Match Preview: Portsmouth vs. LiverpooL

Liverpool travel to the southernmost destination in the Premier League this weekend as they take on Portsmouth. The visitors will be aiming keep pace in the title race, while the home side are desperate to dig themselves out of an ever-deepening hole.

Tony Adams' side have plummeted to 16th in the standings, just one point above the drop zone in what is shaping up to be one of the fiercest relegation battles in recent memory. With just six points separating 10th from 20th, the margin between a cozy mid-table finish and playing in the Championship next season is very fine indeed.

However, on current form, a return to the second tier looks more likely for Pompey. They have now gone eight league games without collecting a victory, following last weekend's loss to Fulham, their last win coming against fellow flounderers Blackburn Rovers in November.

Thus, it has been a miserable winter for last season's FA Cup champions, as they were also been forced to sell star duo Lassana Diarra (Real Madrid) and Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur) during the January transfer window. Defeat on Saturday could see them slip into the mire, and who knows what that would mean for Adams' future.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have a few problems of their own. They may be just two points behind leaders Manchester United, but problems with the playing squad and upstairs threaten to derail what has been the club's best Premier League campaign to date.

The big news, of course, is Steven Gerrard's hamstring tear, picked up in the midweek FA Cup loss to Everton, which will see him sidelined for the next three weeks. The fact that Rafael Benitez, having just sent Robbie Keane back to Spurs, now has no recognised deep-lying forward in his senior squad only compounds the problem.

It is as yet uncertain who will step in for the in-form England man; what is clear, though, is that whoever gets the gig will have mighty big boots to fill. Gerrard was instrumental in last Sunday's win over Chelsea, and it will take a big performance - whether collective or individual - to overcome his absence.


FORM GUIDE

Portsmouth

Jan 31 Fulham 3-1 Portsmouth (Premier League)
Jan 27 Portsmouth 0-1 Aston Villa (Premier League)
Jan 24 Portsmouth 0-2 Swansea City (FA Cup)
Jan 18 Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Portsmouth (Premier League)
Jan 13 Bristol City 0-2 Portsmouth (FA Cup)

Liverpool

Feb 04 Everton 1-0 Liverpool (FA Cup)
Feb 01 Liverpool 2-0 Chelsea (Premier League)
Jan 28 Wigan Athletic 1-1 Liverpool (Premier League)
Jan 25 Liverpool 1-1 Everton (FA Cup)
Jan 19 Liverpool 1-1 Everton (Premier League)


TEAM NEWS

Portsmouth

The return of captain Sol Campbell should boost the Blues. The veteran stopper missed the loss at Fulham with a thigh problem, but he is back training and should slot straight into the first team. However, his defensive partner, Younes Kaboul, could miss out with an ankle injury picked up at Craven Cottage.

Niko Kranjcar is touch-and-go with a groin strain and will be subjected to a late fitness test. Nadir Belhadj will return from suspension, but Jermaine Pennant - on loan from the Reds - is ineligible. Jamie Ashdown, Papa Bouba Diop, Richard Hughes and Marc Wilson are all out of action.

Greek duo Theofanis Gekas and Angelos Basinas, newly arrived from Bayer Leverkusen and AEK Athens respectively, should make the squad.

Possible XI: James, Campbell, Hreidarsson, Distin, Johnson, Belhadj, Mullins, Davis, Utaka, Nugent, Crouch.

Liverpool

As already discussed, Gerrard is out with a torn hamstring, leaving a gaping hole in Liverpool's attack. Ryan Babel, Dirk Kuyt and Yossi Benayoun are the prime candidates to fill the space behind Fernando Torres.

Lucas Leiva is suspended after seeing red at Goodison Park in midweek, meaning Javier Mascherano will be recalled to the first team to play alongside Xabi Alonso in the centre of the pitch.

It is extremely unlikely that Andrea Dossena will retain his place after his abject showing against the Toffees, meaning Fabio Aurelio will almost certainly start at left-back.

Possible XI: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio, Mascherano, Alonso, Benayoun, Riera, Kuyt, Torres.


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Glen Johnson (Portsmouth)

The England defender was repeatedly linked to Anfield last month, but instead he penned a new deal with Pompey. He has established himself as one the best full-backs in the country, and his attacking play down the right flank could cause problems against a defence that is susceptible to good crossing.

Xabi Alonso (Liverpool)

This man will take on extra responsibility in Gerrard's absence, and he has shown in the past that he is up to the task. The Basque midfielder has been one of the Premier League's most impressive performers this term, and his organisational skills will be vital in this testing period for the Reds.

Why Portsmouth Can Get A Draw Against Liverpool

Tony Adams has changed so much from his early playing days to manager that sometimes it’s hard to take him seriously as Portsmouth boss.

Yet Adams takes himself very seriously now. He is also in a very serious situation.

It’s rare that you are given a dream job as a manager and Fratton Park has certainly been no bed of roses for Adams.

But he does have enough quality in his squad to stay up, I think they will stay up.

The biggest fear for Portsmouth is the long-term future of the club.

Adams was a terrific fighter as a player. A hard-living, no-nonsense defender who captained both Arsenal and England wearing his heart on his sleeve.

He is a recovering alcoholic who has reinvented himself as a very rational and very serious character. Sometimes it appears as if he is trying to convince people that he’s a deep thinker as if it’s the right thing to do.

Adams’ managerial career did not work out at Wycombe but, via Holland, he came back as Harry Redknapp’s No.2 before being promoted when his former boss left for Tottenham.

Frankly, they were impossible shoes to fill. Portsmouth had just won the FA Cup, they had reached Europe and Redknapp had brought in internationals and the club had rarely had it so good.

But Redknapp was also clever in choosing his time to leave. He left at the top and, in reality, the only way was down.

The owners have signaled their intent to sell and the star players are already being sold off. As soon as you sell Lassana Diarra and replace him with Hayden Mullins you are making it pretty clear which way the club is heading.

There were others who wanted to bail out as soon as Redknapp left, and Portsmouth certainly miss Jermain Defoe’s goals. But Adams has also been shrewd. He’s managed to keep the majority of the squad together and has made good additions.

Jermaine Pennant was a great piece of business. How he persuaded Liverpool to allow him to go out on loan with his contract up at the end of the season is anyone’s guess, especially when he is a brilliant crosser of the ball.

Together with David James, John Utaka, Peter Crouch, Sol Campbell and Sylvain Distin there is quality there. If you pick apart their performances then you will see that generally they have been good and solid, hard to beat even.

They got thumped at Fulham last week which was the exception and left Adams’ job in danger. He certainly has to pull it round.

But I think he is growing into the job. I was worried at first when, after his first game at Liverpool, he was talking about himself in the third person.

But Adams seems to have found reality and one thing is abundantly clear from their performances - the players are playing for him. I expect them to get a draw against Liverpool and that will be a huge boost for Portsmouth.

Fratton Park is a hard place to go and therefore Adams will get Portsmouth out of danger.

But what worries me far more is the future. I am given to believe the club has 16 players on their books who are out of contract at the end of the season. Glen Johnson, James, Crouch and Campbell could all go in the summer.

Who will replace them? Will there be any money? Sadly for Pompey, even if they get through this season there may be more troubles ahead.

For Liverpool, the big concerns are this season. Sadly, they have gone from being top of the table, riding high to crashing out of the FA Cup and being a rudderless ship again.

Selling Robbie Keane with no obvious replacement made no sense. Crikey, the Keane deal has been in the offing for weeks so to not line someone up is just criminal.

Steven Gerrard is out for three weeks, Fernando Torres is lacking match fitness and sharpness and who is to come in? No one.

Liverpool rely so heavily on Torres and Gerrard that they will have to play in 95 per cent of Liverpool’s remaining games to win anything - and I’m not sure that will happen.

Keane Would Give Medal Away

Robbie Keane says he would give away his Premier League winners' medal if Liverpool go on to claim this year's title.

Keane rejoined Spurs in a £12million deal before the winter transfer window closed following an indifferent six-month spell at Anfield.

The former Leeds marksman qualifies for a winners' medal having played in 16 league matches for the Merseysiders.

The Reds remain in with a good chance of ending their title-drought, but 28-year-old has no thoughts of what silverware he could receive from the club - only how Spurs get on between now and the summer.

"My brother is a Liverpool fan so I'd probably give it to him," he said when asked what he would do with his winners' medal if The Reds claim the Premier League crown.

"The way I look at it is that a medal means something when you are a part of the squad and involved in winning a trophy.

"When you are in and out of the squad and not involved in games, there are times when you don't feel part of it.

"Next month's Carling Cup final means more to me because I'm a Tottenham player now, even though I can't play.

"Liverpool is gone. It's the past. What happens there now is not my problem."

Liverpool FC's Fernando Torres Injury Worry

Rafael Benitez admits he will be keeping his “fingers crossed” over the fitness of Fernando Torres as Liverpool’s season enters a critical five-day period.

The Spain international has yet to rediscover his sharpness after returning from his latest hamstring problem last month.

Despite two goals against Chelsea last Sunday, a listless Torres had been substituted at Wigan Athletic four days earlier and further raised concerns over his physical state with a below-par performance in Wednesday’s FA Cup defeat at Everton.

But the sale of Robbie Keane and the absence of Steven Gerrard (pictured right) mean Benitez is almost compelled to start with Torres in attack at Portsmouth this evening.

Although Liverpool will then not have a game for a fortnight, Benitez’s worries over Torres are heightened by his likely appearance for Spain in their friendly against England next Wednesday.

And Benitez said: “I was talking about Torres before the Chelsea game and saying he’s not sharp enough but he scored two goals although you could see he was not fully fit. He is improving but not fully fit.

“I think he is over his hamstring problems. Maybe three or four weeks ago, he was still a little bit concerned about this, but the work with the physios has been really good.

“He is not sharp enough. It is a risk to play him, and we took him off against Everton because he was just not able to work any more towards the end.

“The first thing is to decide if he will start, and then if he does, to decide how long he will play. There is no point worrying about him playing for Spain next week because we know he will be selected, whatever we say.

“You cannot change things so I’ll just watch the telly and keep my fingers crossed.”

With Gerrard out for up to three weeks, another injury for a patently unfit Torres would be a major blow to Liverpool.

After Torres returned injured from international duty in October, Benitez sought to liaise more closely with the Spanish set-up and in particular fitness coach Javier Minano.

“I was speaking to the fitness coach this morning,” said Benitez. “The Spanish national team are trying to get all the information they can everything about our players.

“We just have to keep them informed so they can take care of them.

“I worked with (Spain coach) Vicente del Bosque for years. The fitness coach for Spain is the one I had in my youth teams at Madrid, so we have a very good communication.

“We are looking to protect Fernando. Not because we don’t have enough strikers, but because we don’t have any other strikers like Fernando. There aren’t too many like him around the world. He’s a very important player for us.”

Liverpool Missed Ricardo Quaresma Opportunity

Former Liverpool winger Steve McManaman has told Setanta Sports that he'd have liked Ricardo Quaresma to move from Inter to Anfield on loan, as opposed to Chelsea's Stamford Bridge.

He said previously that the Reds could cope without crocked Steven Gerrard, but he now appears to be concerned about Robbie Keane's return to Tottenham Hotspur and the lack of creativity in the squad.

Writing in his column, he explained, "It was something of a shock to see Robbie Keane leave Liverpool. The current lack of creative players means that it hurts to watch the Reds right now.

"They may as well have kept Robbie until the end of the season. I don’t think his price would have depreciated between now then.

"Liverpool haven’t brought anybody in. Look at Chelsea with Quaresma on loan until the end of the season. I would have rather Liverpool did that. They’re desperate for a right winger.

"I think it would have been better to bring in a player like that who can change a game. They have right midfielders, but no right winger."

Spurs were the other party interested in Quaresma, but it does seem strange that there wasn't more interest in the talented Portuguese, even just as a gamble.

Mascherano Moves On

Javier Mascherano will return to Liverpool's starting line-up this evening at Portsmouth demanding that the side forget their FA Cup woes and instead build on the impressive victory over Chelsea last weekend.

Liverpool's week has been transformed from one of delight to one of despair, having beaten Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday and then seen their unbeaten 16-match record ended by the extra-time defeat at Everton in the FA Cup fourth round.

Now Liverpool must raise themselves in the wake of Robbie Keane's departure, Steven Gerrard's three-week hamstring injury and Lucas' suspension after being sent off against Everton.

With doubts over whether Fernando Torres will start the match, and Xabi Alonso's ankle problem, boss Rafael Benitez could send out a much-changed side at Portsmouth that may include Fabio Aurelio in a midfield role.

But if Liverpool win at Fratton Park, they will be back on top of the Premier League before current leaders Manchester United play West Ham tomorrow.

Then Liverpool, by virtue of their cup exit, have a two-week break before their next game at home to Manchester City on February 22.

And Mascherano wants Liverpool to take full advantage of an away game against struggling Pompey.

He said: "We have played a lot of games lately but we soon have a two-week break so we need to make sure we concentrate on winning against Portsmouth.

"If we play like we did against Chelsea then we can beat anyone. We have to win at Portsmouth, although we know it will be a difficult game because they can be a good team.

"It is always difficult to play them away from home, because it will be a physical game with a lot of long balls to Peter Crouch.

"But we must counter that and play as well as we did against Chelsea, and then I am sure we will win. We know everyone is disappointed about the game at Everton but we need to remember we are still in a good position in the league and in a few weeks we will play Real Madrid in the Champions League. We've still a lot to play for."

Liverpool's defeat to Everton in midweek brought an end to an unbeaten run which had stretched back to the beginning of November, but Mascherano is confident the Reds will bounce back. The Argentina captain came on as substitute in the cup tie after Lucas had been sent off, and said: "It was very difficult to lose in the way we did at Everton. We played for 40 minutes with a man less and still came within a couple of minutes of going to penalties.

"But we cannot let our heads go down. We have to remember we are in a good position in the league and we want to stay there."

Reds Eye Barca Wonderkid

Liverpool are planning a move to lure Barcelona wonderkid Gerard Deulofeu away from Camp Nou to Anfield.

Deulofeu is regarded as one of the best young prospects in European football and scouts from a host of clubs have been tracking his progress.

Chelsea and Arsenal have both been strongly linked with the 14-year-old, but Liverpool are hoping to steal a march on their rivals by bringing him to Merseyside.

Liverpool scout Paco de Gracia has recommended the youngster to Reds boss Rafa Benitez as they look to pull off a similar coup to that which saw Daniel Pacheco make the move from Barcelona to Anfield.

Reports emanating from Spain claim are now ready to firm up their interest in Deulofeu by making an offer for his services.

Crouch Not Keen On Rafa's Methods

Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch has sympathy with Robbie Keane over his treatment at Liverpool, labelling Rafael Benitez's methods as "frustrating".

Keane was largely a bit-part player in his short stay at Anfield, scoring seven goals in 28 games before securing a move back to Tottenham.

And Crouch, who suffered similar treatment before joining Portsmouth last summer, said he felt for the Republic of Ireland striker.

"There are a few similarities between what has happened with Robbie and my own situation. I feel sorry for him," Crouch told the Sun.

"We all know what a great player Robbie is but he didn't get a fair crack of the whip at Liverpool.

"But that is the way Rafa operates and it can be very frustrating because, when I was there, he never really explained why I was not playing.

"There were times when I thought he didn't fancy me but then he'd start me for two or three games on the spin.

"It got to the stage where I gave up second guessing which games I would be playing and which ones I wouldn't.

"The biggest letdown for me was the Champions League final against AC Milan, when Rafa went with one up front and played Dirk Kuyt, as I was desperate to show what I could do on the big stage.

"The Liverpool fans won't care about what Rafa is like as long as they keep winning and you cannot argue with his record but, at the same time, it can be very frustrating."

Rafa Was A Baffler: Keane Hits Back At Liverpool Boss Benitez

Robbie Keane last night blamed Rafa Benitez for turning his Liverpool dream into a nightmare, insisting he was left 'baffled' by the Spaniard's decision to ignore his talent.

Keane, 28, was sold back to Tottenham on the final day of the transfer window after 190 days at the club he supported as a boy.

Breaking off from preparations for tomorrow's north London derby, Keane revealed he had not even been given an explanation by Benitez as to why he turned his back on him so quickly.

He said: 'I believe that maybe with a different manager, it possibly could have worked out. I never regret anything I have done. It's not a mistake. I went there, it didn't work out for me. For whatever reason, I didn't fit into the way Rafa plays football.

'I was doing everything possible to do well for the team. That was the most important thing. I never had a fall-out with the manager, I was never late for training and I came and trained every day. I worked my socks off, it's as simple as that. You're probably as baffled as I am.'

Having played 19 Barclays Premier League games for Liverpool, Keane would be eligible for a medal should his former team win the title. But Keane conceded a medal would be an empty gesture, adding that he would probably give his away.

Asked whether a medal would mean anything, Keane replied: 'Not really. Not at all. My brother is a Liverpool fan so I'd probably give it to him, although he's a Tottenham fan now.

'If I was there (at Liverpool) and I was out of the squad, it probably wouldn't mean as much to me because, as a player, you want to be a part of it. When you are in and out of the squad and left out of the squad, sometimes you don't feel a part of it.'

Benitez's decision to omit him from the Liverpool squads for the first FA Cup meeting with Everton and the vital Premier League game against Chelsea provided the greatest disappointment for the Ireland striker, while frequently being named on the substitutes bench or being hauled off when handed a start did little to improve his mood.

'I've never been left out of a squad in my career,' said Keane. 'I think I've proven over the years that I'm quite capable of doing a job and scoring goals. No disrespect to anybody at Liverpool and the players that were ahead of me but if you look at my record compared to most of them, I think it's probably a little bit better.

'I believed that I should have been in the squad, and I believe in my ability, that I should be playing more games than I did. The fact is I didn't.'

Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch agreed with Keane's view that Benitez did not feel the need to explain his selection policy to his players.

Crouch said: 'I feel sorry for Robbie Keane. He didn't get a fair crack of the whip under Benitez. Rafa doesn't give a lot away and he's been a very successful manager, but there were times when I used to try and second guess him to work out whether I would be playing.

'I was usually wrong, so in the end I just gave up. The big one for me was the Champions League Final against Milan when he played one up front - Dirk Kuyt - and left me on the bench. I was desperate to get on because you never know if you will ever play in a European final again.'

Keane has now swapped league title hopes and Champions League aspirations for a relegation battle at Spurs.

He has been handed the captain's armband by Harry Redknapp and will lead the team out to face Arsenal at White Hart Lane tomorrow lunchtime.

With his Liverpool career consigned to history, Keane is eagerly anticipating the challenge of ensuring Tottenham's topflight status under Redknapp, a manager with whom he feels he can build a close bond.

'Obviously, Harry has a record of having a great relationship with his players,' beamed Keane. 'I've been speaking to the lads about him and I am really good mates with Jamie Redknapp, so I know Harry through that. He speaks to the players, and when he gets a player in, he certainly gives them an opportunity and that's something I'm relishing.

'You don't become a bad player overnight. I believe in my ability and I believe I could have brought a lot to that Liverpool squad. Maybe it was fate. I move on to the future and I am fully focused on Tottenham. I am back where I think where I belong.'

Liverpool's Sami Hyypia Happy With Champions League Boost

Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia has revealed he could have quit Anfield in the winter transfer window had the club not made it clear he was part of their plans.

Newcastle and Sunderland were both strongly linked with the veteran centre-back, who is out of contract in the summer and is no longer guaranteed first-team football on Merseyside.

However, Reds boss Rafa Benitez has added the Finland international to his squad for the UEFA Champions League knockout stages.

And Hyypia admits the club left him in no doubt regarding their feelings, saying: "There were a lot of rumours, and a few offers as well. Newcastle and Sunderland were both really interested in signing me.

"But Liverpool made it clear that they were not willing to sell me. That was it, although I might have considered another option.

"The club decide these things, Liverpool didn't want to sell me. So I will spend the rest of the season in Liverpool, this is my 10th season and it is a great achievement."

The 35-year-old does, however, confess that he will look at his future at the end of the campaign.

"I will consider my options again in the summer when my current Liverpool contract expires," added Hyypia.

"It is too early to say what will happen then. It is not my style to worry about these things in advance. Now I will concentrate on helping my team to win trophies in a role the manager decides, whether it is on the bench or on the pitch."

Lucas Says Sorry To Liverpool After Seeing Red Against Everton

Lucas Leiva started Liverpool's FA Cup fourth round replay against Everton, but he did not finish it.

The young midfielder was sent off in the second half after picking a second booking, leaving his side a man short as the game ground into added extra-time.

Toffees youngster Dan Gosling grabbed the winner in the 119th minute, thus ending the Reds' hopes of adding another domestic knock-out title to their haul.

And Lucas has apologised for letting down his team-mates, who were already reeling from the early withdrawal of injured skipper Steven Gerrard.

“I was very sad to have left my colleagues. I have learned my lesson from this. The dressing room was very down after the defeat, especially with how we lost the game,” he said, according to The Sun.

The result at Goodison Park not only ended Liverpool's cup run, it also meant they were unable to beat their Merseyside rivals in any of their three encounters over the past few weeks.

But Lucas added, “We may have tasted defeat but from what I have seen in the recent derbies Everton are not better than us. We have more things to concentrate on, like the Champions League.”

Robbie Keane Had Enough Chances To Shine At Liverpool - Alan Hansen

New Football Pools pundit Alan Hansen talks exclusively to Goal.com about Wednesday's Merseyside derby - and whether Robbie Keane would have made a difference to the outcome.

Alan Hansen was a colossus on the pitch for Liverpool and Scotland, becoming a true Anfield legend and collecting a host of medals in a glittering playing career. And since hanging up his boots he's become a giant of football punditry too, renowned for his forthright views and analyses which are eagerly anticipated by millions of viewers of BBC TV's Match of the Day every week.

Hansen watched the latest Merseyside derby, in which Everton prevailed 1-0 against Liverpool to knock the Reds out of the FA Cup, and praised the decision-making of Toffees' boss David Moyes and the tenacity of his team. Hansen isn't convinced Robbie Keane would have turned things in the Reds' favour - or that the dismissal of Leiva Lucas greatly affected the outcome.

"The Merseyside derby was not one of the best games to watch in terms of entertainment, but the FA Cup is all about getting a result and that’s exactly what Everton got. All credit must go to David Moyes for this win as the Blues are having a fantastic season. Liverpool have been receiving all the accolades and plaudits for leading the League for most of the season but Everton have gone about their business quietly but are on a terrific run despite a relatively small squad," said Hansen.

"Moyes' decision to throw on youngsters Dan Gosling and Jack Rodwell with Liverpool down to 10 men following the dismissal of Lucas proved a very brave one. The lad Gosling then goes on to score the winner so it worked out perfectly. I must admit the way things were going this one looked a certainty for penalties as it was such a tight match even with Liverpool a man light. There was really nothing between the teams over the 90 minutes and extra time, but that’s football.

"Rafa Benitez is receiving a lot of stick at the moment particularly with the sale of Robbie Keane to Tottenham. The press have been quick to suggest Robbie could have made a big impact on the game last night and he wasn’t given a fair crack of the whip, but the simple truth of the matter is that the lad came to Liverpool and didn’t play well.

"People will argue that Robbie didn’t have the chance to impress and was played out of position but he had numerous chances to score goals in a Liverpool shirt and he didn’t take them. If you look at his record, Robbie did start a lot of matches. OK, some may have been up front on his own which isn’t his best position, but he had lots of opportunities to score and for some reason or another, he failed to convert them. A record of just five League goals for a £20 million striker is not good, so you have to say his move was a failure.

"OK, so six months is not a long time to settle into a new club but that’s modern day football for you. I have no doubts he’ll go back to Tottenham and do well as he’s a hero down there and a very good player, it just didn’t work out for him at Liverpool. Was Rafa wrong to sell him without getting a replacement in? Well to be fair the lad hardly played in the last five or so games and was not even in the squad so there was no real point in keeping him though now a hell of a lot rests on the shoulders of Fernando Torres and his fitness.

"Once again Torres didn’t have the best of games but that’s all down to the injuries he’s suffered with this season. Last season when the Spaniard was one-on-one with a defender he flew past them but his game is based on his pace and hamstring injuries take their toll on that. If he’d had an ankle or knee injury it wouldn’t be such a problem but the hamstring really affects a player so it will take him time to get back to his best though he looked far sharper against Chelsea. Liverpool have Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel who can play up front, but winning the title is all about strength in depth - which is something [Manchester] United have in abundance.

"Will the confidence gained from the win over Chelsea be affected by last night’s defeat? I don’t think so personally, the cup is a whole different thing to the league and Liverpool will bounce back strongly with a good chance of three points at Portsmouth at the weekend.

"Much has been made of [Leiva] Lucas’ sending-off last night changing the game, but although I think the lad had the intention of winning the ball when he stuck his leg out, Lescott was charging forward and though the contact was minimal, by the letter of the law he had to go. In all honesty it didn’t really make much difference to the outcome of the match as extra-time looked a certainty with neither side creating much. I don’t go along with the theory that Everton were too aggressive, either, as watching from the stand I felt that the actual game was quite subdued and not as frantic and fast as a normal Merseyside derby.

"Liverpool need to come back strongly and will definitely miss Steven Gerrard but all credit must go to Everton and David Moyes as they deserve a good cup run for their recent performances."

David Amoo Sends Liverpool Through To Last Eight Of FA Youth Cup

David Amoo put Liverpool Youth team through to the quarter-finals of the FA Youth Cup as just like the first team they beat Chelsea, this time 1-0, at Anfield last night.

The Stamford Bridge youngsters, who had won at Old Trafford 3-2 in the third round, couldn’t repeat the trick at Anfield and for the second time in five days the Blues returned back to London on the end of a defeat.

It is the third time in the last seven years Liverpool have knocked Chelsea out of the Youth Cup and the last time Liverpool went on to win the trophy in 2007. They will now welcome Bolton Wanderers to Anfield in a last-eight tie later this month.

With assistant manager Sammy Lee and first-team players Jamie Carragher and Sami Hyypia watching on coach Hugh McAuley was happy with the hard-fought victory. He said: “It was a fantastic effort from everybody and it needed to be because Chelsea are a good team with good players. They move the ball quickly and we had to respond to that. I thought the effort was absolutely first class throughout.

“Having taken the lead I thought we had one or two good opportunities to score more goals. We didn’t so you are always holding on to 1-0. With good players against you, you need to be alive and alert. The biggest problem for me was keeping hold of the ball at vital times. Our possession was not as good as what it needed to be. But we probably had the better chances towards the end of the game. We have got a lot of work to do and we will continue to do that and be ready for the next game.”

He added: “It is Bolton next, another game at Anfield for the boys. Bolton are a good team and we play them regularly. It is also an opportunity for them to come to Anfield. We need to be ready and prepared to do well.

“It is quite nerve-wracking for a lot of young players – the first time playing at Anfield – and I thought our lads did tremendously well. There is a lot we have to work on. But it is difficult for players being under the spotlight with the crowd and the senior management there. But by and large they handled it well. They will have learned from it, got more experience and be better in that part of the game next time against Bolton.”

Liverpool’s Spanish centre-back Daniel Ayala looked solid at the heart of the defence alongside captain Joe Kennedy. The Spaniard had been forced out of the shoot-out victory over Bristol Rovers in the fourth round following an injury in the warm-up. But the duo kept the tricky Chelsea attack in check with a solid display.

Tom Ince, with father Paul also watching on, screwed a low shot and Finnish forward Lauri Dalla Valle had another effort from 20 yards saved by Chelsea’s German keeper Niclas Heimann early on.

Former Millwall youngster Amoo had looked lively in those early stages with his direct running. And he opened the scoring on 18 minutes, but from a header. He had won a corner when his cross was headed behind. Steven Irwin’s delivery was palmed out by Heimann, and from Pepper’s cross Amoo rose to head down into the Kop goal.

Amoo fired just wide after 26 minutes, after profiting from a mistake by Jeffrey Bruma Van Homoet. Bruma Van Homoet tried to make amends and saw his shot turned around by Liverpool’s Australian keeper Dean Bouzanis. The Aussie also beat away Dan Philliskirk’s rasping shot.

Chelsea had the ball in the net on the hour. Bouzanis pushed away Rohan Ince’s 20-yard drive, and although French starlet Gael Kakuta fired in the rebound, he was clearly in an offside position when the first effort was struck.

Liverpool also saw an effort ruled out seven minutes later. Dalla Valle’s snapshot from Amoo’s flick-on was disallowed as the Finn was marginally offside.

With the game switching from end to end late on Ince and Amoo fired wide, while the latter saw another effort saved by Heimann.

While at the other end Borini headed over from close range, but Liverpool held out to continue in their bid for a third FA Youth Cup success in the last four years.

Xabi Alonso: Rafa Benitez In ‘Tug Of War’ At Liverpool

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso is mindful that an ongoing ‘tug of war’ between manager Rafa Benitez and American co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks does not impact on performances on the pitch.

Benitez is seeking assurances over his remit, particularly in the area of transfers in which he wants complete control, before he signs a new contract.

“The owners and Rafa seem to be involved in a tug of war,” said Alonso.

“Even if they are trying to resolve it for the better of the club, there is no question in my mind when you have the right man for the job, securing his continuity is important.

“We’ve been through our bad moments but constant change, or change for the sake of it, isn’t a good thing at a club like this.

“It’s a subject between Rafa and the owners and the team must not let it affect us at any cost but my personal bet is Rafa will stay with Liverpool.

“When he came here, Liverpool had a massive history but they had lost competitiveness compared to the other European greats - and had spent a long time without winning major trophies.

“From his arrival to now, you can feel the progress and that he’s put Liverpool back where they once were - among Europe’s greats and aspiring to win everything we enter.”

The ongoing dispute between manager and owners is adding to a sense of unease at Anfield as the club attempt to win their first league title since 1990.

Though Liverpool remain just two points behind Manchester United, their form since the New Year has been unconvincing and, after being knocked out of the FA Cup by Everton, they have now lost Steven Gerrard to injury for the next three weeks.

Gerrard will also miss England’s friendly match against Spain on Wednesday.

The midfielder’s absence will be a huge concern for Liverpool as they make the awkward trip to Fratton Park to play Portsmouth on Saturday.

Benitez said: “He is an important player for us. It is always more difficult to play without him.

“But you can’t change things so it is better to concentrate on the next game.”

Liverpool Must Act Now To Save Season, Says Kenny Dalglish

Kenny Dalglish is calling on Liverpool to "get our house in order" after a traumatic few weeks for the club.

The club have endured a torrid time since boss Rafa Benitez launched his rant at Sir Alex Ferguson and they have won just one of their last six games.

They have blown an eight-point lead in the title race to trail Manchester United by two points and have played a game more.

Benitez's behaviour has become more erratic and he has argued with the board over his contract, criticised them for not moving quicker to tie down Daniel Agger, and banned journalists.

His gamble on selling Robbie Keane backfired within 48 hours as Liverpool crashed out of the FA Cup to Everton and Steven Gerrard has been ruled out for three weeks with a torn hamstring.

Dalglish, who was manager when Liverpool last won the title in 1990, is dismayed at watching his beloved club slide.

The Anfield legend fears their showdown with Manchester United on March 14 will be meaningless if they do not start turning draws into victories.

"We've had a mixed bag of results recently with a number of frustrating draws being followed by a wonderful victory over Chelsea then the Cup defeat," said Dalglish.

"The league table doesn't look as healthy as it did this time last month.

"It's going to be a massive game when we go to Old Trafford and we're going to need to win there.

But before that we have to make sure we pick up as many points as possible.

"All we can do is get our own house in order and if we do that between now and when we go to United, then that's all anyone can ask. If they drop points between now and then it's a bonus, but to collect that bonus in full we have to win our matches."

Liverpool have dropped valuable points in draws with Stoke (twice), Fulham, Wigan, Hull and West Ham and Dalglish feels this has undone all the hard work in beating Chelsea and United.

"The disappointment is that for years we've been saying we need better results against the big teams and, although we've managed that this season, we've let ourselves down with results against teams we'd definitely be favourites to beat," he said.

"We've taken 10 points from 12 so far against our title rivals, but haven't capitalised on those results in some other matches."

Dalglish suspects one or two players took victory for granted against those lesser teams.

"I did think people were getting a bit too carried away after our results over Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal earlier in the season," he said.

"They were looking at our fixtures saying we'd be picking up three points here, there and everywhere.

"That doesn't happen in football and it proves every single game in this league is difficult."

Former Liverpool Ace McManaman: We Can Cope Without Steven Gerrard

Likeable Liverpool lad Steve "Macca" McManaman believes the club will do just fine without their talismanic captain.

Liverpool fans were today rocked by the news that 'captain fantastic' Steven Gerrard had suffered a hamstring tear and would consequently be sidelined for three weeks.

It was a rare sight to see the Liverpool man be subbed off in the first half, in an away ground, to a round of raucous mock-applause, but that is precisely the reception that Evertonians gave the Red chief at Goodison Park.

Former Liverpool winger Steve McManaman - himself a tormentor of opposition defences, arriving in attack from midfield after no doubt embarking on a dazzling dribbling run - believes the club will not lament his absence for too long, and today wrote on his Setanta blog:

"Liverpool have dodged a bullet on Stevie Gerrard’s injury. It looks like he’ll only miss two games, which is a lot better than first feared – it could have been six, seven, eight weeks.

"I can see him being okay to face Real Madrid on February 25. Usually these predicted injury lay-offs err on the side of caution, so if they’ve said three weeks, it’ll be more like two weeks to 17 days. I can see him playing in such a big game in the Bernabeu," the former Real Madrid midfielder said.

"Any longer period would have been a huge blow. Liverpool certainly felt the loss when Stevie Gerrard went off at Everton - it was like a goal to the Everton fans – they knew what it meant, he’s the man who makes Fernando Torres tick."

If the injury means Gerrard is sidelined for longer than initially expected, Macca believes 'Pool could suffer, as they lack midfielders that manufacture attacks.

"Liverpool haven’t got an awful lot of creative players right now. All the fans are saying they need another right midfielder, another left midfielder...but certainly when Stevie G goes off – he’s the one real creative player they’ve got.

"Gerrard is Liverpool’s main man. You wonder if it would have been worse if Torres had got injured, but Liverpool have coped without Torres all season."

He continued by adding that he hopes that Liverpool do not crumble, after turning such a crucial corner with the last-gasp win over Chelsea.

"The main thing is they’re not playing United or Chelsea in those two weeks. They’ve got a crumbling Portsmouth team, and then they’ve got a home game against Manchester City.

"Portsmouth are slipping down the league and then, even without Gerrard, Liverpool will be favourites at home to City. The injury won’t help but I think they’ll be okay in those two fixtures," he concluded.

Rafa Admits Gerrard Concern

Rafa Benitez is hoping Liverpool can keep their title challenge on track without injured captain Steven Gerrard.

Reds star Gerrard has been ruled out of action for three weeks after picking up a hamstring injury in Wednesday's FA Cup replay defeat to Everton.

It means Gerrard will miss this weekend's trip to Portsmouth and Benitez concedes it will tough at Fratton Park without the midfield dynamo.

"He is an important player for us. It is always more difficult to play without him," said Benitez.

"You can't change things so it is better to concentrate on the next game.

"We have some problems with injuries and Portsmouth will be tough so we need players with fresh legs."

Benitez hopes their exit from the FA Cup could prove to be a blessing in disguise as they target success in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League.

"We are out of the cup so maybe we will have more time and the players will not play too many games so will be ready for the Champions League and Premier League," added Benitez.

"We are in a very good position and we need to win against Portsmouth and keep going."

Meanwhile, Dirk Kuyt has called on the players to bounce back from their FA Cup disappointment by taking all three points against Portsmouth.

"We have lost one of our targets but we still have two more to go for because we are still in the Champions League and we are fighting for the Premier League title, so we cannot afford to be too downhearted," said Kuyt.

"The key now is how we react to this defeat.

"The positive thing from our point of view is that on the two other occasions we have lost games this season we managed to come back in the weeks that followed. That is what we must do now."

Gerrard Injury Could Hand United The Title, Say Kennedy

Liverpool legend Alan Kennedy reckons Steven Gerrard's injury nightmare will hand arch-rivals Manchester United the Premier League title.

With Gerrard ruled out for up to three weeks after limping out of the FA Cup defeat at Everton and Fernando Torres struggling for fitness, Liverpool's attacking options have been severely dented.

And former European Cup winner Kennedy reckons Benitez's willingness to offload Robbie Keane and Gerrard's unfortunate setback have left the Reds lightweight and unable to challenge for their first league title in 19 years.

"It's a very difficult time for the club and the players right now," said Kennedy. "Liverpool are going to struggle because they don't have the strength in depth of Manchester United or Chelsea and that's the problem.

"Obviously Steven Gerrard's injury doesn't help now that he's out with a hamstring problem. He's going to be out for at least three weeks and you can't rush him back.

"Manchester United are running away with the league in some ways if they win their game but Liverpool are still in there.

"The problem is that they sold Robbie Keane who would have probably played in the next few games.

"Gerrard's out injured, Torres is struggling for fitness and they're both key players.

"Liverpool struggled to create any real chances against Everton but they've got to look forward to Portsmouth on Saturday."

Steven Gerrard Out For Three Weeks

Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard will be out for three weeks after the club confirmed he suffered a hamstring tear during Wednesday night’s FA Cup defeat at Everton.

The 28-year-old limped off 16 minutes into the Reds’ fourth-round replay at Goodison Park and is now a doubt for the club’s next two Barclays Premier League match against Portsmouth and Manchester City.

A club spokesman told Liverpoolfc.tv: "A scan today has confirmed a tear in the hamstring of Steven’s left leg. He will be out of action for about three weeks."

Gerrard may also miss the first leg of Liverpool's Champions League last-16 tie with Real Madrid, which is due to take place at the Bernabeu on February 25.

The news comes as a big disappointment for Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, who has come under fire from fans and sections of the media for selling striker Robbie Keane to Tottenham on transfer deadline day for around £12million.

Benitez did not have time to bring in a replacement for the Republic of Ireland striker, and Gerrard’s absence will further weaken the Spaniard’s attacking options as Liverpool look to close the two-point gap on league leaders Manchester United, who have a game in hand.

The Liverpool captain will also miss England’s international friendly against Spain next Wednesday.

Match Report: Everton 1 - 0 LiverpooL

Teenager Dan Gosling won the Merseyside FA Cup battle with a winner deep into extra-time.

The 19-year-old from Plymouth, in only his fifth appearance for the club, scored in the 118th minute to finally break the spirit of 10-man Liverpool.

Everton now face Aston Villa in the fifth round on February 15.

Liverpool ended in disarray. Robbie Keane sold, Steven Gerrard limping away after just 16 minutes, while Fernando Torres was withdrawn, exhausted, in extra-time.

They had been facing defeat from the moment Lucas was sent-off with 14 minutes of normal time left.

The Brazilian midfielder became the 23rd player to be dismissed in Merseyside derbies, with 16 of those coming in the last 10 years.

It summed up a fourth-round replay that was a war of attrition from the start between sides meeting for the third time in 17 days.

Everton had Marouane Fellaini back from suspension after missing the two derbies last month, while Liverpool left out Javier Mascherano and Fabio Aurelio, utilising Lucas and Andrea Dossena.

A simmering disdain was obvious. A match that was once the friendly derby turned into a nasty, spiteful one.

Neither manager had helped in the build-up as they sniped away at each other.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez had moaned about Everton's defensive tactics and physical approach while David Moyes claimed Liverpool were treated leniently by officials while asking for referee Alan Wiley to take a firm stance.

On the pitch the atmosphere was no better, and the Staffordshire official needed to be right on top of things.

He booked Tim Cahill after just 19 minutes for a flaying arm into Jamie Carragher's face, and lectures were dished out to Xabi Alonso, Lucas, Fellaini and Steven Pienaar.

There had been disruption for both sides beforehand.

Everton left out Victor Anichebe from their squad following his training-ground bust-up with Moyes, while Liverpool were surely distracted by the Keane saga.

And with the ink barely dry on transfer forms that had taken him back to Spurs, it was predictable that Liverpool found need for the Irishman after just 16 minutes.

They suffered the a savage blow when Gerrard pulled up with a hamstring problem and was replaced by Yossi Benayoun. If Keane had been around he would have been the ideal replacement to play behind Torres.

As it was Dirk Kuyt was shifted into a more central role, and Liverpool had lost their driving inspiration.

Liverpool tried to impose their passing game on Everton, who responded in their usual way.

Pienaar was booked a foul on Lucas, while the only genuine shots in the first half came from Alonso with a 25-yarder that skidded wide, while Leon Osman volleyed over from the edge of the box.

The second period started with Benayoun and Kuyt switching roles while Phil Neville and Lucas both picked up bookings.

Everton were soon to lose the injured Fellaini, teenager Gosling taking over.

That left Everton without any real threat in the air, and they were forced into another change when Pienaar - who had seemed to be struggling with a hamstring problem - was replaced by youngster Jack Rodwell.

Tim Howard needed to make a decent smothering save when Alonso's angled pass sent Albert Riera into the box.

Mikel Arteta had been pushed forward to help Cahill, Everton's resources stretched almost to breaking point.

Chances were rare. A Gosling shot failed to worry Jose Reina, while Howard pulled down a Kuyt header.

Liverpool's own sloppiness eventually allowed Everton the best chance so far.

Possession was squandered and Arteta passed for Leon Osman to hit a post.

Arteta was booked for a foul on Riera, but after 76 minutes Liverpool were reduced to 10 men when Lucas's daft trip on Joleon Lescott gave Wiley no choice but to brandish a second yellow and then red.

Mascherano was soon sent on to shore up the centre, Riera being sacrificed.

The flow of cards continued. Alonso being cautioned for a foul on Tony Hibbert with a minute of normal time to go.

In the first period of extra-time, Everton penned Liverpool back, Cahill having two efforts wide and missing a Leighton Baines cross.

Osman also went close twice before Liverpool took off Torres - played off the park by Phil Jagielka - and sent on Ryan Babel.

Andy van der Meyde came on for Neville, Everton searching for the moment to break Liverpool's resistance. Hibbert became Everton's fifth booking for a foul on Alonso.

And in the 118th minute, Everton went ahead.

Van Der Meyde's cross from the right was controlled by Gosling on the left, and his deflected shot went in off the far post.

Cue mass hysteria.