to Mascherano’s reaction to his dismissal from Sunday’s 3-0 defeat by Manchester United.
The club could seek an extension to that deadline as they attempt to contact the player, who was in Egypt last night playing for Argentina.
But as the case is scheduled to be heard by a regulatory commission on Friday, April 4, Liverpool will almost certainly have to plan for their Premier League game at Arsenal at 12.45pm the following day without the midfielder.
Mascherano will miss the game if the charge of improper conduct is upheld and he could also miss the Premier League game against Blackburn eight days later if his ban is extended by more than one game.
But pleading his case and escaping further punishment is a scenario manager Rafael Benitez can’t risk allowing for as he prepares his squad for the second of three crucial meetings with Arsenal in a week.
Mascherano is currently serving a one-match suspension for the dismissal, ruling him out of Sunday’s Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield.
But any ban further would exclude the Champions League quarter-final first and second legs against Arsenal on April 2 and 9. A statement released by the FA yesterday said: “Liverpool’s Javier Mascherano has today been charged with improper conduct.
“The charge relates to his reaction towards referee Steve Bennett after being sent off against Manchester United on Sunday 23 March.”
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Kuyt: Fifth Place Good Enough For Everton
Putting aside the set-back of being excluded from the Dutch national panel this week, Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt has turned his attentions to next weekend’s vital Merseyside derby.
The Reds are currently two points clear of Everton, and a win at Anfield could see Liverpool afforded some breathing space in the battle for the fourth Champions League spot.
Kuyt, a scorer of two goals in this season’s other meeting at Goodison Park, believes that the current Everton squad deserve some reward for their impressive season. However, he feels that a fifth place finish would be more than adequate.
Liverpool need to exorcise the demons from last weeks’ mauling at the hands of Manchester United and the ex-Feyenoord man believes that the derby is the ideal scenario in which to do so.
With his side desperate to bounce back, claiming a victory over their local rivals would boost everyone involved with the club.
"It's an important game, there's no doubt about that," he said.
"The derby is always big, but this one is going to be really big. They want to be fourth as well but we're a couple of points ahead of them so we're in a good position.
"Everton deserve to be where they are at the moment but fifth will be okay for them this season! If we can win the game then it would be even better for us but we know it's going to be difficult.
"Everton have had a good season, they've got a really strong squad and they were unlucky the way they went out of Europe on penalties. But we've got the quality to beat them.
"We did it earlier in the season with a good win at Goodison. I've never scored two penalties in the same game before but that was a great day for me.
"The game means a lot to everyone, to the fans and to the players. The supporters tell us all during the week that we have to win the game and that's what we'll be looking to do."
The Reds are currently two points clear of Everton, and a win at Anfield could see Liverpool afforded some breathing space in the battle for the fourth Champions League spot.
Kuyt, a scorer of two goals in this season’s other meeting at Goodison Park, believes that the current Everton squad deserve some reward for their impressive season. However, he feels that a fifth place finish would be more than adequate.
Liverpool need to exorcise the demons from last weeks’ mauling at the hands of Manchester United and the ex-Feyenoord man believes that the derby is the ideal scenario in which to do so.
With his side desperate to bounce back, claiming a victory over their local rivals would boost everyone involved with the club.
"It's an important game, there's no doubt about that," he said.
"The derby is always big, but this one is going to be really big. They want to be fourth as well but we're a couple of points ahead of them so we're in a good position.
"Everton deserve to be where they are at the moment but fifth will be okay for them this season! If we can win the game then it would be even better for us but we know it's going to be difficult.
"Everton have had a good season, they've got a really strong squad and they were unlucky the way they went out of Europe on penalties. But we've got the quality to beat them.
"We did it earlier in the season with a good win at Goodison. I've never scored two penalties in the same game before but that was a great day for me.
"The game means a lot to everyone, to the fans and to the players. The supporters tell us all during the week that we have to win the game and that's what we'll be looking to do."
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