Suarez Fires Uruguay Into Final

Luis Suarez netted a second-half double to secure a 2-0 victory over 10-man Peru and send Uruguay into the Copa America final.

Liverpool striker Suarez scored twice in five minutes shortly after half-time in La Plata to keep Uruguay's hopes of securing a record 15th South American title alive.

Suarez netted his first on 52 minutes after Peru goalkeeper Raul Fernandez spilled a speculative Diego Forlan shot.

The 24-year-old then ran onto a long pass, before rounding Fernandez, to roll in the simplest of second goals and seal a place in Sunday's final where Uruguay will meet the winner of Wednesday's semi-final between Paraguay and Venezuela.

Peru's night was further soured with skipper Juan Manuel Vargas shown a straight red card on 68 minutes after he elbowed Sebastian Coates in the face.

The teams had shared a 1-1 draw in the group stages. However, Uruguay always looked the more likely to progress to the final as the 14-times winners handled the occasion far better.

It did not take long for Uruguay to establish their threat and only their poor finishing cost them a first-half opener.

Suarez was the chief culprit in the first 45 minutes as he wastefully blazed over after Diego Lugano nodded down a Forlan free-kick while Alvaro Pereira shinned a glorious chance at Fernandez from close quarters.

Peru almost stole a goal against the run of play after 25 minutes when Vargas fizzed in a low cross that just evaded the outstretched legs of two attackers.

Uruguay responded by putting the ball in the net just before the break, only for the 'goal' to be chalked off after Pereira strayed offside to reach Lugano's flick-on.

Any frustration Uruguay had about reaching the break on level terms were quickly dispelled by Suarez as he displayed the predatory instincts that prompted Liverpool to pay £23million for his services in January.

He opened the scoring on 52 minutes when he was quickest to react after Fernandez failed to grasp Forlan's 35-yard drive, squeezing his shot in from a tight angle.

Suarez's finishing skills were then on show again soon after when he ran onto a long ball and coolly rounded the onrushing Fernandez, who was left exposed by his defence, before rolling the ball into the net.

Any hopes of a Peru recovery looked remote and they were made almost impossible by the indiscipline of their skipper Vargas, who inexplicably elbowed Coates in the face right in front of the referee.

Peru did almost pull a goal back when Muslera had to scramble to gather after he had mis-handled a fierce drive from Jose Paolo Guerrero, but Suarez's double was enough to send Uruguay into the Sunday's showpiece in Buenos Aires.

Liverpool Eyeing Deal For Bueno

Liverpool is targeting Mexican wonderkid Marco Bueno as they continue to build their squad ahead of the new season.

Buoyed by the success of Mexican striker Javier Hernandez after his move to Manchester United, Liverpool are reportedly in talks with Bueno's club Pachuca and are ready to offer the 17-year-old a five-year deal at Anfield.

Pachuca vice-president Andres Fassi was quoted as saying: "We are conducting negotiations with Liverpool and possibly, on August 1, Marco Bueno will pay a visit to Liverpool.

"We have already practically closed negotiations with them. They want to buy 100% of the rights.''

Bueno won the Under-17 World Cup with Mexico earlier this month and has been linked with a move aboard after his impressive displays in the competition.

Liverpool Pursuit Of Peruvian Star Takes Another Twist

Liverpool's reported pursuit of Fiorentina's Juan Manuel Vargas could be scuppered by Aston Villa, it has been claimed.

According to skysports.com, the Reds have been interested in the acquisition of the Peru captain, but Villa are considering making a formal move for the 27-year-old.

Villa are said to have identified Vargas as a potential replacement for Stewart Downing, who joined Liverpool for £20 million last week.

A versatile left-sided player, Vargas was alleged to have been considered by Liverpool as a potential candidate to fill their problematic full-back position.

It is more likely however; that Liverpool would have rather Vargas for a more advanced role so, after Downing moved to Anfield, a move for the former would perhaps now be unlikely.

Tottenham are also credited with interest in Vargas as Harry Redknapp looks to bring more incisive forward options to White Hart Lane during the transfer window.

The Spurs boss, however, has been told by chairman Daniel Levy that he must sell before significant investment can be made, with the likes of Robbie Keane and Wilson Palacious tipped to leave the club.

Villa, meanwhile, have also been chasing Wigan winger Charles N'Zogbia - a one time target for Liverpool - to succeed Downing.

Anderlecht Step Up Move For Milan Jovanovic

Our-of-favour Liverpool striker Milan Jovanovic looks to be edging closer towards sealing a move to Belgian giants Anderlecht.

The Serbian forward’s stock in the country is still high after a hugely successful stint with Standard Liege before he made the switch to Anfield, and Jovanovic and his representatives met with Anderlecht president Herman Van Holsbeeck yesterday to discuss personal terms; the talks were a continuation of earlier discussions between the two parties.

Jovanovic has been told that he can leave Liverpool for free after failing to break into the Merseyside club’s starting eleven last season.

The forward, nicknamed "the snake", due to his quick footwork, failed to settle off the pitch in England and also struggled to convince first Roy Hodgson and then his successor in the Anfield dugout, Kenny Dalglish, that he was worthy of an extended run in the team.

Jovanovic soon went on record as lamenting that his decision to join the Reds had been the wrong one; the Serbia international turned down a move to Real Madrid to join the English giants.

While Anderlecht remains in pole position for Jovanovic, the player has announced that four clubs have made concrete offers for his services. Belgium though appeals to the 30-year-old and the Jupiler League holds many fond memories.

Rennes Seal Mavinga Deal

Rennes has confirmed they have completed the signing of Chris Mavinga from Liverpool on a four-year deal.

Skysports.com reported earlier on Tuesday that Mavinga was expected to undergo a medical and join Rennes this week.

And the French club has announced they have secured the services of the 20-year-old left-back.

The fee is undisclosed but it is believed Liverpool will receive in the region of €1million for Mavinga, who failed to make a first-team appearance for the Reds.

The French youngster spent the second half of last season on loan at Belgian champions Genk and is currently in Colombia, where he will be competing in the Under-20 World Cup later this month.

Mavinga returns to France after leaving the Paris St Germain youth set-up for Liverpool in 2009.

He becomes Rennes' fourth summer signing after the arrival of goalkeeper Benoit Costil, and midfielders Julien Feret and Jonathan Pitroipa.

The Brittany outfit, who finished sixth in Ligue 1 last season, have also confirmed that 28-year-old centre-back and captain Kader Mangane has agreed a one-year contract extension, tying him to the club until June 2014.

Peter Gulacsi Joins Hull City On Loan

Liverpool's Peter Gulacsi has joined Hull City on loan for the 2011/12 season.

The young goalkeeper is yet to represent the club in a competitive match since joining in 2008 and manager Kenny Dalglish last week signed Brazilian Alexander Doni to provide back-up to first choice Pepe Reina, meaning Gulacsi's chances of finding first-team minutes have diminshed further.

The Hungarian has also signed an extension to his current deal at Liverpool, after spending part of last season on loan at Tranmere Rovers.

He made his last appearance for Liverpool as a second-half substitute on Saturday against a Malaysia XI in a 6-3 win.

Liverpool FC Move Came Too Early For Me, Says Conor Thomas

Coventry City wonderkid Conor Thomas says his shock move to Liverpool FC came too early for him.

The former Coundon Court schoolboy, who played for Christ the King before being signed up by the Sky Blues as a kid, revealed his move to the Premier League club – which proved controversial at the time – came completely out of the blue.

“When it first happened it was all so quick and I didn’t get a lot of time to think about it, and was just told what to do,” said the player.

It was this loan move - with a view to a £1 million permanent deal - prompted the resignation of Gary Hoffman as vice-chairman, who was opposed to the deal along with then chairman Ray Ranson.

Thomas had only just made his full City debut against Birmingham in the FA Cup last January when Aidy Boothroyd called him in to his office.

“We had a recovery session on the Sunday and then trained on the Monday ahead of the Tuesday game at Forest and I was called in to see the gaffer at lunchtime,” said the teenager who said he felt a mixture of shock, excitement and nerves when he was told.

“He just asked to speak to my agent and my mum because a deal had been agreed for me to go to Liverpool.

"He told me a car was picking me up to go up there, he said thanks for everything and good luck, shook my hand and that was it.

“I couldn’t believe it. I was feeling a bit of everything and just needed to speak to someone to calm me down really.

"I spoke to my mum and dad and everything was going through my mind because it had all happened so quickly.”

Thomas played and trained with the Reds’ reserves and trained with the first team on seven occasions during his loan stint which was cut a few weeks short by a hamstring injury and the mutual decision to return to City.

“On my first day of training up at Melwood, Kenny Dalglish introduced me to Steven Gerrard and all the lads and because he is skipper he has a duty to make everyone welcome and stuff,” he said.

“All the senior players were great while I was there and I did enjoy it, but I am glad to be back.

"I was a little star struck at first, being in the same changing room with all those famous faces, with people like Pepe Reina sitting there.

“The big plus for me was playing reserve games nearly every week.

"Obviously you are not guaranteed to play every week here but at Liverpool they have a reserves and Under-18s so you get your minutes on the pitch, but if I had signed I wouldn’t be happy playing reserve football for all that time, and one of the main reasons for coming back was to start enjoying my football again.

“The squad is so massive up there and I was coming back after I had done my hamstring and the gaffer, Andy Thorn, called me and asked me what I wanted to do.

"It was probably three weeks before my time was due to come to an end and I told him I wasn’t really enjoying it and that I’d love to come back.

“And he made a few calls and rang me back ten minutes later and got me back, which I was very pleased about.”

He added: “I think it was a good move but just maybe happened at the wrong time for me.

"I am just coming into the new season wanting to enjoy every minute of training and playing.

"Obviously I hope to be on the bench and come on when I can if the time is right, but as long as I am enjoying my football, that’s the main thing at the minute.”

'I'm Honoured To Take New Role'

Steve Cooper has spoken of his pride at assuming the role of Academy manager.

The former U16 coach has been instrumental in the progress that has been made in Kirkby over the past few years, resulting in a deserved promotion.

Cooper told Liverpoolfc.tv: "Frank McParland has taken on more responsibility and passed on the Academy manager's role to me. I'm very honoured to be in this position and I am well aware of its importance.

"I will now look after the operational side of things in Kirkby but will always maintain a focus on the football side of it because that is the fundamental part of an Academy.

"I plan to remain actively involved in the grassroots football at the facility and will continue to work as hard as possible to ensure we have an Academy to be proud of."

Cooper's installation as Academy manager was one of several changes made at the youth base over the summer, including the appointment of Mike Marsh as U18 boss.

The duo struck up a strong relationship during their time together at U16 level and Cooper has no doubt the former Reds midfielder will be a huge success.

"His progress as a coach was obvious to us all," he said.

"It coincided with the improvement we were making here at the Academy and you could see that he was committed to the vision we have here.

"Everyone knows he played for Liverpool at the highest level, but he rarely refers to it. Obviously he can relate to what the young lads are going through because he's been there and done it - but there's much more to him as a coach than that.

"He has a very modern way of thinking and is an outstanding young coach in his own right. He's also in the fortunate position that means all of his demonstrations are right out of the top drawer!

"So it was a no-brainer that we gave him the U18s job and he is determined to help shape the future of the club."

Steven Gerrard Makes Dreams Come True For Wirral Charity

Liverpool FC captain Steven Gerrard made dreams come true for a Wirral charity which helps children with cerebral palsy.

The Reds star joined in a group session with six youngsters at Stick ‘n’ Step in Wallasey.

His Steven Gerrard Foundation, established in January to support children with disabilities or with a history of neglect, has donated £5,000 to the group.

He encouraged youngsters to have a kickabout, before signing shirts and photos.

Steven said: “One of my friend’s sons has cerebral palsy and from a young age he’s been going to Stick ‘n’ Step.

“I’ve seen his progress and I know what Stick ’n’ Step does for children with cerebral palsy.

“I know that by supporting this charity the money will be well spent. The kids really progress and improve by coming here.”

Steven chatted freely with the boys and girls, a couple of whom were proudly sporting Liverpool shirts, and helped staff as the youngsters demonstrated their skills.

Cerebral Palsy affects one in every 400 UK children, often due to lack of oxygen in the brain through complications at birth.

It causes over-tightening or over-loosening of the muscles, leading to problems with sitting, standing, walking and talking.

But it does not affect intelligence and the conflict between mental wellbeing and physical disability can often be very frustrating for those with the condition.

But it was all smiles as the Reds captain helped youngsters remove their shoes for a kick around.

One asked whether Gerrard had “ever been sent off”.

Kerry Roe-Ely is a fundraiser at the charity, she said: “They all looked absolutely delighted.

“I’ve never seen them so excited and animated before.

“We take children from all over the North West, we have as many as 70 children coming twice a week.

“We try to get them to achieve through play.”

Kerry, who is originally from Florida, said the charity was “thrilled” to receive the £5,000, which will go towards maintaining the high standards of care and development already in place.

Kerry added: “We have to raise £250,000 every year so £5,000 is a big sum for us.”

Sir Alex Ferguson Wary Of Liverpool Title Threat Again

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes Liverpool will be a force to be reckoned with again this season after two years outside the top four.

The Anfield club has not won the top flight title for 21 years, and last season United claimed their 19th, one more than the 18 the Reds have.

Sir Alex, who will turn 70 later this year, admitted that a full season under Kop idol Kenny Dalglish will put their rivals back in contention for silverware.

“Liverpool went off the radar for a bit. They are now back on it. Long-term you know they are going to be there,” he told reporters.

Grouping the Merseyside club with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City, he added: “Let's be honest, you hate losing to any of them.

“One of those four will always be a thorn in our flesh. They are our immediate challengers.

“History doesn't change. No matter where it comes from, somewhere along the line we are going to be faced with a big challenge from one of those four great clubs.”

Sir Alex has had to face numerous questions on the topic of toppling Champions League holders Barcelona since his side lost 3-1 in the final in May.

The Spanish club is widely considered to have one of the best sides in history, but the United manager is confident Pep Guardiola's can be beaten.

“Barcelona is the team of the moment,” said Sir Alex. “It is a cycle. It is the same players. They can dominate any game and could have probably done that to any other team.

“But it is not the kind of thing that makes you think, 'let's not bother with European football anymore, we are never going to beat Barcelona'.

“Manchester United is bigger than that. We have a better philosophy than that. The challenge will be [to] improve enough to get to the final next season and win it.”

Cole Ready For Liverpool Fight

Joe Cole claims he is ready to prove himself at Liverpool after a season of torment.

Cole arrived at Anfield last year on a free transfer from Chelsea, but he struggled to make an impact at a time when Liverpool was at a low ebb.

Kenny Dalglish was brought in to steady the ship and Liverpool surged up the table, but Cole was largely left a frustrated spectator.

Cole has seen the Reds recruit midfielders Charlie Adam, Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing - leading some to question what role he will play. But he made the trip to Asia for pre-season and has spoken positively after featuring in the team.

"Now I just want to get started. I feel great physically, I'm happy with how I'm performing and I want to get a couple of 90-minute run-outs under my belt," Cole said.

"There are four weeks until the start of the Premier League so there's still some time to go. I'm enjoying it. I want to take it day by day.

"Training has been good. I want to get myself fit and get a little bit better every day."

Liverpool And Newcastle Poised For 'Tremendous' Striker Offer

Reported Liverpool and Newcastle United target Daniel Sturridge has 15 days to prove himself on Chelsea's pre-season tour of Asia according to FourFourTwo.com.

The 21-year-old striker impressed during a four-month loan spell at Bolton Wanderers last season, scoring eight goals in twelve matches for the Trotters.

But having grown frustrated at a lack of first-team opportunities at Stamford Bridge, Sturridge's Chelsea career hangs in the balance having found the net just nine times in 41 appearances for the Blues.

However, newly appointed manager Andre Villas-Boas has thrown the England U21 international a lifeline to determine whether or not he will remain in west London next season.

"This is one of the decisions we have to take," Villas-Boas explained to The Sun. "Daniel is a very, very interesting player with a tremendous future and is highly regarded by myself.

"I have 15 days in Asia to make the best decision and I need those four games to continue to assess."

Sturridge's availability will likely attract the attention of Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish who is a known admirer of the player's talent.

Having already been busy in the summer transfer window with the acquisition of Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Alexander Doni, the Reds may look to add another striker to their Anfield ranks before drawing a line under business ahead of the new campaign.

Magpies boss Alan Pardew could provide Liverpool with competition for Sturridge's signature as Newcastle themselves are still on the look-out for a long-term replacement for Andy Carroll - who swapped St James' Park for Anfield in the January transfer window.

Chelsea's tour of the Far East kicks off with a game against a Malaysia XI on Thursday, where Sturridge could be given his chance to prove he has what it takes to succeed at Stamford Bridge, while Liverpool and Newcastle wait patiently in the wings for any developments over a potential transfer.

Behrami Hopeful On Aquilani

Fiorentina's Valon Behrami hopes Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani will join him at the Serie A club.

Aquilani's future is uncertain after being linked with a move away from Anfield this summer, having spent last season on loan at Juventus.

Juve were not interested in signing the Italy international permanently but their Italian rivals, Fiorentina, are thought to be chasing his signature.

Reds owner John Henry hinted over the weekend that he still sees a future for Aquilani at Anfield, while the players' agent has previously cooled talk of a Viola move.

But former West Ham man Behrami remains optimistic of the 27-year-old arriving at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, insisting he would be a valuable addition to the Fiorentina squad.

"Aquilani to Fiorentina? He has excellent qualities," said Behrami. "With him I'm sure we could make a quantum leap.

"Aquilani is a major player that could bring excitement among the fans. He would be suited to our team."

Behrami, who joined Fiorentina from West Ham in January, admits he is finding pre-season training tough after three years away from Italy.

"We are working hard on the physical level," he added. "The preparation is very different from England.

"It has been three years since I worked so much in the pre-season and I'm no longer used (to it)."

Reds Not Interested In Cattermole

Steve Bruce insists Liverpool have made no indication that they want Lee Cattermole, despite ongoing speculation over the midfielder's future.

Cattermole was linked to the Black Cats at the start of the summer, but Liverpool then negotiated a big-money deal for Jordan Henderson. However, speculation surrounding Cattermole refuses to go away.

The most recent reports have suggested Sunderland have already found a new captain in the shape of new arrival John O'Shea. Liverpool has made a concentrated effort to buy British throughout the summer, and it was claimed that 23-year-old Cattermole would add to their collection.

Bruce has rubbished the entire story though, insisting the Reds have never even spoken of the former England Under-21 international. He told the Journal: "I don't know where that has come from. It's news to me.

"I have not even thought about this situation, to be honest. I have had bigger things on my plate to worry about. We have been dealing with Liverpool for the past five weeks over the Jordan Henderson deal and there was never a mention that they wanted Lee.

"I don't know where it's coming from at all."

Bruce also ruled himself out of a move for Wigan's Charles N'Zogbia, who is expected to move to Aston Villa for a fee in the region of £10 million. The Sunderland boss admits he was interested, but "it has become a bit too rich for us."

No Liverpool FC Move For Aly Cissokho

Liverpool FC remains in the hunt for a left-back but Lyon’s Aly Cissokho is unlikely to be filling the void at Anfield.

The Reds have been linked with a £9million move for the 23- year-old France international.

However, reports in his homeland that a deal is imminent are wide of the mark and Liverpool are considering other options.

Left-back was a problem position last season and it’s an area Kenny Dalglish is keen to address.

The manager was hoping to snap up Gael Clichy from Arsenal but he opted to join Manchester City instead.

Having already moved smartly in the transfer market to complete the signings of Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and keeper Alexander Doni, a left-back is likely to be Dalglish’s next priority.

Paul Konchesky was sold to Leicester City last week after a miserable spell with the Reds, while Fabio Aurelio has been dogged by a succession of injuries.

Manchester City Target Liverpool Midfielder

According to reports Manchester City are interested in Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani.

Caughtoffside.com claims City boss Roberto Mancini is eyeing the Liverpool player who has been on loan with Italian club Juventus.

It is believed that City will look to make an offer for the Italian international who has impressed for the struggling Serie A giants.

The 27-year-old joined Liverpool at the tail-end of Rafael Benitez’ reign at Anfield but failed to make an impression after returning from injury.

It is unclear whether new boss Kenny Dalglish sees Aquilani in his long-term plans and it seems Mancini is ready to judge the Scot’s mood with a move for £12 million-rated Italian.

Serie A clubs Fiorentina and AC Milan are also believed to be interested.

Eccleston Strikes In Bray Draw

Nathan Eccleston scored a brilliant goal as Liverpool Reserves drew 1-1 with Bray Wanderers in front of the watching Kenny Dalglish on Monday night.

In front of a sell-out crowd at the Carlisle Grounds in Bray, Co. Wicklow, Rodolfo Borrell's side played their part in an entertaining encounter, despite the torrential rain.

Apart from the experience of Moroccan international Nabil El Zhar, the starting XI featured six of the U18 regulars from last season.

The youngsters also had the privilege of manager Dalglish watching them from the bench.

The home side took the lead midway through the second half when Adam Croomes pounced to score after Jamie Stephens saved Jake Kelly's initial free-kick.

The Reds responded and captain for the night Eccleston scored an equalizer that delighted the crowd, when he beat two defenders and curled home into the far corner.

Eccleston, who enjoyed a loan spell at Charlton Athletic last season, had an excellent night and was a constant threat in attack.

The Academy graduate had the best chance of the first half when he was unlucky to see a fine solo run end with a shot narrowly wide of target, and he almost won the game with a fine effort after a sweet one-two with substitute David Amoo.

Brad Smith, Raheem Sterling and goalkeeper Tyrell Belford made their first appearances since representing England U17s at the World Cup in Mexico.

Smith played the full 90 minutes at left-back while the lively Sterling came on as a second half replacement for Nabil El Zhar to make his reserve team debut.

Sterling almost won the game three minutes from time with a fantastic curler that came back off the bar with the Bray 'keeper well beaten.

Borrell's side will now conclude their Irish tour with a match against Waterford on Wednesday night.

Liverpool Build On Strong Irish Ties With Club Link-Ups

Kenny Dalglish wants Liverpool to go back to their roots.

Dalglish, who watched his young charges take on Bray Wanderers at the Carlisle Grounds last night, was speaking after announcing a link- up with the Seagulls and St Joseph's Boys.

The Reds manager is a close friend of Bray boss Pat Devlin and they had a similar arrangement when he was at Newcastle United.

The link-up will see coaches from Liverpool visit Ireland to assist with training and development programs at both Bray and St Joseph's.

"I've always had a close affinity to young Irish players," said Dalglish. "Pat Devlin and I have been in close contact for some years and it's important for Liverpool to have close links with Ireland, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

"We're here to enhance what's in place. If we get some kids through, that would be great but the real people to benefit will be the kids."

Meanwhile, Alberto Aquilani could have a future at Liverpool, after all, after Dalglish said the Italian will be given a chance to prove his worth.

Aquilani starred against the Malaysian All Stars last Saturday and, although the manager missed that match because he was flying home to complete the signing of Stewart Downing, he indicated that he will be given a chance at the club who shelled out £20m two years ago for his services.

Liverpool owner John Henry tweeted that the former Roma player, who spent last season on loan at Juventus, was "the missing link" after his performances on the club's Asian tour.

"We'll certainly see what he's like. We'll judge everybody on what they do. I don't pre-judge everybody. I'm just glad the chairman is so up on social media," said Dalglish.

Ian Ayre Salutes “Unbelievable” Support For LFC In Asia

Managing director Ian Ayre has vowed that Liverpool FC will return to Malaysia after the “unbelievable” welcome they received on their first visit to the country.

The Reds touched down in Liverpool on a high yesterday after a hugely successful eight-day tour of the Far East.

The trip finished with a brief stop in Singapore where they held an open training session for supporters but it was the time spent in Malaysia which will live long in the memory.

“It was unbelievable,” Ayre said.

“I have lived in that part of the world for many years but even I under-estimated how special it was going to be with over 80,000 in the stadium, thousands watching us train and thousands watching us at events.

“Everyone involved - whether it be players, staff or sponsors - were blown away by how great people were and how excited people were.

“It’s important to travel that far away to see the level of support we have and it’s great for the younger lads or the newer lads to see just what this club means to people and how important the shirt they wear is.

“It took us over 100 years to get there for the first time. I’m sure it won’t take us that long to come back because the welcome we got was one we’ll all never forget.”

Kenny Dalglish Faces Task Of Thinning Out Liverpool's Bulging Midfield

Despite the 12-hour flight time, the humidity and the sometimes draining adulation, Liverpool's tour of Asia was the easy part. Now Kenny Dalglish has the rather more unpleasant task of pruning a bloated midfield.

The Liverpool manager has invested £47 million this summer in three midfielders - Stewart Downing, Jordan Henderson and Charlie Adam. However, with the club's owner, John W Henry, tweeting that he expects Alberto Aquilani, who spent last season on loan at Juventus, to stay on Merseyside, Dalglish's room for manoeuvre may be narrowing.

Milan Jovanovic, his most obvious misfit and the last and worst signing made by Rafael Benítez, is close to the exit door. The Serb has had offers from both Anderlecht and Lille, although he said his wife would prefer Brussels to northern France.

Like Maxi Rodríguez and Joe Cole, he was a free transfer on high wages. The three of them, all touted for moves away from Merseyside, are each reportedly on around £100,000 a week.

Rodríguez confirmed last month that he had been approached by his former club, Newell's Old Boys, and said that he was keen to return, despite a fine end to the season in which he scored two hat-tricks.

Cole, the club's marquee signing last year, had been widely expected to leave the club, linked with moves to Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and even Hamburg.