Europa League Preview: Atletico Madrid vs Liverpool

The green light has been given and Liverpool will tackle Atletico Madrid this week in the first leg of the Europa League semi-finals.

The volcanic ash clouds had threatened the postponement of Thursday's European fixtures due to travel complications, but UEFA has confirmed that both this tie and Fulham's trip to Hamburg will take place as planned.

Thus, it is after a lengthy overland journey - at least to Bordeaux, from where they fly to Madrid - that the Reds will step out onto the Vicente Calderon, but they have cause to feel confident of securing a result nonetheless.

The Merseyside giants boast an excellent record against Spanish clubs; particularly in the old UEFA Cup, where twice they bested Barcelona over two legs and in 2001 went on to defeat Alaves in one of the all-time great finals in Dortmund.

It could be a good omen for Liverpool that this year's decider will also take place in Germany, at the HSH Nordbank Arena in Hamburg, but first they must negotiate an Atletico side who - like their English counterparts - will be determined to add some gloss to what has been an otherwise frustrating campaign.

For while the Reds are in danger of missing out on a top-four finish in the Premier League, the Rojiblancos' hopes of qualifying for Europe's upper crust are dead. They sit 10th in La Liga, some 15 points shy of fourth-placed Mallorca and nine adrift of sixth-placed Villarreal with five games to play.

Quite how the capital outfit are still kicking on the continent is something of a mystery when you consider that they have won just three of their 14 European clashes this term - two of those against Panathinaikos back in the Champions League play-offs.

And yet, remarkably, Quique Sanchez Flores and his charges could end the season with two trophies, as they are also through to the final of the Copa del Rey.

Whatever angle you take, this should be a fascinating struggle between two stumbling giants with a hell of a lot to prove - and a tight one, if the pair of 1-1 draws they shared in the Champions League group stage last term are any indication.

FORM GUIDE

Atletico Madrid

Apr 17: Villarreal 2-1 Atletico (La Liga)
Apr 14: Atletico 1-2 Xerez (La Liga)
Apr 11: Espanyol 3-0 Atletico (La Liga)
Apr 8: Atletico 0-0 Valencia (Europa League)
Apr 4: Atletico 3-0 Deportivo (La Liga)

Liverpool

Apr 19: Liverpool 3-0 West Ham (Premier League)
Apr 11: Liverpool 0-0 Fulham (Premier League)
Apr 8: Liverpool 4-1 Benfica (Europa League)
Apr 4: Birmingham 1-1 Liverpool (Premier League)
Apr 1: Benfica 2-1 Liverpool (Europa League)

TEAM NEWS

Atletico Madrid

With the build-up dominated by speculation over whether a certain Spaniard would make a dramatic homecoming this week, rather overlooked has been the fact that Atleti will be without their own superstar striker as Sergio Aguero sits out through suspension.

Young midfielder Ignacio Camacho is still some way short of full fitness, but Tomas Ujfalusi and Luis Perea are available once more in defence.

Last starting XI (vs. Villarreal): De Gea, Alvaro, Ujfalusi, Perea, Lopez, Assuncao, Tiago, Simao, Jurado, Reyes, Aguero.

Liverpool

Will he or won't he? That was the question surrounding Fernando Torres as he strove to make himself available to face the club with whom he spent 14 years. Regrettably, another operation on his knee means 'El Nino' will play no further part this season.

Nor will Maxi Rodriguez return to his old stomping ground, as the Argentine midfielder - who left Atleti only in January - is ineligible for the Reds' Europa League campaign.

Defenders Fabio Aurelio and Emiliano Insua (both thigh), Martin Skrtel (foot) and Martin Kelly (knee) are out injured, but Ryan Babel returns after serving a ban for his red card at Benfica in the quarter-finals.

Last starting XI (vs. West Ham): Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Kyrgiakos, Agger, Lucas, Gerrard, Maxi, Kuyt, Benayoun, Ngog.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Atletico Madrid - Diego Forlan

Liverpool were among the few clubs against whom Uruguay's star striker found the net during his Manchester United days, but since moving to Spain he has established himself as one of Europe's elite goal-getters. If he gets half a yard in the box, he'll find the net more likely than not.

Liverpool - Alberto Aquilani

The Italian playmaker has been sneaking into the first team more often of late, and on those occasions he has not disappointed. A big chance to start in Madrid and show his boss what he is capable of on the big stage.

Martin Skrtel Hoping To Give Liverpool A Boost With Europa League Return

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel hopes to play a part in the remainder of the club's Europa League campaign as he gradually gets back to full fitness.

The Slovakian international has been out of action since breaking a metatarsal against Unirea Urziceni at the end of February, but is targeting the second leg of the Reds' semi-final with Atletico Madrid to return to action.

"I am working hard with the physios and I hope to play again before the end of the season," Skrtel told Liverpool's official website.

"I am feeling much better now and I can't wait to get back on the field again.

"A few days ago I started working with the ball again and the foot was better. I'm still not ready to join in full training yet but I'm getting there.

"I have missed two months and I'm not happy when I can't play. It's been very frustrating because when I first got the injury, I couldn't drive or do anything so it was hard, but I have had great support from my family, teammates and the physios."

Rafael Benitez's side must do without Skrtel for the first leg, which takes place at the Vicente Calderon on Thursday. Despite an unconventional trip to the match - mostly by train thanks to volcanic ash grounding flights from the UK - Skrtel is confident the team will put themselves in position to win the tie at Anfield next week and progress to the final in Hamburg.

"I am confident the lads can do a good job and beat Atletico," he said.

"We have the second game in front of our fans and I think we will beat them at Anfield.

"It's the second most important competition in Europe after the Champions League and we want to win it. It would be special to win my first medal with Liverpool and I hope to get back and try and help the team."

Ryan Babel Returns For Liverpool's Atletico Madrid Clash

Ryan Babel has returned to Liverpool's squad for their Europa League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid on Thursday.

The Holland international has served a one-match suspension for his sending-off in the last-eight first leg against Benfica and provides a welcome boost to manager Rafael Benitez, whose Liverpool squad has been ravaged by injury.

A big blow for the Reds was striker Fernando Torres knee operation ruling him out for the rest of the season, while defenders Fabio Aurelio, Emiliano Insua (both thigh), Martin Skrtel (foot) and Martin Kelly (knee) were all left behind in Merseyside to continue their rehabilitation.

The Dutch forward provides some respite to Benitez's team selection problems and many will be glad to have the 23 year-old's mercurial attacking threat back in the frame. Babel already has a Europa League goal to his name this season in three appearances.

Rafa Does His Homework

Rafa Benitez hopes his inside information on Atletico Madrid will help to prolong Liverpool's European adventure.

The Reds tackle Spanish opposition in the semi-finals of the Europa League, with the first leg at Vicente Calderon scheduled to take place on Thursday.

Liverpool's preparations for the game have hardly been helped by the travel chaos sweeping the continent, caused by the volcanic ash problem, but they will be ready for action by the time kick-off arrives.

Benitez has also been doing his homework on a dangerous Atletico side, keen to make sure he is prepared for whatever the Primera Liga giants throw at him.

He has quizzed former Atletico aces Fernando Torres and Maxi Rodriguez on what to expect and feels Liverpool are now fully equipped to deal with the challenges which lie ahead.

Benitez said: "They have a very good offensive team. People always talk about Sergio Aguero and Diego Forlan but they also have Simao and a good attacking mentality as a team.

"Aguero is a good player for them and is out of the first game. That could be good for us, but you never know. I am sure they will be dangerous anyway.

"I spoke with Maxi and Fernando about them. They have some friends there so we managed to get some information about them. We have some ideas of how to stop them."

Benitez is also hoping that Liverpool can take strength from their unusual travel arrangements, which have seen them make the journey to Madrid by coach, train and plane.

"You have to try to find the positives when you are in this kind of situation and it is vital that everyone stays together when you have a problem," said the Spaniard.

"Of course this isn't ideal and we would have preferred to have flown but, you never know, maybe something like this can work in your favour.

"The players are all happy, staying really positive, even though they might be a little tired, and that for a manager is positive to see.

"It has been a bit different to what we are used to but the main thing is that we have been organised."

Yossi Benayoun Happy To Stay At Liverpool But Refuses To Rule Out Future Move Away From Club

Liverpool winger Yossi Benayoun has stated that an imminent move away from the Merseyside club is unlikely, moments prior to his side's clash with Atletico Madrid in the Europa League semi-final.

The 29-year-old Israeli feels that the club's future in European competition will not be a deciding factor with regards to his immediate plans, although Benayoun has not ruled out a future move away from the Anfield club.

"I have three more years left on my contract here at Liverpool but I’d rather concentrate on the present and see out this disappointing season," he told the Mail Online.

"As far as I am concerned, failure to reach the Champions League should not be a reason not to continue at Liverpool. At the moment, I’m at one of the world’s biggest clubs and I’m enjoying it here.

"I have a few good seasons left in me and hope that the pinnacle of my career is still ahead. I still might receive an offer in the future which could not be turned down. Who knows?"

Benayoun has made 130 appearances for the Reds in all competitions during his career, scoring 28 goals.

Benitez Move To Juventus Held Up By £16 Million Clause

Liverpool FC manager Rafa Benitez is on the verge of signing a pre-contract with Juventus according to Italian daily Tuttosport, however a conclusion to the deal is being held up by Benitez’s refusal to resign and relinquish his large severance clause in his Anfield contract, estimated at £16 million.

Rafa Benitez has been linked with a move away from Anfield following a poor campaign this term in which Liverpool FC are unlikely to qualify for the Champions League, with Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur the two main contenders for fourth spot.

On top of the poor on-field campaign Liverpool FC have been spiraling into chaos off the pitch, with George Gillet and Tom Hicks putting the club up for sale last week. Reports in Italy suggest that Juventus Chief John Eikann has told Juventus chief’s to wrap up a deal for the Spaniard with the Italian giants positioned seventh in Serie A.

According to reports in Italy Liverpool FC boss Rafa Benitez is refusing to resign and join Juventus as he would have to wave all severance clauses in his contract, missing out on a potential £16 million. The Anfield boss currently has four years remaining on his contract at the Merseyside club.

Benitez is reportedly expecting Juventus to agree to compensate him with the £16 million future earnings, before he signs a pre-contract with the Serie A club.

McMahon: Progress Has Been Made

John McMahon admits there are many positives to take from this season despite the last-gasp defeat by Everton ending their Barclays Premier Reserve League North title hopes.

Jose Baxter's stoppage time fierce drive which struck the underside of the crossbar and crossed the line took the three points for Andy Holden's side, but it was tough on Liverpool who created some decent openings in the second half.

"It's disappointing to be out of the title race but we have seen a lot of progression and development in these younger players," McMahon told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"The team in recent weeks has been different to the one that started the season and we have had to give a lot of the young lads a chance but they have done well.

"We feel as though we are going in the right way and hopefully some of these lads will have given the boss something to think about."

Reflecting on the defeat to Everton, McMahon admitted it was a good response by his side following Friday's poor showing at Burnley.

"It was disappointing to lose so late in the game as I thought we were the better side and dominated the game," he added.

"I thought the commitment was good and we competed well. We were exciting going forward and they showed good things out there.

"We had some young lads out there like Nicolaj Kohlert which did well. He is still only 17 and has not played much this season but credit to him and he kept going and working hard for us.

"We have two games left now and we want to finish as strong as possible with two good performances."

McMahon also had words of encouragement for David Amoo who was in great form during the mini-derby.

"David is capable of playing like that," he added.

"He is one of those lads who needs confidence and encouragement but on his day he can be a real threat. When he gets the ball he is really exciting."

Blues Stun Young Reds

Jose Baxter struck a dramatic injury-time winner as Liverpool Reserves slumped to a 1-0 defeat against Everton in the mini-derby at Prenton Park on Tuesday evening.

A tense contest saw little by way of clear cut chances, but the Reds' second-string turned in a battling display against a Blues side that contained several first-team fringe players.

And it was one of those, Baxter, who fired home a volley in the 90th minute to harshly condemn Liverpool to a fourth successive defeat.

The result means Liverpool's outside hopes of being crowned Barclays Premier Reserve League North champions are over, but John McMahon will no doubt be pleased by the character shown by his men after suffering three back-to-back losses which derailed their title charge.

Ahead of the game, the second-string boss acknowledged his side's hopes of lifting the Championship had been all-but ended by the disappointing Friday night defeat in Burnley.

That loss at Turf Moore had been described by McMahon as one of his team's worst performances of the season - and the gaffer demanded a response from his troops against their Everton counterparts, particularly as it was still mathematically possible for his charges to end the term with the trophy.

His team selection included several promising youngsters such as 17-year-old Czech defender Jakub Sokolik, John Flanagan, Nicolaj Kohlert and Lauri Dalla Valle.

The Blues, meanwhile, selected a powerful starting XI that included the likes of Philippe Senderos, Victor Anichebe and Baxter.

The opening exchanges were typically frenetic and Gerardo Bruna fired an early warning shot, curling wide of Ian Turner's far post from a difficult angle inside the opening two minutes, while at the other end, Baxter drilled over from distance.

However, chances were proving scarce for both sides in a gritty first-half contest, with neither able to enjoy a sustained period of possession.

It was David Martin who was forced to pull off the first save of the evening when the Liverpool goalkeeper got down well to palm Baxter's stinging low free-kick around the base of the post on 27 minutes.

The Blues went closer still moments later as Victor Palsson's misplaced pass allowed Nathan Craig to send Anichebe bearing down on goal. The striker's low shot beat Martin, but lacked power allowing Palsson to make amends by clearing the danger from inside the six-yard box.

Everton quickly regained possession and Craig swung in a cross from the left, which was met by a downward header by James Wallace, but Martin was able to gather.

The Blues were beginning to build up a head of steam and Anichebe steered an effort narrowly wide after plucking Senderos' cross out of the air on 38 minutes to ensure the game remained scoreless at half-time.

Liverpool should have broken the deadlock six minutes after the restart as Nicolaj Kohlert's flick played Bruna into space in the left channel of the box, but the former Real Madrid starlet's low drive was repelled by the legs of Turner.

Back came the Blues and only a fine challenge by Palsson prevented Anichebe from getting a clear strike on goal. With Martin out of position having attempted to close down the forward, Craig delivered a cross back into the area, which was nodded wide of the open goal by Baxter.

There was suddenly a much more open feel to proceedings and Bruna cannoned a volley against the legs of Senderos when well positioned as the Reds took their turn to attack.

Amoo then powered past Luke Garbutt on two occasions, but both times his low cross to the near post intended for Dalla Valle was cleared by Everton defenders.

Liverpool were in the ascendancy and after Bruna's jinking run had fashioned a shooting chance for Kacaniklic, whose effort was blocked, Amoo drilled into the side netting.

Amoo's influence was growing and his powerful surge from the halfway line resulted in the youngster hammering a strike narrowly over the bar on 68 minutes.

With eight minutes remaining, the livewire winger caused havoc in the Everton defence once more, and his low centre found Kohlert in space, but the strike was blocked brilliantly by the diving Turner.

As time ebbed away, Bruna clipped a free-kick over the right edge of the box as the home side pressed in search of a winner, but it was Everton who won it in stoppage-time when Baxter's stinging volley struck the underside of the crossbar and bounced over the line to leave the young Reds heartbroken.

Gerrard Wants Quality Signings

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes the club needs to make 'three or four quality signings' to improve next season.

The Reds have had a poor campaign and have failed to live up to expectations that they could challenge for the Premier League this term.

While they are still in the hunt for Europa League glory, Rafa Benitez's men need a number of other results to go their way if they are to finish fourth in the league and qualify for next year's UEFA Champions League.

Gerrard knows that Liverpool need to buy players if they are going to up their game and compete with other top sides.

"There are teams that have grown significantly in recent times, like Chelsea. In addition, Manchester United have been too strong (for us) for many years," he said in the Daily Mail.

"Last year we came close to beating them but it is very difficult to overcome such a powerful team.

"Everyone knows that we must learn from this season. Some players have said we need a stronger squad and the key is to have better players and improve.

"I do not believe in profound changes or a revolution. Three or four quality players should be enough but more quality than quantity.

"The Premier League is the food of this club. We haven't won it for such a long time and the crowd demands it.

"They want us to win this more than any other competition. We must continue to fight for this, hopefully finishing fourth this season and having a real go next season.

"After finishing second last year we started this season with the idea of winning the league and the Champions League.

"After a series of bad results we had to change targets. Now the fans are desperate for us to win the Europa League. It's the only trophy left for us to fight for and we want to win it."

Liverpool take on Atletico Madrid in the Europa League semi-finals on Thursday and they are having to travel by road, rail and air to the Spanish capital due to the cloud of volcanic ash that is disrupting flights in Europe.

Yossi - We'll Do It For Torres

Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun has set his sights on winning the Europa League for injured striker Fernando Torres.

The Reds are without their star forward for the remainder of the season after he underwent a second knee operation in four months back in homeland Spain.

The setback rules Torres out of the upcoming Europa League semi-final showdown with former club Atletico Madrid.

And Benayoun, speaking ahead of Thursday's first leg, spoke of his desire to win the trophy for his crocked team-mate.

"Fernando is the best striker in the world and with him it is much easier but unfortunately he is injured and cannot play," said the Israeli, who scored the opening goal in Monday night's 3-0 Premier League victory over West Ham.

"We need to give more to try to play for him because he won us a lot of games and played a big part in us getting to the semi-final.

"I wanted him to play against his old club because that would have been a special moment for him.

"Last time we played them he couldn't play. He deserves to play against his old fans but this is football and life.

"We need to try to win the game for him and all the club."

The comfortable Anfield triumph over West Ham raised spirits ahead of a lengthy trip to Madrid.

The Liverpool squad departed for London via train on Tuesday afternoon and, after an overnight stay in Paris, are scheduled to arrive in the Spanish capital 24 hours later.

Benayoun opened the scoring against the Hammers before a rare David Ngog strike and an unfortunate Rob Green own goal sealed the win.

"It is always good to get the win and get the confidence back before a big game on Thursday," said Benayoun.

"We are in a good mood to go to Madrid and try to win.

"We want to win a trophy and we are now very close so we need to do everything to make sure we get a good result to bring back for the second leg.

"It has been a disappointing season so far and we need to finish with a trophy to give everyone a better feeling.

"Winning the Europa League would give us a better feeling but if we don't finish top four we cannot say it is a success - but any trophy you win is great for any club.

"Of course we'd prefer to be in the Champions League and win that but the Europa League is interesting and there are a lot of good teams."

Victory over the Hammers maintained Liverpool's outside chance of catching fourth-placed Tottenham.

But Benayoun admits the five-point gap with only three matches remaining will be difficult to overhaul.

"It is very difficult (to get the top four). We need to be realistic but the only thing we can do is try," he added.

"Mathematically we can still do it so with the points that are left we need to do our best to win the remaining games and get a bit of luck from the other results."

Liverpool FC Will Only Get 12,000 Tickets For Europa League Final

Liverpool have been told by UEFA that they will only receive around 12,000 tickets for the Europa League final in Hamburg if they get past Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals.

The Reds face the Spaniards in the first leg on Thursday night with supporters being warned that thousands won’t be able to get their hands on a ticket for the final on May 12.

There were similar problems for the club’s last major European showpiece occasion – the Champions League final against AC Milan in Athens in 2007 – when Liverpool were dismayed by an allocation of just 17,000 out of 64,000 tickets.

The Hamburg Arena has a capacity of just over 57,000 but for the Europa League final the standing area in the north stand will be converted to seating, reducing the capacity to around 51,500.

Around 25% of the available tickets will be allocated to each club with the rest going to German residents and UEFA sponsors.

Liverpool are keen to accurately guage demand for tickets and are asking fans to register their interest. Only fans who have registered their interest will be eligible to buy a ticket.

You can do so via the club’s website at www.liverpoolfc.tv or by calling 0844 844 0844 and pressing option 2.

A club statement today read: “From our previous experiences in 2001, 2005 and 2007, we expect demand from our supporters to easily exceed the number of tickets the club is able to supply.

“An initial analysis shows that qualifying criteria could potentially be set for any Season Ticket holder or Member/Fan Card holder who has already attended seven or more games in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League this season (and who in addition, attends at least one of the semi-finals against Atletico Madrid).

“However, we would need an indication of the demand for this level before the final criteria is set.

“For Season Ticket holders or Member/Fan Card holders, who have already attended six games in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League this season (and who in addition, attend at least one of the semi-finals against Atletico Madrid), it is anticipated that an independently regulated ballot will take place to determine the allocation of tickets.

“To help us much more accurately gauge demand and enable us to plan accordingly, we need the following supporters who would like to purchase a ticket for the potential Europa League Final to register their interest: Season Ticket or Member/Fan Card holders with at least six 09/10 European games (not including the semi final) on their Fancard.

“Regardless of how many games you have attended, only fans who have registered their interest will be eligible to purchase a ticket in the event that the club reaches the Final.”

Rafael Benitez Worried About Return Journey Following Europa League Encounter Against Atletico Madrid

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has bemoaned the fact that UEFA have pressed ahead with the Europa League fixtures as originally scheduled.

The Reds travel to play Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the semi-finals of the European competition on Thursday. And the volcanic ash cloud that has turned a significant part of Europe into a no-fly zone has made it difficult for teams playing on the European stage to commute to their destinations for the first leg of their respective games.

However, the Spaniard maintains that he is more concerned about the return journey, which could have a bearing on the club's domestic aspirations.

"We are assessing things hour by hour," Benitez told the press. "We have two or three options going and at this moment just one coming back but we will see if we can improve that.

"The key point is we can prepare the flight or travel to Madrid but we have to wait.

"We have the organisation for coming back as soon as possible but any way it will be Saturday - which is not the best for the Premier League game [away to Burnley on Sunday]."

"If the airports are open maybe we can fly directly but at this moment it is more difficult to come back than it is to go."

He added: "In these special circumstances it could be better to postpone the game but we have to go.

"We had some time yesterday to rest the players. It will not be ideal but we will try to do the best for the players.

"The news we have is we will go to London and see what can happen. Maybe then the airports will be open and maybe we can fly from there.

"The key point is we can prepare the flight or travel to Madrid but we have to wait."

Del Bosque Backs Torres

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque does not think that Fernando Torres put country before club after undergoing surgery.

He is also confident that all of his stars will be ready for this summer's World Cup in South Africa.

The timing of Torres' operation has been questioned by some, as he will miss the end of the domestic season, but his international coach believes he had no alternative.

"If he has decided to have an operation then it will have been with the consent of the club," Del Bosque explained.

"It would have been because he could not have continued playing in the condition he was in."

Whether Torres returns in time for the World Cup is a matter Del Bosque is monitoring closely, but he is not prepared to take any players to the finals that are not fully fit.

"We cannot go with five or six players wrapped in cotton wool. In the case that some players are not able to come then we have other great players," he said.

"But there is just over a month before we start to work and I think that is enough time for everyone to be fit.

"Now we are at the crunch stage of the season and I think that everyone will join us in great condition."

Spain will play South Korea, Poland and an unconfirmed opponent in three friendlies before their World Cup campaign kicks off against Switzerland on 16th June in Durban.

Ngog Targets More Goals

Liverpool striker David Ngog admits he is happy to get back on the goal trail after finding the net against West Ham and hopes it is a sign of things to come.

The French forward struck the second goal in the Reds' 3-0 victory over the Hammers at Anfield on Monday night, having been handed a starting place due to an injury to Fernando Torres.

It was Ngog's first goal since 18th February and the 21-year-old is targeting a better return in the future.

"I am pleased with my goal," he told the club's official website. "I hadn't scored for a couple of months and as a striker you always want to score.

"It was good for me and my confidence. Hopefully if I can score more, it will be good for the team too.

"It was a good performance from the team. We started well, played good football and scored goals. It is good for the future.

"We scored an early goal and that made things easier. We could pass the ball and take our time in attack."

Torres has been ruled out for the remainder of Liverpool's season after suffering a knee injury, although he is expected to return in time to play for Spain in the World Cup.

Ngog admits losing the star striker is a blow, but says he is doing his best to fill the gap.

"Fernando has had problems with injuries and it is bad for the team because he is a really key player for us," he added.

"But now we will try to do our best and I think we have a good team to do this.

"Liverpool supporters are great with me and the team and it was very pleasing (to be given a good reception).

"They are with the team and they really support us. It has been a difficult season, we know that, but we will try to do our best for the supporters."

Ian Rush: Youngster Daniel Pacheco Is Not Ready To Replace Fernando Torres Yet

While Liverpool try to fill the void left by the injury to star striker Fernando Torres, it shouldn't be Daniel Pacheco as his replacement, reckons Reds legend Ian Rush.

The 19-year-old, who has made four appearances for the Reds this season, looks set to feature in the remaining games due to Torres’ knee injury, which will keep him out for the rest of the season.

Liverpool will be without their leading goalscorer for Thursday’s Europa League clash with Atletico Madrid and Rush believes although Pacheco has the ability to change a game, he is not ready to replace Torres.

He told the Liverpool Echo: "While the young Spaniard has certainly got the kind of intelligence and ability to change a game, I’m not sure he’s the one to come in for Torres yet.

"His size means he could struggle leading the line on his own, and would probably be better playing off someone."

David Ngog have come in for criticism in recent weeks, especially after missing some relatively simple chances against Birmingham City, but Rush believes he would be a more suitable replacement for Torres.

"Ngog has done as well as can be expected of him when he’s been asked to cover for Torres," Rush said.

"Although he didn’t score at St Andrews I was impressed with his movement against Birmingham.

"But as a striker you’re judged on goals and he tends to snatch at chances whereas Torres will take that extra split second to gain his composure."

'Time To Show Derby Response'

John McMahon has challenged Liverpool Reserves to stand up and be counted when they face Everton in the mini derby on Tuesday night.

The second-string have seen their title chances all-but ended following a run of three straight defeats and McMahon has urged his charges to show more fight and spirit when they lock horns with the Toffees.

"The title is almost gone now," he told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"Manchester United are a strong side and I can't see them slipping up in their two remaining matches.

"We've had a good spell in the season but unfortunately we couldn't maintain the momentum and passion that we had.

"I'm looking for a response from the match against Everton. It's a great game for us to do that in because Everton are always committed.

"I'm sure it will be a very good game because when we beat them 1-0 earlier in the season it was a very competitive encounter.

"If we can match their level of passion and desire we will hopefully be able to come out on top in terms of the football."

Last time out the Reserves slumped to a 3-1 loss at Burnley, leaving McMahon to describe it as the worst display of his tenure.

"I think that and the second-half at Wigan are the worst," he said.

"The fact that they came so close together is really frustrating.

"We know we will lose games and have indifferent performances, but what you cannot accept is players not committing or showing the right passion."

With only three games remaining, McMahon has now called for his team to rediscover their winning mentality and end the campaign on a high.

"We need to keep improving," he added. "If we show a better desire and commitment then will hopefully see the rewards with better results."

Match Report: Liverpool 3 - 0 West Ham

Liverpool cruised to a comfortable victory over West Ham at Anfield to keep their faint Champions League hopes alive and leave the Hammers with three games to secure their top-flight survival.

Former West Ham midfielder Yossi Benayoun and David Ngog gave the hosts a 2-0 lead in a low-key first half and goalkeeper Robert Green's unfortunate own goal finished off his side.

However, both teams still have a great deal to do to achieve their aims as Liverpool are still five points adrift of fourth place while West Ham are only three above the drop zone.

A 10th successive home league victory was rarely in doubt against a club whose last win at Anfield came in September 1963 and who have much more important battles to win in the last few weeks of the season.

Having dropped to seventh after the weekend's games, Liverpool's hopes of Champions League football appeared to be over.

And with Fernando Torres' knee operation ruling him out for the remainder of the season, the suggestion was their chances of rolling over opponents had gone with him.

If his stand-in Ngog's first attempt on goal was anything to go by that seemed a fair assessment.

The 21-year-old Frenchman, often criticised for his decision-making, attempted to beat Green with a header from the edge of the penalty area from Jamie Carragher's long pass when he had time to bring the ball under control after springing the offside trap.

Having barely threatened, Liverpool took the lead in the 19th minute with a piece of quick thinking by Benayoun.

Steven Gerrard's right-wing free-kick bounced in front of the Israeli seven yards out and he allowed it to deflect off his stomach and in off Green's right-hand post.

From some angles it looked like it could also have brushed his arm but there were very few protests from the visitors.

West Ham's response was brief, with Carlton Cole firing in a shot which Jose Reina did well to hold.

Despite their lead the atmosphere inside Anfield seemed to reflect the team's forlorn hopes of fourth place and it was not improved when unmarked centre-back Sotirios Kyrgiakos headed Gerrard's 27th-minute corner down and over the crossbar from six yards.
But a surprisingly smart finish from the raw Ngog eased those worries two minutes later when he converted Maxi Rodriguez's cross with a first-time shot after Benayoun had begun the move by cutting in from the left.

Ngog was not nearly as clinical with his next chance, ballooning a header up in the air after Dirk Kuyt had nodded back Glen Johnson's hanging cross to the far post.

Kuyt's 30-yard half-volley was much better, forcing Green to tip the ball around his left-hand post as Liverpool ended the half in complete control.

West Ham replaced Junior Stanislas with Guillermo Franco for the second half but in truth everyone except Cole could have been substituted without complaint.

Kuyt's quick break and cross from the byline almost picked out Ngog at the near post as the hosts continued to dominate.

Having experienced mostly bad luck in a season which saw early exits from the Champions League and Premier League title race and numerous injuries to key players, Liverpool enjoyed another kindly bounce of the ball.

If Benayoun's goal was fortuitous the third was even more lucky as Kyrgiakos' shot from Gerrard's 59th-minute free-kick crashed back off the post, hit Green and bounced back into the net.

Gerrard was denied a fourth only by the slightest deflection off centre-back Manuel da Costa.

West Ham's frustrations continued to grow but referee Peter Walton showed leniency to Robert Kovac by only booking the midfielder when he grabbed the official's shoulder and gave him a push.

Even with the game over the hosts still pushed forward and Rodriguez's whipped near-post shot had Green scrambling to keep the ball from crossing the line at the second attempt while Kuyt's ambitious overhead kick showed confidence was certainly not lacking.

Unfortunately for both Liverpool and West Ham, they will need much more than that if their seasons are not to end in disappointment and heartbreak respectively.

Liverpool Forced To Drive To Madrid For Semi-Final

Liverpool are said to be looking into the possibility of travelling to Madrid for their Europa League semi-final by road after the ban on flights in the UK was extended until at least 1am on Tuesday.

A cloud of volcanic ash, caused by the erruption of Eyjafjallajokull in Icelandic, is hanging over Europe and is unlikely to move this week. Liverpool will have to make a decision imminently, considering the time it will take to travel to Spain by coach as well as the required recovery and training for the squad.

UEFA confirmed on Monday that Liverpool's game in Madrid will go ahead on Thursday as planned, as will Fulham's away game in Hamburg.

Both Liverpool and Fulham may face problems reaching the continent as routes across the English Channel have been fully booked with passengers forced to use the Channel Tunnel and ferry services. It could be that it is impossible for either club to reach mainland Europe.

Liverpool face the most daunting trip, as it will take them the best part of a full day to make the 2,600 mile journey to Madrid.

As it will take around 21 hours - without a stop and with no traffic problems - to reach Madrid the best option may be to travel with an overnight stop. But with Liverpool entertaining West Ham United in the Premier League on Monday night it leaves little recovery time before the players would have to board the coach.

Lawrenson: Rafa's Timing Is Shocking

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has come in for renewed criticism from Kop legend Mark Lawrenson, who believes it is time for the Anfield club to say “goodbye” to the Spaniard.

Benitez’s agent revealed on Thursday that discussions have taken place with Serie A side Juventus with a view to him becoming their next manager and former Liverpool defender Lawrenson believes that the timing of this announcement – coming as it did just 24 hours after the 21st anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster – shows a marked lack of respect to the denizens of Anfield.

Lawrenson is not the first Liverpool legend to speak out against Benitez and, although the Spaniard remains popular with the Anfield faithful, it looks increasingly likely that only Europa League success at the end of the season could prolong his stay as Liverpool manager.

He said: “Rafa Benitez has an appalling sense of timing and it may just be that the Liverpool fans will finally turn on the manager.

“Hillsborough is an open wound still on Merseyside. With such a long struggle and such a big event for so many people, Rafa's current tussle is put into very stark perspective. The timing is shocking. It's ill judged and insensitive.”

Lawrenson added: “The club is a soap opera right now. Will a new owner come in and try to keep Rafa? We really don't know. Nor does Rafa and maybe that's why he's looking elsewhere.

“But would you give him backing in the transfer market? His record is shocking. He has bought so many players and yet his revolving door transfer policy has hardly taken the club forward or improved the squad. There have been far too many duds.

“It's time for Rafa to go. It's been six years and it's time for Liverpool to say: ‘Thanks very much and goodbye.’”

Benitez: We Had No Hope Of Winning The Title This Season

Rafa Benitez claims it was unrealistic to expect Liverpool to win the Premier League title this season.

As the inquest into Liverpool’s disappointing domestic campaign rages on, Benitez says it was always going to be difficult for them to better finishing runners-up last term.

The Reds boss claims injuries also took a heavy toll on his squad, who look like missing out on the Champions League place.

“At the beginning of the season expectations were too high,” he said. “That is normal after such a good season.

“But I always say the same – the Premier League is the Premier League and the difference in money is so big that if you want to stay at this level for a while, you have to do almost everything perfectly.

“That’s not easy when you push and push because sometimes you cannot keep the players working so hard or at the level they were in the previous season.

“During pre-season we also had players coming back late and then we had injuries. We’ve had seven, nine or 11 players out at the same time in different months, players who would normally be starters.

“We can talk about mistakes, but when you have so many players injured, especially key players, it is not easy to sustain a level of performance every week.”

Fernando Torres has been Liverpool’s biggest problem this season – the Spaniard has spent a large chunk of the campaign either crocked or coming back from injury.