Match Preview: LiverpooL vs. Fulham

Fernando Torres is expected to start for Liverpool when Fulham arrive at Anfield in the Premier League on Saturday.

The Reds welcome the Cottagers to Merseyside hoping to continue to match Chelsea stride for stride at the top of the table, with the two rivals separated only by goal difference.

And as he bids to maintain a pursuit of league honours, Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is expected to name star striker Torres in his starting XI for the first time since 1st November following the Spaniard's recovery from a hamstring injury.

Fulham, though, will have other ideas as they bid to end their host's nine-month unbeaten home record and Roy Hodgson's side will have sneakily high hopes of an upset as they sit in the top half having ended Tottenham's resurgence last weekend.

After narrowly avoiding relegation in 2007/08, Fulham were again expected to struggle, but a summer overhaul of the Craven Cottage squad is, at present, proving beneficial as Hodgson enjoys a run of one defeat in six outings.

But Liverpool will expect Torres to add the firepower to inflict a first loss on Fulham since the West London outfit were downed on their last trip to Merseyside, losing 1-0 to Everton at the beginning of the month.

Liverpool's record signing Torres is likely to partner Robbie Keane in the frontline as Benitez looks for attacking cunning to break down what is expected to be a resolute opponent.

However, Steven Gerrard is sidelined after the midfielder withdrew from the England squad which defeated Germany on Wednesday with a groin muscle tear.

Defender Martin Skrtel is making a speedy recovery from his knee ligament injury, but Daniel Agger will partner Jamie Carragher at the heart of a back four, while Alvaro Arbeloa has served his one-match suspension.

Fulham are unlikely to tinker with a rock solid defensive line of Aaron Hughes, Paul Konchesky, Brede Hangeland and John Pantsil, who have conceded only 11 goals in the league this term.

Former Everton player Andy Johnson will hope to continue an impressive run of recent form, which has seen the striker net four goals in four games since opening his account against Wigan in October.

Seol Ki-Hyeon missed the victory over Tottenham due to a knee injury and Hodgson will hope the forward has progressed, while Dickson Etuhu (knee) was also absent, however the midfielder could make his debut at Anfield.


Possible starting XIs

Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Agger, Aurelio, Kuyt, Alonso, Mascherano, Reira, Keane, Torres.

Fulham: Schwarzer, Pantsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Konchesky, Gera, Bullard, Murphy, Davies, Johnson, Zamora.

Liverpool Manager Rafael Benitez Confident Side Can Extend Fulham’s Anfield Nightmare

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has said his side can cope without captain Steven Gerrard in their Premier League game with Fulham at Anfield on Saturday.

Gerrard, who has failed to recover from torn groin muscle that kept him out of England’s friendly win over Germany, is also likely to be sidelined for his side’s Champions League group stage game with Marseille next Wednesday.

Benitez, whose side currently lie second in the table and have enjoyed their best start to a Premier League season since its inception in 1992, said his current squad is better equipped than ever to cope without Gerrard.

“This squad is better. So, when you don’t have Steve who is a key player for us, you lose something. But, you have to manage.

“[Fernando] Torres is fit. [Robbie] Keane is fit, because he had a problem with his shoulder.

“I think we have enough options up front and in the middle and I think we can cope [with Fulham].”

Meanwhile, the west Lodon side, who have failed to win at Anfield in their previous 21 visits, received praise from the Spaniard “We know it will be difficult.

"Fulham are playing well, their manager Roy Hodgson is doing a good job.

"They have two strikers doing well, we know all about [Andrew] Johnson from his time at Everton, and Fulham have energy and quality.

"After an international break we know, though, that things can be more difficult."

Benítez Waiting For FA Apology After 'Massive' Gerrard Mistake

Liverpool's resentment at England's treatment of Steven Gerrard was confirmed yesterday when Rafael Benítez insisted the Football Association should apologise for doubting the club's word on the injured midfielder.

Gerrard misses Fulham's visit to Anfield this afternoon with the muscle tear he sustained at Bolton last weekend and which developed into an international incident when he subsequently withdrew from the England squad to face Germany in Berlin. Despite undergoing a scan after the Bolton game, and Liverpool informing the FA on Saturday evening that Gerrard would be unavailable to Fabio Capello, the midfielder was summoned to England's Hertfordshire base on Sunday for a scan that confirmed the diagnosis of the Liverpool club doctor, Mark Waller. Waller also happens to work for the FA in his role as the England Under-21 team's doctor.

Gerrard missed a day's treatment as a result of the eight-hour, 400-mile round trip, and while Benítez insists he has no personal issue with Capello there is disquiet at Liverpool over the FA's instant demand to assess the midfielder and, by implication, to question Waller's opinion. Not every England player who pulled out of the Germany squad was required to visit the FA's medical staff but Gerrard, who underwent a groin operation when England faced Andorra and Croatia in September and made a substitute appearance against Manchester United in Liverpool's next fixture, was called along with Chelsea's Frank Lampard.

"Stevie is not fit to play against Fulham," said Benítez. "That means someone at the FA has made a massive mistake. It would be nice if someone rang to apologise, but I'm not expecting a call. He may have a chance to play in the Champions League [against Marseille] next week. He's working hard with the physios and I have the feeling he'll be OK for Wednesday."

Benítez, who spoke to Capello about Gerrard on the Saturday evening, added: "There is no problem between me and Fabio Capello, I am not unhappy with him. But the best news for me now is that there are no internationals until March."

Even better news for the Liverpool manager came from Gerrard himself. The 28-year-old celebrates the 10th anniversary of his Liverpool debut next week, and admits he wants to sign a new contract when his current deal ends and intends stay at the club for the rest of his career.

"I do not know what is going to happen over the next 10 years but certainly for the next five or six I hope I am playing in Liverpool's first team," he said. "I have two and a half years left on my contract and hopefully I will sign another one and stay for the remainder of my career.

"The last 10 years have been the best of my life. I have lived the dream doing something I have always wanted to do."

Gerrard Wants New Deal As Benitez Tips Him For Anfield Role

LIVERPOOL captain Steven Gerrard has told the club he wants to sign a new contract when his current deal ends and intends stay at Anfield for the rest of his career.

Gerrard made the announcement as he approaches the 10-year anniversary of his Liverpool debut next week.

Currently injured with a groin muscle tear and out of today's home league match with Fulham, Gerrard's comments came on the same day manager Rafael Benitez tipped the 28-year-old as the man who could one day replace him as manager.

Gerrard is back in training and battling to be fit for Wednesday's Champions League home clash with Marseille but his clear indication that he never wants to leave Anfield will delight the club's fans.

"I do not know what is going to happen over the next ten years but certainly for the next five or six I hope I am playing in Liverpool's first team," he said. "I have two and a half years left on my contract and hopefully I will sign another one and stay for the remainder of my career.

"We will have to wait and see about management but I certainly want to get my qualifications to enable me to coach and manage."

He added: "Whether I will be interested in the Gary Ablett (reserve coach] type role, the Sammy Lee (assistant manager] role or the Rafa Benitez role, I do not know. I just want to get all my badges and then we will see.

"But I have a lot more football to play before we get to that stage and that is what I want to focus on at the moment. All I can say at this stage is the last 10 years have been the best of my life. I have lived the dream doing something I have always wanted to do and if my working life carries on being with Liverpool then I will be very happy."

Benitez said: "Maybe he will be here for another 10 years, certainly five or six. I am really pleased to have kept Gerrard here, and maybe he will one day be the manager to replace me.

"There are more important things than money in Steven's mind. He has great passion for the club, he loves the club and the city. That is the key as far as he is concerned, and hopefully he will take over from me."

Gerrard was forced to drive to Watford last Sunday to join the England squad and have his injury assessed by coach Fabio Capello's medical experts, to the annoyance of Liverpool.

Benitez noted tersely: "There's no problem between me and Fabio Capello, I am not unhappy with him. But the best news now is that there are no internationals until March."

Spanish Stars Highlight Liverpool's Importance - Benitez

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is bursting with pride after seeing his players winning more caps for his native Spain in midweek and has tipped his countrymen to lead the Reds' title charge.

Rafa Benitez has built a squad at Anfield with a real Spanish flavour. In fact, many have cited the confidence gained from La Furia Roja's Euro 2008 win in the summer as the spark that has ignited Liverpool's Premier League resurgence.

Now, after watching Fernando Torres, Pepe Reina, Xabi Alonso, Alvaro Arbeloa and Albert Riera help Vicente del Bosque's men to shrug off Chile to the tune of 3-0 in midweek, the beaming boss only hopes that they're not too fatigued.

"It was good to see so many of our players involved, because it shows how important Liverpool are," he told the club's official website. "I was especially pleased for Arbeloa and Riera, because they are getting their reward for working hard and doing a good job for a good club.

"Hopefully the players will come back and be fit and ready for the game against Fulham, because that is the most important thing for us now."

The Cottagers visit Merseyside on Saturday, with the Reds hoping to keep pace with Chelsea.

Liverpool Could Take Advantage As Chelsea And Manchester United Face Injury Problems

Liverpool could go clear at the top of the table this weekend, given Chelsea's injury problems; and Manchester United could drift further off the pace. None of the top three have suspension concerns ahead of the weekend.

Liverpool go into this weekends fixtures with one or two injury worries themselves, but at Anfield against a perpetually travel sick Fulham outfit Liverpool should be able to shrug off their three injuries and one doubt. Robbie Keane is the doubt, but he should recover (if needed); Steven Gerrard should be available for next week’s games.

Leaving just Martin Skrtel (posterior cruciate ligament tear) and Philipp Degen (metatarsal fracture) unavailable - and both around a month away from returning. The position for Liverpool's main title rivals is less encouraging.

Firstly Manchester United have five absentees and three doubts to contend with. The loss of Wes Brown and Gary Neville suggests that Rafael could well get a run at right-back (unless the manager persists with O'Shea) - but elsewhere there is worse news.

Dimitar Berbatov picked up a hamstring/high injury on international duty and will probably be replaced by Carlos Tevez. With Wayne Rooney remaining a doubt following a virus, Danny Wellbeck or Manucho could get a start.

In central midfield, Darren Fletcher's knee injury is a further blow to add to Owen Hargreaves season ending knee operations and Paul Scholes medial knee ligament twang. The central midfield will probably pick itself with Carrick and Anderson available; and Darron Gibson as back up.

Rio Ferdinand is another doubt at the back with Jonny Evans likely to deputize. With United travelling to fifth placed Aston Villa this is a bad time to be missing half a team.

But Chelsea are the hardest hit club in the division; only three players are definitely missing but another six are doubtful. The problems are mainly defensive. Definitely out are Essien and Alex; but Ashley Cole, Ricardo Carvalho, Juliano Beletti and Petr Cech are all doubts.

Carlo Cudicini, Branislav Ivanovic and Wayne Bridge are standing by, but don't rule out a recall from Wolves of Michael Mancienne. Other injuries for Chelsea include Frank Lampard (rib), Franco Di Santo (hamstring) and Joe Cole (foot/ankle).

Liverpool Owner Pulls Montreal MLS Bid

Financial uncertainty has prompted Liverpool owner George Gillett to withdraw his bid for a Montreal team to join Major League Soccer, the league said Friday, boosting the chances of a Miami franchise backed by Barcelona.

"They're out for the next round of expansion,'' MLS commissioner Don Garber said.”I don't think it's gone forever but it's gone for now.''

The withdrawal leaves Atlanta, Miami, St. Louis, Vancouver, Ottawa and Portland, Oregon as the cities bidding to be among two yet-to-be-announced teams in the MLS expansion from the current 14 teams to 18. Seattle will join the league next year, and Philadelphia in 2010.

Garber said Montreal's bid team - led by Gillett and Joey Saputo who founded the Montreal Impact team in North American football's second tier - had informed him within the past week of possible trouble.

"Montreal has had to evaluate what kinds of private capital they needed to refinance their stadium to fund the expansion fee, and what kind of public support would be available,'' Garber said. "I'm not sure they were able to come to terms in this economic environment.''

Financial considerations had also prevented Liverpool from making a long-delayed move to a new stadium, while some fans had agitated for American co-owners Gillett and Tom Hicks to stand aside and allow a takeover by a Dubai-based company.

Garber spoke positively about the Miami bid, which is supported by Spanish Liga giant Barcelona. The Miami Fusion played in MLS from 1998 to 2001 before disbanding.

"If we go back to Miami, we'd better be sure we get it right,'' Garber said.”Barcelona could make investments in lots of different countries. But they believe in this country and in developing the sport here.''

Garber spoke positively about Ottawa and Vancouver's bids, while remaining cautious about further expansion in Canada after 2006's inclusion of Toronto.

"We don't have a lot of commercial businesses in Canada today. The more teams we add there, the more it takes away out from growing our footprint and our television ratings in the United States.''

Garber said the possibility of having a potential rivalry between neighboring Portland, Seattle and Vancouver was intriguing.

"We believe in this conference-rivalry concept,'' he said.

In other news, Garber said that the reserve division would be eliminated and each team would be able to carry 18, 19 or 20 senior players on its roster. Teams could have many as four developmental players. No new quota on international players was announced.

Each team will play a 30-game schedule in 2009, taking on every other team in a home-and-away format, with two extra games against close conference rivals. For the playoffs, the top two teams from each conference will qualify automatically, followed by four teams with the best records regardless of conference.

Rafa Benitez: 'Diego Maradona Right Over Javier Mascherano'

NEW Argentina captain Javier Mascherano has been guaranteed a place in his national team – even though the Liverpool midfielder can’t be certain of a place in the Liverpool starting line-up!

Argentine boss Diego Maradona said: “Taking Mascherano aside, nobody has a place secured in my team. It doesn’t matter what his name is.”

But club boss Rafa Benitez was less reassuring today.

“I can understand why Maradona would say that,” said Benitez.

“Javier is a very good player who gives them a great balance.

“But for me, Javier has to fight for his place because in his position we have a lot of quality like Lucas, Xabi, Damien Plessis and, of course, Steven Gerrard.”

Ironically, Mascherano is almost certain to start against Fulham tomorrow, with skipper Steven Gerrard unlikely to recover from the groin strain which ruled him out of England’s midweek friendly in Germany.

Benitez is still unhappy with the way his word was doubted by the England set-up and his player forced to travel to the England training camp for a second opinion on his injury.

“We have one more training session before the Fulham match, but I don’t think Stevie will make it,” added the Reds boss.

“That means someone at the FA has made a massive mistake.

“Under normal circumstances it would be nice if someone rang to apologise, but I’m not really expecting a call.”

Fernando Torres is expected to start his first home match for the Reds since October 1 as Liverpool go gunning for their best ever start to a Premier League season.

Victory would give the Reds 35 points, three more than their previous best start to a Premier League season after 14 games, which was set in 2001-02.

Fulham have the best away defensive record in the division outside the top four, conceding just six times on their travels.

The Cottagers travel to Anfield with the pressure off after consecutive home victories over Newcastle and Spurs.

Their former Everton midfielder Simon Davies believes the Londoners are in the mood to make life difficult for the Reds.

“A couple of teams have been close to getting something up there this season – Wigan pushed them very close,” he said.

“We’ve had a couple of good wins so we’re not desperate to get something up there, so if we nick a win or get a draw then it will be all the better for us.”

Steven Gerrard Could Miss Liverpool's Champions League Tie With Marseille

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard trained on his own today but will not be fit for the club's home game with Fulham on Saturday.

And Gerrard is already considered doubtful for Wednesday's Champions League group stage match with Marseille at Anfield.

Gerrard worked away from the first-team squad at the club's Melwood base - with the aid of a personal fitness coach - as he battles to recover from a torn groin muscle.

Liverpool have privately this week been annoyed with the Football Association and the England set-up who insisted Gerrard travel to London last Sunday to be assessed by the international squad's medical experts.

Gerrard had already undergone a scan on the injury, sustained at Bolton last weekend, and the damaged muscle was confirmed and he was ruled out by the club for the midweek friendly with Germany.

However, England wanted to assess the injury themselves, and Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is known to be upset that Gerrard was unable to have treatment on the injury for 24 hours while making what turned out to be a fruitless 400-mile trip to the national squad's hotel in Watford.

England then also confirmed the injury and Gerrard returned to Merseyside. However, the incident has left Liverpool feeling that their word was being doubted.

Gerrard has had treatment all week, but has no chance of facing Fulham at Anfield. And there is only a 50-50 chance that he will be fit to face the French side next week.

Benitez had claimed that Gerrard "would be out for between seven and 10 days."

Liverpool Boss Rafa Benitez Rules Out Yossi Benayoun Sale

Rafael Benitez wants Israel midfielder Yossi Benayoun to stay with Liverpool until the end of his contract.

Benayoun has been quoted, while away on international duty this week, as admitting he is unsettled because of his lack of opportunities this season.

But the Reds boss insists he has no intention of letting the midfielder go saying: "If he stays here until the end of his contract I will be very pleased. We want Yossi here."

Benitez has dismissed claims that both Benayoun and defender Martin Skrtel, out following a knee operation, are unhappy at Anfield.

He added: "If you are asked whether you want to play more, then obviously you say yes. If you are asked if you are unhappy not playing, then you say yes.

"Then if you are asked that if a bid comes in and you are offered lots more money, you will probably say you'd be interested.

"But I have been speaking to Yossi and he is happy here. He is a player I like, he can change games. He scores goals and he has a lot of assists.

He added: "But if he does not want to stay here, okay, we will find a solution to the problem. But now he is okay and ready for playing. I will not want to see any offer for him."

Torres Looks Set To Start For Liverpool But Gerrard Will Miss Fulham Clash

Fernando Torres looks set to make his first Anfield start for almost two months when Liverpool seek to extend their unbeaten home league record in 2008 against revitalised Fulham tomorrow.

The last Anfield game he started was against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League on November 1 before he was hit by a hamstring problem on international duty.

It is clear that sharp words from boss Rafael Benitez had some effect on the Spain management team this week, with Torres used only for the final 31 minutes of the 3-0 win over Chile.

Torres took the captain's armband when he came on in Villarreal and scored within two minutes.

Benitez had said before the game: 'I do not like the fact that Fernando has been called up after being out injured for so long, but there is nothing I can do about it.

'But we have spoken to the Spanish staff and asked them to protect him.'

Benitez will check on the fitness of the 13 Liverpool players away on international duty this week, but it is expected that Torres will start against the Londoners, having recovered from his hamstring problem.

Steven Gerrard, though, is likely to miss out. He withdrew from the England squad this week with a muscle tear, and Benitez believes that his skipper is doubtful for next Wednesday's Champions League home game with Marseille.

By then Liverpool hope to have extended their unbeaten home league record for the calendar year so far to 16. In fact, Liverpool have only lost one of 26 home games in all competitions in 2008.

Victory will also give Liverpool 35 points, three more than their previous best start to a Premier League season after 14 games, which was set in 2001-02.

Liverpool are already five points better off than they were at this stage last season.

Fulham have hauled themselves up to mid-table, and have the best away defensive record in the division outside the top four, conceding just six times on their travels.

Initial reports suggest Liverpool suffered no new injury worries in the week's international friendlies, when five players were involved for Spain.

Torres, Xabi Alonso, Albert Riera, Pepe Reina and Alvaro Arbeloa all appeared in the win over Chile.

Benitez is no lover of mid-season friendly internationals, but he was delighted to see a quintet of Liverpool players in the Spain team.

He said: 'It was good to see so many of our players involved because it shows how important Liverpool are. I was especially pleased for Arbeloa and Riera because they are getting their reward for working hard and doing a good job for a good club.

'Hopefully the players will come back and be fit and ready for the game against Fulham because that is the most important thing for us now.'

Liverpool’s Skrtel Warning To Agger & Hyypia

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel is keen to make his comeback before Christmas, but is aware that he will have to fight to make his way back in Rafa Benitez’s side.

The Slovakian international is on the sidelines following a cruciate knee ligament injury during the 3-2 win over Manchester City on October 5. And since then, the Reds defence has been well served by Daniel Agger and occasionally by veteran Sami Hyypia.

However, Skrtel, who moved to Anfield from Zenit St Petersburg in January, is desperate to play his part for the Merseysiders as they continue to go strong in the title race where they are joint-leaders along with Chelsea, and says he can’t wait to start full training.

“I don’t know exactly the date, but the predictions were for before Christmas and I am hoping it is as soon as possible,” he said in the Daily Post.

“It has been a long time. I can’t wait to start kicking a ball again and resume full training.”

Before the injury, the 23-year-old had established himself as the regular partner for centre-back Jamie Carragher, but he will now have to come back and fight with Denmark international Agger and Finnish star Hyypia for place.

He said: “Daniel and Sami are excellent players and they are playing well.

“It will be difficult to get back into the team but I am working hard and I will do my best to impress the coach and fight for my place back.

“I am sad that I am not currently part of the team, but I am happy that we are winning and at the end of the day it is the goal of all of us to win matches.

“Being at the top of the Premier League gives us a lot of confidence. We are trying to win every game and hopefully our form can continue for as long as possible.

“Of course I would like to win some silverware, but it’s still early and there is a long time to go until the end of the season.”

Martin Skrtel Stays Here - Rafa Benitez

RAFA BENITEZ today rubbished claims that Martin Skrtel is unhappy with life at Anfield and is looking to leave Liverpool.

The Slovakian international defender is currently recovering from a serious knee injury and is hoping to be back in action in time for the Christmas fixtures.

But reports in the UK and Russian press suggest Skrtel is struggling to adjust to life on Merseyside and would welcome a return to former club Zenit St Petersburg.

Those claims have been dismissed out of hand by Reds boss Benitez, who insists the 24-year-old is settled and is enjoying life at Anfield.

“These sort of stories always tend to come out during an international week,” scoffed Benitez.

“I was talking with Martin at Melwood yesterday and it was clear that he is very happy and just wants to get back playing.

“He is working very hard to get himself fit again and he is very settled at Liverpool – both in the city and at the club.”

Skrtel is expected to return to action in around a month’s time after suffering knee ligament damage during Liverpool’s 3-2 win over Manchester City in early October.

Benitez was today awaiting the return of his international players ahead of Saturday’s home game against Fulham.

Initial reports suggest Liverpool suffered no new injury worries in last night’s round of international friendlies and the Reds boss was happy to see no fewer than five of his players feature for reigning European champions Spain.

Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso, Albert Riera, Pepe Reina and Alvaro Arbeloa all appeared in Spain’s 3-0 win over Chile in Villarreal last night.

The Reds boss is notoriously cynical of the value of international friendlies at such a busy stage in the season, but was delighted to see a quintet of Redsl players in action for Europe’s best national team.

“It was good to see so many of our players involved because it shows how important Liverpool are,” he said. “I was especially pleased for Arbeloa and Riera because they are getting their reward for working hard and doing a good job for a good club.

“Hopefully the players will come back and be fit and ready for the game against Fulham because that is the most important thing for us now.”

Lazio Linked With Liverpool’s Javier Mascherano

Serie A outfit Lazio are reportedly set to make a swoop for Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano when the transfer window opens in January.

Lazio are currently in the Champions League and are looking to strengthen their midfield with the Argentina international captain reportedly being their top target.

According to sources in Italy, Macherano’s agent Walter Tamer has been informed about Lazio’s interest in the player where Tamer has reportedly said that the midfielder could make a switch to Italy.

Mascherano is getting frustrated about his lack of chances at Anfield, as Reds boss Rafa Benitez seems to prefer Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso to the Argentinean and Lazio are apparently looking to take full advantage of the situation.

Liverpool Give Up Attempt To Trademark Liver Bird

LIVERPOOL FC has agreed to withdraw its application to trade mark the Liverbird, after the city council told the club it would oppose the bid.

Intellectual property lawyers acting for the city council wrote to the club this week stating they planned to lodge an objection with the UK Intellectual Property Office before a deadline for doing so expired on Saturday.

Liverpool city council deputy leader Cllr Flo Clucas said: "I am delighted the owners of Liverpool FC have seen sense and withdrawn this controversial application.

"The outcry from residents and the threat of a legal challenge from the council has forced them to think again about registering the Liverbird as its own, exclusive trade mark.

"The Liverbird is and will always remain the proud symbol of the whole city.

"The city council has no objection to the football club registering its own badge, and this should be more than enough to prevent its shirts and merchandise from being counterfeited.

"There was never any justification for them attempting to claim ownership of the Liver Bird which would have prevented the council and hundreds of other organisations from using the city’s iconic emblem."

Aurelio Happy With Rotation

Fabio Aurelio believes Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez's rotation policy will prove crucial in the battle to secure Premier League glory.

Ahead of Saturday's visit of Fulham, the Reds sit level on points with table-topping Chelsea as they bid to end an 18-year wait for league silverware at Anfield.

And Aurelio, who worked under Benitez at former club Valencia when winning La Liga in 2002 and 2004, believes his boss' much-debated tactical changes could be a decisive factor.

The Brazilian left-back has struggled to hold down a place in Liverpool's first XI after being regularly swapped with Andrea Dossena, but he believes Benitez's decisions to rest players will bear fruit.

"There are similarities with what happened at Valencia in terms of the rotation of the players," Aurelio told Liverpool's official website.

"Rafa knows when to rest players and back in 2002 we were fresher than other teams at the end of the season because he'd rested players at the right times.

"Of course Rafa has experience of winning titles so he knows how to keep focused, but also how to keep the morale high within the squad.

"He and (assistant manager) Sammy Lee are good at motivating the players."

Aurelio, though, has warned his Merseyside colleagues that they must keep their feet on the ground.

"We have a good opportunity to do something great for the club this year, but there is still a long way to go and we have to keep focused," he concluded.

Henry: Why I'd Love To Play Alongside Stevie

In an exclusive interview with Liverpoolfc.tv to celebrate Steven Gerrard week, Thierry Henry reveals all about their close friendship and why his dream of playing alongside the Reds skipper could never come true.

Thierry Henry had been in England less than a month when he paid his first visit to Anfield in August 1999.

A stunning goal from Robbie Fowler helped Liverpool to a 2-0 win on the day, but it was the performance of another Scouser that caught the eye of Arsenal's new striker. One born in Huyton, not Toxteth.

As Dermot Gallagher blew the final whistle and both sides sloped down the tunnel, Henry tapped teammate Partick Vieira on the shoulder and asked, "Who was that kid in midfield?"

"Steven Gerrard," replied his countryman. "He's going to be a brilliant player."

Over the next few years Henry and Gerrard would learn a lot more about one another as each set about writing his name in Premier League history.

It wasn't long before a mutual respect prompted an exchange of phone numbers, and from there a friendship blossomed.

Before Henry left Arsenal for the Nou Camp, there were even rumours that Gerrard tried to woo him to Merseyside.

Here, in an exclusive interview with Liverpoolfc.tv, the French ace reveals all about that conversation and assesses how history will judge his mate...

You played against Steven so many times. Is there an occasion that stands out?

There are so many. Whenever you play Liverpool you know you have to get him out of the game. If not, it's all over for you. He's a midfielder and if you look at all the important goals he's scored - well I can't even think of a striker in the world who has scored as many important goals, never mind a midfielder. How many times has he done it in the dying seconds of a game? I am trying to think of a striker now who does it - there aren't any. Think about it.

Tell us about your friendship. How close did you become?

Yes, really close. I played against Liverpool and Stevie G so many times, and when you appreciate a player so much and see them at every game, you talk. I always told him how much I admired him and he said the same to me. We exchanged numbers and kept in touch from there.

And do you still speak these days now you're at Barcelona?

We haven't spoken for a little while. I think the last time was at the beginning of the season. I'll text him and he'll reply very quickly.

Is it right the pair of you talked about you coming to Liverpool when you were leaving Arsenal?

Well, it was mentioned but it would have been difficult for me to go to another Premier League club after Arsenal. We talked about it but nothing was in it, really. It was just us talking about our wishes.

Maybe you could come back to the Premier League one day…

No, I really don't think so. In life, you can never say never, right? But right now I really don't think so.

How much would you have liked to have played with him?

Oh, so much, so much. That's normal - I would have liked to have played with some others too, but he is an inspiration. He reminds me of Patrick Vieira in that he doesn't talk too much. He just does what he does. He inspires Liverpool without talking. I find it a disgrace that he didn't win European Football of the Year in 2005 after Istanbul. For me, he is one of the best ever.

How do they compare - Steven and Patrick?

They are different types of player. Patrick was a holding midfielder who also had the ability to go and score goals. Stevie G is someone who plays with the ball. He goes to put his name on the scoresheet every game. It is difficult to compare the two: it's like comparing Paul Scholes and Roy Keane. They are both great players but they don't do the same thing on the pitch.

Where does Steven rank in world football in your opinion?

For me, and I have always said this, he will be regarded as one of the greatest midfielders ever when he finishes his career. No doubt. Okay, he doesn't do the showboating thing. That doesn't matter. The guy is always putting his foot in, always scoring and doing what he has to do to make his team win. That is what football is all about. He is the guy who makes Liverpool spark.

What, for you, is his biggest attribute on the pitch?

Ah, where do you begin? Maybe I would say that when he needs to put his foot in, he does it. Look at Istanbul. He needed to go play at right-back and so he did it. And he did it well. He will put his head on the line and go to places other players won't. I don't know of a single word that describes Stevie G. Even if he is not playing at his best, you know you can count on him.

You don't get many players who play for their hometown club for 10 years, do you?

Well, it happens more in England than in other countries. There is a thing in England where people want to play for their hometown team and be the local hero - be like the people they used to look up to. But it is amazing what Stevie has done and is doing. It's not like he has relaxed for all this time. He has been everywhere for 10 years: putting his foot in, scoring goals, passing and being committed to his club. No one can ever doubt his commitment to Liverpool. He, for me, is Liverpool.

Agger Is Outstanding - Bellamy

Liverpool defender Daniel Agger has been hailed as the "the closest thing I have seen to Alan Hansen" by former team-mate Craig Bellamy.

Wales captain Bellamy crossed swords with the Danish centre-half in Copenhagen on Wednesday.

Bellamy came out trumps in the clash with 23-year-old Agger, netting the second-half winner in a friendly international against Denmark.

And in a week when it was being suggested that Agger's defensive rival Martin Skrtel was unhappy with life out of the side at Anfield, Bellamy underlined how tough the competition for places is now for the title chasers.

Bellamy, a lifelong Liverpool fan who achieved his ultimate career ambition when he had a year with the club after a £6million move from Blackburn in July 2006, rates Agger highly and understands the battle for a first-team shirt between the Dane and Skrtel.

Bellamy said: "Agger is outstanding. I have watched Liverpool a lot over the years and for me Agger is the closest thing I have seen to Alan Hansen.

"That's the best compliment I can give him. When he gets possession he can move confidently into midfield, he joins in the passing.

"He is comfortable on the ball and has really impressed me. I liked him a lot as a person, he is down-to-earth and level-headed.

"Nothing fazes him, nothing gets on top of him, he is an outstanding player."

Liverpool bought Skrtel last January because of the continued injury problems that had kept out Agger for months.

Bellamy said: "Agger was injured and that cost him his place to Martin Skrtel. Even when he was fit again he could not get back into the side, but at a place like Liverpool you have to earn the right to play.

"He had to bide his time and although it was bad luck for Skrtel when he got injured, Daniel has got his chance again.

"The same will happen when Skrtel is fit again. He will find it hard to get back into the team because Daniel is playing so well.

"The roles will be reversed. But that does not surprise me at a top club where the best players do hold down their places in the side."

There was a spell earlier in the season when Agger could not fight his way back into the side after injury with Skrtel then the man in possession of the shirt.

Captaining Country Was ‘Amazing’ – Mascherano

Javier Mascherano described skippering Argentina to victory in their first match under the Diego Maradona’s leadership as an “amazing” experience.

The Liverpool midfielder helped his country to a 1-0 win over Scotland at Hamp-den Park on Wednesday night as the new era under Maradona began smoothly.

Former West Ham United player Mascherano had already forced Allan McGregor into a diving save from a 25-yard volley when Argentina took the lead in the eighth minute.

Atletico Madrid winger Maxi Rodriguez finished off a superb passing move as Maradona’s men began in dominant fashion.

The South Americans failed to maintain their electric start and Scotland created half-chances but the visitors were well worthy of their controlled win.

It was an emotional occasion for Mascherano, who wore the armband for the first time since Maradona visited him at Liverpool’s training ground to offer him the role.

The 24-year-old took over from veteran Javier Zanetti, who also played at Hampden on Wednesday night.

“I couldn’t believe it was true,” Mascherano said of Maradona’s offer. “I’m very happy with my first game. It was a new experience and I’m really happy with the win. It was an amazing experience. I’m not just thinking about being captain, I’m thinking about the team.”

Each player was hugged by Maradona – who guaranteed Mascherano his place – as they left the park after the morale-boosting display, which followed last month’s World Cup qualifying defeat to Chile.

Maradona said: “Taking Mascherano aside, nobody has a place secured in my team. It doesn’t matter what his name is.”

Mascherano added: “We came back with a win,” Mascherano said. “We need to improve but it’s good to start to the new era. We will try to continue to improve and see what happens.”

While Mascherano is revelling in his role as national team captain, he admits the same honour at club level is “impossible” given the esteem Anfield skipper in which Steven Gerrard and his fellow Liverpudlian Jamie Carragher are held.

Referee Gets Death Threats Over Controversial Gerrard Penalty

Martin Hansson, the referee in Liverpool's Champions League game against Atlético Madrid a fortnight ago, has revealed he received death threats over his decision to award a late penalty to Steven Gerrard.

The Swede gave a spot-kick in the final minute of stoppage time for what he perceived to be a push on Liverpool's captain by Mariano Pernía. Gerrard, who scored the penalty to salvage a 1-1 draw, admitted he would have been "livid" had the decision been made against his team.

Hansson told the Swedish newspaper Sport-Expressen that he has given up his mobile telephone number and notified the police after getting a number of threatening calls and text messages.

"I have received death threats. It has been horrible and feels very uncomfortable," he said. "The phone rang all the time and I had a great many text messages. I am pretty used to this but now I've had enough. It has been very threatening. I feel completely fed up. I have always had my mobile phone on and my number has been on the network. Now it no longer works. I'm sad that I can't be as open as I once was. I have notified the police that there have been threats against my life but it is difficult for the police to prove."

Hansson said he would not follow the lead of his compatriot Anders Frisk, who quit as a referee in 2005 after receiving death threats following a Champions League game between Chelsea and Barcelona. "I'll keep on refereeing because I like it," he said. "I want to continue to believe that football can do a lot of good and it would be sad if these dark forces had any influence on me. I thought about quitting, absolutely, but I have made my decision to continue. But I never considered it [quitting] as much as right now."

Meanwhile the referee Andre Marriner is to sit out this weekend's Premier League and Football League programmes after mistakenly sending off Wigan Athletic's Emmerson Boyce last Saturday at Newcastle United. Marriner gave Boyce a second yellow card for a tackle on Shola Ameobi which replays showed to be clean. His temporary withdrawal shows that the error has been viewed as serious.

Howard Webb, acknowledged as England's top referee, is to help Stuart Attwell negotiate his comeback to the Premier League in Portsmouth's game at home to Hull on Saturday by acting as fourth official. This season Attwell has awarded Reading a phantom goal at Watford and his two questionable decisions punished Derby in a draw with Nottingham Forest.