Liverpool Revival Under Kenny Dalglish Puts The Heat On Alex Ferguson

This time 12 months ago the nation was wearily, queasily familiar with the exact nature of the personal relationships within the Chelsea dressing room, so presumably Fernando Torres knows what he is saying when he claims the camaraderie and professionalism of his new employers compares favourably with the "chaos" he left behind at Liverpool.

Anfield fans would appreciate a period of silence from their former favourite now. Torres made his point eloquently enough when he indicated he wanted to leave, yet he continues to disparage his previous club in public as if seeking to reassure himself that he made the right decision. "There are more personal relationships and jokes between the players at Chelsea than there were at Liverpool," Torres has said. "Everything was much more serious there. Here you don't have to prove you are a professional; it is assumed."

Torres has a talent for comedy if he can say this stuff with a straight face and not even mention the Chelsea dressing room being relaxed enough to permit the occasional air rifle, though his allegation that Liverpool have no sense of humour does not ring true. Scousers generally do and, while there may not be enough of them in the first team at the moment to play up to the regional stereotype, Liverpool always seem a happy squad to the journalists who work in the room next door and can hear the singing that accompanies a win.

Hurtful as his comments may be, at least Torres has a point of view and is not afraid to express it. In fact, he seems to be on a one-man crusade to promote plain speaking in football. "People aren't honest in the world of football," he said. "You can't say the truth or be clear with people. It's a business and nobody is anyone's friend."

These top players do lead sheltered lives. Try to think of another type of business that works differently, or any other walk of life apart from football where a man of 26 can complain that nobody is his friend. That is what the world is like, Fernando, and most people are not paid £170,000 a week to help them deal with it. Perhaps Torres is trying to assuage doubts about whether he joined the right team or when he may start scoring again, unless he simply watched Luis Suárez taking Manchester United to pieces last week and felt a pang at seeing himself so adequately replaced. "I knew I was an idol for the fans but it wasn't the same any more," he said, as if trying to convince himself. "Liverpool needed time. I don't have that."

Fair enough, though estimates of the amount of time Liverpool may need are falling with every performance under the only manager in the Premier League who looks happy in his work. The unmistakable Anfield resurgence has come too late to claim any of this season's domestic prizes but with a couple more signings over the summer and a permanent deal for their new/old manager – why delay the inevitable? – Liverpool could clearly be back among the contenders next time round.

Coupled with United's recent stumbles to let Arsenal climb back into the title race and give even Chelsea hope that all may not be lost, that raises an interesting question. What happens if United do not win their 19th title this season? Sir Alex Ferguson is bound to retire or step aside at some point in the nearest future and for a long time it has been supposed that his final ambition is to complete his perch-clearing operation by taking his side past Liverpool's 18 titles, a monumental achievement considering the score was 16-7 to Merseyside when he arrived in Manchester.

For most of the season United have appeared on course, even if they were taking a somewhat pedestrian route to the most glittering prize of all, but should they fall away again this year, what certainty is there of a 19th title next season or the season after that? By that stage Ferguson will be into his seventies and Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes will not be far behind him.

Suppose Liverpool were to win the 19th title. The possibility may appear remote, given that Anfield has not seen a table-topping finish in over 20 years, yet if United and Chelsea are not what they were, you would have to give Liverpool a chance. Even now you would back Dalglish's Liverpool against Manchester City.

Dalglish, of course, was the Liverpool manager when Ferguson came down from Aberdeen and, as his return has gone better than anyone could possibly have imagined, this already far-fetched story could still turn full circle. Put simply, if Fergie does not win the 19th title this year, he lets his oldest rival in with a chance of stealing his thunder. Just a chance, no more than that, but it is one more worry a 69-year-old does not need. Ferguson has even less time than Torres. He needs his players to put this season to bed.

Kenny Dalglish Offered Two-Year Managerial Deal

Liverpool is believed to have offered Kenny Dalglish a two-year contract to become their manager on a permanent basis, although the Scot was hoping for a contract twice that length.

Dalglish was brought in after the departure of Roy Hodgson, who was asked to leave after a poor set of results coupled with a difficult relationship with the fans.

The appointment of the former Celtic boss has since breathed new life into the club, with the Merseysiders still in the Europa League and now, flushed with the success of a recent 3-1 victory over arch-rivals Manchester United, targeting at least another Europa League campaign next season.

The Express reports that the club's owners have been impressed enough to offer Dalglish a two-year deal to prolong his tenure as boss - though it is also reported that the 60-year-old wanted a four-year contract instead, and is now looking for a solid financial package to compensate for the shorter contract length.

Marveaux 'Close' To Reds Deal

Rennes midfielder Sylvain Marveaux claims he is 'very close' to agreeing a deal to join Liverpool next season.

Marveaux is out of contract in the summer and has been heavily linked with a free transfer switch to Liverpool in recent months.

Reports claimed the 24-year-old had been a guest of the club for the home game against Wolves earlier in the season and he has also attracted interest from Newcastle United.

It now appears Liverpool are close to tying up a deal to add the former France Under 21 international to their squad for the 2011/12 campaign.

"I am very close to reaching agreement with Liverpool about joining them next season," Marveaux is quoted in The People.

Marveaux has spent his entire career with Rennes and the Ligue 1 title hopefuls are resigned to his departure in the summer.

The left-sided midfielder is currently recovering from a groin operation he underwent last month and is not expected to play again this term.

Dalglish Convinced Kayal Can Be Premier League Star

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is a huge fan of Celtic midfielder Beram Kayal.

The Observer says Dalglish arrived at a recent Old Firm game with thoughts of Emilio Izaguirre.

But he left raving about the impact of Kayal, whom Liverpool's manager and many others believe would have no problems adapting to England's top flight.

Manchester United have also been linked with the Israeli midfielder.

Rai Backs Lucas At Liverpool

FIFA World Cup™ winner Rai has backed fellow Brazilian Lucas to win over his critics at Liverpool. Midfielder Lucas has been a regular for the Reds since 2007 but often finds his ability questioned by fans and the media.

However, Liverpool managers Rafael Benitez, Roy Hodgson and now Kenny Dalglish all have shown enough faith in the former Gremio man to give him regular starts, and 1994 FIFA World Cup captain Rai believes he will eventually convince others of his ability.

"Lucas was so young when he first got into the Brazilian national team after making such a good start with his club [Gremio] and in my opinion, his ability is at a level that justifies him being in the group of the national team," Lucas said to Press Association Sport. "He has the quality to play in Liverpool's side.

"I don't follow the Premier League extremely closely but I think he can change people's opinion of him because he's got the qualities to do it, in my opinion. Maybe the national team is the place to give him more confidence, and to then show it in Liverpool too."

Brazil is in the fledgling stage of a new era under coach Mano Menezes, who replaced Dunga after last year's FIFA World Cup disappointment. Menezes' difficult challenge sees him trying to change both the Selecao's footballing philosophy and attitudes away from the pitch.

"He's experienced enough for this challenge," said Rai. "He's given me a good impression in his first six months, he has tried to restructure the team and to bring in some new, young players. It was very important to get the respect of the players because these days players are big stars and the leader, the coach, has to be strong with the group.

"I think he's made a good start. It's a very difficult job. I once said to my friends, other players, `if one day you see me as a national team coach, take me to the jail because I'm crazy!' It's a very difficult job, of course, not only because of the work on the pitch but the atmosphere, and in Brazil we don't have many very good coaches for this kind of opportunity."

Sir Alex Ferguson Blasts Jamie Carragher For Nani Tackle

Sir Alex Ferguson has pulled no punches in an attack on Jamie Carragher, following his controversial tackle on Nani in Manchester United's 3-1 defeat to Liverpool last weekend.

Ferguson recently revealed that Nani would probably not return until early April after sustaining an injury during his squad's defeat at Anfield on last Sunday.

Carragher escaped with a booking from referee Phil Dowd, though attempts by the defender to apologize to Nani after the game saw him turned away from the United’s dressing room.

Commenting on the issue, Fergie said: 'Obviously it was a disgraceful tackle, we know that, but you just move on.'

'We sent him to hospital to see what they could do and our own doctor and the surgeon there managed to get it stitched up, which was fantastic, the best news we could have got.'

Sir Alex was quick to stress that infection of the wound remains the biggest worry for the team, as Nani has to have his leg examined every day to ensure there is no moisture in it so that it can dry up with ease.

No Option But To Operate On Steven Gerrard

Liverpool medical chief Dr Peter Brukner insists surgery was the only solution to Steven Gerrard’s troublesome groin injury.

The Reds skipper went under the knife on Thursday and will be sidelined for up to four weeks.

Brukner and his team had tried to nurse Gerrard back to fitness after he suffered the problem in the win over Chelsea on February 6.

Gerrard sat out three games before returning to face West Ham and Manchester United but it flared up again and he missed Thursday’s 1-0 Europa League defeat to Braga.

“Steven had a minor operation on Thursday and will be out for around three to four weeks,” Brukner said.

“We tried to manage it for a few weeks and he had a short break but he still wasn’t able to play at his best because of it. In the end we decided to go down this route. It’s nothing too serious but he needed to get it done.

“He has had a lot of problems in that area and they never completely go away. We needed to get on top of things. But it wasn’t a major problem and we’re hoping he will get back playing quickly.”

Gerrard will be sidelined for next Thursday’s second leg against Braga at Anfield and the league trip to Sunderland three days later.

He will also miss England’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Wales on March 26 and the following friendly against Ghana at Wembley.

Liverpool’s trip to West Brom on April 2 is likely to come too soon for him but he could return for the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final on April 7 if the Reds get past Braga.

The club’s head of sports medicine and sports science is confident Gerrard will be back play a key role in the final month of the campaign.

“Steven will be fine,” Brukner added. “He will make a good recovery and we will see the best of him again next month.”

Losing Gerrard is a major blow for boss Kenny Dalglish who is also currently without Daniel Agger, Fabio Aurelio, Martin Kelly and Jonjo Shelvey.

The skipper missed six games towards the end of 2010 after tearing his hamstring playing for England against France.

Dalglish and his squad have remained in Portugal following Thursday’s defeat to Braga for a weekend training camp.

Alan Kennedy: Pepe Reina Is Irreplaceable At Liverpool

Former Liverpool defender Alan Kennedy insists that keeping Pepe Reina on Merseyside should be the top priority for the club.

The Reds missed out on the Champions League last season and remain likely to face a similar situation this time around as well.

And with the Spaniard having recently been coy about his future, Kennedy believes that the former Villarreal shot-stopper is "irreplaceable".

"It has been suggested to me that Pepe Reina is unsettled because of the direction the club has been heading in over the last couple of years," said the ex-Red, according to The Mirror.

"But I’d be amazed if [manager] Kenny [Dalglish] thought it would be a good idea to cash in on him like he did with [Fernando] Torres because, for me, Pepe is irreplaceable.

"After spending the last five or six years at Liverpool, his talent and experience make him the best goalkeeper in the world.

"He may be feeling a bit disillusioned about things at the moment, but I think he is crucial to Liverpool being a successful club in the next few years.”

He added: "It hasn’t taken long to see that getting rid of Torres was a masterstroke.

"Fernando was a terrific player for Liverpool, but he has had a difficult few seasons and when strikers suffer a long-term loss of form like he has you wonder whether their time is up. It was a great piece of business generating £50million because Kenny was able to bring in two strikers for the price of one in Luiz Suarez and Andy Carroll.

"It’s a totally different scenario with Pepe because, for me, any replacement is going to be a step down."

Reds Crash Out After Cup Thriller

Liverpool crashed out of the FA Youth Cup after Manchester United came from two goals down to win 3-2 at Anfield on Sunday afternoon.

The Reds looked to be cruising into a semi-final showdown with Chelsea after a brace either side of half-time from the in-form Adam Morgan gave them a two-goal cushion.

However, a bizarre penalty incident on 58 minutes changed the whole complexion of the game when both Stephen Sama and Paul Pogba were given their marching orders.

Larnel Cole eventually reduced the arrears with a re-taken spot-kick before Ravel Morrison stunned a packed Kop with a composed finish to level matters just three minutes later.

With extra-time beckoning both sides pushed for a winner but sadly for Rodolfo Borrell's charges it was the visitors who got it when Morrison unleashed a stunning volley four minutes from time.

In the dying seconds Conor Coady and Tyler Blackett were also shown straight red cards following an altercation as both teams ended the match with nine men.

Ahead of the clash a crowd of over 10,000 had turned up at Anfield to provide their backing for one of the Reds' best Youth teams in years and they were almost celebrating a goal for the hosts inside two minutes.

Pogba brought Sterling's marauding run to an abrupt halt and from the resulting free-kick Suso forced a smart save out of Sam Johnstone in the visitors' goal.

The Spaniard certainly seemed up for the occasion and fizzed in another low effort just seconds later but the United stopper was once again equal to it.

The Reds had the bit between their teeth in the early exchanges and Andre Wisdom came within a whisker of marking his first appearance in this season's competition with a goal but his near post header dropped inches over the crossbar.

Next, the lively Morgan let fly from distance but his shot was deflected, allowing Johnstone to gather with relative ease.

The away side had barely threatened but gave a warning of their threat on the counter attack just shy of the quarter of an hour mark when Morrison exchanged a one-two before curling a delightful effort just past the upright.

It was developing into the entertaining spectacle many had predicted and on 22 minutes Liverpool carved out the best opportunity of the half.

Sterling broke dangerously down the left and showed good awareness to pick out Suso with a low centre. The diminutive attacker caught his first-time effort sweetly but was denied by a magnificent stop from Johnstone who kept the ball out via an outstretched leg.

Few could have argued that the hosts had looked the more dangerous without truly hitting top gear and just when it looked like the first period would peter out they broke the deadlock on 33 minutes.

A clever pass from Krisztian Adorjan found Sterling in space 30 yards from goal. The jet-paced winger dropped a shoulder before feeding it back into the path of Morgan who raced through to steer a shot into the far corner of the Kop end net.

It was the frontman's 13th of what is proving to be a prolific campaign and his 10th in his last eight outings.

The goal seemed to settle the Liverpool players' nerves and they began to play with the freedom that has been a feature of their season so far.

On 41 minutes they split United's defence with another incisive piece of play but when Sterling cut in from the right he saw his low drive brilliantly beaten away by Johnstone.

Being the perfectionist that he is, Borrell would have no doubt demanded more from his troops during the break and within eight minutes of the restart they had doubled their advantage.

The ever-creative Adorjan released a sublime ball in behind the full-back for Brad Smith to overlap and drill in a low cross that Morgan bundled home from close range.

On most afternoon's that would have been game over but just moments later Sama received a straight red card after he was harshly adjudged to have felled Ryan Tunnicliffe in the area.

Pogba duly converted from the spot but his exaggerated run-up was deemed poor sportsmanship by the referee who then gave him his marching orders by showing him a second yellow card for dissent.

The bizarre incident had everyone scratching their heads and when the game finally got back underway Cole reduced the arrears when he sent Tyrell Belford the wrong way with a composed kick.

With 10 against 10 Liverpool would have fancied their chances of re-establishing their dominance but just three minutes later the visitors stunned Anfield by pulling level.

Cole danced down the right and muscled his way beyond Smith before crossing low for Morrison to gleefully steer home at the far post.

It was a huge blow for the home side and their approach play suffered in the aftermath of such a crazy opening to the second period.

Gradually they began to dictate the pattern of the proceedings again as Borrell shuffled his pack by replacing Craig Roddan with Matty McGiveron and goal-hero Morgan with the enigmatic, Toni Silva.

However, with normal time ebbing to a close the nearest the Reds went to restoring their lead was on 76 minutes when Sterling burst free of the defence, only to underhit his through ball for Silva.

United had grown in confidence as the match had developed and with four minutes remaining they broke forward to clinch an unlikely victory courtesy of Morrison's acrobatic volley.

Czech Star Kadlec Wants Liverpool Transfer

Bayer Leverkusen left-back Michal Kadlec has said he would welcome a summer move to Liverpool.

Czech Republic international Kadlec, 26, claims Liverpool had scouts present at a game earlier this season and would relish the chance to play in England.

"I know that they were present at our early season game against Dortmund, which we won 2-0, but I don't know whether there has been any progress since then," he said in the Daily Mirror.

"To be connected with such a big club flatters me. Who would not be tempted to play in the Premier League?"

Leverkusen beat Dortmund in August, prior to the arrival of Liverpool's director of football strategy Damien Comolli.

Liverpool Chase £20m Rated Spartak Moscow Winger Aiden McGeady

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is interested in signing Spartak Moscow winger Aiden McGeady this summer and is closely monitoring the Irish international’s situation in the Russian capital. The former Celtic star has done well since his move to the Luzhniki in August but the 24 year old has begun to be linked with interest from Zenit St Petersburg and Juventus amid reports that he could be sold if a significant offer was forthcoming.

McGeady cost Spartak £9.5m just over six months ago but apparently Juventus are willing to offer as much as £20m and it is clear that any sale sanctioned by the Moscow club will more likely be to a side not competing in their own league, hence a move to Zenit being highly unlikely.

Liverpool appear keen on adding more natural wide options having seen the likes of Maxi, Dirk Kuyt, Milan Jovanovic and Joe Cole all fail to make an impact. Kenny Dalglish is thought to be looking for an out and out winger who can help provide ammunition for his new front pairing of Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll.

Aiden McGeady enjoyed six successful years at Celtic before making the brave move into the relative unknown and has become a player well rated by supporters and pundits alike but the Glasgow born wide man would surely be tempted by a move to the Premier League and to Liverpool in particular given the obvious links between the current boss and the Parkhead side he represented so effectively.

Liverpool’s owners appear more than willing to finance significant moves in the transfer market and a move for McGeady, though expensive could well add another dimension to the club’s attack that could help the club push onwards and upwards next term.

Liverpool Still In The Hunt For Borussia Dortmund Strike Lucas Barrios

Borussia Dortmund striker Lucas Barrios continues to be linked with a summer move to Liverpool.

The Paraguay hotshot has been in fine form for the Bundesliga leaders this season - scoring 12 times in 29 appearances - and is reportedly the subject of interest from a number of clubs.

Liverpool is alleged to be tracking the 26-year-old, and now CrunchSports claims that the Reds will consider making their move when the transfer window reopens.

Should Liverpool formalize their reported interest in Barrios, then an offer of around €20 million has been suggested as enough to get Dortmund to consider a potential sale.

Despite signing Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll to the tune of £58 million in January, the acquisition of attacking reinforcements is said to remain a summer priority for Liverpool.

Liverpool has also been linked with moves for Barcelona youngster Bojan Krkic and Napoli star Ezequiel Lavezzi in their pursuit of new recruits.

Liverpool Striker Target Poised For Summer Switch

Liverpool striker target Nolito is set to leave Barcelona in the summer, according to reports.

The 24-year-old has had limited first team opportunities at the Nou Camp, appearing just twice for the first team under Pep Guardiola. Liverpool are thought to be keen on bringing the player to England.

Prolific for the Barca B team, Nolito has struck 13 times for the team so far this season in the Spanish Segunda, sparking interest from a number of clubs across Europe.

Club vice president Josep Maria Bartomeu has spoken of the club's efforts to keep the player, but admits that an exit could be imminent after failing to agree fresh terms.

"We have offered him a contract extension, but he didn't accept it. We would love to keep him at the club, but he has turned us down," Bartomeu told ONA FM.

Liverpool have monitored the player closely in the past, according to talkSPORT, and are keen to acquire the services of another striker in the summer.

Kenny Dalglish spent big in the summer on forwards, bringing in Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez for a combined total of over £55 million at Anfield. NESV proved that they are willing to back the Liverpool boss financially, and will look to do so again in the summer.

Whilst a defender is thought to be the priority for the Liverpool legend, Dalglish has hinted at a number of squad changes as he looks to make his mark on the team.

Cole Keen To Shine For Reds

Joe Cole has signalled his intention to change his luck at Liverpool through sheer hard work.

The 29-year-old has failed to live up to his pre-season billing for the club and has struggled for form, fitness and confidence.

Cole played the full 90 minutes against Sporting Braga on Thursday on the left of midfield, where he has often found himself deployed for his new club.

It is a position that he has seldom looked comfortable in but he is determined to prove his worth to the fans and caretaker manager Kenny Dalglish.

"I am just going day by day. I am enjoying my football and I love to go into training with a smile on my face," said Cole.

"I'm trying to get a run in the side and trying to get back to where I need to be.

"If you work hard you get a bit of luck here and there and I am sure my luck is around the corner.

"This is a cracking club and I really think we are going in the right direction with Kenny Dalglish, Steve Clarke (first-team coach who also worked with Cole at Chelsea) and Damien Comolli (the director of football strategy)."

Andy Carroll's recovery from a thigh injury was stepped up as he made just his second appearance for Liverpool since completing his record £35million move from Newcastle.

Last week against Manchester United, he played for 16 minutes, while on Thursday evening this was increased to 31.

His introduction coincided with Liverpool's best spell in the game and having played with another target man in Didier Drogba at Chelsea, Cole is backing Carroll to be a hit.

Cole added: "He is only a young lad but he reminds me of a young Didier Drogba.

"I have played with both of them and I think he has all the attributes to become that type of centre-forward."

Steven Gerrard Out For Four Weeks Following Operation On Groin Injury

Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard has been ruled out for four weeks with a groin injury.

The 30-year-old underwent successful surgery on the problem and will not return until mid-April on the advice of a specialist.

Reports suggested the Reds captain could miss Sunday’s win over Manchester United after he was believed to have picked up the injury in training last Friday, but he played in the match before being left out for the Europa League loss to SC Braga.

Gerrard will now miss the return leg against Braga, Premier League matches against Sunderland and West Brom, England’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Wales and an international friendly against Ghana.

A statement on Liverpool's official website read: "LFC can today confirm that Steven Gerrard has undergone successful surgery on his groin and will be out for up to four weeks. The decision was made following consultation with a specialist."

The midfielder has made 24 appearances for Liverpool this season, scoring eight goals.

Spurs Ready To Offer Struggling Cole Escape Route

Joe Cole faced up to the reality of his uncertain Anfield future, by admitting last night he must take things 'day by day'.

The England midfielder has endured a tough time since his high-profile move to Liverpool last summer and already there are suggestions the writing is on the wall for him at the club, with Tottenham rumoured to be a potential summer destination.

Harry Redknapp rivalled the Reds when Cole left Chelsea at the end of last season, and he is believed to be still willing to offer the 29 year old a route out of his current torment, despite being snubbed last time.

After a bright start on Merseyside, a succession of injuries have left him struggling desperately for form and fitness, and Cole has found it impossible to hold down a regular first team place, let alone stake an international claim.

He has been reduced to scrubbing around in the Europa League, desperately hoping for some more minutes on the pitch in a competition clearly viewed as second rate by his club.

For a player of such natural talent and obvious quality, the former Chelsea man has suffered the indignity of making more starts in Europe's second grade competition than in the Premier League. In fact, he has started 10 times in Europe, but incredibly, only six in domestic football.

Given that Liverpool has played their second string virtually all the way through the competition, it does not bode well for his long term future at the club.

And Cole clearly knows that. When pressed about his future on Thursday night after defeat in Portugal to Braga, he admitted that he cannot afford to look beyond the next day, and his body language suggested he may well be on the move shortly.

'The whole set-up, the players are gelling, you can just feel this club's going in the right direction, but for me I will just take it day by day,' he confessed.

'Do I think I made the wrong decision to come here? As I say, it's day by day. I'm proud to play for Liverpool, every day in every training session I am working hard and enjoying myself.

'It has been difficult this season, and I find myself playing these Europa League games trying to catch up, but I am still nice and positive, still myself - I know what a great job it is playing football for a living, but what will be, will be.'

Cole understands the painful irony of his situation. While he is obvious unsure of his next step at Anfield, he also believes the club has now turned the corner towards a brighter future.

Despite the setback in Braga on Thursday, he is convinced Liverpool is heading back towards their rightful place at the summit of English football.

And he believes they now have the right manager, and the right set-up to become one of the Premier League's big guns again, even if he far from he will be part of that potentially glorious future.

'We've got good players, the club is looking really positive, going in the right direction and I am proud to be part of it,' he insisted.

'I just think we have the right man here in Kenny Dalglish, the fans love him. Damien Comolli's come in and brought in some fantastic players, while I know Steve Clarke from Chelsea and I don't think there is a better coach around.

'I am happy, I like the lads, I like the training now, the manager has come in and been a breath of fresh air.

'Of course I still think I can make it here. There's nothing stopping me but I just have to take it day by day, step by step and we'll see where we go.'

Cole was disappointed with the result in Portugal, especially because he believes he should have had a penalty when he was felled by Braga defender Kaka.

But the midfielder is still confident Liverpool can turn the tie around in the second leg next week, especially with the help of Andy Carroll and the inspiration the big striker will provide for the Kop.

'Andy came on and looked a real threat, a real handful. The fans will be really looking forward to seeing him at Anfield and he can make a big difference? Cole added.

'With the punters behind us at Anfield we will keep going and it will be a big night, and we will see if we can keep ourselves in the competition.'

Match Report: Braga 1 - 0 Liverpool

Liverpool failed in their attempts to equal a club record 14-match unbeaten run in Europe with a 1-0 defeat against Braga in their last-16, first-leg Europa League tie in Portugal.

The location of the AXA Stadium is no stranger to displays of hard labour, having been carved into the face of the former Monte Castro quarry.

But Kenny Dalglish's side were so devoid of movement at times they appeared to be taking inspiration from the huge chunks of rock still visible at one end of the unique ground.

They lacked pace and creativity without injured captain Steven Gerrard and the ineligible livewire forward Luis Suarez, who was instrumental in terrorizing Manchester United in Sunday's 3-1 victory.

Even a European debut for £35million record signing Andy Carroll after half-time could not turn things around after Brazilian Alan had converted a 17th-minute penalty.

The omens were there from the start with a side featuring three defensive midfielders - albeit with Jay Spearing patrolling the right side of a 4-2-3-1 - which still never looked comfortable or particularly solid.

They spent much of the opening quarter of an hour chasing possession, although the hosts never came close to threatening Jose Reina's goal.

They were just getting into their stride, however, and in the 17th minute when Mossoro raced onto a through-ball to the right of the penalty area he was brought down by Sotirios Krygiakos' mis-timed tackle.

The spot-kick was expertly slotted away by the Brazilian, who must have one of the least exotically-sounding names of all his countrymen.

Raul Meireles was given a hard time by Braga fans on his return to his homeland, having moved to Anfield from nearby Porto.

He had a rare shooting opportunity from a 25-yard free-kick but drilled his effort into the wall.

Pressure was growing on Liverpool though and centre-back Kaka, almost lived up to the reputation of his more illustrious namesake when he attempted a cheeky shot from a narrow angle after taking a corner but drilled the ball into the side-netting.

Left-back Silvio went even closer with a thunderous 35-yard volley which beat Reina but rattled back off the crossbar.

The visitors were crying out for some creativity and pace to be injected and to that end all seven substitutes were sent out to warm-up during the interval.

Ten minutes after the restart Carroll was sent on for Christian Poulsen, with Spearing dropping back into central midfield and Meireles moving to the right.

His early involvement saw him head over Meireles' corner, although he was adjudged to have committed a foul in the act, and then had a shot deflected for a corner.

Carroll's arrival certainly livened things up, with Braga unable to handle his aerial power; Liverpool's problem was they were not proving him with decent enough crosses to threaten the hosts' goal.

When Meireles did whip one in from the right it was Dirk Kuyt who controlled it and volleyed over the crossbar.

The closing stages became increasingly scrappy as the Reds pushed for an equalizer.

Carroll continued to win headers with confident regularity but they were mostly in non-threatening positions from Reina's long punts up field, with absolutely no service coming from either flank with Cole cutting a particularly inconsequential figure.

Braga by no means look like a side who will pose a significant danger at Anfield in a week's time but Liverpool's greatest problems are of their own making.

They have scored once in five away matches in Europe this season. Their home record is much better, and they need it to be if they are to turn things around.

Dalglish Admits Sloppy Liverpool Were Fortunate To Escape Lightly

Should Liverpool reach the Europa League final, the club's commercial department may be tempted to release a DVD of the full campaign. The away legs will, however, need to be fast-forwarded or cut out. Thus far, they have travelled through the Netherlands, Italy, Romania, the Czech Republic and now Portugal, amassing thousands of air miles and a single goal.

It was difficult to imagine that this was practically the same team that had taken Manchester United apart at Anfield. It was like coming across an old friend who has had Botox; they looked familiar but various bits were not moving as they should.

On Sunday, Andy Carroll had made his Liverpool debut as the United game turned into a triumphal procession. Here, football's most expensive Englishman caused Braga rather more problems than anyone else before receiving an elbow in the face from Kaka – not the one everybody has heard of but a Brazilian defender signed on loan from Hertha Berlin. "I'll do my impression of Arsène Wenger and say I didn't see it," his manager, Kenny Dalglish, commented afterwards. There was much, much more he would have wanted to avoid viewing again.

Braga's stunningly designed stadium is known as "The Quarry" and it would be tempting to say that Liverpool need digging out. True, they were beaten and the electronic scoreboard in front of the Monte Castro rock face was showing 67 minutes when home goalkeeper Artur was required to make his first real save, tipping over a drive from Dirk Kuyt. However, they were not buried alive, as perhaps they might have been.

Dalglish thought Liverpool fortunate to have only been beaten by a single goal. Celtic and Arsenal lost rather more comprehensively here this season, although significantly Braga were beaten at Celtic Park and humiliated at the Emirates Stadium. As he takes his side to a training camp in the Algarve, Dalglish might fancy Liverpool's chances of overturning this result on their return to Merseyside next week.

"Not if we start the way we did here," he interrupted. "Nobody can be pleased with the performance or the result. We won't be able to assess if we have contributed to our downfall until Thursday night."

Braga has a reputation for being the most conservative city in a conservative country, the Tunbridge Wells of Portugal, although their football team plays in a stadium that is positively radical – two vast stands each holding 15,000, with one goal framed by the side of a quarry, the other by a grassy bank.

It looked as if Liverpool were playing a spectacularly wealthy Sunday League side, an impression reinforced when the goalscorer was announced as Alan.

Perhaps appropriately given the setting, Sotirios Kyrgiakos demonstrated a caveman's touch when attempting to challenge Mossoro, conceding a penalty that Alan Osorio da Costa Silva, known simply as Alan, put away in the goal in front of the grassy knoll. The Alan known as Shearer could not have buried the spot-kick any more emphatically.

Braga deserved and should have scored a second when, after Liverpool failed to clear an inventively taken free-kick, Silvio unleashed a superlative volley from outside the box that clattered against Pepe Reina's crossbar. A few inches lower and Silvio would have scored one of the goals of this European season.

Much of Braga's best midfield work was carried out by Hugo Viana, which may have caused a quizzical eyebrow to be raised at Newcastle United. At roughly the same time, English football's two managerial knights, Sir Bobby Robson and Sir Alex Ferguson, bought Sporting Lisbon's two most glittering talents. One is on half the billboards in Portugal, the other is not, but there were times yesterday evening when Viana's game did not seem so very different from Cristiano Ronaldo's.

Only if Braga show more resistance than they mustered at Arsenal, the club that inspired their foundation, will this result be seen in its full context. "We are optimistic," said their manager, Domingos Paciencia. "But we have to be very careful when we go to Anfield because Liverpool are one of the sides that can win this competition." Not on this evidence.

Segura Given Reds Reserve Role

Liverpool has replaced reserve team coach John McMahon with academy technical director Pep Segura.

The Spaniard takes over the role on a temporary basis until the end of the season as the club prepares for a proper restructuring of their youth system this coming summer.

Segura has a reputation for aiding some of the finest players in the game with their development, helping to bring Spanish stars Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas through Barcelona's youth academy.

Liverpool's Under-16s coach Steve Cooper will assist Segura for the remainder of the reserves' season.

"The club has conducted a thorough review of all operations based at our academy as part of our overall strategy to constantly improve our youth and professional player performance," said a club spokesman.

"We have a clear vision of the way ahead and a number of changes will now be put in place to help us to build on the considerable progress already made.

"Pep Segura will step in as reserve team manager on a temporary basis for the remainder of this term only, before a revised structure is put in place this summer.

"He will be assisted over the next few months by Steve Cooper."

Gary McAllister's Anfield Stay Was Brief But Memorable

Gary McAllister MBE was one of the most influential yet under-rated players in Liverpool’s recent history. The only time I saw Gary Mac live was after his retirement. It was during his appearance in Carra’s testimonial last summer against Everton. Upon his introduction the fans instantly broke into song....

(Sung to the tune of Alouette)

“Oh Gary Macca, Gary Gary Macca,

“Gary Macca, Gary Gary Mac

“Oh we love yer baldy 'ead (Oh we love yer baldy 'ead)

“Yer Baldy 'ead (Yer Baldy 'ead)

“You're Gary Mac, (You're Gary Mac)”...

Then “Shooot!” we bellowed at his every touch. It was obvious that Gary Mac was still a hugely popular figure at Anfield.

The man from Newarthill, Motherwell, was a throwback to the old days – a slightly built and elegant midfielder that pulled the midfield strings with crisp passing and robotic vision. Macca played an intelligent game and also packed an explosive shot.

Aged 35, Macca arrived at Anfield on a Bosman free in 2001. Though his ability was never in doubt, many questioned Gerard Houllier’s judgement in bringing in a player that was seen to be enjoying an Indian summer in what was very much the twilight of his career. The “Enforcer” proved all the doubters wrong with two splendid seasons culminating in the Scot forcing himself into Liverpool’s hall of fame.

Macca was hugely influential as Liverpool picked up the UEFA Cup, FA Cup and League Cup. A dead ball expert and inspired proponent of free kicks, Macca’s influence was central to Liverpool’s style of play. His influence, professionalism and authority were also great examples for Liverpool youngsters Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher.

Macca had arrived at Anfield with a proven pedigree - 57 caps for bonny Scotland and five goals. He’d skippered his country and Leeds United at Wembley in the League Cup Final of 1996. It was at Leeds that Macca became part of the famous quartet of Strachan, Batty and Speed that captured the League Championship for Leeds in 1991-92.

Throughout his career the midfield schemer possessed the uncanny ability to dominate and control the pace of the game. He was similar to legendary Celtic Skipper Paul McStay, another one of my all time favourites and one who I wish had worn the Red of Liverpool.

His finest career moment was when he scored in Dortmund as Liverpool defeated Alaves 5-4 to lift the UEFA Cup in 2001. Macca was rightfully awarded the Man of the Match and it was his extra time free kick that was deflected in for Liverpool’s Golden Goal winner.

Despite this perhaps his most memorable football moment was when he scored that 44 yard free kick in the Mersey Derby at Goodison Park.

Macca’s golden streak continued as he netted a charity shield winner against Manchester United during the season’s curtain raiser.

Houllier singled out Macca as his ‘most inspirational signing’ and proclaimed that had Liverpool had him ten years earlier they would have won the Premier League.