Match Report: LIverpooL 2 - 2 Manchester City

Liverpool proved they are not ready to be replaced in the top flight elite by Manchester City just yet as Yossi Benayoun's equaliser secured a draw at Anfield.

The mega-rich men from Eastlands arrived on Merseyside intent on proving they were top four material but they found a Liverpool side in defiant mood despite more injury problems.

Martin Skrtel put Liverpool in front but Emmanuel Adebayor and Stephen Ireland sent City ahead before Benayoun equalised.

Despite the furore over Liverpool's use of a Belgrade clinic to get players fit for a key week of vital matches in Europe and the Premier League, all four of the men sent to Serbia for treatment failed to make the starting line-up.

Glen Johnson was not even on the bench, where Benayoun, Albert Riera and Fabio Aurelio were initially named.

Liverpool had Steven Gerrard, Ryan Babel and Jamie Carragher, the latter after a ban, returning from the side that drew with Birmingham last time out.

Manchester City made one change from the side that were held at home by Burnley last time out, Nigel De Jong coming into the side in place of Carlos Tevez, who was a substitute.

Liverpool started well, Gerrard attacking the right flank of City's defence when the opportunity arose.

The first chance came after five minutes from a free-kick following a Gareth Barry foul on Dirk Kuyt.

Gerrard swung the set-piece in from the right, Daniel Agger flicked on and centre-back partner Skrtel saw a free header from the left brilliantly saved by Shay Givens.

Agger, though, was injured in the incident after clashing heads with Kolo Toure. The young Dane's legs buckled under him as he was receiving treatment and he was carried off suffering from concussion.

Greek defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos was soon on as substitute, a reshuffle Liverpool did not need against the pace of Emmanuel Adebayor, with Craig Bellamy itching to run at Carragher on the left.

Soon Liverpool suffered more injury trouble. Babel was hurt in a collision with De Jong, and needed treatment on the line.

Babel lasted only a couple of minutes more after his limping return and was replaced by Benayoun.

City was intent on containment and eventual control. De Jong effectively regained midfield possession to set in motion City's calm, thoughtful approach play.

Toure, suffering following an earlier tackle with Gerrard, was replaced at the break by Nedum Onuoha.

And Liverpool produced the lift the game needed with a goal after 49 minutes.

Pablo Zabaleta had given away a needless free-kick for holding Ngog on the left, and when Gerrard swung the set-play into the box, Skrtel was there first in front of Adebayor to stab home from six yards.

City needed to up their game now, and with the fire-power of Tevez and Roque Santa Cruz on the bench, they certainly had the ammunition.

And they waited until the hour mark to withdraw Barry and send on Tevez, who instantly drew a booking for Lucas following a tangle on the half-way line.

City cranked up the pressure as Liverpool fell deeper, and they were level after 69 minutes. Bellamy's corner swirled into the box and it was Adebayor's turn to lose Skrtel this time, heading the ball down into the turf from where it bounced high into the top corner.

City struck again after 76 minutes when Tevez and Wright-Phillips worked well to create a chance for Stephen Ireland to flick the ball past Reina.

Liverpool's response came within 60 seconds. Ngog crossed from the right, the ball deflecting to Benayoun who forced it home from a couple of yards out.

Rafa Happy With Character

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez praised his side's character after they fought back for a 2-2 draw with Manchester City.

Yossi Benayoun's goal earned Liverpool a draw after goals from Emmanuel Adebayor and Stephen Ireland cancelled out Martin Skrtel's opener for the home side.

The draw means Liverpool have only won once in their last ten games in all competitions, but Benitez was happy with the attitude of his players.

"We're a little bit disappointed, we had chances at the end. But with the problems we had, making two substitutions in the first 18 minutes, to still come back we showed very good character. Until the last minute we were still pushing," Benitez told Sky Sports 1.

"The players worked so hard. You could see that even with a lot of problems we were winning and even though we conceded the first goal then the second, you could still see the character of the team.

"In the circumstances I thought we were very good."

Benitez saw his injury problems increase after Daniel Agger and Ryan Babel were forced off with knocks in the opening 20 minutes.

Agger sustained a deep cut after a clash of heads, while Dutchman Babel limped off with an ankle injury.

Benitez is unsure if the duo will be fit for Liverpool's vital UEFA Champions League clash with Debrecen this week, but is hopeful Albert Riera, who was an unused substitute against City and Glen Johnson will be available for the trip to Hungary.

"Agger has five stitches and Babel has a problem with his ankle, but it's too early to say and we have to wait," noted Benitez.

"I think it was important for Yossi Benayoun to come through today. On the bench was Albert Riera and hopefully (Glen) Johnson (will return). Maybe we'll have some more coming back."

Despite dropping more points Benitez is confident his side can end their slump in form once all their players are back to full fitness.

"With some players available and fit we are much better," said Benitez. "We are still bringing players back from injury. Gerrard was tired, (David) Ngog was tired and we had to make two substitutes early on."

Benitez Sure Of Top-Four Finish

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez insisted his side will finish in the Champions League places following their 2-2 home draw with Manchester City.

The Reds have lost five and drawn two of their opening 13 Premier League matches and are now 13 points adrift of Premier League leaders Chelsea.

But a defiant Benitez said: "When we have all our players coming back I am confident we will start winning games.

"If we can improve and play at our level, we will finish in the top four."

Despite the draw against fellow Champions League-hopefuls City, Liverpool are still within two points of fourth-placed Aston Villa.

Injuries to Daniel Agger and Ryan Babbel during the game added to their ever-growing injury worries and Glen Johnson was ruled out before the game.

But Benitez, who is also without key striker Fernando Torres, expects a noticeable upturn in their fortunes when some of the sidelined stars return.

"We had a shocking day with injuries," said Liverpool's Spanish manager, whose side have managed just one win in 10 matches in all competitions.

"Glen was not happy with his calf and he had been limping a bit in training.

"Then we lose Agger and Babel. We had one problem after another. We had to use players who have not been training with the squad, but we still managed to score first.

"We felt we could hang on, then they scored twice and we had to show great character to hit back at them to get the equaliser.

"We then had a couple of great chances at the end and could have won the game.

"You cannot be happy with a home draw, but to lose three players is very difficult.

"And of course we had three players on the bench who have been for treatment in Belgrade and had not been training with the team.

"It is not easy to manage, but the reaction of the players was fantastic. You cannot ask for more from players in such a position."

Why Rafa Benitez Needs To Release The Handbrake - And Throw In Aquilani - To Save Liverpool's Season

Rafa Benitez needs to drop the handbrake and throw in Alberto Aquilani to put Liverpool’s season into top gear.

This is a crossroads fixture for both teams and already seen as crucial for Liverpool and Manchester City.

But City have missed the chance to put daylight between themselves and Liverpool in recent weeks.

City have got stuck in a rut with draws while Liverpool have stuttered badly but are still in touch with the top four.

Liverpool are unquestionably a different team with Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres fit and starting.

But the player that Benitez really starts to need pushing forward is Aquilani, all £20m worth of him.

Aquilani is an attack-minded player and maybe that is why Benitez has been very cautious about bringing him in and starting with him even after his lengthy injury lay-off.

But if you’re going to pay big money then surely sooner or later you have to try to reap the rewards.

Benitez was a bit more expansive with the style of football last season and yet this season, with bad results and low confidence, there has been a temptation not to take risks.

Liverpool desperately need a run of results and to start kicking on and there’s only one way to do that - really go for it in games.

The David Ngog dive rather deflected from Liverpool’s draw against a team tipped for relegation. But that was bad and now they need to win games.

Beating City would give the club such a lift and the belief that they can make the top four and also see off one of their main rivals.

A run of games with a few wins would really see them move up the table and Liverpool need their big players to deliver.

It’s not just all about Torres and Gerrard. Others must take responsibility. And when you cost £20m, Aquilani has to deliver.

It’s the same for City as there are big expectations for them this season. People say Mark Hughes must reach the Champions League but I feel fifth would be good progress.

After all, they have had to buy players who were largely not in teams in the Champions League but the next tier down.

When you do that, you get the next best and recent results have told us that City are still a work in progress.

Robinho is the exception to the rule and, with all his sulking and agitating, I would just sell him if I was City.

If Sheikh Mansour can get the money back they paid for him or even close then they should just cut their losses. Simple as that. You don’t want disruptions when you’re trying to build something.

City’s big problem is not the attacking players anyway. Craig Bellamy and Martin Petrov can give them better options to Robinho down the left.

It’s the problem that City have when they don’t have the ball. Gareth Barry and Nigel De Jong are good players but the trouble is the team don’t defend well enough as a unit yet.

It’s not just about the back four struggling but the whole team not giving the likes of Kolo Toure and Joleon Lescott protection.

You can be sure that City will kick on and spend big again in January to try and push for the top four.

But I’ve still got my doubts about whether City can make it and once Liverpool get back in their routine and groove then the top four will probably take on a rather familiar look again.

Henry Cheat Storm Can Aid Liverpool

Rafa Benitez has called on Lyon to restore France's battered reputation - and help Liverpool complete another Euro miracle.

The Reds need Lyon to go from 'cheats' to emblems of fair play against Fiorentina on Tuesday - even though the French club has already qualified for the Champions League group stage.

Four of Lyon's players were part of the France squad whose integrity was hit by Thierry Henry's handball in the World Cup play-off win over Republic of Ireland.

Benitez, whose side face Hungarian whipping boys Debrecen, believes the eyes of the world will be on Lyon.

Draw or defeat for Fiorentina on their own patch will provide Benitez's side a route into the Champions League last 16.

A potential £21million will be lost if the cash-strapped Merseysiders crash out of the competition.

Benitez said: "I don't know if the Henry incident will affect Lyon but it could be good for us. It will be difficult for them but they have quality and players who want to prove something.

"If they want to show everyone in the world they are good professionals and want to win every game, it would be good.

"It could be something that works out positively for Liverpool. Their coach said they would try to win. He is a professional. I know Lyon have a good group of professionals and a good manager."

But Benitez has warned his side not to become preoccupied with events in Italy as they must keep their side of the bargain.

He warned: "We have to do our job. That is the key thing. We can talk about Lyon and Fiorentina but it is something we cannot control. For me, it is all about us winning against Debrecen.

"You cannot influence the other game. We have to concentrate on our job, win our game and then see what happens in the other match.

"If we talk too much about Fiorentina- Lyon, we may lose focus on our game. It would be bad if Lyon won and we didn't. So we have to do our job."

Benitez has been assured his immediate Liverpool future will not be threatened by midweek events in Italy or Hungary.

In contrast to the calamitous Klinsmann- gate saga of 2007, new managing director Christian Purslow is emphatic the club will NOT review Benitez's position on the basis of the Champions League campaign.

League displays will determine the success and failure of the season.

And while a recent bad spell has led to hysteria beyond Anfield's walls, within the corridors of power there is calm. Purslow's message to Benitez - with whom he has immediately established a close working relationship - has been one of understanding, given the injury crisis which has swept through the dressing room in recent weeks.

Purslow's philosophy is: "If we can't qualify this time, it's important to make sure we're at the Champions League party next year."

That stance ensures the Spanish coach will be judged at the end of the season no matter what happens this week. There remains a conviction from Benitez that the return of the cavalry will see order restored at the top of the Premier League.

However, the financial consequences of Liverpool being dumped into the Europa League are dire. The difference between going out at the group stage and the last 16 amounts to just £1.6million in prize money but sides that progress to the later stages reap massive dividends.

When Liverpool last reached the final in 2007 - the first year of the Americans' reign - they earned £24m from the combined prize and TV money. Over half was won AFTER the group stage.

If they go out on Tuesday, Liverpool can expect around £12m for their participation this year. But there will also be celebrations at Old Trafford, Stamford Bridge and the Emirates due to the Anfield exit.

As Premier League runners-up, Liverpool were entitled to 30 per cent of England's ever increasing 'market share' from TV rights. That figure is calculated after the tournament.

Last year, Liverpool received 15 per cent of £50m as the fourth- placed finishers, amounting to £7.5m.

They could have at least doubled that this year.

In their absence, United, Chelsea and Arsenal will divide the Reds' share among themselves according to how far they progress.

Regardless of mounting criticism of Benitez, the Liverpool fans do not trust Tom Hicks or George Gillett to make decisions in the club's long-term interests.

Even Benitez's critics are uncomfortable with the notion of the manager leaving before owners who have inflicted such damage on Liverpool's reputation - especially as they have largely benefited from the Champions League campaigns.

The duo have used previous success to increase the value of the club.

A Liverpool setback in Debrecen will make it more difficult for Hicks and Gillett to attract the kind of investment they are currently pursuing. But it is a top-four finish which remains most significant.

Investors are already baulking at the £100m asking price for a 25 per cent stake in Liverpool.

The Americans will almost certainly have to rethink their strategy if the club falls out of the Euro elite, especially with a deadline looming at the end of March. This is when Liverpool must pass the Premier League 'going concern' test to retain its UEFA licence.

Fernando Torres Losing Battle To Be Fit For Merseyside Derby

Fernando Torres is losing his fight to be fit for next week’s Merseyside derby.

Liverpool’s Spanish striker is sidelined by a groin injury since playing through the pain barrier in the Champions League draw with Lyon at the start of the month. He returned to training last week and was expected to return this week.

But Rafa Benitez has admitted that Torres will miss the Champions League trip to Debrecen on Tuesday night and that the clash with rivals Everton at Goodison Park next Sunday may also be a game too soon.

Benitez said: “Torres had a plan of fitness that would take three weeks working with the physios.

“You can see he is improving all the time, but I would say that he is still maybe 10 days away from being right.

“The next few days will decide whether he will be fit for Everton, but at this moment there are no guarantees.”

Painkilling Injection For Gerrard

Steven Gerrard has had a second painkilling injection to ensure he leads from the front as Liverpool begin another pivotal week.

The Kop skipper returned to the starting line-up for yesterday's Premier League clash with Manchester City after recovering from a groin injury.

Now he's hoping to inspire a Champions League revival against Debrecen on Tuesday.

There were fears the 30-year-old would need an operation to cure any lingering pain.

But another cortisone injection in midweek should prevent the need for surgery.

Gerrard has been desperate to help get Liverpool's season back on track. An operation would only rule him out for three weeks, but with so many important games coming up he knows his club needs him.

"It's been a frustrating few weeks," admitted Gerrard.

"It's been a strange month because as soon as I was fit we had the international break.

"I've been dying to play and can't wait to get going again.

"The mood in the camp is really good. We know our position in the table isn't good enough but we have faith in our ability. We know we can put things right."

Meanwhile, Javier Mascherano's hopes of forcing a January move to Barcelona will end in frustration.

Benitez will not allow further disruption to his squad given the problems this season.

Mascherano has been a shadow of his former self since a £30million deal fell through last summer.

Liverpool will review his future at the end of the season. Until then the Argentine is under orders to forget about a switch to the Nou Camp.

Mark Hughes Plans To Tempt Fernando Torres

Mark Hughes will make another audacious bid to prise Fernando Torres away from Anfield if Manchester City replace Liverpool in the Premier League’s so-called Big Four this season.

Manchester City had a £70million offer for Spain striker Fernando Torres rejected last summer but will go back for him if they qualify for the Champions League for the first time. Rafa Benitez claims he would quit if Torres was sold, insisting £100million is not enough.

But neither that nor failed attempts to sign Kaka and John Terry will deter City from tempting debt-ridden Liverpool with a huge offer next summer. Hughes served notice of his intention to undermine Liverpool when he stole Gareth Barry from under their noses. And his coup de grace would be to tempt Torres.

Match Preview: LiverpooL vs. Manchester City

The first Premier League match of the weekend also happens to be one of the biggest, as Liverpool look to revive their season when they take on top four chasing Manchester City.

The Reds' 2-2 draw with Birmingham City last time out stretched their horror run to one win in nine games. With five league losses already, it would appear that their title race is all but run.

Although Rafael Benitez and his loyal charges have insisted that silverware is still well within their grasp, a top-four finish seems a more realistic target - particularly with the way things are in the Champions League.

Even that relatively humble goal is fraught with obstacles. One of which the 18-time English champions will welcome to Anfield on Saturday lunchtime.

City themselves have a point to prove after a summer of significant investment. Now is the time to show their cash-fuelled rise is no joke and they can mix it with the biggest clubs around.

The Blues currently sit in sixth place - one point ahead of their upcoming opponents. The 3-3 draw with Burnley last time out was their fifth consecutive stalemate in the league and left them further adrift from the leading pack

Thus, the international break could hardly have been timed better for either side. They will both be looking for a result that could save their season.


FORM GUIDE

Liverpool

Nov 9 Liverpool 2-2 Birmingham City
Nov 4 Olympique Lyonnais 1-1 Liverpool
Oct 31 Fulham 3-1 Liverpool
Oct 28 Arsenal 2-1 Liverpool
Oct 25 Liverpool 2-0 Manchester United

Manchester City

Nov 7 Manchester City 3-3 Burnley
Nov 1 Birmingham City 0-0 Manchester City
Oct 28 Manchester City 5-1 Scunthorpe United
Oct 25 Manchester City 2-2 Fulham
Oct 18 Wigan Athletic 1-1 Manchester City


TEAM NEWS

Liverpool

Steven Gerrard didn't join up with the England squad for the glamour game against Brazil and the skipper is fit to start after battling a recurring groin problem. Fernando Torres, however, is all but sure to miss out, along with Yossi Benayoun and Albert Riera.

But there is more good news for manager Benitez, as centre-half Jamie Carragher is available once more after serving a ban for his red card at Fulham.

Alberto Aquilani is an outside chance to make his first start for the club, while defensive duo Glen Johnson and Daniel Agger - who both stayed home over the international break - are expected to play.

Possible starting XI: Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Agger, Insua, Kuyt, Mascherano, Lucas, Aurelio, Gerrard, Ngog.

Manchester City

Gareth Barry sustained a groin injury whilst serving his country in Qatar, but the former Aston Villa captain is in line to face the club that coveted him for so long.

Craig Bellamy - who spent a season at Anfield - finds himself in a similar situation, although he missed Wales' 3-0 win over Scotland.

Nedum Onuoha (thigh) could be fit enough to make the matchday squad, and there are reports that Robinho (ankle) is all set to make his return - although other sources suggest the Brazilian is still a short while off.

Possible starting XI: Given, Zabaleta, Lescott, Toure, Bridge, Wright-Phillips, Barry, De Jong, Bellamy, Tevez, Adebayor.


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Liverpool - Glen Johnson

The England full back has been shining light in an otherwise gloomy campaign, bringing a new dimension with his adventurous play from the right flank. He can be exposed behind, however, and will need to be vigilant given the visitor's quality in attack.

Manchester City - Gareth Barry

Reds boss Benitez admitted recently that this man was the lynchpin to a plan that will now never be put into place. The midfielder has copped some flak for a perceived lapse in his passing game, but he would no doubt love to show Tom Hicks and George Gillett that he'd have been money well spent.

Rafa Benitez Concedes Champions League Hopes Rest On Make-Or-Break Manchester City Clash

Rafael Benitez acknowledges that Liverpool's clash with Manchester City on Saturday is 'make or break' to their hopes of ensuring Champions League football next season.

The stakes are very high for boss Benitez, who has sent four players - Yossi Benayoun, Albert Riera, Glen Johnson and Fabio Aurelio - to Belgrade this week for unorthodox placenta cell treatment on their injuries.

Now all four, plus injured trio Fernando Torres, Daniel Agger and skipper Steven Gerrard, should be available to face Mark Hughes' ambitious side.

Benitez said: 'This is a big game, an important game. But then all Liverpool games are important. But this could be described as a make-or-break game for our season.

'We are aware of City's ambitions. They have spent some money on good players and they also have a good manager with experience.

'It will be tough, and important for us to win particularly with the Champions League game away to Debrecen next week. A good win will give us all confidence for that.

'We want to progress and we want to be higher in the table. We want to continue playing big teams and playing for something important.

'But it is too early to talk about final league positions, but clearly it is a big game for both clubs. But we must be confident we can win.

'I am not amongst the managers, 80 per cent I am told, in the Premier League who believe City will finish in the top four. We will be in the top four.'

Although City have been left clutching at draws recently, failing to win from their last five games, Liverpool are also under pressure to break their own poor form in the league following their 2-2 home draw with newly-promoted Birmingham nearly a fortnight ago.

Benitez added: 'The aim is to kick-start our season.

'We must improve and a win will be a real lift for everyone.'

'We know City have money and they have spent a lot, but we must not just keep looking at what they are doing.

'What we have to do is to keep going, keep playing at our best.

'We are not in a good position in the table or in the Champions League.

'But we cannot change what has already happened.

'We need to win two or three games and the attitude will be totally different, with the fans and players having more belief.

'It is normally against good teams that we do best because the games are more open. We did it against Manchester United, and we aim to do the same to City.'

Liverpool FC Commercial Chief Hails Club’s Links With Spain

Ian Ayre, the commercial director of English soccer club Liverpool, has paid tribute to the club's Spanish links, following the acquisition of the Spain Tourist Board as a sponsor and the success of Spanish driver Adrian Valles in the team's Superleague Formula motorsport franchise.

Turespaña, the Spain Tourism Board, signed a three-year contract with the club, which is managed by Rafa Benitez and has a number of Spanish stars including goalkeeper Pepe Reina and striker Fernando Torres. Last weekend, when Valles sealed the 2009 championship at a race in his home country, the link was further underlined.

"We're all aware of the clear Spanish connection Liverpool Football Club has and having Adrian is great," said Ayre. "He had a great day at Anfield the week before.

"The players keep in touch with him. I know Pepe Reina is a bit of a petrolhead and has been in regular contact. Rafa also sent a great message of congratulations to him on the day. He's fitted in really well and is clearly a rising star of motor racing."
Ayre added: "The celebrations were unbelievable. It looked like Adrian had his entire village from Spain up on the podium with him. There was lots of champagne being sprayed about."

Liverpool Boss Rafael Benitez Hails Miracle Cure

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has hailed the clinic that has got four of his top men fit for Saturday's crunch Premier League encounter with Manchester City.

Benitez defended the use of a controversial Serbian clinic to get Glen Johnson, Fabio Aurelio, Yossi Benayoun and Albert Riera all fit.

The Belgrade clinic is run by physiotherapist Mariana Kovacevic, and the unusual treatment involves massaging with a placenta cream.

All four are now in contention for the visit of Manchester City, and Tuesday's vital Champions League clash with Debrecen which has clearly buoyed the Reds boss.

"We knew of other players at Premier League clubs who have been to Belgrade for treatment with this lady, and we were made aware that it was very effective," Benitez told the Press Association.

"[Manchester City's Pablo] Zabaleta told Riera about it.

"She [Kovacevic] has been working for seven years with top-class sportsmen, not just footballers. So she has the experience.

"We felt it was a good opportunity to send some of our players. We sent two, Benayoun and Riera and they came back and started training straight away.

"So we decided to send two more, Johnson and Aurelio, and the same thing has happened. They have been training and all four will be in the squad against City.

"Arsenal's Robin van Persie went earlier, but now there are several more top players who are going to have treatment in the same way.

"City have sent two, [Vincent] Kompany and Zabaleta beforehand, and they were playing within days.

"There have been no injections, it is a placenta cream applied with a [massage] machine that creates waves of pressure."

He added: "We sent our players, and Van Persie was there. Kompany and Zabaleta have also been there, and we have been made aware of the success of this treatment over several years.

"Many top players have been going there for seven years, it has been successful and I believe it is safe.

"It is good for specific injuries, doctors have explained the treatment and the components of the cream that is used. We are happy with it.

"We checked it out when we became aware of the different players who had been there. I must admit we have been surprised with how well it has worked.

"It means we have players available and training that we expected to be out for several weeks. Can we guarantee that they are fully fit? We will see, but they have trained with the rest of the team for three days and they are OK."

Rafael Benitez Confirms Liverpool's Glen Johnson Received Placenta Treatment

Liverpool clash with Manchester City this weekend and Rafael Benitez will be hoping the international break will have given his side the opportunity to turn their recent shoddy form around.

Roaming right-back Glen Johnson, according to Benitez, has received the experimental placenta massage that Arsenal striker Robin van Persie elected to try following the injury he sustained while representing Netherlands.

Steven Gerrard, though, will likely feature against Mark Hughes' men. Benitez hopes his talismanic captain scores the winner against a side who are gunning for a top four spot in the Premier League this season.

Benitez told a press conference: "We have some problems, [Dan] Agger has been training, [Steven] Gerrard has been training, Glen [Johnson] too. We have [Martin] Kelly and [Fernando] Torres, who is still not fit.

"We have a plan of two weeks, but [Torres] is ten days away now."

Regarding the placenta treatment given to Johnson, Benitez said through a smile: "We knew from some players from other Premier League clubs that it was a good treatment, and the doctor has good experience with clubs in Europe. Some [Manchester] City players, an Arsenal player [have all received it], so it is something that is credited, he had no injections."

The Spaniard was also delighted to be able to welcome Gerrard back into the side: "Gerrard is important for us, not just on the pitch, he is an example. This is a very good for us, and hopefully he will score the winning goal for us."

Martin Kelly Respects Liverpool Rival Daniel Ayala

Liverpool full-back Martin Kelly has spoken of his respect for colleague Daniel Ayala, despite the fact that the young Spaniard is in direct competition with him for a place in the team.

Both 19-year-olds have represented their countries at youth level and both have now played for Rafa Benitez's first-team, but Kelly insists that their relationship is positive.

"There is a healthy rivalry," the Englishman told the Reds' official website.

"He came in from Spain when I came up from the Academy. We bonded and I have to take my hat off to Dani this season. He's done well and I have to respect that.

"I've got to play football for myself and not look at what anyone else is doing. I need to focus on what I'm doing as a football player and hopefully I'm developing well.

"My dad has always said to me to let other players worry about me. That's what I try to do."

Kelly made his full debut for the Reds against Lyon last month, and says the experience of fellow academy graduate Jay Spearing helped him adjust to the situation quickly.

"You have an idea you're playing during training but I didn't know for sure until about an hour and a half before kick-off. Then the butterflies started," he added.

"Luckily, Jay (Spearing) made his debut the week before, so he was going through a similar thing.

"I'd told him that the boss clearly believed in him, so he had to go out there and take his chance. And he was there to say the same to me. We sit next to each other in the changing room, so he gave me a little bit of advice.

"It lived up to expectations. At the start when You'll Never Walk Alone finished and then we ran out to the Champions League music - you can't get better than that.

"Now I've had a taste of playing in the first team I want to play as much as I can."

The versatile Kelly says he is not yet sure of his best position, but reveals that the experienced defenders at the club are helping his development though.

"At the moment I don't know which is my best position," said the 19-year-old. "I'll play anywhere across the back four. When I went to Huddersfield I played at left-back for the first three games and it didn't seem any different to right-back. I don't mind where I play.

"I've been working hard on the tactical side of my game, which helps. That's coming along and I can't thank the coaching staff enough for what they've done to bring me on as a player.

"The defenders here are top-class players but I'll be trying my hardest in training.

"They [Jamie Carragher, Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel] have been great with me, giving me advice and telling me how to put anything I'm doing wrong right.

"Training with them every day is fantastic - I can't wait to get out there with them and then I don't want the training sessions to finish."

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis: Liverpool's Andrea Dossena Is Possible

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has given the world another clue regarding his plans for Liverpool defender Andrea Dossena, indicating that a move could take place.

De Laurentiis, who is in Milan for the Lega Calcio general assembly, has uncovered part of his agenda for the January transfer window. Dossena is one of the targets, but the chief is not keen on hasty moves as he plans changes with Walter Mazzarri.

"I will not exclude a move for Dossena," he told the press. "We have also looked at Cristian Molinaro and Antonio Candreva, but I have to speak with Mazzarri about it."

All the hype has revolved around the international scene this week. France's controversial win over Ireland has got the world talking for all the wrong reasons. De Laurentiis has added his voice to the millions calling for video technology.

"I think we need replays on the pitch for these things," concluded the director.

Why Rafa Benitez Is Definitely In It For The Long Haul At Liverpool

Rafa Benitez said he would quit Liverpool if Fernando Torres is sold. The Spanish striker could have been sold last summer to Manchester City if Benitez had accepted their offer – and there will no doubt be more enquiries coming in for Torres until the day he does actually leave.

But what is remarkable about the offer made to Liverpool last summer is the scale of the City bid: £70million for Torres plus and additional £30million for Javier Mascherano. Benitez rejected both offers from Mark Hughes – but I wonder if those Liverpool fans clamouring for some headline grabbing transfer activity and the thrill of purchasing the likes of Ribery, Villa and Silva would have preferred Benitez to say yes?

In rejecting those bids in the summer, Benitez stuck with proven Premier League performers who are guaranteed to succeed, ahead of the instant impact of glamorous summer transfer activity: which in my opinion, was absolutely the right thing to do.

If anyone should question Benitez’s commitment after making that comment about leaving Liverpool – then they should know this. Rafa Benitez turned down the opportunity to take over at Real Madrid in the summer for the FOURTH time since he has been at Anfield.

Benitez rejected a package worth €6million per year over a four-year deal and a transfer budget that a manager’s dreams are made of. The reason he rejected Real Madrid? Rafa believes that he is in the middle of a major project at Anfield, one that so far hasn’t reaped the rewards he expected, but is clearly a work in progress and he has faith in its ultimate success.

The aim is not to bring one league title to Anfield, but a succession of them and an era of Liverpool challenging for all major titles for years to come.

Alberto Aquilani Is Asked To Kick-Start Liverpool's Season

Alberto Aquilani is in contention to make his long-awaited full Liverpool debut on Saturday as Rafael Benítez looks to the £20m summer signing to reinvigorate the club's season against Manchester City.

The Italy international has played only 21 minutes for Liverpool since arriving from Roma in August, as a substitute against Birmingham City and Arsenal, because of his recovery from ankle surgery plus illness. Benítez has been careful to nurse the 25-year-old towards full fitness after several months on the sidelines but is now considering handing the midfielder a first start against Mark Hughes's side at Anfield.

The Liverpool manager's final decision rests on the availability of Steven Gerrard, Yossi Benayoun and Albert Riera, who all could be fit for Saturday despite the Israel and Spain midfielders tearing hamstrings against Birmingham last week. But the option to start Aquilani, who has increased his training schedule significantly since Liverpool's last fixture, is an important breakthrough for Benítez before a demanding set of fixtures and after a succession of injury problems. However, Fernando Torres may be out until the Merseyside derby on 29 November due to a hernia.

Aquilani was bought as a more offensive replacement for Xabi Alonso in the summer and, despite his delayed debut and injury problems, has been tipped to have a major impact at Anfield by his former Roma team-mate and captain Francesco Totti. "He is elegant and smart – these are his main characteristics. Potentially he is one of the best in the world," said Totti. "He has been unlucky with injuries so far but I believe he will do really well in England. Good players prove themselves wherever they go. Alberto will adapt to any type of football. He really is a complete midfielder."

Roma's all-time leading goalscorer added: "Alberto can play in any position in the middle of the park really, either a bit forward or a few steps behind. The advantage he has is that he really understands the game and has great vision – he is dynamic and can make the last pass or try to score himself. Here at Roma, with our 4-2-3-1 strategy, he was playing in front of the defence next to Daniele De Rossi or David Pizarro but also as an attacking midfielder just off me. I think he can do very well in a 4-4-2 too."

Aquilani was given the added incentive of fighting for a World Cup place by Marcello Lippi yesterday, when the Italy coach admitted the midfielder, who appeared for his country at Euro 2008, remained in his thoughts for South Africa. "If he plays with consistency for Liverpool, then why shouldn't I consider him?" said Lippi.

Benayoun and Riera both have an outside chance of facing City despite being ruled out for four weeks when they damaged hamstrings against Birmingham last Monday. The pair received treatment at the Belgrade home of Mariana Kovacevic, the physiotherapist who massages liquid from a horse's placenta into the affected area and is treating Arsenal's Robin van Persie for an ankle ligament injury, and have since made a remarkable recovery.

Liverpool FC’s David Ngog Is Ready To Face Manchester City Despite Breaking His Nose

RAFA BENITEZ is confident David Ngog will be available to face Manchester City this weekend – despite breaking his nose on international duty.

The young striker sustained the injury during a training session with France’s Under-21 squad last week and has returned to Melwood for treatment.

Ngog’s last appearance for Liverpool, of course, was shrouded in controversy after he ‘won’ the penalty that enabled his side to secure a 2-2 draw with Birmingham City.

That incident, though, overshadowed what had been an encouraging display – he scored the Reds’ opener – and with Fernando Torres set to be sidelined, Ngog will be needed.

“Ngog has broken his nose, so we will have to see how he is before the weekend,” Benitez said today. “But we think he is going to be okay. It is not too serious.”

While Torres continues to work with the physios at Melwood, Benitez is confident his squad will have a more robust look to it by the time City arrive at Anfield.

Steven Gerrard trained with the first team yesterday and once again came through the session with flying colours to take a step nearer to his first start since October 20.

Glen Johnson And Fabio Aurelio Are The Latest Liverpool FC Stars To Go For Radical Horse Placenta Treatment

Glen Johnson and Fabio Aurelio have become the latest Liverpool players to visit radical therapist Mariana Kovacevic in an attempt to end their injury problems.

Albert Riera and Yossi Benayoun flew to Belgrade earlier this week to see Kovacevic, who has become famous for treating sportsmen with the liquid from horse placenta.

They have responded so well to treatment that there is a chance the pair could figure against Manchester City on Saturday and now Johnson and Aurelio have followed suit.

That pair were forced to miss England’s friendly against Brazil in Qatar last Saturday with respective hamstring and calf problems.

But after seeing Kovacevic, Johnson is now set to take his place on the right side of Liverpool’s defence when City visit, while Aurelio is making good progress too.

Similar sentiments apply to Fernando Torres, who has done his first couple of training sessions since being ordered to rest his damaged groin for three weeks.

Liverpool’s star striker, however, has not been involved with the rest of the first team squad and the club’s medical staff will continue to monitor his progress.

Liverpool Target Juventus Star Sebastian Giovinco

According to a report in the Corriere dello Sport, Premier League giants Liverpool are mulling over a bid to lure out-of-favour Juventus 'fantasista' Sebastian Giovinco to Anfield.

The diminutive hitman has only mustered six league appearances so far this term and has slipped further down the pecking order, after the arrival of Brazilian ace Diego over the summer.

The 22-year-old has been frequently linked with a move away from the Stadio Olimpico to boost his chances of proving his worth to Italy boss Marcello Lippi ahead of next year’s World Cup finals.

Premier League sides Arsenal and West Ham have allegedly sounded out Juve directors over his availability, but Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is now believed to have joined the hunt and could make an offer to secure his services during the January transfer window.

Giovinco would link up with fellow Italians Andrea Dossena and Alberto Aquilani on Merseyside, with the latter only making his Premier League debut earlier this month after completing a €20 million move from Roma last summer.