Premier League Preview: West Bromwich Albion vs. Liverpool

When West Bromwich Albion crashed to a 4-2 defeat against Manchester City midway through April, it seemed that their Premier League season was officially a write-off. Dead last, nine points from safety, they were destined for an instant return to the Championship.

However, three games and two victories later, the Black Country outfit are still kicking. Having grabbed a surprise 3-1 win over Wigan Athletic last time out, they are now three points shy of 17th-placed Newcastle United (albeit with a considerably inferior goal difference) heading into the final two rounds of the campaign.

But whilst Newcastle face Fulham, Middlesbrough host Aston Villa and Hull City take on Bolton Wanderers this weekend, West Brom must attempt to slay a hugely in-form Liverpool side - a task which Tony Mowbray thinks his team are well capable of.

The Baggies boss said, "They have lost two games this season, one of those was against Middlesbrough, a team who are on the same number of points as us. We can take a little bit of belief from the fact that you can catch them on a day when they are not quite at it for whatever reason."

Mowbray and his men might be in luck, as results elsewhere could see Albion up against a team that have nothing left to play for.

Liverpool are presently perched in second place, but their dreams of ending a 19-year wait for the league title could be shattered before they even set out for the Hawthorns.

With their midweek win over Wigan Athletic, Manchester United jumped out to a six-point lead atop the standings. Thus, if they manage a draw or better against Arsenal on Saturday, they will clinch a third consecutive crown, dooming their north west rivals to another trophyless season.

Nevertheless, Rafael Benitez and his troops have not given up the ghost as they prepare for their trip to the West Midlands. The gaffer revealed this week that he was targeting victory in both of the club's remaining games, regardless of whether they are still in the hunt or not, but he acknowledged that West Brom would be no pushovers.

Benitez said, "It will be difficult because when you play against a team who are battling against relegation it is hard, but it is always tough in the Premier League. They are a team who like to play football. It's a pity they are a team at the bottom of the table because they have always tried to play good football."

The stats are in Liverpool's favour, though, as they have a 100 per cent record against the Baggies in the Premier League - seven meetings, seven wins and some 22 goals in the process.


FORM GUIDE

West Bromwich Albion

May 9 West Brom 3-1 Wigan
May 2 Tottenham 1-0 West Brom
Apr 25 West Brom 3-0 Sunderland
Apr 19 Man City 4-2 West Brom
Apr 11 Portsmouth 2-2 West Brom

Liverpool

May 9 West Ham 0-3 Liverpool
May 3 Liverpool 3-0 Newcastle
Apr 25 Hull City 1-3 Liverpool
Apr 21 Liverpool 4-4 Arsenal
Apr 14 Chelsea 4-4 Liverpool (Champions League)


TEAM NEWS

West Bromwich Albion

Scott Carson is hoping to reclaim his place in goal after recovering from a hand problem, but Dean Kiely's impressive efforts against Wigan could see the ex-Red benched.

Mowbray has a less friendly dilemma at left-back. Both Paul Robinson (ankle) and Marek Cech (cramp) are struggling for fitness. Centre-back Abdoulaye Meite is out with a hamstring injury.

James Morrison could also miss out. The Scotland midfielder is still suffering from a lingering heel problem.

Probable XI: Kiely; Zuiverloon, Martis, Olsson, Cech; Koren, Valero, Greening, Brunt; Menseguez, Fortune.

Liverpool

The Merseysiders have been boosted by the news that Xabi Alonso should return in midfield, having missed last weekend's victory over West Ham United with ankle trouble.

Otherwise, few changes are expected from the team that won 3-0 at Upton Park. However, if the title race comes to an end on Saturday afternoon, Benitez may start Sami Hyypia, who will leave for Bayer Leverkusen this summer after ten years of loyal service to the Kop.

Probable XI: Reina; Arbeloa, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio; Mascherano, Alonso; Kuyt, Gerrard, Benayoun; Torres.


PLAYERS TO WATCH

West Bromwich Albion

The Baggies will have to go toe-to-toe with Liverpool's mighty midfield if they are to pull off their eye-pleasing passing game, and that means plenty of work for Borja Valero. The Spaniard was in fine form against Wigan last weekend, breaking up and constructing moves with equal efficiency.

Liverpool

Despite having a penalty saved, Steven Gerrard netted twice as the Reds routed West Ham last time out. Recently named the FWA Footballer of the Year, he is the man you would expect to step up and take charge.

Rafa Hoping To Kop Car

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez wants Carlos Tevez – but he isn’t prepared to blow all of his transfer budget on the Argentinian striker.

Manchester United’s reluctance to turn their temporary capture of the popular Tevez into a permanent £26million deal has alerted other clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid.

Benitez would love nothing more than to snatch Tevez away from bitter rivals United.

The Spaniard’s hands are tied, however, when it comes to his spending power, even though a truce has been called between warring co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks.

Even if Liverpool were able to negotiate a fee of £20m for Tevez, it would leave Benitez with precious little cash for other transfer targets.

Sacrificing midfielder Xabi Alonso, who almost left for Juventus last summer, is an option but a large proportion of the cash from that deal is earmarked for bringing in Gareth Barry from Aston Villa.

Gerrard Confident Of Title Glory

Steven Gerrard has the taste for winning the Premier League title - and believes Liverpool now have the necessary experience to claim top spot.

The Reds have pushed Manchester United all the way this season but had to admit defeat when United picked up a point from a 0-0 draw with Arsenal on Saturday to seal a third successive crown.

Gerrard expects manager Rafael Benitez to add to his squad this summer and is optimistic about their chances for next term.

The 28-year-old told The People: "The couple of signings the manager will make this summer are really key to us getting over that final hurdle, because we know that maybe with a couple of per cent more we could have won it this time.

"This is the first time I've been involved in a title race that has lasted the distance and the buzz of running United really close has been so enjoyable that I want more of it.

"I'll have certain regrets when the season ends but I don't normally like looking back, to be honest.

"This time I'm going to use the experience to drive me on and try to win the title over the next few years. We certainly have the ability, as we've shown this year.

"It's a hard league to win and it's taught me that you do need the experience of being in title races to win them. I think because Chelsea and United both have that experience, maybe that's where we've come unstuck.

"Sometimes you just have to go for it and take big risks to win the kind of games that we have drawn. But we've learned a lot and I think next year could be our year - I'm really confident about that."

Gerrard has so far been a one-club player, and he expects it to stay that way.

The England midfielder agreed a two-year extension to his current deal last month, keeping him at the club until 2013.

He continued: "I am on the verge of signing it now, there are just a couple of minor details, so I am hoping I can sign it before I go off on my holidays.

"This is a big contract for me and it's likely to be my final one. It takes me to 33 but I feel I'm in the prime of my footballing career at the moment.

"I feel confident and strong and I feel really good when I'm out on the pitch. The aim for me now is to stay fit for the next four years and try to play as many games as I can and win as many trophies as I can.

"I'm getting greedy when it comes to winning trophies because I know I have to win as many as I can before it's too late."

This season has been far from smooth off the pitch with Gerrard facing a probable July court appearance after an incident in a Southport bar.

He added: "I've had to deal with a situation this season that's been difficult and if that had happened to me four or five years ago, it would have affected my form, I've no doubts about that.

"But, with age, experience and maturity, I have learned to park my problems or things on my mind until after a game. I have learned to deal with it in my own way and get on with life."

Javi Martinez Is Kop Target

Athletic Bilbao’s midfield sensation Javi Martinez is a summer target for Liverpool.

The Spain Under-21 star, 20, has a £24million buy-out clause but the Basque club will do business for closer to £12m.

Anfield boss Rafa Benitez has kept an eye on the rangy playmaker's meteoric rise to first-team regular and sent his spies to watch Martinez in Wednesday's 4-1 Spanish Cup final loss to Barcelona.

Rafa is also looking to recruit Shrewsbury No 2 John McMahon for his coaching staff.

He is the brother of Kop legend Steve and has impressed in developing young talent.

On-Loan Portsmouth Midfielder Jermaine Pennant Uncertain Where Future Lies

Jermaine Pennant has admitted that he is not sure where he will be plying his trade come the start of the 2009-10 campaign.

The right-sided winger is currently on loan at south coast club Portsmouth from Premier League rivals Liverpool until the end of the season.

The 26-year-old's contract at Anfield is set to expire this summer so he will be able to join any prospective suitors on a free transfer during the close-season.

The former Arsenal star seems to have no future with the Reds, and though he was linked with Spanish giants Real Madrid and Italian outfit Milan during the January transfer window, he says nothing has been decided yet.

"Next season I'm out of contract so we'll have to see what happens," Pennant told Sky Sports.

"I've got a battle on my hands at the minute with Portsmouth fighting relegation.

"When that's over we take a break and then we'll take it from there."

Since arriving at Fratton Park in January, Pennant has made 13 appearances for Pompey and has not ruled out joining them on a permanent basis.

"It's always going to be an option. I've enjoyed my time there," Pennant remarked.

"I've had a very hard season, but next season we'll see what happens.

"I'm all ears and I'm ready to talk to people."

Steven Gerrard: I've Grown Up And Learned How To Deal With My Problems

Steven Gerrard has opened his heart on a season of personal turmoil and glory - and confessed he couldn't have coped with his court case hell four years ago.

Liverpool skipper Gerrard, named Football Writers' Footballer of the Year after an outstanding season pursuing Manchester United, has revealed vast reserves of mental strength in blocking out a probable July court appearance after an incident in a Southport bar.

Many stars would have buckled under the pressure of having to perform at the highest level and maintain Liverpool's title dream.

But Gerrard managed to sideline his personal anguish and deliver top class performances which helped keep the pressure on Sir Alex Ferguson's men until the end of the campaign.

And now, in his first major interview, Gerrard reveals: WHAT gave him the inner strength to survive his court case nightmare.

Why he will sign a new four-year deal in the coming weeks.

How he is consulted by Kop boss Rafa Benitez on transfer decisions.

Where he is happiest playing in the current Liverpool line-up.

Speaking of his legal trauma, Gerrard said: "I've had to deal with a situation this season that's been difficult and if that had happened to me four or five years ago, it would have affected my form, I've no doubts about that.

"But with age, experience and maturity I have learned to park my problems or things on my mind until after a game. I have learned to deal with it in my own way and get on with life.

"I am really pleased I'm at the age now where if there is a problem or something's not going right I can park it to one side and deal with it.

"I have had to be professional and even more focused and I have to thank my manager Rafa and my team-mates for helping me get through this season because it hasn't been easy.

"And that's why I am really pleased with myself for the way I have dealt with it and how I haven't let it affect my football.

"Four or five years ago I had a situation where my mum and dad split up and I wasn't enjoying training and it affected my form.

"Certain other little things down the years have affected me too, and I am only human.

"I've come into work and brought the problems with me - both to the training ground and on to the pitch. I've not been able to deal with it - but this time around, with age and maturity I've learned to cope."

Gerrard's reward for a season which put Liverpool within touching distance of their first League title in 19 years will be a new four-year deal that he'll sign within days.

The Liverpool captain said: "I am on the verge of signing it now, there are just a couple of minor details, so I am hoping I can sign it before I go off on my holidays.

"This is a big contract for me and it's likely to be my final one. It takes me to 33 but I feel I'm in the prime of my footballing career at the moment. I feel confident and strong and I feel really good when I'm out on the pitch. The aim for me now is to stay fit for the next four years and try to play as many games as I can and win as many trophies as I can. I'm getting greedy when it comes to winning trophies because I know I have to win as many as I can before it's too late.''

Gerrard is always kept in the loop at Anfield on major team decisions - and he's excited at the prospect of Liverpool's summer transfer activity.

He said: "The couple of signings the manager will make this summer are really key to us getting over that final hurdle, because we know that maybe with a couple of per cent more we could have won it this time.

"This is the first time I've been involved in a title race that has lasted the distance and the buzz of running United really close has been so enjoyable that I want more of it.

"I'll have certain regrets when the season ends but I don't normally like looking back, to be honest. This time I'm going to use the experience to drive me on and try to win the title over the next few years. We certainly have the ability, as we've shown this year.

"It's a hard league to win and it's taught me that you do need the experience of being in title races to win them. I think because Chelsea and United both have that experience, maybe that's where we've come unstuck.

"Sometimes you just have to go for it and take big risks to win the kind of games that we have drawn. But we've learned a lot and I think next year could be our year - I'm really confident about that."

Gerrard's big aim is to stop United's trophy-winning juggernaut and he's confident now that Benitez has committed his future to Anfield that the pieces are falling into place.

"Rafa signing has definitely had an impact, '' said Gerrard. "If you see our form and the way we have played since he signed the new deal, it has given everyone a big lift and that is what this club is all about - togetherness.

"We don't like picking up the papers and reading about Liverpool involved in off-the-field stuff like contracts, owners and negotiations.

"I have been involved in that myself and it's not what we want here. We want togetherness, continuity - and that will bring out the best in the team.''

And will the Kop skipper continue in his second striker role next season? "I hope so because I've loved playing this role behind Fernando Torres this season,'' admitted Gerrard.

"Credit must go to the manager because he's seen the strengths of my game and has utilised them to the benefit of the team. Fernando has also been key to that.

"He stretches defenders, he's very direct and he runs in behind, which gives me a lot of space behind him. And with two holding midfielders behind me it gives me licence to do what I like doing, which is bursting forward and getting into attacking positions. I've had to work at certain roles and the manager has helped me not be selfish and only want to play in one position.

"If I was to say 'no, I only want to play in this position' I could find myself on the bench for England and not playing the way I want to at Liverpool. Rafa has told me to learn to play in different positions. I'm benefiting from that now."

Lucas: Gerrard Has Been Superb

Steven Gerrard will lead out Liverpool for the first time as Footballer of the Year at West Brom on Sunday.

The Anfield skipper won the Football Writers' award this week, but will no doubt now be expecting to take the field at The Hawthorns knowing that Liverpool's title bid has failed.

Manchester United are likely to wrap up their third successive title and their 11th Premier League crown by at least taking a point from their home game with Arsenal 24 hours earlier.

But Gerrard will be proud that he has been the driving inspiration behind Liverpool's season, a fact echoed by young Brazilian midfielder Lucas.

Lucas said: "For me it is not a surprise he has won the award because he has been superb all season.

"We know how important he is to this team and Liverpool - for me Stevie is one of the best players in the world. I think only two or three players are maybe at the same level as him so he deserves all the credit.

"I have been at Liverpool for two years now and I have learned a lot from Stevie.

"Every day I watch him in training and you can see just what a world class player he is. He gives 100% always in training and I learn a lot of things every day from him."

Explaining his own dreams, Lucas added: "We all know Liverpool is a big club with magnificent support and we want to work as hard as we can to help Liverpool win titles.

"I came to Liverpool to try to make history. We still have a chance to win the league, but if we do not win it this year then hopefully next season will be even better."

On Thursday night Gerrard was guest of honour at the Hillsborough memorial charity match at Anfield between a Kenny Dalglish XI and an All-Stars team.

Gerrard was introduced to both sets of players before the game and given a rapturous ovation from the fans.

He said: "Being guest of honour capped a great couple of days for me.

"It was a fantastic occasion, a fitting tribute to the 96 Liverpool fans who died at Hillsborough 20 years ago and also a chance to help the Marina Dalglish appeal which is obviously a really good cause."

Liverpool will have midfielder Xabi Alonso back at West Brom following an ankle injury, having missed last week's victory at West Ham, their eighth victory in nine league matches.

Forlan Happy To Stay

Striker Diego Forlan has given Atletico Madrid a major boost ahead of Sunday's must-win clash against Valencia by pledging his commitment to the club beyond the end of the season.

The 29-year-old former Manchester United forward has been linked with a move to Liverpool in the summer, but he insists he is happy in the Spanish capital and is focused on securing Atletico a place in next season's Champions League.

"There are always rumours that I will leave in the newspapers," said Forlan, whose last-minute winner against Espanyol last weekend ensured Atletico moved back to within a point of fourth-placed Valencia.

"I am very happy though, I have a contract here and I want to qualify for the Champions League," he added in AS.

"The talk about signings is something that you [the press] do for the likes of Real Madrid.

"We are only thinking about the game against Valencia, which we have to do well in if we are to reach the Champions League. I'm very pleased to be at a great team like Atletico Madrid."

Forlan has bagged 27 league goals this season - one behind Primera Division top scorer Samuel Eto'o - and his double last Sunday, the first of which was a left-foot screamer from 25 yards, could prove vital.

He is delighted with his tally, adding: "I will enjoy the moment I'm in as to have scored more than 25 goals is something very good."

Los Rojiblancos must pip Valencia to fourth place to claim a berth in the qualifying stages of the Champions League and, with three games remaining, midfielder Maxi Rodriguez knows what they have to do.

"We know what we are playing for and we cannot fail," he told Marca. "We must look at this game as the opportunity to beat our direct rivals and to try and get into the Champions League places."

Sir Alex Ferguson Questions Steven Gerrard's Player-Of-Year Accolade

Sir Alex Ferguson has publicly questioned Steven Gerrard's credentials for winning the Football Writers' Association player of the year award ahead of Manchester United's candidates.

While Gerrard took 73 of the votes, 10 higher than Ryan Giggs, the winner of the Professional Footballers' Association award, he was the only Liverpool player to win more than one nomination, whereas almost half the vote went to Old Trafford players. Wayne Rooney was in third place with 36, whereas Ferguson's own choice, Nemanja Vidic, received 12, Rio Ferdinand had six, Cristiano Ronaldo three and Michael Carrick two.

"The fact that we had six players in there didn't do them any good because the vote has been split," said Ferguson. ­"Steven Gerrard is a terrific player in his own right and you can't deny the lad his position in the game but, from the Manchester United perspective, I thought Vidic had a great chance this year. His form has been magnificent all season."

"I don't think we should be too disappointed about it [the FWA award]," he said. "When we won the Treble in 1999 none of our players won the award then either. The more important thing for us is what we actually win as a team. That's far better and more rewarding for us."

Ferguson might be amused to learn that Fernando Torres received the same number of votes (one) as Manchester City's Richard Dunne, but Ferdinand's injury was clearly weighing on the manager's mind. "The player we'd like better news on is Rio," he admitted. "I'm sure he'll be fit for the final but it's one of these calf niggles that usually take 10 days to two weeks. He should be fit for next Sunday's game against Hull."

Ferguson was unwilling to speak in detail about the issue of Carlos Tevez's future.

"I said months ago that I'm fed up talking about players' contracts and I'm not getting into it. David Gill [the chief executive] met with them [Tevez's representatives] on Wednesday and they discussed the avenue in which Carlos would stay at Manchester United. End of story." It has emerged that Real Madrid made an offer for the Argentinian four months ago, an approach that was rejected. Real's sporting director Predrag Mijatovic said: "We have spoken since with his representatives but he's informed us he wants to stay in England. Carlos says it is important to his family to stay in England so it seems he will either stay with Manchester United or find another club."

Segura Named Reds Academy Manager

Former Olympiacos boss and Barcelona coach Jose Segura has been appointed Liverpool academy technical manager.

The 48-year-old worked in Barcelona's youth system and with Barca's B team before winning the Greek league and cup double with Olympiacos last year.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez said: "We've worked hard to bring in the best people and Jose is a great appointment.

"He's worked with top young talent in Spain and knows the challenges faced in bringing players through."

Segura will succeed Piet Hamberg who leaves at the end of the season.

"He's also got experience at the top after his success with Olympiacos and I'm delighted that he's agreed to join us," Benitez added.

Rafa Benitez: If Gerrard & Torres Had Been Fit, Liverpool Would've Won Premier League

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has intimated that they would have secured the Premier League title by now had Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres not been stricken with injuries throughout the season.

The Reds have not been ruled out of the race for the title just yet, but Manchester United need just one point from their two remaining fixtures to retain the championship for a third successive year following a 2-1 victory over Wigan Athletic on Wednesday which puts them six points in the lead.

The Merseyside based outfit have lost only twice throughout the 2008/09 campaign, while the Red Devils have suffered defeat on four occasions.

Benitez has suggested that had has star men been fit and available to play together on more occasions, Liverpool might have converted some of their 11 draws into victories, and subsequently clinched the title.

"You cannot imagine if Gerrard and Torres had been fit all season where we would be now so it has been a good season but you know it could be better," the Spaniard told the club's official website.

Only Chelsea and Manchester United have conceded less goals than Liverpool this season, but Benitez feels it is unfair to label them a defensive team especially as they are the Premier League's top scorers.

"I don't think people realise how important it is to keep the balance," Benitez remarked.

"Because we are organised some people say we are not an attacking team. It's so clear we are an attacking team and a very good attacking team.

"I think it's always important to score goals, but to score 119 last year and now more than 100, I think it's very good. It's not just the strikers as we have a lot of players who have scored for us.

"That is very good and it means the team has a very good offensive mentality and we still keep the balance and defend well. That is important for winning."

Finally, the 49-year-old cited Manchester United's strength in depth in terms of squad numbers as the determining factor in the race for the Premier League title.

"It's strange but it also means United are a strong team and have a good team," Benitez stated, referring to the fact that Liverpool have lost less games and have a superior goal difference.

"They have a good squad which is important because when you are talking about the league you are talking about nine months."

Steven Gerrard Aims For Successful 2010 With Liverpool FC And England

Steven Gerrard has vowed to turn 2010 into the greatest season of his life by winning the World Cup with England and the title with Liverpool – just like Roger Hunt did more than 40 years ago.

Gerrard admits he may have to put the frustration of this year’s championship race behind him as he looks ahead to two crucial World Cup qualifiers for his country in June.

But he is being inspired by the memories of England glory days of old.

Back in 1966 England won their only World Cup – and it came only weeks after Liverpool had been crowned champions in the league.

England and Liverpool striker Hunt famously picked up both medals and a similar double next year would make Gerrard the happiest man on the planet.

“Roger was a fantastic player,” reflected the midfielder, who was speaking on a visit to Christ the King school in Huyton on behalf of England sponsors Nationwide Building Society.

“It’s a bit before my time but my dad has certainly made me aware of how good Roger was.

“If I can go on and emulate what he achieved in 1966 next year, you will certainly see a happy Steven Gerrard come the end of the World Cup! It would be the best year of my career.”

The longer time passes with no-one to step in for the heroes of 66, the more distant the actual prize seems to get.

Seeing the aura Sir Bobby Charlton still attracts proves any success enjoyed at club level is eclipsed by England.

Yet, as Liverpool seem certain to reach 19 years without the championship and United stand on the brink of equalling their record of 18 triumphs, Gerrard feels it is time to be greedy.

“To win the league and then go on and win the World Cup, that’s what dreams are made of,” he said.

Liverpool FC Boss Rafa Benitez Hoping For Favour From Arsenal

By half past two this afternoon, either Liverpool’s Premier League dream will be over or they will have been handed an unlikely lifeline.

Manchester United need just a point from their lunchtime clash with Arsenal to equal the Reds’ record of 18 league titles.

Arrangements have been made to present the trophy at Old Trafford today but Rafa Benitez wasn’t prepared to throw the towel in yesterday.

The Spaniard believes the Gunners are capable of doing Liverpool a favour and ensuring there is something still riding on tomorrow’s trip to relegation-threatened West Brom.

“We have to think positively,” Benitez insisted.

“Arsenal are a good team with quality and after the defeats they have had in the last two games they have something to prove.

“Arsene Wenger is a winner and he will want to get a result. It could be a tough game for United.

“Hopefully we will still have a chance on Sunday. If the title race is still on we will fight for that, otherwise we will fight for second place.

“All we can do is think about getting three points in our game.”

If United wrap things up today the Reds will be consigned to a third successive trophyless campaign.

However, Benitez insists his players should be proud of the progress made at Anfield this season. Victory at The Hawthorns tomorrow would secure their best ever points return in the Premier League.

“It’s always important to have targets,” he said.

“We have 80 points and 82 is our best total in history. To get 83 would be fantastic but 86 would be even better.

“We have to be really pleased to be in this position at this stage of the season.

“We are playing well, scoring lots of goals and that is really positive for the future.

“Some people talk about trophies but in the Premier League it is not easy.

“There is Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal. In the future maybe Manchester City, Tottenham, Aston Villa will be challenging.

“It’s not easy but to be contenders is the key. If you are 20 points behind you have no chance but this year we are so close and that’s good news for the future.

“Before people talked about us as a team for the Cup or the Champions League, now we’ve shown we’re a team for the Premier League.

“Now we have to wait and see what happens at Old Trafford. Hopefully Arsenal will do the right things for us.

“If not we have to look to improve for next season, while keeping the same mentality and confidence.”

Benitez insists the fact that Liverpool have kept up their pursuit of United until this stage of the season is an achievement in itself considering the financial gulf between the two clubs.

“United are in this position because they have won more games than us and been more consistent,” he said.

“You can analyse and look at how they have won a lot of games 1-0 but the fact is the better team will be the one at the end with the most points.

“When you talk about United you are talking about a top side who have been spending big money on a lot of top class players. That’s the main difference between them and the other teams.

“They can make mistakes and they can change players without anyone noticing.

“If you remember our game against them they had Giggs, Scholes and Berbatov on the bench.

“We cannot do things like this. We have to have Gerrard and Torres out there all the time.

“They can play Berbatov, Rooney, Ronaldo or Tevez. That means big money and that’s because they have 75,000 fans in their stadium every week.

“There is a massive difference in the money they have got but on the pitch we are reducing the gap. We’ve made progress and clearly have to be really proud of the team’s performance this season.

“We have to be positive but it doesn’t mean next year will be easier. Every year is different and in the summer we have to ensure we do the right things.

“We will need to bring in new players to keep up the competition for places.”

If Liverpool’s title push does fall short Benitez knows critics will point to the home draws against the likes of Stoke, Hull, West Ham and Fulham.

“I agree maybe they cost us but in some of these games we had maybe 20 or 25 attempts on goal and their keeper was man of the match,” he added.

“We just didn’t take our chances and we had bad luck.

“Against Stoke we had an early goal disallowed and that could have made a massive difference.

“In the home games against Newcastle and Blackburn we scored in the first half and then those games were easy.

“The fact is are in the position we deserve to be.”

Real Success Means Silverware - Liverpool FC Star Xabi Alonso

If he was around today, Bill Shankly would be proud of Xabi Alonso.

For while a season of genuine progress at Anfield may be good enough for some, it is certainly nowhere near good enough for the Spanish midfielder who clearly subscribes to the famous Shanklyism about first being first and second being nowhere.

With just two games remaining the chances of Liverpool winning the title have all but run out and Alonso cannot hide his disappointment that the wait for the league championship to be paraded at Anfield now looks set to go into a 20th year.

“In terms of the Premier League it has been better than it has before but if you don’t win anything you can't consider it to be a good season,” he said.

“We have to be disappointed with ourselves, try to be critics and try to analyse the things that we haven’t done properly.

“Of course you also have to think that we have made progress in the Premier League and we have to keep working on this basis but you also know that success means winning trophies for Liverpool.

“It’s very painful to look back and think of the draws that we had and the two defeats we have had also.

“It’s only natural to think where would we be if we had managed to get another good result?

“But then all the teams in the Premier League can say the same thing.”

As was the case last summer, Alonso’s Liverpool future has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks with suggestions that he could be sacrificed by Rafa Benitez to fund squad rebuilding.

Arsenal and Man City are both reported to be potential suitors but it is Real Madrid whose interest is strongest with presidential candidate having identified Alonso as the player he wants to build a new midfield around at the Bernabeu.

But the man himself remains sanguine about the situation, prefering to focus his thoughts on Liverpool’s future rather than his own.

He said: “I have seen this kind of situation so many times in my career and at the moment it is just speculation and rumours and you can't be talking about them because there is nothing more than this so far.

“It is more important at this time to think of how we can be even better this season and this probably means keeping the good basis that we have settled on this season and by trying to go a little bit further.

“Also by trying to make sure that we take all three points in games where we are maybe not at our best and then maybe at the end of the season this could make a big difference.”

In recent weeks, it looks like that very penny has begun to drop at Anfield with Liverpool having won eight and drawn one of their last nine league games in a run which has allowed them to push Man United all the way in the title race.

Their attacking play has been reinvigorated with 38 goals scored in their last dozen fixtures and though not obsessed with hitting the back of the net himself Alonso is delighted with the way improved collective confidence has resulted in improved output.

“I think it’s a state of mind more than anything,” he said. “Whenever you are confident all the players are in the mood to score goals, not just the usual names.

“We have had different players scoring goals in this week and that is good and overall the attacking play has been good.

“I am not obsessed with trying to score 15 goals or 10 goals myself. If I can help by scoring goals then that would be great, of course but my responsibility in the team is probably a different one because of the position and the job that I have to do on the pitch.”

Alonso is hoping to be back in action on Sunday when Liverpool travel to West Brom after an ankle injury suffered in a challenge by Newcastle’s Joey Barton meant he missed last weekend’s win over West Ham.

Though disappointed at the way the injury came about and aware of the fact that Barton was the sixth player to be sent off for a foul on him this season, the 27-year-old insists that he is not being deliberately targeted by opposition teams.

He said: “Whenever you can't control and injury you are going to be really disappointed but when it is a harsh tackle you are probably going to be even more disappointed.

“It wasn’t in the right moment and it wasn’t a fair tackle.

“But I don’t think that other teams are targeting me. I think it is just part of the game, challenges happen all the time.

“I’m not scared of course because if you want to play in England then you have to understand this part of the game. I know that the physical approach is very strong here and you can't avoid going into tackles or challenging for the ball.”

While no team prizes appear to be headed Liverpool’s way this season, Steven Gerrard has at least scooped a personal accolade by being named football writers player of the year, an award Alonso feels his captain fully deserves.

“I think that it is totally deserved after the season that Steven has played,” he added.

“He has scored so many important goals for the team and he is a very important player for us.

“We all know his qualities – he has great power, great spirit, he is a very complete player who can defend as well as attack.

“And whenever you need an important goal he delivers so many times and because of this it makes things much easier for the team.

“This season he has been playing in a slightly different role, more as a second striker than as a traditional midfielder, and I think this is a position that suits him really well.”

Dirk Kuyt Warns Rivals That Liverpool Will Be Serious Title Contenders Next Season

Consider the master Dutch footballers - Cruyff, Van Basten, Van Persie - all incredibly gifted but also temperamental and a touch arrogant.

And Dirk Kuyt? He is the complete opposite - a dedicated team man with a super-human work-rate, rock-solid temperament and modesty to the point of shyness.

His self-deprecating humour is so strong that he will readily tell you how different he is to the stereotype Dutch footballer.

"I have heard the jokes that I can't be from Holland, and I know that I am not a typical Dutch player. Maybe I am different to the typical Dutch character too," he said.

"I'm from a fishing village where you have to work really hard, at sea five or six days a week, come home for one day and then be off working even for weeks at a time, so the mentality comes from that I think.

"That is my character, which is what the Liverpool fans see. But if you are talking football-wise then I am definitely not a typical Dutch player.

"You think of them being technically gifted, like Cruyff and Van Basten, Bergkamp and Van Persie - I am just a different kind of player.

"I do like to work very hard every game, but I enjoy myself, and maybe I'm a little more than just hard work.

"I am happy with what I have achieved so far with my own style, and I am still very hungry to do better. I still have the feeling that I can progress, get better and achieve more." Given Holland's history of internal squabbling within their squads, it is clear that Kuyt really is cut from a different cloth.

His attitude and incredible spirit has been a key factor for Liverpool this season, making him arguably their most impressive performer.

He has scored 15 goals and created countless others, and after experiencing the lows of a horrible period last season when it seemed he may even leave, things are finally going his way again. Not that Kuyt is surprised.

Throughout his career he has had people tell him he's not good enough, that he is out of his depth and he can go no further.

Each time he has defied the predictions.

"When I was a kid I didn't get picked up by a professional club, and was just an amateur so I could never have dreamt that I would be part of a club like this.

"I was with an amateur club called Quick Boys and my dream was simply to play in the first team. So to be here now is beyond my wildest dreams.

"When I first started my career, people tried to tell me I wouldn't be a professional, I wouldn't play for a big club in Holland, I wouldn't reach the national team, I wouldn't play for an important club in Europe, and I wouldn't survive at Anfield.

"And I have always proved them wrong, I have always reached the next level. I am still getting better, still reaching my targets and still learning every day.

"Every step along that way I have had another dream and have achieved it. So I will not stop dreaming until we get what we want with Liverpool, and that is the title, this season or next." At every stage of his career Kuyt has overcome hardship and heartache. His father died 18 months ago, a tragedy that struck him during one of the lowest points of his career.

But he has overcome everything, and he believes that even if Manchester United, as now seems certain, are crowned champions tomorrow, then Liverpool will overhaul them next season. "This team can be proud of itself, and the way we have played this season no matter what happens in the final week, we can raise our heads high.

"We have beaten the biggest teams, United and Chelsea, twice each in the league. We can say that there were too many draws in the home games, but you have to learn from it because we are a young team.

"We have a sense now, a really strong belief that we can go on and achieve what we want because the quality is there and the progress is there. If it is not enough this time we will definitely be there for the big push next season.

"The team is getting more experienced, and importantly, the players are now in it for the long term. Important players have agreed new contracts and they all believe they are part of something big. The belief is there." If it happens, no one will be prouder than Kuyt, and not just because once again he will have defied incredible odds.

When his father, Dirk senior, died, he offered his son one final piece of advice.

"I am proud that my father was able to watch me play here at Liverpool in my first year, and the last game he ever watched was the Champions League final which was at the highest level in one of the biggest finals and I scored.

"His wish was that I stay here as long as possible, and that is my wish too. I want to be part of what is happening at Anfield.

"The proudest moment for me was signing for this club, being part of one of the biggest clubs in the world, and of course my father was proud of that fact.

"It is a famous club, one of the biggest in the world, and to be part of it with such a great history for me is something you want to be around as long as possible.

"Every year I am here I am proud. Every year you have to fight for your place and every year there are better and better players coming here to take your place, so I am proud to still be here and to have a new three-year contract."

Rafa Demands Schedule Changes

Rafa Benitez believes games involving teams that are challenging for the title and fighting against relegation should be played at the same time.

The Liverpool boss added that this would eradicate any unfair advantage gained from playing before of after your rivals.

Manchester United could have already wrapped up the Premier League title if they secure a point against Arsenal on Saturday before the Reds have even taken to the field at West Brom 24 hours later.

In the last four games the two sides have played in the same weekend they have only played on the same day once and even then United faced Tottenham in the evening kick-off knowing that Liverpool had beaten Hull City earlier in the day.

"Yes it is something we can improve in the future because over the last few weeks I think it is better to play at the same time," the Spaniard said.

"The teams that are fighting to avoid relegation and the teams fighting for the title, I think that if you play at the same time the last two games it will be the same for everyone. At least in Spain it is like this."

Despite United needing just a point from their remaining two games to secure their third successive title Benitez is not giving up until it is mathematically impossible for his side to wrestle the crown away from the Red Devils.

"I think so. You always have to think about the positive," he added.

"We have to get three points in our game and see if we can fight. If not we will fight to finish second.

"Arsenal is a good team they have a lot of quality and because of the defeat in the last game they have to prove something.

"He (Arsene Wenger) is a winner so he will want to win too and the players will not want lose like they have lost the last games and try to do your best."

Tony Barrett: Steven Gerrard Richly Deserves To Win Footballer Of The Year Award

Steven Gerrard had barely had time to digest the news that he had been named Footballer of the Year before some critics had started questioning the Liverpool captain’s right to the award.

Just like an A-level student who has just got a string of A grades only for the usual parade of mealy mouthed media mouthpieces to take the wind out of their sails by claiming exams ain’t what they used to be, Gerrard discovered that success in this country may well have a thousand fathers it also has many more naysayers.

It was the same for Ryan Giggs when he won the PFA version of the award even though the Manchester United star had come out on top after a democratic vote of his peers.

Surely, whatever misgivings anyone has about these decisions you have to yield to the right of those who are making them, particularly if they are the very people who actually play the game.

The question marks raised about the country’s football writers electing Gerrard as their annual player of most distinction seem to be based on the fact that the Anfield hero’s team is likely to end the season empty handed.

To be the best individual, the logic seems to go, you have to be part of the best team and in this case the chances are United will again be out in front of the rest of the pack and as such one of their players should have won the award.

But what is the point of an individual award if it isn’t about individuals?

No fewer than five Old Trafford stars were in the running for the football writers gong, suggesting United have more top class, top performing players than any other club in the country, as their status as likely league champions and Champions League finalists suggests.

Surely that means it is easier for their big names to shine than it is for players at other clubs who do not have quite as much quality in their ranks?

By contrast, Gerrard was Liverpool’s only nomination – despite the very obvious claims of Xabi Alonso who has enjoyed an outstanding season – and the fact that he was the sole representative of his club is a very clear indication of what a fine individual campaign he has had.

A running total of 23 goals in all competitions put the Reds skipper level with Nicolas Anelka, a player widely viewed as the most natural of goalscorers, and just a couple behind the moody but magnificent Cristiano Ronaldo who was last season’s top scorer.

This in a campaign when niggling injuries have meant that Gerrard has played fewer games than both of his main rivals for the golden boot.

It isn’t just his prowess in front of goal which makes Gerrard such a worthy winner though, it is the whole package you get from a player whom even Zinedine Zidane has described as the best in the world.

Look for a weakness in his game and it is more difficult to find than an MP without an expenses form.

Power, pace, technical ability, versatility, leadership skills – Gerrard has got the lot and what’s more, unlike many footballers, he displays his talents on an almost weekly basis.

There was a time earlier in his career when question marks were somewhat unfairly placed over his performances in big games with one former Liverpool coach arguing that Gerrard’s desire to do well in them was so big that it became all consuming and stopped him from producing his best.

Arguably, equally important was the fact that back then Liverpool relied on him so much that it became easier for their rivals to negate his influence on games.

The comparatively recent additions of Alonso and to an even greater extent Fernando Torres mean that Gerrard is no longer the sole focus of opponents' attentions and this is the main reason why his game has reached another level in the last couple of seasons.

So when the 28-year-old said that he could not have won the writers award without the help of his team mates he was absolutely spot on because the current Liverpool team is bringing out the very best in him.

Never was this more evident than against Man United at Old Trafford and Real Madrid at Anfield where Gerrard produced the biggest of performances against the biggest of clubs.

Those two displays highlighted all that is good about Gerrard as his free running style created numerous opportunities for his team and his ceaseless ambition and peerless talent rendered Liverpool’s opponents powerless.

If you can perform like that on such massive occasions then the player of the year crown should be worn with the most immense pride because not only have you earned it, you also richly deserve it – no matter what the naysayers may say.

Gerrard Talks Up Brazilian Youngster

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes Lucas Leiva has a bright future at the club, despite some of the Anfield Faithfull’s criticism of the player.

The newly crowned Football Writer’s Player of the year told the club’s official website: “Lucas has had criticism from people, and for me that's unfair. He's a young lad still learning his trade,”

“He does a lot of hard work that goes unnoticed in this team by many people, but we as players notice it.”

“He's come in to a lot of big games where the manager has basically said to him 'it's sink or swim'. And for me he has swam.”

“He's done very well for us when he's been called upon, and he's certainly got a bright future here.”

Leiva has struggled to break into the Liverpool first team and has found his route blocked by the brilliant form of Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano.

The Brazilian international was signed from Gremio in 2007 for a reputed £6 million transfer fee.

Carlsberg Keen To Have Name On New Anfield

Liverpool's shirt sponsor Carlsberg want their name on the Premier League club's new stadium, but the brewing company say they need assurances about the team's financial strength before extending its long-standing commercial partnership.

Their ties with the club stretch back to 1991, and the current contract, worth £7m per year, expires at the end of the 2009-10 season.

In announcing Carlsberg's intentions the head of sponsorship, Gareth Roberts, indicated his company would be monitoring the club's ability to refinance a loan of around £250m and, more crucially, progress on a new stadium.

The new 60,000-seat venue on the adjacent Stanley Park was due to have been ready by 2011, but the global economic downturn forced the co-owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr, to halt building work last year. Carlsberg, though, are still keen on the new stadium bearing their name.

"That will be part of the discussion I'm sure, but there's been no decisions yet," Roberts said.

Roberts found the off-field tensions between Hicks and Gillett distracting, but last month's show of unity, with the Americans sitting together during the 4-4 draw with Arsenal, was an encouraging sign as negotiations between the parties intensify.

"We need to understand where they are going with the stadium, what is the next step?" Roberts told the Associated Press. "[The ownership situation] is a distraction. The best thing is they seem to have resolved the internal issues and they are going to take the next step. If it's done in the right way and they take the next step then absolutely.

"The ownership issue is also about the stadium and the financial setup. The stadium is a big step of their progression in the future and we want to be part of that."

Naming rights have been on the owners' agenda since they bought the club in 2007, with Gillett saying the windfall could subsidise buying a high-profile player every year.

Xabi Alonso Staying At Liverpool, Says Rafa Benitez

Rafa Benitez insists Xabi Alonso will remain at Anfield beyond this summer.

The 27-year-old’s future has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks with Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid all linked with a move for the Spaniard.

Alonso, who is fit to return to the squad for tomorrow’s clash at West Brom, has enjoyed an impressive campaign at the heart of Liverpool’s midfield.

And the Reds boss has ruled out sacrificing him to fund any squad rebuilding.

“Xabi has been doing really well this season,” Benitez said.

“He’s a key player for us and with him being fit again it will give us a different option in midfield.

“Xabi has been talking about how he wants to stay here and we certainly want to keep him so I don’t think there will be any problems.”

Meanwhile, Benitez has criticised the Premier League for failing to ensure clubs kick-off at the same time this weekend.

Manchester United need just a point from their home clash with Arsenal today to be crowned champions ahead of Liverpool’s trip to the Midlands tomorrow.

Benitez wants the last two weekend schedules of the season to be played at the same time, rather than just the last day as it is now.

“This is a strange situation, having games so close to the end of the season on different days,” he said. “It is something that should be improved in the future.

“For the last two weeks of the season, teams fighting for the title or to avoid relegation should have their matches all at the same time.

“The last two games should be the same for everyone, in Spain it is like this.”

West Brom, who haven’t beaten Liverpool since 1981, must win tomorrow if they are going to keep their survival bid alive.

Benitez believes Baggies boss Tony Mowbray deserves praise for persisting with an attacking style despite their relegation battle.

“For West Brom it has been very difficult, always fighting against relegation,” Benitez said.

“And it is a pity because they try to play good football.

“You look at some teams at the bottom of the table and they play long ball, physical and a different style.

“It all depends on the players you have.

“It is unfair to criticise Tony Mowbray for trying to play good football.

“Each manager has his own ideas on style, and you have to respect what people do.”