Clarke Hails Impossible Shot

Steve Clarke believes it would have been impossible for any goalkeeper to save what he describes as a 'very special goal' from Luis Suarez on Wednesday night.

The Uruguay international fired both goals as the Reds progressed to the Carling Cup quarter-finals with a 2-1 win over Stoke City.

But it was Suarez's first - involving a nutmeg on Ryan Shotton and a sensational curl beyond Thomas Sorensen - that drew looks of awe from all four stands in the Britannia Stadium.

"We had a great angle from the bench because we were sitting right behind the flight of the ball," first-team coach Clarke told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"As soon as he did the nutmeg on the defender and curled it, you could tell it was always going to end up in the back of the net. Most of us were up celebrating.

"The actual shot, the way it curled away, made it impossible for the goalkeeper to get a touch on it. The little bit of skill was fantastic and the shot was even better."

Liverpool have gone through a period notable for missed chances lately - and Clarke hopes Suarez's antics will be the start of a more fruitful phase.

"The way it's been recently for us, it was going to take either a very lucky goal or a very special goal to turn the luck for us. Wednesday night was a very special goal," he said.

"If you go through a spell where the goals are not going in, all you can do in training is re-emphasize to the players to relax on the shot, take their time, pick their spot. A training situation and a match situation are totally different because you can't replicate the pressure of a match situation in training."."

Henderson: One Game At A Time

Jordan Henderson wants to focus on beating West Brom in the Premier League on Saturday rather than worrying about who Liverpool will meet in the Carling Cup quarter-finals.

Kenny Dalglish's men secured a spot in the last eight after coming back from a goal down to beat Stoke City 2-1 on Wednesday night.

After three away ties in the competition so far this season, the Reds will be hoping for a home tie in Saturday's draw, but Henderson is keen to take it one game at a time.

"We are not bothered who we get, and we'll wait for the draw and see what it gives us," Henderson told the club's official website. "We just want to go as far as we can in the competition.

"We now have an important game at West Bromwich Albion on Saturday and that is our next concern getting the three points."

The Reds achieved their first win at the Britannia Stadium for over ten years after striker Luis Suarez scored two goals to finish off Stoke.

Henderson added: "I thought we started the game very well and created a lot of chances.

"Even when we went 1-0 down we didn't give up and we always knew we could come back strongly, and we are over the moon with the win.

"The first goal was just fantastic and a bit of brilliance from Luis, but we are used to that because we see it all of the time. The finish was brilliant again from Luis. I just managed to knock the ball back in the box and he did the rest."

Liverpool Alerted To Wantaway Munich Striker

Liverpool has been alerted to Bayern Munich striker Ivica Olic, who has voiced his dissatisfaction at being left on the sidelines.

The Croatian, who had been linked with a surprise move to Liverpool over the summer has re-emerged as a target, after revealing to Goal.com his desire to leave the club if he remains on the substitute's bench.

Olic, who missed most of last season with a knee injury, has found himself fourth choice striker, behind Mario Gomez, Nils Petersen and Thomas Muller.

Speaking after Bayern's 6-0 victory over Ingolstadt, in which he was used as a second half substitute, Olic said: "With each workout I feel a little bit better.

"But I was disappointed that I could not play from the beginning. In the end I was happy to come on for a half hour.

"I always hope that I will play. I was injured a long time, maybe I need to have more patience. Nevertheless, I feel well and I've always said that I would not be happy if I did not play. And I will say it again now.

"When I see that I am no longer being given playing time, then I have to think about a change.

"I've always said that I will not be happy if I'm sitting on the bench during the winter of my career. If I cannot play here, then I will try to elsewhere."

Liverpool currently have four strikers on their books, but with Dirk Kuyt often used as a midfielder and Andy Carroll misfiring, Olic would find more first team opportunities at Anfield than the Allianz Arena.

Zamora Dreaming Of Liverpool Move

Cristian Zamora is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Javier Hernandez and make a major impact in the Barclays Premier League.

However, the Chivas teenager isn't interested in joining 'the little pea' at Manchester United, with two of the Red Devils' rivals on the player's radar.

"I hope to go down that same path, because I have the ambition to play at a big club in Europe. I think I'm going in the right direction, because four months ago I was in the lower ranks of the club and now I'm gaining ground," said the youngster.

"Maybe in the future I'll realize the dream of playing for Liverpool and being an opponent for Chicharito in England."

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has spent big on bringing young players to Anfield, with Andy Carroll and Jordan Henderson two high-profile examples.

The Reds are also looking to expand their global marketability by bringing players from all over the world to Merseyside, and Zamora could fit the bill from Central America to Liverpool.

Liverpool Alerted By Coveted Croatian Starlet's Transfer Admission

Lyon are ready to part with defender Dejan Lovren for the right price, according to the player's representative.

The 22-year-old has been tracked by a number of European giants, including Inter Milan and AC Milan.

However, following Liverpool's interest in the summer, the player's agent Nikky Vuksan says an offer would be evaluated if one came the player's way.

"I know that many European clubs, including a few Italian and Spanish teams, have made enquiries about the player but so far none of them has made concrete steps or submitted bids," Vuksan said.

"Lyon is going through a difficult time from a financial point, but we're also talking about renewal.

"I think that if we were to get a good offer, then the club would evaluate it.

When asked if the interest from the Milan duo was genuine, Vuksan added: "It would be an honour for us, but at the moment we are only talking about hypothesis."

Liverpool's summer search for a defender resulted in them signing Sebastian Coates.

However, Liverpool's problems at the back, with Daniel Agger's injury problems a constant concern and Jamie Carragher's career coming to an end, the club may again look to youth in the transfer window.

The signing of Coates, as well as that of Jordan Henderson has signalled a new direction for the club, and if their interest in Lovren shows Liverpool is ready to continue that policy.

Liverpool Want England To Be Careful With Steven Gerrard

Liverpool will seek assurances from the Football Association that Steven Gerrard’s workload will be carefully managed in England’s home friendlies against Spain and Sweden next month.

Gerrard only returned to first-team action at Anfield earlier this month after being sidelined since March with a groin injury.

The midfielder, who is expected to win his 90th cap against world champions Spain, was rested by Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish for the midweek Carling Cup victory against Stoke City due to concerns over the 31-year-old’s ability to complete three games in the space of a week so soon after his return to fitness.

The Liverpool captain is set to be restored to the team against West Brom this weekend, but having adopted a specialized training program at Anfield since his recovery from groin surgery, the club is keen to avoid his routine being disrupted while away with England.

Liverpool have no issues with Gerrard being selected for the friendly games and the player himself is keen to re-establish himself in Capello’s team after being restricted by injury to just five caps since the 2010 World Cup.

Gerrard is also determined to close in on the milestone of 100 international caps, but Liverpool are keen to avoid the player completing 90 minutes against both Spain and Sweden later this month.

The midfielder’s handling by England has been a source of contention for Liverpool in the past.

The club’s head of fitness, Darren Burgess, criticized England’s handling of Gerrard via Twitter after the player limped out of the 2-1 defeat against France last November.

Burgess tweeted: ‘Unbelievable from all associated with England and English FA with regard to Steven Gerrard’s injury. Completely ignored agreement and past history.’

Relations have improved since then, however. Capello did not select Gerrard in his squad for the recent Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro after Dalglish called on the Italian to be ‘intelligent’ with the midfielder’s fitness following his return from injury.

Liverpool Starlet Ready To Leave Anfield For Loan Deal

Liverpool’s teenage starlet Stephen Sama is ready to leave Liverpool on a temporary loan deal, with Preston North End manager Phil Brown reportedly keen on acquiring his services.

According to The Mirror, Sama has put in a series of impressive performances for the Liverpool reserve side that have been enough to put him on the radar of Brown. The Preston boss now hopes to bring Sama into his side as they make a push for promotion from League One.

Sama signed for Liverpool as a 16-year-old from Borussia Dortmund back in 2009, with the club impressed by his athletic build and physical presence. Sama’s physicality made him ideally suited to the English Premier League, and he progressed quickly to make himself a key player for the Academy.

Notching up 32 matches for the Liverpool Academy as a starter in each one, Sama found himself rewarded with a new contract that will keep him at Anfield until June 2014.

After making his first team debut on 1 August 2011 during a 3-3 friendly draw with Valarenga, Sama solidified his status as a player with real potential and a future at Anfield.

Standing at 6ft 2in, Brown now believes the Cameroonian-born German can deal with the physical demands of lower league football, despite being just 18-year-old.

Sama would join a number of other Liverpool players out on loan, including Alberto Aquilani, Joe Cole, Daniel Pacheco, Stephen Darby, Marin Hansen and Peter Gulacsi.

Chinese Starlets: The Verdict

Academy director of recruitment Stuart Webber believes Liverpool's two Chinese trialists could yet have a future at the club.

Long Chen, 16, and Chen Xiao Mao, 14, have now returned to their homeland following a successful stint in Kirkby.

There are no current plans to make their Liverpool dream a reality, but Webber is keen to commence a long-term program that could help assist with their development.

Webber told Liverpoolfc.tv: "Both boys have done really well. They've probably done better than we thought if we are being totally honest about it.

"They've taken to the training with great enthusiasm but unfortunately, because they are so young, we can't actually sign them at this moment in time.

"What we want to do is set up a program whereby we bring them over again after Christmas; then again next summer as well as in October next year.

"We've seen how they have adapted to this environment and got to know their level of ability. They've both done well and the next step will be us coming up with a proper plan so we can support them.

"We'll see where that takes us over the next year or two. Youth football needs to have a more long-term outlook and hopefully we can come up with a plan that sees us all achieve something out of this."

Match Report: Stoke 1 - 2 Liverpool

A second-half brace from Luis Suarez sent Liverpool through to the quarter-finals of the Carling Cup with a 2-1 win over Stoke.

Both managers named strong teams, and a crowd of just short of 25,000 at the Britannia Stadium were rewarded with a first half full of chances that ended with Kenwyne Jones heading in the opening goal after Jon Walters had robbed Sebastian Coates.

But the night was to belong to Suarez.

Nine minutes into the second half the Uruguayan curled an exquisite shot into the corner before, with extra-time looming, heading in the winner five minutes from time.

Stoke were unbeaten at the Britannia Stadium this season, with Liverpool among their victims in the Barclays Premier League in September.

A penalty from Walters separated the teams that day, and the striker came close to giving the hosts an early lead here with an audacious effort from wide on the left that dropped just over the bar with Jose Reina back-pedalling.

At the other end Stoke backed off and allowed Andy Carroll a run and shot that was parried by Sorensen into the path of Suarez, but the ball came to the Uruguayan very quickly and he could only direct it wide.

It was a breathless start to the game, and Ryan Shotton should really have done better than drag his shot well wide when he found himself in space at the back post.

Liverpool were looking marginally the more threatening and Sorensen produced a smart save to deny Suarez after a neat move involving Lucas Leiva and Maxi Rodriguez, while Carroll did not make the most of a free header.

The striker had another golden chance 26 minutes in, shooting straight at Sorensen from 15 yards with Stoke appealing in vain for offside.

The Potters thought they had opened the scoring in the 35th minute when Walters flicked in Rory Delap's long throw but referee Lee Probert felt Ryan Shawcross had impeded Reina and it was disallowed.

They had the ball in the net again nine minutes later, and this time it did count, although it was a goal Liverpool will feel should have been prevented.

Uruguayan defender Coates, making only his second start for the club, was robbed by Walters out on the right and the striker charged into the area before crossing for Jones to head into the far corner.

Nine minutes into the second half Liverpool drew level with a goal of real quality from Suarez. After collecting the ball wide on the left, the Uruguayan nutmegged Shotton before curling a delightful shot into the far corner.

After the glut of chances in the first half, the second was much tighter, with Liverpool coping comfortably with a number of Delap long throws.

Dalglish made his first change in the 82nd minute, bringing on Craig Bellamy for Maxi, and the striker almost made an immediate impact, striking the post with a low effort from 20 yards.

But Liverpool were to get another chance as Jordan Henderson's 85th-minute cross picked out the head of Suarez, who nodded home the winner.

The night ended on a sour note for the striker as he hobbled off moments later to be replaced by Dirk Kuyt, but Liverpool withstood a number of late Stoke salvos to book their place in the last eight.

Dalglish Delighted With Comeback Triumph

Kenny Dalglish hailed the battling qualities of his Liverpool side as they fought back from a goal down to defeat Stoke 2-1 and reach the quarter-finals of the Carling Cup.

Dalglish said: ''Every win's important but I think the most important thing was that we hung on in there. In the first half I think we missed six chances you normally expect us to put away, at least one or two of them anyway, but they got one in front.

''In the second half the boys dug deep, defended really well, the wee man scored a fantastic goal and then a good header as well. It was important that we finished off some of the football we've been playing, especially the last two games.''

Liverpool had already tasted defeat at Stoke this season having lost 1-0 to a Jon Walters penalty in the Premier League in September, and they went behind again with a goal of their own making.

''You're not going to come here and go away unscathed,'' added Dalglish. ''They normally get a goal from somewhere, that's why they've been successful. We had to match up to them and make sure that when we got the opportunity we passed and moved, and we did that in the first half.

''We're disappointed to lose any goal but the way they came back from it is more important to us. It's never the mistake, it's the way they reacted to it.''

Pulis Bemoans Decisions

Stoke boss Tony Pulis bemoaned decisions which went against his side after the Potters lost to Liverpool in the Carling Cup.

Jamie Carragher was booked after a challenge on Matthew Etherington on 21 minutes before Jon Walters had the ball in the net with a header from a Rory Delap throw-in but Ryan Shawcross was adjudged to have impeded Jose Reina and the goal did not count.

Stoke then took the lead via a Kenwyne Jones header but Luis Suarez notched a brace to win it for the Reds, although Peter Crouch had a penalty shout turned down late on.

Pulis had no quibble with the result at the end, telling Sky Sports: "I thought Liverpool were better, more so first half than second half.

"I thought we were much more even contest second half but they played really well first half Liverpool and fair play to them.

"We were pretty fortunate to be coming in one-nil up but like I say second half it was much more even-steven.

"I didn't think there was a lot of chances second half and he's made one himself - great, great goal, great finish and the second goal is a good finish as well."

But the Stoke boss thought the club had the rough end of the decisions from referee Lee Probert.

He said: "Carragher's a smashing lad and a great pro and I've got a lot of respect for him but the challenge is a bad challenge.

"If he gets what we think a Stoke City player might get, then he's off and that's 20 minutes.

"The other two incidents, the goal that we score from a long throw, we don't think is a free-kick and especially when you compare it to what the lad's done on Crouch in the second half. And the referee has good views on all three decisions.

"We just want even-stevens, we don't want nothing more than Liverpool but we don't want nothing less as well and we think we got the rough end of it from a referee that has disallowed a great goal that we scored at Aston Villa a couple of years ago and also a great goal from Tuncay last year at Everton that he disallowed.

"We're really disappointed in respect if he's going to give the incident down one end and disallow that goal, then he's going to give a penalty for the lad (Crouch) because he can see it.

"You can't have rules in one box and not the same rules in the other box."

He added: "The disappointing thing is, like I say, for me Liverpool first half fair play to them and to Kenny were a better team than us, they played much better than us, created good chances and Thomas made some very, very good saves.

"Second half was more even-stevens, the disappointing thing is we're sat here talking about three incidents again that are very, very contentious that have gone against us and gone for Liverpool."

Liverpool Ready To Step Up Chase For Defender

Liverpool is ready to step up their chase for long-term Arsenal target Jan Vertonghen, according to Footy Bunker.

The versatile Ajax player can player in a number of positions including centre-back, left-back and defensive midfield – something which may appeal to Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish with the Reds yet to keep a clean sheet at home this season.

Vertonghen, 24, has been heavily linked with Arsenal in the past with rumours even suggesting Belgian team mate Thomas Vermaelen has convinced the player to sign for the Gunners.

However, if Liverpool is ready to make their move this coming January then they could beat Arsenal to the signature.

Henderson Admits Being Too Cautious For Liverpool

Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson says he is looking to start playing more adventurously to try and create chances for his team-mates.

The former Sunderland man has hardly set Anfield alight since his summer move, reported to be between £16- 20 million, and he says he is going to start playing more adventurously in an attempt to unlock defences.

Henderson told LFC Magazine: "It is important [to maintain possession] to a certain extent.

"Sometimes I can be a little bit cautious, if you like, in keeping the ball, playing a safe pass rather than an adventurous one. Sometimes I need to take more risks going forward.

"I definitely think I need to do that in games; look for the runners and give it quickly, those little balls through – create a chance for someone.

"At times I can be a little bit safe but I know with hard work and listening, I'll get better."

The 21-year-old knows all about the pressures of playing for a big team having been a regular for Sunderland, but he admits Liverpool is a massive step up.

He continued: "Liverpool's got huge expectation. Sunderland's a very big club as well - you only have to see the size of the stadium and the passion of the supporters on the street to understand that.

"At Liverpool, it's even higher, with the history, the trophies and the players that have been here. I don't think that affects the players at all, though.

"The manager's judgement is second to none and he wouldn't have brought any of us here if he didn't feel we could deal with it. It's as I thought it would be. There's massive pressure here. It's all about how you deal with it. Of course it will be difficult at times but if you react in the right way, it's fine.

"A lot of football is in the mind and I know that I'm strong enough to continue believing in myself. As a player, I just concentrate on what I need to do."

Downing Eyes Last Hurrah For Fab

Stewart Downing hopes England can give manager Fabio Capello a good send-off by winning the European Championship in Poland and Ukraine next summer.

Italian boss Capello, who took charge of England in 2008, is set to step down after the Euros when his contract with the Three Lions expires.

England international Downing hopes his side can ensure Capello exits on a high note by claiming success at the Euros after a disappointing World Cup campaign last year.

"It's sad to see any manager leave or any player retire in that circumstance," Downing, who was speaking on behalf of the England Footballers Foundation at an event at Knowsley Safari Park, told Sky Sports News.

"So I think the best way if Fabio does leave after the Euros is to go out on a winning way and hopefully we can progress and try and win."

Liverpool midfielder Downing has been impressed by the way Capello has rallied his squad following their disappointment in South Africa last summer.

"I think we recovered really well from the World Cup disappointment and all the players stuck together," he added.

"Obviously the manager has stayed on and got us as a tight unit and playing as a team together.

"There's been a great improvement since the World Cup and we've got to take that onto the big stage at the Euros and perform."

Morgan On The Mark In Reserves Win

Liverpool Reserves secured their first victory of the season with a 3-1 success over Chelsea at the Academy on Wednesday afternoon.

An impressive first-half performance from the Reds saw Raheem Sterling give them a deserved lead when his shot from distance was deflected into the back of the net.

The winger then turned provider, sending in a low cross which was tapped in by Adam Morgan from close range to give the hosts a two-goal advantage heading into the break.

Sterling claimed another assist shortly after half-time when his pass allowed Conor Coady to spring the Chelsea offside trap and coolly convert.

Aliu Djalo netted a consolation for the visitors late on, but Liverpool were able to see out the contest to claim a well-deserved three points.

'It's A Dream To Be Here'

Liverpool's Chinese trialists have spoken of their great pride at showcasing their talent with one of the world's biggest clubs.

Long Chen, 16, and Chen Xiao Mao, 14, are in the final hours of their week-long spell in Kirkby having made a good impression with the youth-base's coaching staff.

The midfield pair has lived every young boy's dream over the course of the past seven days, as well as enjoying the unique Anfield atmosphere at the Reds' Barclays Premier League clash with Norwich City.

It is a once in a lifetime opportunity and one they will both cherish forever - regardless of whether the club decide to help shape their future.

Long said: "This is the first time I have had the opportunity to come and learn about football in one of the world's best footballing countries. I will treasure my time here a great deal.

"Obviously, everyone back home is excited about my opportunity. It is great for a player like myself to have the chance to improve in this situation. During this trial I've learned a lot, however, what has impressed me the most is that everything done here is very professional.

"Everyone has been very friendly, warm and welcoming to us.

"If I can remain in Liverpool's plans for the future it will be my life's most important turning point."

Long's words were echoed by Chen, who feels he gave a good account of himself despite the issue of the language barrier.

He said: "The time we have been at Liverpool has not been long but everything has been wonderful. I have to say my deepest impression was watching the first team play. The atmosphere was incredible.

"My confidence at the beginning of the trial was perhaps lacking a bit but I think it is getting better and I now feel I can make an impact.

"We don't speak much English but we have used hand gestures to communicate. We have watched what is being done in the training drills and copied it. Overall it has been an incredible experience for both of us.

Dalglish Welcomes Johnson Back

Kenny Dalglish is delighted to have Glen Johnson back in his plans, with the full-back having made his Premier League return on Saturday.

With just nine minutes of top flight action under his belt prior to the weekend, Johnson came through a 90-minute outing against Norwich unscathed.

The England international has handed Dalglish something of a selection dilemma at right-back, with Martin Kelly having shone in his absence, but the Scot is delighted to have such strength in depth.

"It's great to have him (Johnson) back," the Reds boss told the club's official website.

"It's a wee bit unfortunate on Martin Kelly that Glen went in and played, but it just shows you the quality of people we have in the squad and that's what we want.

"Glen certainly did well and it might have been a wee bit of a risk to put him back in as early as that, but he had around 65 minutes at Ibrox (against Rangers) and that helped him.

"We're delighted to see him back and also have a wee bit of heavy heart for Kells as well."

Johnson and Kelly will be vying for a starting berth once again in midweek, with Liverpool set to face Stoke in the Carling Cup fourth round on Wednesday.

The Reds have seen off Exeter and Brighton in the competition so far this term and Dalglish is planning to stick with a winning formula.

He said: "I think we've said after both games about the players' attitude and commitment.

"We've made several changes for both games - and the way they went about their work was a great reflection on the pride they have in themselves and also the football club.

"It will be the same for us at Stoke. They are a Premier League club and we'll put a very strong team out again - and we expect the same level of commitment and effort from the players.

"We cannot guarantee anything other than we're going to work hard to try and get a result - and we don't try and kid anybody that we're trying to underestimate the tournament.

"We take it seriously and we'll be going to try and get a result. It's a trophy - and we'd love to win a trophy at some stage."

Liverpool are close to full strength ahead of their date with the Potters, with back-up keeper Alexander Doni set to figure despite dislocating his finger in a friendly date with Rangers last week.

The Scot said: "It's more or less the same as what we had before. Danny Wilson and Jack Robinson are the only two, and Brad Jones has a thigh injury.

Liverpool Leading The Chase To Sign Swedish Defender

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish is preparing to make a move for highly rated AIK defender Alex Milosevic, according to reports in the Scottish Sun.

Milosevic is regarded as one of the hottest young prospects in Europe and a host of Premier League clubs including Tottenham and Arsenal are keeping tabs on the defender as well as Scottish giants Celtic and Bundesliga outfit Werder Bremen.

However it is believed that Liverpool is leading the race to acquire the 19-year-old's signature.

Speaking about the interest in Milosevic, Jens Andersson an AIK spokesman said: "Alex is a player who has created a lot of interest.

"Out of respect for the clubs, I won't talk about them by name. But there is a lot of interest in him around Europe.

"He's still under contract with us, but football is a business."

It is believed that a bid of around £2million will be enough for Liverpool to land the services of Milosevic, who has represented the Sweden Under 21's on six occasions and it is felt Dalglish is preparing to make a move when the January transfer window opens.

Liverpool Set To Miss Out On South American Starlet

Liverpool look set to miss out on the signing of Peru teenage sensation Andy Polo after his agent revealed he is set for a move to Germany.

Polo, just 17, is rated one of the best young talents in South America and has been strongly linked with a move to England following his superb displays for his club side Universitario de Deportes.

But Liverpool will have to look elsewhere after his agent Borja Gonzalez revealed that he should complete a move to Hamburg or Shalke in the next 48 hours.

Gonzalez said: "There are two clubs in Germany who are very interested in Andy and there is a very close agreement.

"In the next 48 hours they have to call me and tell me they want to do the deal. If all goes well on Thursday or Friday we should be close. Andy Polo will play in Europe next year."

Spearing Targets Reds Recall

Jay Spearing has vowed to win his place back in the Liverpool side and insists he is ready to face Stoke in the Carling Cup if selected.

The miniature dynamo has seen his chances in midfield restricted this term, as Kenny Dalglish recruited a number of players who could play in that position over the summer.

However, the intensity of his training levels has not dropped as he bids to prove he is deserving of a place in the team.

"It has been a mixed season for me so far," Spearing said ahead of Wednesday's game against Stoke.

"With the new players that have come in I haven't had as many chances as I would have liked, but at the end of the day it's down to me to keep working hard every day in training, and show the manager I deserve a chance when the time comes.

"I have to look at the positive side of things. The boss has put me on the bench for every Premier League game so far and I have played in the Carling Cup games, so I can't complain about that."

Spearing could be selected for the fourth round Carling Cup clash as Dalglish seeks to reinvigorate the team after their 1-1 draw with Norwich at Anfield.

He added: "I've got to do everything I can in training to show the boss I am ready if he needs me to play against Stoke.

"If I do get the chance to play it will be a massive game for me.

"They have a lot of six-foot-plus lads in their team and it's a chance for me to show that I can be put up against anyone, of stature and size, whoever, and do a good job for the team."