Fabio Aurelio: Liverpool Will Have Chances To Top Manchester United

The Reds' Brazilian star is confident that there will be enough opportunities to overhaul their North West rivals as the season wears on.

Manchester United's scintillating form since the turn of the year has seen them leapfrog Liverpool into first place, making them the outright favourites for the Premier League title.

But Fabio Aurelio reckons it is only a matter of when, and not if, the Red Devils slip up.

"I don't think they will get positive results right until the end of the season, plus we've also got to go to Old Trafford. So, if we keep getting our points we'll have a chance to beat them," the defender told Liverpool's official website.

"Every game is a final now if we want to fight for the title at the end. If United don't lose then they'll finish a few points ahead, but we still have to make sure we do our part."

Rafael Benitez's men are in the midst of a breakthrough campaign, as only two points separate them and United as the pointy end of proceedings draws near.

The Merseyside giants are also fighting for Champions League honours, and they will face Real Madrid later this month in a blockbuster last-16 tie.

But Aurelio said, "We know the most important thing for Liverpool and for us players is the Premier League.

"We also know the Champions League is an exciting competition and we have a good game against Real Madrid. If we can win that and keep involved as long as possible that would be great because Liverpool always do well in that competition, but we know this season the focus is on the Premier League."

The Brazilian full-back is no stranger to ending lengthy droughts at the highest level, having been part of the Valencia side that bested Barcelona and Madrid in 2002 to claim their first Spanish title in over 30 years.

"It was amazing, especially because Valencia wasn't a big club like Liverpool are," he said. "No one expected us to beat Barcelona or Real Madrid because we were always a long way behind."

The Reds' dry spell will clock 19 years if they fail to do the business this season, but Aurelio believes the Anfield trophy cabinet may have a very welcome addition come May.

He added, "Liverpool also haven't won it for a long time, but we are getting stronger every season and hopefully this can be our year."

Daniel Agger Wants To Be A Liverpool Legend - Jan Molby

The Reds' greatest Dane has no doubt that his young compatriot wants to end the speculation surrounding his future and commit to the club.

Rumours are swirling as to how much longer Daniel Agger will last at Liverpool following his latest comments in the press.

The Danish defender is yet to have his contract extended, despite negotiations kicking off last year, while he is becoming increasingly annoyed at his lack of starting opportunities.

But Jan Molby has declared that the 24-year-old, widely regarded as one of the most talented centre-backs in Europe, would like nothing better than to remain at Anfield.

"I know he [Agger] wants to stay in Liverpool and to become a real Liverpool legend. He feels he's at the best possible place to achieve his footballing dreams," the former Red said on the club's official website.

"Prior to his metatarsal injury [last season] he was very, very good in terms of his defending and forward play. He probably hasn't reached that level again since his return – maybe because he hasn't been playing every week – but potentially he is one of the best ball playing central defenders in the world."

Molby spent 12 seasons at Liverpool, between 1984 and 1996, and is often referred to by Kopites as 'the original Xabi Alonso'.

Former Liverpool Great John Barnes Wants Premier League Return

John Barnes has spoken out on the strengths of his Jamaica side, a potential Premier League return, and the possibility of England one day appointing a black manager.

John Barnes' managerial career did not get off to the best of starts with a largely underwhelming and short-lived tenure at Scottish giants Celtic.

Barnes then snuggled into the cosy cocoon of broadcasting, but this lengthy sojourn was interrupted with a triumphant return to management.

In November 2008 the 45-year-old took charge of the Jamaican national team and has already guided the Reggae Boyz to the Caribbean Cup.

The former England captain though has hinted that he would be using his current position as a national manager as a stepping stone to a Premier League return.

"Do I have long-term ambitions for Jamaica? Well, my contract lasts until June," he told The Liverpool Echo.

"If things go well perhaps we can talk about the future then. But you can’t have long-term ambitions in management. The experiences of Felipe Scolari and Tony Adams this week have proved that.

"As a manager you simply have to think about winning the next match, because if you don’t achieve that short term aim, chances are you won’t get the chance to do any long-term thinking.

"Ultimately, I want to get back into football management in England," he declared.

"Where? I’ll consider anything. Any club with a chairman or a board of directors prepared to support me and empower me to do my job properly. But I am immensely enjoying being back in management and I believe, without a shadow of a doubt, I can be a great coach."

Jamaica were last night held by Nigeria, but prior to this fixture Barnes had helped guide the side up 30 places in the FIFA rankings, and together they were unbeaten in six games.

"The players here in Jamaica have great ability and great physical attributes. It’s tactical discipline and awareness I need to build up – a belief that the team ethic can be successful.

"That doesn’t come naturally. I need to accentuate the positives of teamwork as well as the flair which we possess," he said.

"I am a very methodical manager in terms of how I want my teams to play."

Noting Paul Ince's record of being the first black Englishman to be in charge of a Premier League club (at Blackburn Rovers, later replaced by Sam Allardyce), Barnes discussed the possibility of a black manager one day coaching the Three Lions.

"Well, Obama is President of the United States because he is worthy, not because of his colour. So you have to find a manager who is good first," Barnes explained.

"I’m in that category, Paul Ince is, too. If the opportunity is there, I have full confidence that I could join that managerial elite," he concluded.

Gareth Barry Never Tried To Force Move Away From Aston Villa

Gareth Barry didn't contemplate forcing a move away from Aston Villa in the summer, because of his respect for Martin O'Neill. The England international came close to joining Liverpool, but the move fell through after the club failed to meet Villa's £18m valuation of the player.

However, Barry has maintained a professional approach this season, and has played a key part in the club's surge into the top four of the Premier League.

"I said straight away that myself and the manager are both professional people who want the best this season for Villa," Barry said. "The relationship is very good.

"It can go through your head what others have done to get away from a club - but it was just not the reputation I would have wanted. It never went through my head to go through that. I've got too much respect for the club, and for the manager, and I've just got on with the job."

Barry was initially stripped of the club captaincy, but O'Neill has reinstated him in the absence of the injured Martin Laursen.

"Everyone knows I enjoy captaining Villa," Barry added. "I've always looked forward to doing it and it does give you that extra lift, captaining the team out there. It can raise your game. But Martin is the captain this season and, if we win a trophy, that will be more than enough."

Red Card Nightmare For Liverpool's Emiliano Insua At Under-20 World Cup Hopes End

Emiliano Insua was sent off as his under-20 World Cup hopes ended in disappointment at the weekend.

The Liverpool left-back was Argentina’s captain in the South American qualifying tournament, but a 1-0 defeat by Colombia means the defending champions will not take part in the under-20 finals for the first time in 16 years.

Insua actually went closest to equalising after Richard Chara had given the Colombians a 65th minute lead.

And his misery was completed in the 83rd minute when he was dismissed.

Insua, who made his Reds debut in April 2007, had just made four successive starts in Rafa Benitez’s senior side and looked to have moved ahead of Andrea Dossena and Fabio Aurelio in the pecking order when he was called away on international duty.

Argentina’s Under-20 squad has won five of the last seven U-20 World Cups, but will not now defend their crown in Egypt.

Insua, however, will be available again for next weekend’s visit of Manchester City.

Liverpool International Stars Avoid Night Of Pitfalls

Liverpool’s Spanish stars came safely through last night’s international in Seville.

Fernando Torres negotiated 64 minutes against England before he was replaced by Spain’s second goalscorer Fernando Llorente, while Xabi Alonso played the full 90 minutes.

Goalkeeper Pepe Reina and defender Alvaro Arbeloa were both introduced at half-time.

On a busy night of international football, Yossi Benayoun was Israel’s match-winner, scoring from close range as his country beat Hungary 1-0 in Tel Aviv.

Young striker David Ngog also got on the scoresheet with a neat volley as France Under 21s drew 1-1 with Tunisia.

Javier Mascherano captained Argentina to a 2-0 win in France, while Daniel Agger was booked as he lasted 90 minutes in Denmark’s 1-1 draw against Greece.

Ryan Babel came on for clubmate Dirk Kuyt at half-time in Holland’s 1-1 draw with Tunisia, while Sami Hyypia played the full 90 minutes as Finland lost 1-0 to Portugal thanks to a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty.

On Tuesday night Martin Skrtel and Andrea Dossena both tasted defeat in international friendlies.

Dossena earned his sixth cap after replacing Andrea Pirlo 75 minutes into Italy’s 2-0 defeat against Brazil at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, while Skrtel played 90 minutes as Slovakia were beaten 3-2 by Ukraine.

All of Liverpool’s international contingent were due to report back to Melwood today – but there were no indications of any problems.

Liverpool Will Ring Changes Despite FA Youth Cup Win - Hugh McAuley

Liverpool’s youngsters won’t be allowed to rest on their laurels after last week’s excellent FA Youth Cup victory over Chelsea.

The Reds will entertain Bolton in the quarter-finals on February 27, but first travel to the Midlands in FA Premier Academy League action on Saturday – and coach Hugh McAuley has promised changes.

"We go to West Brom on Saturday and we’ll make one or two switches," he explained.

"The boys got us a first class result and worked very hard.

"But squad rotation is perhaps more relevant in our position because they are young lads who need to play.

"We also need to see all the lads play and ensure everyone gets their proper quota of games so we’ll change one or two.

"West Brom always give you a good game, especially on their own patch, but we’re up for it."

Liverpool’s last league outing was the mini mini-derby won by Everton, but McAuley said: "The two games we have played in the league this year have been against two tough teams, but we have played really well in both. We drew with Manchester City and lost to Everton, although I thought we were the best team and it was a game we should have won.

"And we’ll go into the next game full of confidence after the win over Chelsea.

"We are playing some good stuff. We have shown good spirit and really good enthusiasm. We have no problem on that side of it and I am sure if we keep that up, results will come in the league.

"It is important we keep our consistency, enthusiasm and the right motivation."

He added: "The game at the end of the week or the Youth Cup match are the situations where we judge our players, particularly when we play the bigger clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City and Everton and also Arsenal in the Youth Cup last year. They tell where our players are and how far we are compared to those teams."

Benitez Bruised In His Battle With Agger Over New Liverpool Contract

After proving useful ammunition for Rafael Benitez in his internecine battle with Liverpool's owners, the manager's focus on Daniel Agger has now backfired.

The Danish defender with a ridiculously inflated view of his talent and who is not a patch on first choice Martin Skrtel, has stopped moaning about his lack of a new contract and is now talking about leaving because he is not playing enough.

Benitez made much of Agger's situation before, blaming Tom Hicks and George Gillett for dragging their feet over the player's new deal and therefore pushing him towards the open arms of other clubs.

But what will the manager say now the finger of blame is pointing at him?

Agger said: 'If I don't play, then it's untenable and it can't go on like that. He won't let me play. The question now is whether that is the right thing for me.'

While Benitez's political manoeuvring was all about getting more power in a new deal, Agger's is about money and status. He is the pawn with teeth.

Liverpool Prepare Bid For Barcelona's Exciting Young Winger Deulofeu

Liverpool want to sign Barcelona's wonderkid winger Gerard Deulofeu.

Anfield scouts have been tracking the 14-year-old's progress for months and are preparing a deal to land one of Europe's hottest prospects.

Deulofeu, dubbed 'the new Ronaldinho', has been linked with Chelsea and Arsenal in the past but may favour a move to Liverpool due to the strong Spanish influence on Merseyside.

The left-sided attacker is just the latest talent produced by the Catalans. World stars Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas and Lionel Messi all graduated from Barca's famed academy.

But the Catalans will do everything in their power to block any move for Deulofeu.

The Spanish giants vowed never to lose another trainee on the cheap after Arsenal exploited a transfer loophole to land Fabregas for a nominal fee back in 2003.

Carra: We Are The Comeback Kings

Jamie Carragher believes Liverpool’s new-found ability to snatch late victories could see The Reds overhaul Manchester United in the title race.

Rafa Benitez’s side have needed late goals to claim the points in their last two league games against Chelsea and Portsmouth, with Fernando Torres riding to their rescue on both occassions.

Carragher says United have been pulling late wins out of the bag for years now and The Reds newly-discovered steel could see them pip their rivals for the title come May.

"It's not just a one-off game,” Carragher told the official club website. “We've come from behind like that quite a bit this season.

"It's something Manchester United have done a lot in the past to win titles and you've got to take your hat off to them because they've done it over the years and this season as well.

"It's something we've not been too good at in recent years but we seem to have it in our locker this season and hopefully that will push us as close to the title as possible.

"There's nothing better when you think you're going to lose a game and you come back and win – it knocks the stuffing out of the opposition and you just want the referee to blow the final whistle as soon as that goal goes in.

"We still had to defend a few high balls into the box (at Portsmouth) but you've got to keep your emotions in check. You're so excited but you realise that the game still hasn't finished. But we were delighted when we got back in the dressing room."

After a brilliant start to the season in which they soared to the top of the table, The Reds are now two points behind United after a poor January in which they failed to win a league game.

But Carragher says the Liverpool players have never stopped believing they have what it takes to win the title.

"We never thought our title hopes were dead and buried although we realised we were making things more difficult for ourselves," he added.

"We'll only be able to tell in the coming months what effect these two late wins have had but it can only be positive because scoring goals late gives you a massive lift."

English Angle: Who Will Fill The Gerrard/Keane Void For Liverpool?

No matter which way you look at it, Liverpool now have a gaping hole in their forward line. Steven Gerrard faces at least three weeks on the sidelines after limping out of the FA Cup loss to Everton, and Robbie Keane has been sold back to Tottenham Hotspur for a fraction of the original price paid.

So who in Rafael Benitez's squad is capable of making their absences not so harshly felt? Who can take residency in the space behind Fernando Torres? Let us examine the candidates...

Dirk Kuyt (Holland, 28, right midfield/centre-forward)

This Dutch import is perhaps the hardest-working player in the Premier League. Since cementing a spot on the right side of the Reds' midfield - or attack, depending on the setup - the former Feyenoord forward has established himself as one of Rafa's untouchables. But is he able to do the job up front these days?

Kuyt is often regarded as a permanent stop-gap, strange as that term may seem; not quite a winger, but nor either a particularly threatening presence in front of the sticks. Pundits recall his introduction to English football as a failure, which only proves what short memories some people have.

In fact, the Oranje regular netted 14 goals during his first season on Merseyside, in what was generally a disappointing campaign for the club (other than a Champions League final appearance, in which this particular player scored Liverpool's only goal). He came from the Eredivisie as a goalscorer of some repute, and showed plenty of promise early doors, despite his obvious lack of pace. However, an abysmal start to his second term at Anfield saw fans screaming for him to be traded - again, a demonstration of how fickle the footballing community can be.

He has since become an integral part of Benitez's first XI, providing unmatchable endeavour on the flank. But Kuyt isn't all about donkey work; he still knows how to play a bit of football, too, and find the net. He pops up with crucial goals just when his side needs them, such as his strikes against Arsenal and Chelsea in the CL last season, and his winners against Manchester City and Wigan Athletic this term.

Ryan Babel (Holland, 22, winger/striker)

This youngster makes up the rest of Liverpool's first-team Dutch contingent. Signed in 2007 from Ajax, there were high hopes after his impressive displays at the European Under-21 Championship. However, things have not gone quite as planned.

Babel has suffered the same fate that many promising strikers, including his previously mentioned compatriot, have suffered: he has been stuck on the wing. But while Kuyt has flourished in this role, his more inexperienced countryman has struggled to adjust. Moreover, he hasn't been given a proper chance.

Unfortunately, this highly talented forward has become known as something of a 'super-sub', coming on late in games to run tired defences ragged with his blistering pace and natural goalscoring ability. Starting opportunities have been rare, especially since the arrival of Spanish winger Albert Riera last summer.

It is the view of many Kopites that Babel would prosper if given an extended run as a striker. The great Marco van Basten once compared him to Thierry Henry, and the similarities are certainly there for all to see: the dribbling ability, the wicked speed, the powerful shot and the pure, raw, undeniable talent. Will Rafa give him that chance to fulfil his potential? We'll see.

Yossi Benayoun (Israel, 28, attacking midfielder/winger)

Benayoun is another who has received precious few first-team opportunities at Liverpool. A cultured player who possesses arguably the best ball-control of anyone at Anfield, his slight frame and lack of genuine pace have counted against him when it comes to Rafa's team selection. He is another who has suffered from Riera's presence and Kuyt's wide-right revival.

Still, the former West Ham United man has proved a more than handy option. He bagged 11 goals during his first season in the North West - an impressive total for a player regarded more for his prompting than his finishing.

Many overlook this guy's past when judging his net-finding prowess. With the Hammers he played almost exclusively as a midfielder, but at Racing Santander and Maccabi Haifa he was a playmaking forward by trade; indeed, he tallied some 55 goals in 130 league games for the Israeli giants.

Following Keane's departure, Benitez singled out Benayoun as one of those who could slot in behind 'El Nino' as a support striker. In fairness, he struggled somewhat when thrust into this role following Gerrard's early exit against the Toffees. But it would be foolish to judge a player on one performance alone, as Reds fans found out in the past when hailing El Hadji Diouf and Bruno Cheyrou's debut outings.

Lucas Leiva (Brazil, 22, central midfielder/defensive midfielder)

This one is a roughy, no doubt, and surely an unpopular one with the Liverpool-supporting readers given his abject displays of late - particularly after his sending off at Goodison Park. But, regardless of the bad press he's receiving at the minute, the kid's got talent.

Lucas rose to prominence when he was awarded the Bola de Ouro after an outstanding 2006 season with Gremio, attracting the interest of countless European clubs. The Reds landed him the following summer, and big things were expected of a player touted as a perfect mix of Steven Gerrard, Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano - a box-to-box playmaker with great intelligence and solid defensive skills.

Well, no. Not quite.

The Dourados native has clearly attended the Paul Scholes school of tackling, and his lack of strength and physical presence renders him useless as a midfield enforcer. Sadly, though, this is the role in which he has most regularly been deployed, and he has cut a desperate, ankle-hacking figure at times.

The fact is, he's Brazilian. He likes the ball at his feet, and he likes to move it quickly. He also likes to take up very dangerous positions in the box. Benitez has hinted at the possibility of Lucas being given more attacking licence, and when he has been (far too infrequently) offered such an opportunity he has usually taken it gleefully. He demoralised Newcastle United late last year when Alonso was left on the bench. Right now could be a great time to let the Selecao youngster cut loose.

The Verdict

There are other players who might have been mentioned. Krisztian Nemeth would have been right up there, had he not been shipped out on loan recently (watch out for this kid, massively talented Hungarian). Spanish starlet Dani Pacheco is another earning rave reviews in the reserves. David N'Gog seems to be preferred to both where the first-team squad is concerned, but the French youngster is Torres' understudy more than anything else.

From the candidates mentioned, though, it's a matter of circumstance. If Rafa needs a reliable, hard-working foil who can link with the midfield and pressurise defences all day long, Kuyt is the man; if a lethal tandem of pace and skill is required, then Babel; Benayoun may be more suitable when it comes to keeping hold of the ball and toying with edgy, heavy-footed centre-halves; and Lucas could be just the ticket to break teams down with quick-fire, one-touch passing deep in the final third.

On the whole, though, this punter simply wants to see Ryan Babel given a good, solid run in the first team. He's a striker, plain as day. He might be frustrating to watch in his current state, but he's shown more than enough to suggest that he could develop into a terribly dangerous player.

Rafa Benitez: Form Of Fabio Aurelio Could Be Key To Liverpool's Title Charge

The Spaniard believes that should the versatile Brazilian stay injury free and on form, then he could have a significant impact in the second half of the Reds' season.

A series of niggling injuries have blighted Fabio Aurelio's recent Liverpool career, but Rafael Benitez believes that the early season setbacks are a thing of the past, and that Fabio could be a pivotal player in the Reds' run-in.

Aurelio is a left back by tradition and trade, but was recently deployed in the middle of the park where he put in a sterling performance in the 3-2 win over Portsmouth.

It is this versatility, Rafa claims, that will be essential as the business end of the season approaches.

"Fabio was one of the best players on the pitch at Portsmouth," Benitez told the club's official website today.

"He played really well. We knew he could play in central midfield from his time at Valencia and he showed on Saturday that he is a clever player with quality.

"He will be an important player for us for the rest of the season," he said.

"At Anfield especially, when we want to attack we know he will always be available because he has good movement and can deliver good crosses.

"It's always important to have players who can play in different positions, especially if they understand the game," Benitez concluded.

Defence Is Key To Our Title Hopes, Insists Reina

Pepe Reina believes Liverpool must match Manchester United’s defensive meanness if they are going to overhaul their rivals and reclaim top spot in the Premier League.

Edwin van der Sar has kept a record-breaking 13 clean sheets this season.

But Reina, who once kept 11 consecutive clean sheets for Liverpool and has been the Premier League’s Golden Gloves winner for the last three seasons, believes the Reds can be just as mean.

“We went from the end of October to the middle of December without conceding any goals and we’ll probably have to defend like that again in the remainder of this season if we want to compete for honours,” he said.

“If you put a run together like that it gives you a real chance of success. It is difficult, but we can do that.”

Reina, with Spain preparing for tonight’s friendly international, is already gearing up for a winner takes all showdown with United next month.

“This is my fourth year here and we’ve usually done well in the second half of each season,” he added.

“All we can do is concentrate on our own game, keep getting results and then try to take points from them when we go to Old Trafford.

“Fernando (Torres) said recently we have to be close to them when that match comes along, and I agree.

“That might mean being just a point or two behind them, although obviously it would be even better if we were top. Whatever happens we have to go into that game still with a chance of winning the league.”

Tommy Smith: Lack Of Goals Still A Concern For Liverpool

We have reached a stage in the title race when only wins will do.

So it was a surprise selection that Rafa Benitez came up with for the trip to Portsmouth – and at 2-1 down a second defeat would have seriously hit our title hopes, especially as Manchester United won again the following day at West Ham.

In the end, however, he got the win the Reds needed, albeit with goals from two of the players he rested in Dirk Kuyt and Fernando Torres, so you have to pat him on the back.

You can see his point in wanting to rest players.

Kuyt has played in most games this season, while Torres is still feeling his way back after a long injury lay-off. The other factor he possibly considered was that Pompey are a bad side.

Perhaps, therefore, it wasn’t such a gamble to rest key players – but they still had to play crucial parts to get the result.

You can’t complain after coming away with the points, but the Reds generally are not scoring enough goals, and that has been happening too often this season.

It’s a fact that, with Steven Gerrard sidelined, the only player capable of scoring regularly is Torres.

I have always felt that you must play your best team. The one Benitez put out was not a good side, although I am quite happy with what he did, providing the result is right.

But it was only when Kuyt and Torres were introduced that we really started to threaten the home side.

On top of that, the zonal marking policy is rubbish. Players keep failing to pick up men and the goals are being conceded, particularly from set pieces. It’s not just been a problem this season, either, and has often put us on the back foot chasing games.
It’s a different game from my day, and you can understand the manager trying to protect his players, but you wonder what Torres could have done if he had been playing for half an hour.

The title race is still wide open. While United have a game in hand, they still have to play us at Old Trafford, and that is a problem – for them! We know that a win there can swing the pendulum our way.

It won’t be easy, of course, but there’s no better incentive than winning the title.

Torres Wants Liverpool Captain Gerrard Alongside Him In Madrid

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres hopes Steven Gerrard will be fit enough to take on Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League on 25 February.

In one of many mouth-watering ties coming up over the next few weeks, Liverpool travel to the Bernabeu to face the Spanish giants in the first leg of the second round of Europe’s premier club competition, with the return scheduled for Anfield a fortnight later.

Whilst Gerrard should have recovered from the torn hamstring he suffered in the FA Cup defeat at Everton in time for the Merseyside meet, Torres is hopeful the England international will also be available to feature in Spain.

"Steven’s a special player and a vital part of our team and we need him fit again soon," said Torres.

"We wish him the best and hope we can have him back as quick as possible - if it is in time for the UEFA Champions League game with Real Madrid even better."

Play Me Or I'll Leave, Agger Tells Liverpool

Liverpool's prospects of losing Daniel Agger for a cut-price fee this summer have increased after the defender said he will not sign a new contract unless his first-team chances improve under Rafael Benítez.

The Denmark international is entitled to buy out the final 12 months of his Anfield deal at the end of this season for around £2m. Agger's failure to sign a contract extension has previously been blamed on a lack of communication with the Liverpool hierarchy, a charge levelled by Benítez himself, along with the player's financial demands.

Now the 24-year-old admits limited appearances this season are also a factor in his reluctance to commit his future to the club, and that he is likely to seek pastures new should Benítez persist with his favoured central defensive pairing of Jamie Carragher and Martin Skrtel. "Let me be honest and admit that, if I don't play, then it's untenable and it can't go on like that," said the Dane.

Agger has only enjoyed a consistent run this season after Skrtel suffered a cruciate ligament injury at Manchester City in October. The £5.8m signing from Brondby was restricted to two starts in 12 matches before the City game as he returned from a metatarsal injury, and has started only once – at Portsmouth on Saturday – since Skrtel reclaimed his place against Stoke City on 10 January.

The frustrated defender added: "It's never fun as a footballer when you don't play every time. That's no secret. But that's my situation in the club right now; that he [Benítez] won't let me play. That's not my decision. The question now is whether this is the right thing for me, because I would like to play some football. But for now I have chosen to give it some time and give it a chance and fight for my spot in the team. I feel I'm good enough. For the same reason it's annoying that I don't play. I'll wait for the chance and then I will prove that I'm good enough. I'll show them - no doubt about that."

Agger also revealed he is prepared to leave a decision on his future until the summer, when he is eligible to exploit the Webster Ruling and buy-out his existing Liverpool contract. The defender, whose agent, Per Steffensen, has held talks with Milan over a possible move, said: "There is no dialogue on a new contract with the club. It seemed like Liverpool were eager to close this deal and sign a new contract but that proved to be wrong. For me it is OK to wait and see how things evolve in the summer. I believe that I am in a good position for negotiations and I wish for more time in the red jersey." José Reina, the Liverpool goalkeeper, has admitted Benítez's team cannot afford many more slip-ups if they are to sustain their challenge to Manchester United for the Premier League title. The Anfield club have kept their championship prospects alive with late victories over Chelsea and Portsmouth in their last two league outings, but the Spaniard believes there must be improvement on the home form that has produced five draws in 12 games this season.

"Every match is like a final now," said Reina. "We know we can't afford to drop many points, especially at home. There are big games coming every week and we have to be ready for them. As a footballer that's what you want. This is Liverpool and if you want to win trophies, then you have to be up for it all the time - and we are.

"I don't know why we drew all those matches earlier in the season.

Against Everton we were only three minutes away from winning the derby before they equalised. It's true we didn't create a lot of chances in those games and it was hard to find a winner. When that happens it can damage confidence and that sometimes affects you in the next game. But it isn't unusual. The season is nine months long so it's natural that at some stage you will not be at your best. Hopefully we have come through our worst moment and the next few months are going to be better."

We’ve Got To Be Like United – Carragher

Jamie carragher believes that Liverpool must continue to become more like Manchester United if they’re to win the Premier League title.

Earlier this season, Carragher’s Anfield team-mate, left winger, Albert Riera hit out at their great North West rivals by branding them ‘lucky’ because of their tendency to win games with late goals.

But while there’s not much love lost between Bootle-born Carragher and Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, the 31-year-old defender has a begrudging respect for United’s ability to secure the points in the closing stages of matches and believes that it is a vital commodity for his own team to possess if they’re to thwart the Red Devils from equalling Liverpool’s English record of 18 titles this term by breaking their own duck in the Premier League.

Liverpool have been developing a knack for late winners themselves this term and came from behind twice to defeat Portsmouth 3-2 at Fratton Park on Saturday, a result that ultimately cost Tony Adams his job.

Dirk Kuyt levelled on 85 minutes and Fernando Torres netted the winner on 90 minutes to temporarily lift Rafael Benitez’s side above United at the Premier League summit before their own 1-0 victory at West Ham on Sunday.

Coming just six days after Chelsea were felled at Anfield by two Torres goals in the final two minutes, it was the sixth time that Liverpool had won a game in the final five minutes this season and the third occasion they had struck the winner in the final minute, a statistic which pleases Carragher. He said: “It’s not just a one-off game, we’ve come from behind like that quite a bit this season.

“It’s something Manchester United have done a lot in the past to win titles and you’ve got to take your hat off to them because they’ve done it over the years and this season as well.

“It’s something we’ve not been too good at in recent years but we seem to have it in our locker this season and hopefully that will push us as close to the title as possible.”

Carragher added: “There’s nothing better when you think you’re going to lose a game and you come back and win – it knocks the stuffing out of the opposition and you just want the referee to blow the final whistle as soon as that goal goes in.

“We still had to defend a few high balls into the box (at Portsmouth) but you’ve got to keep your emotions in check as you’re so excited but you realise that the game still hasn’t finished but we were delighted when we got back in the dressing room.”

Following last Wednesday’s energy-sapping FA Cup replay defeat to Everton which went into extra time, Benitez made six changes for the trip to Fratton Park and going into last five minutes with Portsmouth leading 2-1, Liverpool faced the potential of ending the weekend five points adrift of United at the summit with the Red Devils also having a game in hand. However, Liverpool’s last-gasp win keeps them within touching distance of Ferguson’s men with the gap still just two points and with faltering Chelsea replacing Luiz Felipe Scolari with Guus Hiddink following their goalless draw at home to Hull City, the battle for the title looks like an increasingly two-horse race – unless improving Aston Villa can cause the biggest shock in Premier League history.

Carragher maintains that he has never given up on Liverpool’s title aspirations and with a crunch trip to Old Trafford just over a month away reckons his own side’s penchant for late winners will stand them in good stead.

He said: “We never thought our title hopes were dead and buried although we realised we were making things more difficult for ourselves but we’ve got the three points but United have got the game in hand so it’s up to them.

“We’ll only be able to tell in the coming months what effect these two late wins have had but it can only be positive because scoring goals late gives you a massive lift.”

Rafael - Reds Running Scared

Real Madrid midfielder Rafael van der Vaart believes that Liverpool will be scared when the two sides meet each other in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League.

The Spanish giants face Liverpool in a clash between two of the most successful club sides in football history.

However, the Holland international thinks that Madrid will have a psychological advantage even before the first-leg kicks-off.

"We're Real Madrid, which is why I think Liverpool are frightened of us. We have great players. It's going to be a great tie," he told Spanish newspaper Marca.

"The team is working hard to be in perfect shape. We're anxious to do well in Europe, and if we end up as champions I will be capable of anything. I will do anything to win the Champions League."

The 26-year-old has recently been relegated to the Real Madrid substitutes' bench, but he does not think his form has deteriorated badly.

"Everything was going well at the beginning of the season. I had a great feeling. I don't think I was playing poorly, but I was benched for a few matches," he added.

"It's not easy to get used to being a reserve because I had been a starter throughout most of my career."

Van der Vaart moved from German side Hamburg to Madrid in the summer of 2008 and is hoping to stay at the Bernabeu for some time yet.

"I signed for five years, but I hope to be here many more years," he said.

"I want to be an important part of Real Madrid's history and win many titles. That's what I've always dreamed about."

Barcelona To Chase Liverpool Hitman Fernando Torres

According to a report in The Daily Mail, Barcelona could launch an ambitious summer campaign to bring Fernando Torres, a former Atletico Madrid forward, back to Spain. This has been echoed in Spain by Sport.

The Liverpool striker will be very much in the public eye in his homeland over the next few weeks. The striker is preparing for a friendly clash with England in Seville and also a Champions League knock-out tie against Real Madrid.

However, it was at the FIFA World Player of the Year dinner that Joan Laporta, the president of the Catalan giants, is alleged to have laid the groundwork for an end of season pursuit. Lionel Messi and Xavi are also said to have hobnobbed with the Euro 2008 winner.

Any deal is likely to be dependant on the future of Barca's current top scorer, Samuel Eto'o, which is looking decidedly unclear at present.

The Blaugrana are holding several rounds of meetings this month regarding their plans for next term and contract renewals have been on top of the agenda.

Along with ensuring that Victor Valdes, Rafael Marquez and Carles Puyol are tied down to long-term deals, sorting out Eto'o is becoming a matter of priority.

While the free-scoring striker has a contract until the summer of 2010, Barcelona are not prepared to let that run down and to see him leave on a free transfer. Eto’o, however, does not appear to be in a rush to renew his deal.

"If Laporta and [technical secretary Txiki] Begiristain asked me to sit down and negotiate now, I would ask them not to distract me and that we can wait until the summer," Eto'o told La Vanguardia.

That will not have gone down well with either Begiristain or coach Josep Guardiola, both of whom are keen to have all their plans in place before the end of the current season.

Plans to cash in on Eto'o could be in place given his reluctance to talk, his expected wage demands and the fact that he could be away at the African Cup of Nations for six weeks of next season.

With that in mind, Sport believe that the names of David Villa and Karim Benzema have been superseded by an even more ambitious target: Torres is now the player that club want.

With the blessing of Guardiola and Laporta, Txiki Begiristain will now start to consider ways to force 'Pool into a sale.

It won't be easy, of course, but behind-the-scenes unrest at Anfield and a less-than-certain financial future could work in the favour of Barcelona.

Torres Planning Long Reds Stay

Fernando Torres has pledged his long-term future to Liverpool despite reports in Spain that Barcelona are weighing up a big-money move.

Speaking ahead of Spain's friendly with England on Wednesday, Torres insists he is happy to stay at Anfield and cannot imagine himself playing for "any other team".

He said: "I don't see myself playing for Real Madrid, or Barcelona or Chelsea or any other team.

"I see myself playing for Liverpool. I have a long contract and that's that."

Meanwhile, Torres is hopeful he is finally over the injury problems that have blighted his season so far.

"This year what I am more worried about are injuries," added Torres. "I have had many problems since last summer but I hope I will be okay now until the end of the season."

The 24-year-old is also wishing Reds team-mate Steven Gerrard a speedy recovery from his hamstring problem and hopes he could return to action for the Champions League clash with Real Madrid later this month.

"Hopefully Steven Gerrard will be okay too," said Torres. "He's a special player and a vital part of our team and we need him fit again soon.

"I don't know how long it will take for his leg to heal, but we wish him the best and hope we can have him back as quick as possible.

"If it is in time for the Champions League game with Real Madrid even better."