Match Report: West Bromwich 0 - 2 LiverpooL

West Brom's top-flight life was squeezed out of them by a Liverpool side who tightened their grip on second place in the Premier League.

Liverpool scored a goal in each half to extend their unbeaten run to 10 games, including nine victories.

But Liverpool were left with the hollow feeling of knowing that even the best points total in the club's history had failed to stop Manchester United equalling their record of 18 titles.

Albion, sticking to their attacking policy to the last, have been battling the drop all season and this was their third relegation from the top flight in seven years.

They fought to the end, and there were more cheers than tears from their defiant fans at the end.

But Liverpool were a class above as Steven Gerrard struck his 24th goal of the season - his best ever tally - in the first half and then set up Dirk Kuyt for the second just after the hour mark.

It was enough to take them to within one point of securing second spot.

West Brom made three changes from the side that beat Wigan last week and were rocked before kick-off by Sunday newspaper allegations against striker Roman Bednar, who was suspended pending a club investigation.

Boss Tony Mowbray brought in Robert Koren, Ryan Donk and Youssouf Mulumbu for Borja Valero, Marek Cech and Graham Dorrans, the latter out for the season with a broken foot.

Liverpool recalled Daniel Agger and Emiliano Insua for Martin Skrtel and Fabio Aurelio.

Initially the edge may well have been taken off Liverpool's challenge, but certainly not from Albion, who hurled themselves into the battle knowing that defeat would see them relegated.

And after just four minutes they were almost ahead. Chris Brunt's corner curled in from the right to Jonathan Greening on the far post who forced a stunning save from Jose Reina. The goalkeeper also blocked the follow-up.

Reina then pushed away another Greening effort, this time from the right, as corners and crosses rained in on the Liverpool defence.

And the tackles were flying in. Mulumbu caught Gerrard from behind, while Agger and Insua were both dispossessed.

Liverpool were not being allowed to play the game at their own pace and looked uncomfortable.

Liverpool needed to impose themselves on the game with a goal and it almost came when Fernando Torres had two efforts saved from Gerrard's free-kick, with Insua's follow-up being blocked by a mass of Albion bodies.

Greening was booked for a foul on Lucas after 25 minutes, before a shocking piece of defending gifted Liverpool the lead after 28 minutes.

Defender Shelton Martis, with plenty of time on his hands to clear, hesitated in possession and scuffed the ball straight to Gerrard.

The Liverpool skipper surged away and clipped the ball over Dean Kiely for his 24th goal of the season.

Liverpool were gaining a measure of control by now, and five minutes later Gerrard drove wide from a Kuyt lay-off before Kiely touched a Torres header onto the bar following a Gerrard chip into the box.

Then Jonas Olsson was booked for a foul on Torres before reacting furiously to what he considered was a Gerrard dive in the box.

Five minutes into the second half Liverpool replaced Javier Mascherano with Xabi Alonso, the Argentina captain having struggled with a thigh injury for much of the first period.

Albion were still showing great spirit, and Reina saved low to his left from a Juan Carlos Menseguez drive.

Albion then sent on an extra forward in Valero, replacing Martis, with attack now being the only thing that would save them.

They had strong claims for a penalty turned down after 60 minutes when Lucas' last ditch challenge sent Donk tumbling as he went for a Menseguez cross.

But after 63 minutes Liverpool struck again. Gerrard fed Kuyt and the Dutchmen surged at retreating defenders before drilling the ball past Kiely from the edge of the box.

Liverpool sent on Ryan Babel for Torres, with Albion replacing Mulumbu with another forward in Luke Moore.

Moore struck a post, Jamie Carragher hurled himself to block a Marc-Antoine Fortune effort and was involved in a remarkable exchange of words and pushes with colleague Alvaro Arbeloa.

Fortune then had an effort disallowed for offside while Babel and Lucas missed chances at the other end.

Albion kept going to the end, but this time the great escape was beyond them.

Carragher Explains Bust-Up

Jamie Carragher has explained his astonishing on-field bust-up with Alvaro Arbeloa at the Hawthorns on Sunday.

Liverpool were 2-0 up against West Brom when the pair were involved in a heated exchange after Carragher had to block Marc-Antoine Fortune's close-range shot.

The referee had to tell the pair to calm down, while Reds boss Rafa Benitez - while pleased with their character - was disappointed in the way their passion was shown.

Afterwards, Carragher admitted goalkeeper Jose Reina's bid for this season's Golden Glove award was behind the disagreement.

He told the club's official website: "We can't win the league now but there are a number of targets we can aim for.

"We want to keep a clean sheet and we want Pepe to have a chance of the Golden Glove for the third season running.

"Pepe is one behind (Edwin) Van der Sar now and there's a chance Van der Sar won't play next week, so we wanted to make sure he got a clean sheet today.

"To be honest we were a bit lackadaisical in our defending all through the game and they had too many chances.

"Maybe we took it a bit too easy and let them attack us too much, but that was one of the toughest games I've played in all season.

"We go all over Europe playing top teams and we play against the best sides in this country, but that was one of the hardest games we've had."

The Kop favourite is already looking forward to making another challenge on the Premier League title next year.

"It's hard to win the Premier League because our top four sides plus Barcelona probably make up the best five sides in Europe," he said. "That's the challenge we face.

"You can look at the statistics from this season and it's impressive that we've only lost two games and scored lots of goals, but United have got more points than us and credit to them because that's what matters.

"We have to make sure we finish second now and win our last game of the season next weekend."

Benitez In Fergie Title Snub

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has refused to end his on-going row with rival Sir Alex Ferguson despite Manchester United ending the clubs' on-pitch battle by retaining the Premier League title this weekend.

The Red Devils secured their third successive championship on Saturday to move level with the Anfield outfit's all-time English record of 18 titles and although Benitez offered reluctant congratulations to the team as a whole he pointedly refused to acknowledge Ferguson.

Benitez said: "I will say congratulations to Manchester United. They have done well, but I do not want to say too much. I prefer just to say well done to the club, a big club, a good club."

Benitez and Ferguson have rarely seen eye-to-eye this season, with the Liverpool boss launching an astonishing pre-meditated attack earlier in the season when he presented an A4 sheet of "facts" criticising United and their manager.

Ferguson responded by accusing Benitez of "arrogance" and "contempt" in his dealings with fellow managers and the duo have been sniping at each other all season.

Benitez added: "Normally you have to be polite and respect the other manager. During the season we have seen a lot of things that I didn't like, so that's it.

"I say congratulations to United because they have won. And that's it."

Liverpool assured themselves of second place with a 2-0 win over West Bromwich Albion on Sunday and Benitez feels he has laid down a marker by pushing United this season.

But the Reds boss could not resist a further dig at Ferguson when asked to define what have been the deciding factors in the title race.

"They have had better quality on the bench. When they played us they had [Paul] Scholes, [Ryan] Giggs and [Dimitar] Berbatov on the bench. I am really pleased that we have got 83 points with the squad we have.

"When you are prepared to pay £20m or £30m for players it is easier to win the title," he added.

Bruce To Beat Pompey For Pennant

Wigan Athletic boss Steve Bruce is set to beat Portsmouth in the race for Liverpool wingman Jermaine Pennant who is available on a free transfer.

The former Birmingham player has been on loan at Portsmouth but it`s his connections with Bruce from their days together at St. Andrews` that will swing a deal the way of the Latics.

With Antonio Valencia off to Manchester United at the end of the season there is a massive void down the Latics right that needs to be filled and Bruce sees Pennant as just the man to do it.

Bruce stuck by Pennant during troubled times and the former England under 21 star hasn`t forgotten that, the deal should be tied up in the next few weeks.

Rafa Targeting Shrewd Summer

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is targeting shrewd summer buys as he bids to close the gap on Manchester United.

The Reds have failed to win a Premier League title but this year came close - taking United almost to the wire.

Benitez knows he must strengthen his squad in the summer to bridge the gap - but as Liverpool lack the financial might of the Red Devils, he must buy wisely.

The Spaniard said: "Clearly they (Man United) have spent big, big money on top class players so they can make mistakes and change players and you don't notice.

"If you remember when we played them they had Giggs, Scholes and Berbatov on the bench - we can't do this.

"We are talking about Gerrard and Torres all the time and they can play Berbatov, Rooney, Ronaldo or Tevez - it doesn't matter.

"They can hold 35,000 more fans in their stadium and that means more money which is a big difference.

"So how can you reduce the gap? Now, on the pitch we are reducing the gap which is very important. So we have to do the right things during the summer and keep the same mentality on the pitch."

Benitez believes investing in a bigger squad will pay dividends at the business end of the season.

"I think we have performed really well during the season, but it is impossible to keep this level if you don't have a big squad," he said.

"Some Manchester United players have spoken about the value of having a big squad saying that you can notice the difference at the end of the season.

"On the pitch we must perform at the same level, but you need to bring in new players and maintain the same level and keep the competition between the players - with everybody working hard and trying to be positive because there is a big difference every year in terms of money."

Liverpool In Danger Of Being Left Behind By Manchester United

As the final whistle blew at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon, it was not coincidence that Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney were the first to jump off the bench to jump on the backs of their team-mates. The two team-mates were born ten years apart, in 1975 and 1985, but, growing up as rabid supporters of Manchester United and Everton respectively, they longed for this day, the day that every Liverpool supporter had come to dread.

They still have their five European Cups to United’s three — it might well be 5-4 by a week on Wednesday — but, when news reached Liverpool’s supporters on Saturday that their proud record of 18 league titles had finally been equalled by their fiercest rivals, it was if an almighty tremor had gone through their world.

A season that brought their most convincing title challenge of the Premier League era has ended with Liverpool joined on English football’s pedestal and the concern now is that, unless they can overcome the odds next season, they are in danger of being left behind by United as the battle for the nineteenth title gets under way. Perhaps it is why Jamie Carragher’s emotions were running so high yesterday, as he clashed with Álvaro Arbeloa, his team-mate, in the closing stages of a largely routine 2-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion. Perhaps it is why Rafael Benítez has been highlighting the poverty gap and the desperate need to build a new stadium that will allow Liverpool to compete financially with the rivals.

This was a moment that a Liverpool shareholder foretold during a testy annual meeting at Anfield almost a decade ago, daring to state the unspoken truth that United, having trailed by 18 titles to seven until 1993, were on course to catch up by the end of this decade.

Some have ventured in recent days that Benítez, having spent heavily since his arrival at Anfield in 2004 and having bemoaned the absences of Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres for large chunks of this season, has only himself to blame for Liverpool’s failure to widen the gap, in title terms, on United. It is a lazy assessment that ignores the fact that Benítez, like Ferguson when he arrived at Old Trafford in 1986, inherited a lousy squad that he has improved year by year.

Benítez has spent heavily in recent years, often with mixed results, but so has Ferguson. United’s latest success has had rather less to do with those players bought in the past two years — Dimitar Berbatov, Anderson, Nani, Owen Hargreaves, Carlos Tévez, signed at a projected outlay of almost £100 million — than previous signings, such as Rio Ferdinand, Michael Carrick, Patrice Evra, Nemanja Vidic, Cristiano Ronaldo and Rooney, and those who were brought through the ranks, such as Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, John O’Shea and Darren Fletcher.

The same might easily be said of Liverpool this season. They have been far better served by their established players than by last summer’s intake — Andrea Dossena, Albert Riera or Robbie Keane (remember him?) — none of whom remotely threatened to be the elusive last piece in the Anfield jigsaw. When one of Benítez’s signings does not cut the mustard, such as Keane, he gets rid, often with indecent haste. Ferguson, faced with the same situation, as he may be with Berbatov as well as the disappointing Nani, indulges his player for as long as possible, partly because it is in his nature and partly because he can afford to.

Benítez will revive his bid to sign Gareth Barry from Aston Villa in the coming weeks — surely he will not make the mistake of selling Xabi Alonso, who has been arguably his most impressive performer this season — and he will also look to sign a central defender, but far more intriguing is his bid to capture Tévez from United or, to be more precise, from the companies that own the Argentina forward’s economic rights.

Tévez would give Liverpool a little of what they have been missing — a quality centre forward who would ease the goalscoring burden on Torres — but he would also bring a much-needed sense of devilment. It has come to that for Liverpool. Over the 19 years since their last league title, the tables have turned. It is not Benítez’s fault, but, as the battle for the nineteenth title begins, it is most certainly his problem.

Steven Gerrard Close To Signing New Liverpool Contract

Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard is set to sign his new contract with the club in the next few weeks, according to the player himself.

The Reds captain agreed to a new contract last month, stating that it would be signed once the season is over.

This now seems set to go through as the England international revealed he would sign a new four-year-contract in the next few weeks.

The 28-year-old also stated he has to sort a couple of minor details with the club before he signs, and is desperate for silverware with the club he has been with since he was nine.

Speaking to The People, Gerrard 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.''

The Reds skipper has played a total of 331 Premier League games for the club, scoring 70 goals.

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.”