Gillett & Hicks Show Their Priorities

Almost 16 months after George Gillett and Tom Hicks walked into Liverpool Football Club promising to have “a spade in the ground within 60 days”, instead the only construction involving Liverpool FC involves the opening of a brand new megastore in the new Liverpool One shopping centre.

The new shop, the biggest in Europe, is once again evidence of where the American owners’ priorities lie. If their promises about the new stadium had been met we’d have been seeing photos of the new stadium on Stanley Park being constructed, instead we’ve seen three proposed plans, lots of wasted money on planning, embarrassing backtracking on one design, cost-cutting to another design, and no further along with planning for the increased capacity. Rather than the new stadium being well on it’s way to be being built, instead we’re left still hearing about talks of groundshares with Everton.

Fans group SOS (Spirit of Shankly) have been urging Liverpool fans not to purchase official club merchandise for as long as Hicks and Gillett are at the helm. They have placed debt onto our football club and now expect us to repay that debt for them, against their promises and our wishes.

Whatever the marketing blurb says we know that paradise isn’t a place where Manchester United are league and European Champions and look like investing significantly this summer from a position of strength. We know paradise isn’t inertia; two owners desperate to wring every last penny over their abortive eighteen months in charge of the football club. We know paradise isn’t being lied to again and again. It isn’t Rick Parry.

Supporting this football club isn’t buying into a franchise; it’s committing yourself to shared values and aspirations. It’s a necessity of modern football that this collective identity is taken and sold back to us. However that doesn’t mean we should accept it when those shared values and aspirations aren’t simply being ignored but are being ridden roughshod over by those who stand to gain from our support.

We’ve asked you to withhold that support wherever possible and we ask you to do so again. We’ve asked you to spread this word around and we ask you to do so again. We’ve asked each and every one of you to consider every pound that goes into the football club as being a pound which goes towards us paying off a debt which is not ours, which has not been instituted for the benefit of the football club but for the two greedy individuals who hold our potential back, and work out whether or not that pound is worth spending.

The fight has dragged on but that doesn’t make it any less worth fighting and it doesn’t make it any less urgent. Every day that passes damages our club and we’re looking for new fronts to open, to re-emphasise there is no custodianship here, no integrity, no honesty, no dignity. Nothing that makes LFC fans proud.

Next week we’re hoping to start sending membership packs out, we’re hoping to launch the online membership. Within our membership packs is a badge. The badge we send out isn’t just a badge, isn’t a family crest but it is a simple statement - that the wearer will not accept our shared values being destroyed, that the wearer will fight against this now, and will ensure that after this fight has been won the next custodians will be held to account.

We know nothing is impossible; that’s why we’re here: an organisation created from the ground up, energised by Liverpool supporters who will not watch what they believe in be eroded by lies and ongoing incompetence. A democratic organisation which has and will continue to speak for the collective, speak for the shared values and aspirations and will speak out as the erosion takes place. We still need your energy and your support; we shall always need it if we are to fulfil what we said we would. We can only come together and hold the club to account for years to come if we do stand together as a massed force of Liverpool supporters.

Paradise isn’t a shop. It’s being one red in a crowd, urging this football club towards success.

Fernando Torres To Get Liverpool Pay Rise

Liverpool are set to reward Fernando Torres for his outstanding debut season at Anfield by giving the striker an £800,000-a-year pay rise.

The Spain international, who moved to Merseyside from Atletico de Madrid last summer for £21.5 million, was promised when he signed for the club that his salary would be reviewed at the end of his first season in the Premier League.

Torres was so keen to join Liverpool that he actually accepted a drop in his wages, as well as waiving the £3m from the original transfer fee that Atletico owed him but, after scoring an incredible 33 goals in the last campaign, the powers that be at Anfield have agreed to increase his weekly wage packet from £74,000 to the £89,000 that he was paid at the Vicente Calderon.

That works out at an extra £4m for the player over the remaining five years of his contract, but it will be considered a small price to pay by manager Rafael Benitez if it helps to ward off interest from rivals Chelsea, who earlier this week signalled their desire to lure the highly-talented forward away to Stamford Bridge for the start of next season.

It has been reported that Torres' agent, Margarita Garay, was in Liverpool between May 14 and 16 to thrash out the new agreement, with a source close to the player saying: "There has been a meeting between Fernando's people and Liverpool.

"It was very amicable and set the tone for what should be a straightforward negotiation."

Aberdeen And Hibs Join Queue To Land Liverpool Winger Hammill

Hibs and Aberdeen are among the clubs set to fight it out for the loan signing of Liverpool winger Adam Hammill.

The 20-year-old had a successful four-month spell at Dunfermline last year, helping the Pars reach the Scottish Cup Final, and could now be set for a return north of the border this summer.

Hammill is back at Anfield after a season-long loan at Southampton but Reds boss Rafa Benitez is exploring the option of farming him out again to gain experience.

But the SPL duo are likely to face English competition from the likes of Swansea, Plymouth, Charlton, Preston and Wolves.

Meanwhile, Hibs striker Abdessalam Benjelloun appears set to quit the club this summer due to a lack of opportunities under manager Mixu Paatelainen.

Riise Wants Answer From Rafa

John Arne Riise wants Rafa Benitez to make a decision on his future at Liverpool before he returns to the club for pre-season training.

The left-back endured a frustrating past season after failing to hold on to a regular place in Benitez's starting line-up.

Benitez is also trying to increase competition in Riise's position, with the Reds in talks to sign Udinese defender Andrea Dossena.

Riise has already admitted he could be forced to move on after seven years at Anfield, with Aston Villa and Newcastle United having been linked with offers.

The 27-year-old is now calling for Benitez to make a decision on his Liverpool career before he returns to the club for pre-season in early July.

"My agent is set to find out what is happening," said the Norwegian.

"I have to get things sorted out before pre-season starts. Those who have played internationals are due to meet up on 7th July.

"I can't wait and wait for an answer. I have to get an answer now."

Rafael Benitez Faces Liverpool Midfield Crisis As Mascherano And Lucas To Head To Olympics

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is set to discuss with Javier Mascherano the Argentinian's possible participation in this summer's Olympic Games.

Mascherano, 23, looks likely to be named in the Argentina squad as an over-age player but the issue has caused consternation at Anfield with Benitez worried about his absence for the start of the new season.

Brazilian Lucas is also likely to be in Beijing with his country while Xabi Alonso seems set to leave the club for Juventus in a £16 million deal, leaving Benitez short of midfielders for the early stages of the campaign.

Benitez said: "This is a very difficult situation for us because we have Lucas, who is eligible through his age with Brazil, and Mascherano, who can play for Argentina as an over-age player, so I need to discuss his position with him. We will see what happens."

Alonso, 26, was reported to be in Turin holding talks with Juventus yesterday. The Basque midfielder has found first-team opportunities increasingly limited at Anfield and the club need to raise funds to make signings over the summer.

Juve president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli said: "We can't deny that we're interested, but there's always the problem of getting value for money."

Reds Winger Set For New Loan

Skysports.com understands Liverpool are exploring the option of sending young winger Adam Hammill out on loan again next season.

Hammill has returned to Anfield after a season-long loan spell at Southampton and is waiting to find out what his future holds.

The 20-year-old struggled to show his true form at Southampton because of the upheaval at St Mary's including George Burley's departure to manage Scotland.

Hammill enjoyed a superb spell on loan at Dunfermline in 2007, helping the club reach the Scottish Cup final and his performances in Scotland won him many admirers.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is now exploring the option of loaning out the talented winger for another season as he continues his policy of farming out his best young players, so that they can gain experience before making the step up to the first team.

The news has alerted a number of clubs in England and Scotland as they prepare a move for the former England Under 19 international.

Championship new boys Swansea are thought to be interested in landing Hammill, having had Paul Anderson on loan from Liverpool last season and a move to Roberto Martinez's men could be an option.

Plymouth, Charlton, Preston, Wolves and QPR are all monitoring developments, while Aberdeen and Hibernian are ready to offer Hammill the chance to return to Scotland after he impressed against them while playing for Dunfermline.

Benitez is believed to be looking at the list of interested clubs before making a decision on Hammill's future.

Ablett Seeing Shades Of Kenny

Gary Ablett claims he can see shades of Kenny Dalglish in the way reserve striker Krisztian Nemeth plays football – but insists the youngster has a lot to learn before people can call him the King.

Despite the high praise, Ablett outlines several areas where the Hungarian must improve before he can establish himself as a first-teamer.

"It's probably a wrong comparison to make but I was lucky enough to play with Kenny during my first games at Liverpool and Krisztian reminds me a little bit of that in that he has great balance, can back into people and twist and turn," says Ablett.

"But he still has a lot to learn. His movement can improve. We keep telling the young players that even when they haven't got the ball they can be involved in the game and affect play.

"He doesn't score many with his left foot and that's something we are working on. It's the same with his head, but with his right foot he can find that yard of space in the box and get his shots in early without much backlift. Goalscoring comes naturally to him.

"We mustn't get carried away because he is just 19 years of age. Rafa will make the decision as to when and where Krisztian will get his chance and that will be the right decision."

While stressing the importance of not getting carried away, the interview sees Ablett reveal his belief that Nemeth has the right mentality to succeed in England.

"The fact he came over with some of his countrymen (Peter Gulacsi and Andras Simon) might have helped but he is a little older and decided to get a place on his own in the city centre. I think he brought his girlfriend over too," he says.

"His English is improving and he seems to be a very level-headed young man."

Reds Set To Be Number One In Europe

Liverpool are on course to be Europe's number one ranked team according to UEFA for the first time since 1985.

The basis for the UEFA rankings is the performance of teams in the European Cups during a five-year period.

While the Reds currently stand third behind AC Milan and Chelsea, the projected figures for 2009 put Merseyside's finest on top.

That's because over the last four years – winning the Champions League in 2005, losing in the final in 2007 and reaching the semis last term – the Reds have accrued more points than any other team (Liverpool 104.288; AC Milan 103.006; Chelsea 102.284).

Therefore, a decent European campaign in 2008-09 would see Rafa Benitez's side overtake AC Milan and Chelsea to take top spot.

Meanwhile, Liverpool's recent form in the Champions League also means they will go into the qualifiers for next season's competition as number one seeds when the draw is made in July.

Kuyt And Babel Going To Euro 2008

Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel will both feature in Euro 2008 after being named in Marco van Basten's final Dutch squad.

Kuyt was dropped from the national set up after a blip in form earlier this year but has won his place back in style with a string of priceless Champions League goals for Liverpool.

More recently, the 27-year-old found the net at the weekend in Holland's 3-0 win over Andriy Voronin's Ukraine.

He'll now travel to Austria and Switzerland alongside Babel and five other Premier League stars.

The 23-man squad in full is: Goalkeepers: Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United), Maarten Stekelenburg (Ajax), Henk Timmer (Feyenoord). Defenders: Wilfred Bouma (Aston Villa), Tim de Cler (Feyenoord), John Heitinga (Ajax), Joris Mathijsen (HSV Hamburg), Mario Melchiot (Wigan Athletic), Andre Ooijer (Blackburn Rovers). Midfielders: Ibrahim Afellay (PSV Eindhoven), Giovanni van Bronckhorst (Feyenoord), Orlando Engelaar (FC Twente Enschede), Nigel de Jong (HSV Hamburg), Wesley Sneijder (Real Madrid), Rafael van der Vaart (HSV Hamburg), Demy de Zeeuw (AZ Alkmaar). Strikers: Ryan Babel (Liverpool), Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (Ajax), Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool), Ruud van Nistelrooy (Real Madrid), Robin van Persie (Arsenal), Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink (Celtic), Arjen Robben (Real Madrid).

Xabi Alonso Set For Move To Juventus

Xabi Alonso appears ready to accept that his Liverpool days are numbered – with Juventus hoping to close in on his signature this week.

Although Alonso’s agent insists that a decision won’t be made until after Euro 2008, he is due to meet officials from the Serie A club today with a view to discussing terms for the 26-year-old midfielder.

The sticking point in the deal remains the value of the Spain international, who is currently preparing for the European Championships with his country.

Liverpool have told Juventus that they must raise £16m for Alonso, who cost £10.5m when Rafael Benitez brought him from Real Sociedad in 2004.

Representatives of the Italian club have already met Anfield officials to outline their intention to prise the playmaker away, but they don’t want to fork out more than £14m for him.

Juve president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli said: “We can’t deny that we’re interested, but there’s always the problem of getting value for money.

“Managing director Jean-Claude Blanc is working on this and on other possibilities.”

Although Liverpool are in no rush to sell and Alonso has perviously revealed he is happy to stay, he is beginning to come to terms with his future lying away from Anfield.

Agent Inaki Ibanez said: “I have a clear idea, namely Liverpool would like to sell. But we must first speak with Rafa Benitez.

“We'll decide after the European Championships.”

Alonso struggled to produce his best form last season, when he was sidelined with a broken foot then used in a more withdrawn role behind Benitez’s attacking quartet.

With Javier Mascherano a fixture in the holding midfield position and Benitez pursuing Gareth Barry, there is no guarantee of Alonso being a first team regular if he does remain on Merseyside.

Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri is keen to pair him alongside his former Liverpool team-mate Momo Sissoko when the Turin side kick off next season.

Liverpool Fail In £5m Ramsey Offer

Cardiff City have rejected an offer from Liverpool for Aaron Ramsey, the 17-year-old midfielder who is also on Manchester United's radar. It is understood that the offer, believed to be worth close to £5m, were turned down because Cardiff are seeking a more substantial sum up front, with the Championship club reluctant to agree a deal in which the bulk of the fee is linked closely to the teenager's development.

Liverpool are expected to return with an improved offer but there is likely to be competition from a number of other Premier League clubs, including Everton, Portsmouth, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur.

United are also continuing to monitor the situation, although the lack of first-team opportunities at Old Trafford, and at Arsenal and Liverpool for that matter, is likely to be uppermost in Ramsey's mind when he makes a decision.

John Toshack, the Wales manager, voiced similar concerns this week when he spoke about the number of promising teenagers who have moved to Premier League clubs and struggled to fulfil their potential because of the quality of players in front of them. One solution would be for Ramsey to spend a season on loan at a Championship club, an agreement which could see him return to Ninian Park in August. There is certainly little chance of him starting next season as Cardiff's property, and the Welsh club are resigned to losing their biggest asset.

Ever since Ramsey made his debut in April last year interest in the Caerphilly-born midfielder has snowballed. Manchester United's manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, has spoken to his Cardiff counterpart, Dave Jones, about Ramsey, and Harry Redknapp was hugely impressed with the teenager's performance in the FA Cup semi-final against Barnsley last month. Ramsey then came on as a substitute in the Cup final against Redknapp's Portsmouth at Wembley this month.

Ramsey has two years remaining on his Cardiff contract but such is the sense of inevitability surrounding his departure that there has been no talk of extending his deal.

His progress at Ninian Park - he made 21 appearances for Cardiff last season - has been recognised at international level, with Toshack calling him into the Wales squad for this week's friendlies in Iceland and Holland.

Degen Still Pinching Himself Over Liverpool Move

New Liverpool signing Philipp Degen has vowed to do whatever it takes to make the grade at Anfield.

The 25-year-old Swiss international, who arrived on a free transfer from Borussia Dortmund, will be in direct competition with Steve Finnan and Alvaro Arbeloa for a place in the Reds' starting XI next term, which he acknowledges is a daunting prospect.

"All of my team-mates have congratulated me [about Liverpool]," he told Swiss reporters.

"My team-mates know the business. They know what this transfer means.

"Only in the last week were the details clarified. I am glad now everything is clear.

"I made the change but it's not easy. I was in Dortmund for three wonderful years.

"My playing style suits The Premier League. It is played moving forward. The move is a challenge for me. Liverpool are not just any club.

"They play every year for the championship and the Champions League. It is clear to me that it's not easy to get through [to the team]. All the positions are two or three occupied at Liverpool."

Ironically, Degen could be in line for one of the biggest disappointments of his career, if Swiss team manager Kobi Kuhn deems that he has not recovered from injury sufficiently to be part of his final Euro 2008 squad.

"On Wednesday, Kobi Kuhn chooses 23 players," he added. "I know I was injured for a long time and if the coach cuts me, I will accept this.

"Of course, I hope, however, that I am included.

"I can only say that I feel ready. I feel nothing in training and can easily join in all the exercises. I am a man who never gives up."

Gareth Barry's Mentor Urges Villa Star To Join Liverpool

Gareth Barry has been urged to quit Aston Villa and join Liverpool by the coach who first discovered him more than 15 years ago.

Les Rogers unearthed Hastings-born Barry at Brighton’s Centre of Excellence in the early 1990s before the midfielder made the switch to Villa.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez remains keen to sign the 27-year-old despite having an initial £10million bid rejected and being involved in a war of words with his Villa counterpart Martin O’Neill.

O’Neill is desperate to hold onto his captain and build a team capable of breaking into the top four.

But Rogers believes the chance to join the Reds is too big an opportunity for Barry to turn down.

He said: “Martin O’Neill has been a brilliant manager for Gareth and Villa have really looked after him. He would miss playing at Aston Villa.

“But the opportunity to move to a top four club is too great. I think Gareth should go. How often will this opportunity come around?

“He’s been loyal to Villa and has had previous opportunities to leave but now he will be torn. Gareth has done a tremendous job with Villa but the chance to go to Liverpool is too big an opportunity not to take.

“If Gareth didn’t go, it would end up being a ’what if’ scenario. He might end up having a drop in form and regret his decision to stay.

“He wants to hold onto his England place, which I know he values a lot, and now that he is back in the international team I think it’s the right time for him to move.

Barry is unlikely to make any decision on his future until after England’s friendly internationals with the United States on Wednesday and Trinidad & Tobago on Sunday.

Dossena Keen To Join 'Famous' Reds

Udinese full-back Andrea Dossena has suggested he would be interested in joining Liverpool, who have been linked with an £8million bid for him.

The Italian is thought to be a target for Reds boss Rafa Benitez, with reports claiming a deal is in the pipeline.

Fiorentina and Juventus both want to keep Dossena in Serie A, but Liverpool are favourites to capture the left-back.

And Dossena admits the Reds' European pedigree makes a move to Anfield a tempting proposition as he considers his future.

"Liverpool are a famous team and it's good to be mentioned with them," said Dossena in The Sun. "I want to play in the Champions League and Liverpool are a side who have won it and reach the late stages often.

"They are one of the famous names in Europe - comparable with the biggest teams in Italy.

"In England I think Liverpool are Manchester United's equal - they can rival them."

Rick Parry Issues Rafael Benitez Title Warning

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry has called for manager Rafael Benitez to close the gap on the teams who finished above the Merseyside club in this season's Premier League.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Parry said: "We have to be real contenders.

While Benitez will be pleased with the club official's desire to build, the Spaniard will be hoping Parry can persuade the club's American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks to provide funds for transfer market.

Hicks will need to be persuaded that Parry can deliver the high-profile targets to Anfield, after blaming the chief executive's lack of clear communication in the failure to land some big name signings.

One message that will have been received by Benitez is the importance of the Premier League, as Liverpool have not finished top of the league table since 1990, something which rankles within the club's hierarchy and fanbase.

Meanwhile, Peter Crouch, who is thought to be one of the player Benitez is prepared to allow to leave Anfield this year as the manager seeks to raise funds for new players, has decided to see out the final year of his contract at Liverpool.

The England striker, who will be able to leave for free next year, has been shocked by the £15 million price-tag put on him.

The Star reports a source close to Crouch as saying: "Peter's been treated appallingly by Benitez.

"First there's been the lack of games, then Benitez claiming Peter had been offered a new contract.

"Now comes this £15 million price-tag, which is ridiculous. The best option is to see out his last year at Liverpool and then go for nothing."

Liverpool Chief Executive Rick Parry: “We Have The Nucleus Of A Very Good Team”

Chief executive Rick Parry has voiced his feelings that the Reds are a brilliant side, and claimed that certain changes are necessary in the squad if they are to lay their hands on the Premier League title in the coming season.

The Reds, who at one point had a huge gap of 21 points with the Premiership champions Manchester United in the 2006/07 campaign, managed to reduce it to 11 points by the end of the season.

Parry claimed that with some improvements to the current squad during the summer, it will definitely put the Reds well in the race for the title when the season resumes.

Parry said: "We have to look back, learn and build for next season when the Premier League title will again be a priority target.

"We said back in February that despite the off field issues we needed to focus on a busy and important game schedule.

"The players did this and we qualified for next season's Champions League with games to spare.

"As ever, we now begin to concentrate on further improving the squad for next year. We have to be real contenders.

"The points gap has narrowed but it's still not enough.

"We have the nucleus of a very good team and now we must build on that during the summer break."

Bentley Drops Liverpool Hint

David Bentley's latest comments suggest that Blackburn boss Mark Hughes will have his work cut out for him this summer trying to convince the young shooting star of the merits of staying true to his club.

The former Arsenal prospect has been heavily tipped to move to Anfield in recent months, having become increasingly unsettled following Blackburn’s failure to qualify for Europe.

Rovers boss Mark Hughes has rebuffed all interest so far and is desperate to hang onto Bentley, whose link-up with Paraguayan striker Roque Santa Cruz provided most of the club’s highlights this season.

However, with news that Liverpool have revived their interest in the England internaional by way of a ₤12 million bid and Bentley himself showing signs of resisting committing to a new deal, things do not look especially good for Blackburn in this regard.

"No I haven't signed it but we're not talking about that now," said Bentley when pressed on the status of contract talks at Ewood Park.

"I watched the Champions League Final and of course that's the sort of match I want to play in. Every player when they start their career wants to reach the top of their game and I haven't done that yet.

"I wouldn't say I'm impatient - but I'm hungry for success," he added.

Bentley was speaking from England's training camp, where he and the rest of Fabio Capello's squad are preparing for their double-header against the United States and Trinidad and Tobago.

"I don't look at myself as a full international," Bentley added. "I haven't played in a big tournament, haven't played in the Champions League, so I've still got it all to do at the moment.

"That's what I'm trying to do. I've still got to work hard, get better as a player and hopefully one day I'll be in the big games."

Torres Is Staying At Anfield, Insist Liverpool

Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks is adamant striker Fernando Torres will not be leaving Anfield.

The Spaniard made a seamless transition to the Barclays Premier League following his transfer from Atletico Madrid, scoring 33 goals in his first season in England.

His efforts earned him the runner-up spot in the Footballer of the Year award behind Cristiano Ronaldo and he has become one of the most coveted forwards in the game.

Chelsea were rumoured to be preparing a £50million bid for the player but Hicks insists the Reds would never contemplate selling Torres and told the Daily Telegraph: 'We would never consider it.'

Liverpool Boss Benitez Plays Down His Side's Title Chances

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has played down his side's chances of winning the Premier League next season, describing the title as 'an option'.

The Reds finished fourth in the season just ended, 11 points behind champions Manchester United.

Their last league title came back in 1990 but Benitez did not sound overly confident of ending that depressing streak in 2008/2009.

'It is an option, for sure,' he said.

'We know our weaknesses and our strengths. We know where we need to improve, so we'll try to build a new team looking at these things.

'It's more difficult than in Spain because the top sides spend big, big money. We will try to do our best and the key for me is to not talk about the title.

'The key is to be near the top, to be contenders. If we stay close then I think we are capable of doing it.

'It's more difficult because after two years of Chelsea winning the league and spending big money, United needed to do the same.

'They started spending big money and Arsenal were also spending big money on young players. We are trying to do the same but because they (Man Utd, Chelsea and Arsenal) are continuing to spend big money, it makes it more difficult to catch up.

'You also see Aston Villa, Newcastle, West Ham and Everton spending money and having strong teams. It's not easy to be in the top four and be contenders but because we have a young squad we can try again.'

Mark Lawrenson: Liverpool Must Ditch Defensive Zonal System And Get Physical

Rafael Benitez can search the globe for solutions to his defensive problems this summer all he wants. But if he wants to cut down on the number of goals his team conceded from set-pieces last season then it’s not individuals he should be concerned with – it’s tactics.

Liverpool employ a zonal system, which has generally worked just fine during Benitez’s reign.

But once teams know you are going to set up like that, they work out ways of getting an extra man off to capitalise if the ball goes loose in the area.

From Benitez’s own analysis, Liverpool conceded 10 goals more from set plays than they did in the previous campaign and that is a worrying statistic.

One which suggests that something somewhere clearly isn’t working.

And while it’s plain to see that Benitez needs to fork out for some full-backs in the transfer window, it’s not as if wholesale changes to personnel throughout his defence are required.

In fact, centre-back is the one area in which you would you say there’s definitely no need to bring in reinforcements.

Certainly not as a matter of urgency anyway.

Martin Skrtel came in in January and did alright, Daniel Agger will be coming back next year, while Jamie Carragher and Sami Hyypia provide the experience to mix with the youth.

It looks like a strong unit, yet this is the area most responsible for avoiding the sort of goals Liverpool let in so frequently last season.

The players are more than capable of sorting that out themselves but Benitez might have to consider a change of tactics to make it happen.

And bringing in man-marking would be the ideal way to do that in my view. When the opposition has a free-kick, you’re responsible for one man and you need to stop him getting away.

I believe that’s still the most effective method of defending in the modern era, perhaps even more so considering what defenders can get away with in their own penalty area these days – you’re allowed to virtually grab hold of people.

Being more ruthless and bloody-minded in this way could be key to preventing those set-pieces resulting in goals and be worth an extra 10 or 12 points throughout the campaign.

There’s nothing wrong with the zonal system in open play, where you can pass players on to each other when the opposition has got the ball.

Having someone like Javier Mascherano and another player in a deeper midfield role in front of the defence works very well. It’s why so few teams get beyond Liverpool in open play, particularly down the middle.

But the central defenders are more than good enough and disciplined enough to pinpoint their man at a dead-ball situation and deal with it.

That didn’t happen enough last season but that’s no reason for Benitez to use any of his transfer budget on a new set of centre-backs.

The ones he has are fine – they just need to get a bit more physical.

Liverpool In Shock Defender Move

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is set for a shock move for Bristol City defender Liam Fontaine, according to reports.

The 22-year-old defender has had a superb season with the Robins during their promotion chasing season.

And the Daily Mirror claims that Fontaine, who can play centre-back or left-back, could be ready for a £1m move to Anfield.

Meanwhile, Benitez has played down his side's chances of winning the Premier League next season, describing the title as "an option''.

The Reds finished fourth in the season just ended, 11 points behind champions Manchester United.

Their last league title came back in 1990 but Benitez did not sound overly confident of ending that depressing streak in 2008/2009.

"It is an option, for sure,'' he told the club's website, www.liverpoolfc.tv.

"We know our weaknesses and our strengths. We know where we need to improve, so we'll try to build a new team looking at these things.

"It's more difficult than in Spain because the top sides spend big, big money. We will try to do our best and the key for me is to not talk about the title.

"The key is to be near the top, to be contenders. If we stay close then I think we are capable of doing it.

"It's more difficult because after two years of Chelsea winning the league and spending big money, United needed to do the same.

"They started spending big money and Arsenal were also spending big money on young players. We are trying to do the same but because they (Man Utd, Chelsea and Arsenal) are continuing to spend big money, it makes it more difficult to catch up.

"You also see Aston Villa, Newcastle, West Ham and Everton spending money and having strong teams. It's not easy to be in the top four and be contenders but because we have a young squad we can try again.''

Liverpool City Council Plans Joint Stadium For Liverpool And Everton

Liverpool council leader Warren Bradley last night revealed he is still working on a plan for a joint stadium for Liverpool and Everton football clubs in the city.

The Lib-Dem leader’s revelation came after opposition Labour leader Joe Anderson urged the ruling group to make a last-ditch effort to stop Everton going to Kirkby by enabling the redevelopment of Goodison Park.

Last night, Cllr Bradley told the Daily Post: “I’d back the redevelopment of Goodison first and foremost as an Everton season ticket holder, but you can’t unless Everton make a commitment.

“If they want to come to the table, we’re always ready and willing.

“I’ve also been working behind the scenes on a joint Liverpool and Everton stadium. I’ve talked to the sports minister and to the NWDA and I’ve spoken to Bill Kenwright.

“We’re also opposing the Kirkby bid on planning grounds.”

Liverpool FC has planning permission for a new 61,000 stadium in Stanley Park but no work has started yet.

Fans have strongly opposed any joint stadium proposals.

Knowsley Council had hoped changes to the planned £400m joint Tesco/Everton development in Kirkby – including reducing the retail element by around 25% – would stop Liverpool Council object- ing to the project, but it seems that has been unsuccessful.

The more objections filed, the more likely it is that a time- consuming and possibly fatal “call-in” for government scrutiny will materialise.

Joe Anderson made his call for Liverpool to fight harder to keep Everton in the city as Knowsley planners prepare to assess the club’s Kirkby plans.

A report circulated to planning members suggests that the application could be seen in the early part of June.

The planning agenda for May 29 outlines a proposed change in procedure as a one-off mea- sure to accommodate the vast levels of interest in the plans.

The agenda sets out that any- one wishing to speak in the planning debate must give a response by June 5: “The plan- ning committee will meet shortly after that deadline to examine the proposals.”

But Cllr Anderson believes extending the footprint of Goodison Park is a viable alternative to relocation to Knowsley.

He said: “Liverpool Council owns some of the land surrounding Goodison Park and so we should be trying to negotiate with Everton about what can be done there.

“It’s a crazy situation. The city council is sitting back and letting a multi-million pound business move away from the city and not doing anything about it.

“Historically, this club has always been in the heart of Liverpool and my true belief is that this council should be negotiating with Everton Football Club to achieve a status to keep the club in the city.

“Everton needs a Plan B and we should be talking to them about that now.”

But Everton FC spokesman Ian Ross last night said the city had not come up with a viable alternative.

“We’ve always been open to approaches and negotiations with Liverpool City Council.: “Unfortu- nately (the city) have been un- able to put anything to us that in any way matches the current proposed Kirkby project.” “A wide variety of people have suggested the city council should come forward with a plan for us to look at but the simple truth is that they haven’t.

The Destination Kirkby plans have pro- ven so unpopular that 1,186 people have signed a Downing Street petition demanding the club’s planning application be called in by the Government.

The A total of 1,186 people have backed the submission attacks the proposals for breaking with Knowsley’s Unitary Development Plan.

However anti-stadium campaigners narrowly failed to win any seat at the recent local elections.

Rafa: We Need A Winning Mentality

In his end of season review with the club’s website, Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez reiterated his desire to forge a winning mentality in his team. He also also noted the necessity to spend big in order to keep pace with the rest of the "big four."

For the first time under the reign of Rafa Benitez, Liverpool did not contest a cup final. After succumbing to Barnsley in the FA Cup quarter final and to Chelsea in the Champions League semi final, the Merseysiders were consigned to a season without an end-of-season decider. Rafa Benitez is intent on bringing the right mentality to the club; firstly, with the players already in his squad and secondly, on the players he attracts in the summer.

He said: “It's always the same: during the season you must do your job with the players you have and afterwards, in the summer, you need to do your job with the staff. It's really important to sign the right players with the right mentality. – a winning mentality. You want players who are desperate to come here and win trophies.”

Among Liverpool’s weaknesses this season was a tendency to concede from set-pieces, something which frustrates Benitez. He anticipates improvements in this department over the summer as he adjusts the club in preparation for an assault on the Premier League title.

He continued: “We have analysed a lot of things this year. For example, we have conceded a lot of goals from set pieces. We need to understand why because the season before we conceded six, now it's 16, yet we're doing more or less the same things. We can improve in this area.

We also need to keep the team scoring in open play while at the same time improving a little bit in defence. We have been really good in defence for three of four years, but I think we need to improve a little bit if we want to be at the top of the table.”

Benitez lamented the purchasing power of his domestic rivals, more so in the wake of Chelsea’s £16 million capture of Porto’s José Bosingwa. By failing to match the other members of the Premier League’s “big four” in the transfer market, Liverpool run the risk of being left behind.

“It's more difficult because after two years of Chelsea winning the league and spending big money,” said Benitez, “United needed to do the same. They started spending big money, and Arsenal were also spending big money on young players. We are trying to do the same but because they (Man Utd, Chelsea and Arsenal) are continuing to spend big money, it makes it more difficult to catch up.”

The Premier League, in the opinion of the Spaniard, is the most difficult in which to compete. “Clearly it's more difficult than in Spain because the top sides spend big, big money. We will try to do our best and the key for me is to not talk about the title. They key is to be near the top, to be contenders. If we stay close then I think we are capable of doing it.”

Although the Reds finished fourth, 11 points behind Champions Manchester United, Benitez is confident that his squad can close the gap and compete for the title: “It (the Premier League title) is an option, for sure. We know our weaknesses and our strengths. We know where we need to improve, so we'll try to build a new team looking at these things.”

Despite last season’s travails, Benitez is optimistic that his side’s setbacks will stand them in good stead for next season, with the character of his team forged in the pitfalls of defeat. He said: “You can always learn when you win, but you always learn more when you lose. In a difficult year you can see the character of the players. You can also see the character of all the staff and people around. You can see if they have the winning mentality that we want.”

“We have the spine for next season and now we need to add players in certain positions.’

Parry: Prem Is Priority

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry has insisted the Premier League title is the club’s number one priority next season, in an attempt to placate disillusioned fans.

The Reds again failed to put up any real competition for domestic honours this term, finishing in fourth place, some 11 points behind champions Manchester United.

It is now 18 seasons since the Merseyside giants have won the league title, and their record of 18 English championships is now under threat from their greatest rivals, as United’s win brought their tally to 17.

And with the Red Devils also clinching their third European Cup, Liverpool’s historical superiority over their North West enemies is in danger of being completely nullified within a matter of years.

Such a situation has seen Reds supporters become severely disgruntled with the running of the club, who must now hastily undo more than a decade of timid or misguided spending if they wish to maintain their status as England’s greatest.

Manager Rafa Benitez has already declared his intention to move swiftly and significantly in the transfer market, having wrapped up the signing of Swiss full-back Philipp Degen and nearly completed the acquisition of Udinese defender Andrea Dossena.

And Parry, whose job is under threat following a falling out with club co-owner Tom Hicks, insists everyone at Anfield is keen to make a genuine challenge for the Premier League title next season.

"We have to look back, learn and build for next season when the Premier League title will again be a priority target," he said.

"We said back in February that despite the off field issues we needed to focus on a busy and important game schedule. The players did this and we qualified for next season's Champions League with games to spare.

"As ever, we now begin to concentrate on further improving the squad for next year. We have to be real contenders. The points gap has narrowed, but it's still not enough.

"We have the nucleus of a very good team and now we must build on that during the summer break."

Reds Renew Bentley Bid

Liverpool have revived their interest in Blackburn winger David Bentley by way of a ₤12 million bid, according to reports.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez has been keeping a close eye on the 23-year-old over the past couple of seasons, as he seeks to increase his wide options over the summer.

The former Arsenal man has been heavily tipped to move to Anfield in recent months, having become increasingly unsettled following Blackburn’s failure to qualify for Europe.

Rovers boss Mark Hughes has rebuffed all interest so far and is desperate to hang onto Bentley, whose link-up with Paraguayan striker Roque Santa Cruz provided most of the club’s highlights this season.

But Benitez has swooped with a ₤12 million offer in an attempt to prise the England international away from Ewood Park, although Rovers reportedly will not consider anything under ₤15 million.

Bentley could replace fellow ex-Gunner Jermaine Pennant, who may leave Merseyside after just two seasons.

The former Birmingham City winger was offered to Aston Villa as part of Liverpool’s bid for Gareth Barry, while Newcastle have shown interest in the 25-year-old.

Rafael Benitez: League Is Not Vital For Liverpool

The dust may have only just settled on the Premier League season, but Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is already busy playing down his side's chances of winning it next year and fighting off speculation over the future of his best player.

Benitez feels the League is harder to win now than when he joined Liverpool in 2004, and knows that his task will be much harder if reports last night that linked Fernando Torres with a move to Chelsea turn out to be than speculation. Chelsea were last night reported to have made Torres their main transfer target and are prepared to offer up to £50 million.

"There is a desire among certain people at Liverpool to sell at a right price," said a Chelsea insider. "It is just a case of whether they have the nerve to incur the wrath of the Liverpool fans."

The relationship between American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett has left Benitez convinced the club is unable to match the spending power of Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal in the transfer market.

"It's more difficult because after two years of Chelsea winning the league and spending big money, United needed to do the same," Benitez said. "They started spending big money and Arsenal were also spending big money. We will try to do our best and the key for me is to not talk about the title."

Benitez has warned that teams below Liverpool are spending big money in a bid to qualify for the Champions League. "You see Aston Villa, Newcastle, West Ham and Everton spending money and having strong teams. It's not easy to be in the top four and be contenders, but because we have a young squad we can try again."

Dossena Deal Proving Complicated For Reds

Liverpool's hopes of a straightforward deal for Udinsese defender Andrea Dossena appear to have been scuppered.

The Reds were expected to seal an €8 million deal for the Italian full back Dossena, but the latest word is that the 26-year-old is leaning towards staying Italy, with Fiorentina and Juventus now firmly in the frame.

Udinese sport director Pietro Leonardi admitted that talks with Liverpool are already well underway, but seemed to suggest that a conclusion is still some way off.

"We have not reached an agreement yet with the English club," said Leonardi.

"We are negotiating, but we will continue talking again next week.

Dossena enjoyed an excellent season for the Zebrette, playing 34 games, scoring two goals, and helping the club qualify for the UEFA Cup.

Riise Headed for Spain?

Liverpool full back John Arne Riise could be on his way to Spain following news that Atletico Madrid and Villareal have both joined the chase to sign the Norwegian. Schalke and Newcastle are also circling.

Riise, 27, who signed for Liverpool from Monaco in 2001, has become surplus to requirements at Anfield and is widely expected to leave the club this summer.

The Norwegian, who is one of the longest serving players at Anfield, has had a mixed season this year. The arrival of Fabio Aurelio has increased the competition for places in the side and Riise has not only lost his place in the starting line up but has also been forced to play out of position in midfield at times this season.

Riise, who made a name for himself as a defender with a ferocious shot has also seen his goals dry up this season.

Indeed the goal he will be most remembered for will be the last minute own goal he conceded against Chelsea in the Champions League semi-final which turned the tie in Chelsea’s favour.

With manager Rafael Benitez keen to raise funds in order to embark on a summer spending spree it is thought that Riise is one of the players the Liverpool manager is more than willing to sell in order to free up some funds.

This is something that the player himself has acknowledged recently as he has reportedly told the press he is aware he may have to leave Liverpool in order to find regular first team football.

Riise has reportedly already rejected a move to Newcastle and there have also been rumours that Juventus are interested in signing the Norwegian, although this seems unlikely.

Far more credible are recent reports that the German side Schalke 04 are interested in the defender as well as Atletico Madrid and Villareal.

Whilst it is unclear where he will end up what does seem apparent is that his days at Anfield are all but over.

Rafa Seeks The Perfect Blend

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is keen to identify the correct players to complement the foundations of his side.

The Reds finished a second successive season empty-handed as they flirted with mounting a challenge for the title in the Premier League and departed the UEFA Champions League at the semi-final stage.

Benitez has already outlined his plans to spend this summer, and he has now stressed the importance of signing individuals who will add balance to his current squad.

"We have the spine for next season and now we need to add players in certain positions," he told the club's official website.

"It's really important to sign the right players with the right mentality - a winning mentality. You want players who are desperate to come here and win trophies."

Benitez is already looking to the next campaign, but admits he has learnt a great deal about his players after the disappointment of the 2007/08 season.

The Spaniard added: "You can always learn when you win, but you always learn more when you lose. In a difficult year you can see the character of the players.

"You can also see the character of all the staff and people around. You can see if they have the winning mentality that we want."

Gerrard Demands Summer Signings

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has reiterated the need for heavy summer spending in order to end an 18-year wait for the league title.

The Reds had been strongly tipped to secure 2007/08 Premier League glory, but Rafa Benitez's side ended the campaign in fourth position and 11 points adrift of champions Manchester United.

Swiss defender Philipp Degen is already set to make a free transfer move to Anfield on 1st July from Borussia Dortmund and Gerrard is keen to see more new faces over the coming months to end almost two decades of waiting for a league title.

Gerrard has previously called on Liverpool's American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks to splash the cash in order to keep pace with the league's top three and Aston Villa skipper Gareth Barry is a £12million target, but the midfielder has now reiterated his demand.

"We say it every season, but it's massive," Gerrard told the Liverpool Echo. "Other teams are going to strengthen and become better sides so it's important we do the same.

"A lot of sides spend every summer, teams and squads become stronger and it's important we don't fall away.

"We want to stay up there with the best and for us to challenge and win the league and to keep doing well in Europe we need to buy players, there's no doubt about it."

Gerrard, though, admits he is in the dark over Benitez's close-season targets.

"I know as much as the other players and you guys outside about Rafa's plans," Gerrard added.

"He doesn't call me in and tell me names, but obviously he assures me and the rest of the boys that if any players become available that will strengthen the team he will go and buy them, but it's important that Rafa gets the right backing.

"It (a title tilt) is getting down to the small details again so if we can make the team that little bit stronger, have a few more options and a few more match-winners and be a tiny bit better defensively as a team then we can do it."

Rafa Proud Of Reds' Spanish Quartet

Rafael Benitez has hailed the Liverpool contingent in the Spain squad ahead of the impending Euros.

There will be few prouder than Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez during Euro 2008 when he watches four of his players swap the Red of Liverpool for La Roja of Spain.

Alvaro Arbeloa, Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso and Pepe Reina are all in the 23-man squad as Benitez's native Spain prepare for the Austria and Switzerland showpiece.

La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona have fewer players involved and Benitez hailed his fab four, saying: "I will be supporting Spain, of course, because we have some very good players, including four from this club.

"As a manager of an English club, to see your players in any national team is really important. To see so many of our players in the Spain squad - I think we must be really proud because it is a special situation and one which is really good for us.

"It means that we are bringing in players with quality who are good enough to play international football, so that is very positive.

"The four Liverpool players who have been selected have shown the quality that they have.

"We know that Iker Casillas is a very good goalkeeper but for me Pepe Reina is as good as him.

"Arbeloa will have his chance because he can play in more than one position and he has more experience now, and Xabi, as we know, is a top-class player who can be at the same level of the other midfielders.

"Finally, we have seen how good Torres can be during the last season.

"Spain has a lot of quality. Everyone talks about the fact that they have not won a major tournament but statistics like this are there to be broken – maybe this will be their time."

Benitez hopes Liverpudlians will support Spain, because the Anfield club's success in Europe has gained them a fanbase in his homeland.

He continued: "In the first year we won the Champions League and many people in Spain were supporting us in the final and the other games.

"I think there are a lot of people in Spain who support us. Everyone has a first club – Barcelona, Real Madrid, Valencia, Villarreal, whoever – and their second club now is normally Liverpool."

Spanish journalist Guillem Balague added: "The interest in Liverpool has grown steadily in Spain since Benitez first arrived at Anfield.

"The fact that the manager of Liverpool Football Club was a Spaniard got everyone's attention and then the Spanish players came – the likes of Luis Garcia, Xabi Alonso, Josemi and Antonio Nunez. That made the interest levels grow some more.

"But this season that interest has gone to a new level and it is all because of one man – Fernando Torres."

Benitez To Keep On Spending

Rafa Benitez admits Liverpool must keep on spending if they are to mount a realistic title tilt next season.

Although Liverpool finished nearer to champions Manchester United this season than the previous campaign, Benitez will be well aware his side never looked likely to challenge for top spot.

Benitez and his captain Steven Gerrard have both called for a busy summer of spending at Anfield and in highlighting Chelsea's £16.2million capture of Porto right-back Jose Bosingwa, the Reds boss accepts the chequebook needs to come out.

"Every year you must improve a lot because the other teams are doing the same," he told the club's official website.

"I think Chelsea have just spent £16million on a right-back, even though they got to the (Champions League) final.

"This year we have improved a lot. We signed two or three really good players, and also players who've been good for the club."

Liverpool's season has been played out against an unsettling backdrop of boardroom wranglings and rumours of Benitez being axed.

The Spaniard concedes it has been a difficult campaign on Merseyside but he remains confident the club has made strides to narrow the gap on their Premier League rivals.

"Yes, it's clearly been difficult, special and different, but at the end of the day we tried to manage.

"It's not a perfect season because you need to win trophies but it's not bad because we finished in the top four in the Premier League and Europe.

"Not the best, but not as bad as it could be."

Liverpool Face Dossena Fight

Fiorentina could rival Liverpool for the signing of Andrea Dossena after Udinese confirmed a deal has not yet been agreed for the left-back.

Liverpool are in talks to sign the 26-year-old, with reports suggesting Udinese want £8million for Dossena.

The Serie A side have acknowledged discussions have taken place and are set to meet with the Reds again next week.

"We have not got an agreement yet with the English side," Udinese's sporting director Pietro Leonardi told the Italian media.

"We are negotiating, but we will talk again next week.

"For the moment, nothing is done."

However, Dossena's agent Federico Pastorello says the player has yet to decide his future, with Fiorentina also rumoured to be interested.

Dossena played under Fiorentina coach Cesare Prandelli at Verona earlier in his career and Pastorello hinted at interest from the Viola.

Pastorello told the Italian media: "The future of the player is still very uncertain. He will decide everything in the coming weeks.

"Prandelli knows Dossena very well, he is aware of his strengths and weaknesses."

Kewell Heading For New York?

Liverpool winger Harry Kewell has revealed his desire to finish his career in the United States, with New York his preferred destination.

Kewell, 29, has had an injury-ravaged career and is almost certain to depart Anfield this summer, having failed to convince manager Rafael Benitez that he has a future on Merseyside.

Speaking to the press in Australia where he is on international duty, he said: “Playing there [in the USA] is certainly something I’d consider. Not now, but further down the line ... you never know. I do love the place.”

Kewell who was married in Las Vegas and frequent holidays in America made it plain that he would be more than happy to finish his career in the MLS. He said simply: “I love it, I love the place.”

The Australian captain, who joined Liverpool from Leeds United in 2003, has made only eight league starts this season as injury, poor form and a host of new arrivals at Anfield have curtailed his first team chances.

Despite this, there is likely to be much interest in a player whose huge potential has undoubtedly never been truly fulfilled.

Portsmouth and Fulham have both been rumoured to be interested in the winger, although his wage demands may prove a stumbling block to any potential transfer.

Benitez To Spend £70 Million - Report

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is hoping to spend £70 million this summer as he rebuilds his squad and attempts to bring the Premier League title to Anfield for the first time.

Liverpool’s American owners are expected to hand Benitez £20 million to enhance his squad but Benitez is hoping he can also raise £50 million from player sales to ensure a massive summer spending spree.

According to the News of the World Benitez is hoping to be able to raise £50 million from the sales of players such as Xabi Alonso, Peter Crouch, Scott Carson, John Arne Riise, Jermaine Pennant, Steve Finnan and Andriy Voronin.

He will then use the money to help strengthen his squad and is reported to have his eye on Aston Villa’s Gareth Barry as well as Andrew Dossena from Udinese. Liverpool have also this week confirmed the transfer of defender Philipp Degen, albeit on a free transfer.

Despite the ongoing behind the scenes ownership battles at Anfield it seems likely that Benitez will be handed more time and money at Liverpool to challenge for the title.

Despite spending heavily last season on players such as Fernando Torres, Javier Mascherano and Ryan Babel, Liverpool finished the season without a trophy and some eleven points behind champions Manchester United.

Captain Steven Gerrard has already called for more investment in the squad if his side are to close the gap on Manchester United and Chelsea and it seems as if his words are going to be heeded and another busy summer in the transfer market awaits for Liverpool.

Kuyt And Babel On Target For Dutch

Dirk Kuyt staked his claim for inclusion in Holland's squad for Euro 2008 with the opening goal in Saturday night's 3-0 win over Ukraine.

The Liverpool striker has been included in Marco van Basten's 26-man preliminary party but, having been left out of the squad for the friendlies at the start of the year, is still fighting to seal his place on the plane to Austria and Switzerland.

He did his chances no harm though with a fine header midway through the first half before fellow frontman Klaas-Jan Huntelaar doubled the hosts' lead.

Another Liverpool man, Ryan Babel, rounded off the victory after the break.

Profile: Andrea Dossena

Andrea Dossena has been one of Italy's best defenders this term. He is on the verge of signing for Liverpool.

Statistics:

Name: Andrea Dossena

DOB: September 11th 1981

Height: 1.85m

Weight: 74kg

Position: Defender

Current Club: Udinese Calcio 1896

Andrea Dossena was born in Lodi, a small town in the region of Lombardy- home to both Inter and Milan. He began his football career with Hellas Verona and he quickly moved up into the club's youth system after showing incredible talent at a young age. In 2001 he left the youth team and made the step up to the senior squad under Alberto Malesani's tutelage.

Dossena made his Serie A debut on November 18 2001 and he was thrown in at the deep end as his first appearance was against bitter rivals Chievo in the Derby di Verona and he played alongside emerging talents such as Mauro Camoranesi, Alberto Gilardino, Massimo Oddo, Marco Cassetti and Adrian Mutu. He was quick to adapt within a side boasting plenty of youth and brilliant talent with massive potential.

Dossena spent four years with the Gialloblu but in 2002 his side were relegated to Serie B following a last day defeat to Piacenza. It was a steep learning curb for the player but he kept his place in the side and decided to stay where as most of his team mates jumped ship. It was a wise decision which paid off in 2005 when he was signed by Serie A outfit Udinese. Fiery character Serse Cosmi, who coached the left-back at the time, decided his left back was surplus to requirements at the Stadio Friuli and he sent him on loan to Treviso. Dossena made 21 first team appearances for the Biancocelesti but he couldn't stop them sliding into Serie B. At the end of the 2005/06 season, the stopper was recalled back to the Bianconeri by Giovanni Galeone.

The stopper went on to feature 28 times for the Zebrette and he was soon to be reunited with his old coach from Verona. Galleone was sacked by the Stadio Fruili based outfit after falling out with the club's directors. Alberto Malesani, who played a big part in Dossena's early career at the Gialloblu, was reunited with his former Verona star. Rise To Fame In just two years, the powerful defender has made massive strides towards a rewarding career. He has played 63 times for Udinese and this season he has impressed in Serie A. His performances against the top four clubs in particular were outstanding. He kept the Nerazzurri's star studied line up quiet in the 0-0 draw back in January.

Dosena marked Zlatan Ibrahimovic out of the game as his side stole a valueable point against the league leaders. The left-back was dangerous all night and his constant runs and dangerous crosses from the wings caused the Nerazzurri problems. The Udinese number 8 also gave his side a shock lead against Juventus but they went on to lose the game 2-1. The defender's work at the back helped his side earn a very respectable sixth place finish which rewarded them with a UEFA Cup place. However, the former Verona man might not feature in the competition.

The Italian stopper has the chance to play in the Champions League next term with Liverpool who are on the verge of signing their target. Rafa Benitez has been impressed by the Bianconero and the Reds are focused on taking the rising star to Anfield as a replacement for John Arne Riise. Dossena has similar qualities to the Norwegian but he is more graceful on the ball and has a sweeter first touch. He is also excellent in the air and has a commanding presence at the back. His current coach Pasquale Marino has revealed that the player will move to Liverpool. It is believed the Reds are close to signing the defender from Lodi for around £8m. The future is looking bright for the stopper and no doubt he will impress wherever he ends up playing.

Rafa Points To Agger Loss

Liverpool gaffer Rafael Benitez admits that failing to sign Gabriel Heinze, losing Daniel Agger through injury and the need to spent huge sums of money have all hampered the Reds this term.

Rafa Benitez has pointed to the loss of stopper Daniel Agger as an early blow to Liverpool's push for silverware this season.

The Dane provided both an aerial presence and a goal threat, with the Reds boss concerned about the amount of goals conceded from set-pieces in his absence.

Now, he admits that the defender comes back in good shape, but insists that only minor squad surgery is needed at Anfield this summer.

"The squad is better [than one year ago] and we have a better team," Benitez told LFC TV.

"Especially in the last three months, the understanding between the players was really good. We were winning games and scoring goals and we nearly got to the final of the Champions League.

"This year we have improved a lot. We signed two or three really good players, and also players who've been good for the squad.

"Every year you must improve a lot because the other teams are doing the same. I think Chelsea have just spent £16million on a right full back even though they got to the final."

In addition to the loss of Agger, Rafa admits that failing to sign Gabriel Heinze, who eventually signed for Madrid from Man Utd, was a blow. Asked if Heinze would have provided more defensive cover, the boss said: "Yes, I think so.

"We conceded goals at the end of games and drew. The centre backs - Carra [Jamie Carragher] and Sami [Hyypia] - were playing too many games.

"Sometimes Jack Hobbs or Alvaro Arbeloa played, but we clearly missed Agger. Agger is a centre back who can play the ball, he is a threat to the opposition.

"We have a lot of good players and we also have some really good young players; this is important. I think we have the spine of the team next season and now we need to add players in certain positions.

"We have analysed a lot of things this year. For example, we have conceded a lot of goals from set pieces. We need to understand why because last season we conceded six, now it's 16, yet we're doing more or less the same things.

"We can improve in this area. We also need to keep the team scoring in open play while at the same time improving a little bit in defence. We have been really good in defence for three of four years, but I think we need to improve a little bit if we want to be at the top of the table."

Benitez continued to say the money spent in the Premiership is daunting, particularly at the top end, before observing: "Clearly it's more difficult than in Spain because the top sides spend big, big money.

Riise - I Could Move On

Liverpool star John Arne Riise has admitted that his future at Anfield is far from certain.

The 27-year-old Norwegian has in the past expressed a desire to stay on Merseyside but it has been speculated his Liverpool career is drawing to a close.

Riise has endured an indifferent past campaign and with Liverpool closing on the signing of Udinese left-back Andrea Dossena it does looks as though Riise could be made surplus to requirements.

"I am uncertain. If I don't hear anything before the summer, I will have to consider my situation," Riise told Nettavisen.

"We have got to hope that we reach an agreement with the club about what will happen."

While an ideal scenario would see Riise remain at Liverpool, he concedes it is flattering to be linked with a number of high-profile clubs.

"A club change is not impossible," he added.

"I have said that I want to stay where I am, but there have been many rumours in the newspapers about many big clubs.

"It's fantastic to be linked with such clubs. At the same time, I am playing in a position which many clubs are trying to fill.

"I am truly enjoying myself where I am, but the situation is very uncertain at the moment.

"The most important thing is that I get to play regularly."

Gerrard Demands Summer Signings

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has reiterated the need for heavy summer spending in order to end an 18-year wait for the league title.

The Reds had been strongly tipped to secure 2007/08 Premier League glory, but Rafa Benitez's side ended the campaign in fourth position and 11 points adrift of champions Manchester United.

Swiss defender Philipp Degen is already set to make a free transfer move to Anfield on 1st July from Borussia Dortmund and Gerrard is keen to see more new faces over the coming months to end almost two decades of waiting for a league title.

Gerrard has previously called on Liverpool's American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks to splash the cash in order to keep pace with the league's top three and Aston Villa skipper Gareth Barry is a £12million target, but the midfielder has now reiterated his demand.

"We say it every season, but it's massive," Gerrard told the Liverpool Echo. "Other teams are going to strengthen and become better sides so it's important we do the same.

"A lot of sides spend every summer, teams and squads become stronger and it's important we don't fall away.

"We want to stay up there with the best and for us to challenge and win the league and to keep doing well in Europe we need to buy players, there's no doubt about it."

Gerrard, though, admits he is in the dark over Benitez's close-season targets.

"I know as much as the other players and you guys outside about Rafa's plans," Gerrard added.

"He doesn't call me in and tell me names, but obviously he assures me and the rest of the boys that if any players become available that will strengthen the team he will go and buy them, but it's important that Rafa gets the right backing.

"It (a title tilt) is getting down to the small details again so if we can make the team that little bit stronger, have a few more options and a few more match-winners and be a tiny bit better defensively as a team then we can do it."

Benitez Is United In Mission For Title

Rafael Benitez has warned his Liverpool side they can never be title contenders until they start beating Manchester United.

The Anfield boss is convinced that after what he sees as a season of progress, his young squad can develop into a side capable of challenging for the Premier League.

But first, he insists, they must break the vice-like psychological hold the champions enjoy over Liverpool.

"If you analyse our campaign this season closely, then you can realise that our position comes down to just one or two results that make all the difference," he said.

"We lost both matches in the Premier League to Manchester United, and that can explain why we finished fourth instead of being up there challenging.

"It is a simple equation. If you beat United once it results in a six-point swing either way and that can be the difference. That one win would have put us much closer.

"We have not enjoyed a good sequence against them in recent years, and we realise that must change if we are to get closer to our ambitions.

"We know what this club is about - winning things. So, we are terribly disappointed not to have won a trophy for the second year. That has to change."

Title Harder To Win In England - Rafa

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez remains hopeful of guiding the Reds to their first ever Premier League title, but insists that league glory is a taller order than it was when he won in Spain with Valencia.

Despite a Champions League and FA Cup triumph - and indeed a generally admirable record in cups, European in particular - Rafa Benitez has been unable to drastically change Liverpool's league fortunes in his four years at Anfield.

Many have heavily criticised the manager for an inability to mastermind consistent performances and instead relying on squeezing past opponents in incredibly unpredictable cup ties.

He has always remained defiant despite criticism of his squad rotation and transfer policies and insisted that it is a long-term plan that is still in progress.

Liverpool hold the record for most league titles with 18, but Manchester United have come to within one title of them, having won 10 of the 16 Premier League's since its inception, with Liverpool not having won competition as of yet.

Many feel that, unless Rafa can add the Premier League to his trophy haul within the next season or two, he may well be sacked by the club, whose boardroom situation is still far from clear, though albeit a lot less dramatic and embarrassing than it was earlier in the season.

Benitez won the league title with Valencia in Spain while giants Real Madrid were chasing European glory and Barcelona were in a slump. Consistency was the name of the game with Los Che, but Benitez has insisted that it is not as easy in England, an excuse that not many people find acceptable.

"Yes, clearly it's more difficult [to win the league] here than in Spain because the top sides spend big, big money," said Benitez.

"We will try to do our best and the key for me is to not talk about the title. The key is to be near the top, to be contenders. If we stay close then I think we are capable of doing it.

"It is an option, for sure. We know our weaknesses and our strengths. We know where we need to improve, so we'll try to build a new team looking at these things."

He continued, emphasising the positives to take from this year's campaign: "[This season] we showed character at the end and that's really important. We showed that in difficult times we can be good and win games.

"As a manager, it was also important for me to see how the people around the team reacted to everything.

"When you talk about a winning mentality and winning trophies, you need to see the character of your people. The season was very good in terms of knowing the people.

"We have analysed a lot of things this year. For example, we have conceded a lot of goals from set pieces. We need to understand why because the season before we conceded six, now it's 16, yet we're doing more or less the same things. We can improve in this area.

"We also need to keep the team scoring in open play while at the same time improving a little bit in defence. We have been really good in defence for three of four years, but I think we need to improve a little bit if we want to be at the top of the table."

After another disappointing league season, Benitez has again called for more transfer funds in order to compete with the likes off Manchester United and Chelsea at the top of the table, and expects to busy in the transfer market once more.

Full-back Philipp Degen has been signed for free from Borussia Dortmund, while Aston Villa captain Gareth Barry remains a primary transfer target.

"It's always the same: during the season you must do your job with the players you have and afterwards, in the summer, you need to do your job with the staff," explained Rafa.

"It's really important to sign the right players with the right mentality – a winning mentality. You want players who are desperate to come here and win trophies.

"We started last season well and when we had Agger we were playing well. But, after all the draws, it was important to regain the confidence. In the end we were playing really well, winning games in a row and producing good football.

"You could see the understanding between Gerrard and Torres, but other players were also scoring goals. As I've said, we have the spine for next season and now we need to add players in certain positions."

Dossena To Sign For Liverpool – Marino

Udinese coach Pasquale Marino has admitted that Andrea Dossena is on the verge of completing his move to Liverpool.

Dossena has had an excellent season for the Zebrette, playing 34 games, scoring two goals, and helping the club qualify for the UEFA Cup.

The left back has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool for a while now, and earlier this week it was reported in the Italian press that a transfer was on the horizon.

Bianconeri boss Marino has now confirmed that these stories are true.

“I think that a deal with Liverpool for Dossena is on the way,” told Radio Kiss Kiss.

“Everything is going smoothly. The requirements are in place and the player has given his consent because he wants to test himself at an important club after the season he has had.

“Our director general was in England partly because of that just two days ago.”

Dossena, who has won one cap for Italy, was also said to be attracting the interest of Juventus, however the Old Lady were apparently unwilling to match Udinese's asking price.

Juve Step Up Alonso Bid

Juventus are believed to have stepped up their interest in Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso by flying to England to hold talks over the transfer.

Reports emanating from Italy claim Juventus director general Jean-Claude Blanc has flown to Liverpool to discuss a deal for Alonso.

Juve have been linked with the classy Spaniard for some time, and now the Turin giants are ready to make an increased effort to lure him away from Anfield.

Alonso has suggested he was happy to stay at Liverpool, but he could be forced to rethink his position if Reds boss Rafa Benitez decides to listen to offers for the player.

It is believed the two clubs are in advanced talks about the move, but they have so far failed to agree a price with Liverpool holding out for £14million for the former Real Sociedad man.

However, Juventus are confident they can reach a compromise with Liverpool to see Alonso link up again with former Reds team-mate Mohammed Sissoko in Turin.

Blanc is also believed to have used the trip to England to hold talks with Chelsea over a move for Wayne Bridge.

Juve boss Claudio Ranieri is thought to be keen on signing on Bridge as he prepares for next season's Champions League campaign.

Ranieri is a big fan of Bridge having signed him during his time in charge at Stamford Bridge and with the full-back struggling to hold down a regular place in the side, Ranieri hopes the prospect of regular action at Juve could tempt him to leave England.

Rafa Sticks To Carson Stance

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has no plans to lower the club's asking price for goalkeeper Scott Carson.

The England international has spent the season on loan at Aston Villa and is keen to leave Liverpool on a permanent basis.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill is hoping to hang on to Carson, but is understood to be reluctant to meet the £10million fee thought to be demanded by the Reds.

However, Benitez says the figure was agreed last summer when Carson originally moved to Villa Park on loan.

And the Liverpool boss sees no reason why that sum should now change as Carson looks for first-team football on a regular basis.

"It is a matter between the clubs," said Benitez. "We agreed the fee with Aston Villa last year.

"The fee has been there for one season, so to talk about the fee now is not correct.

"We agreed with Martin O'Neill and that was the situation."

Liverpool To Meet Villareal And Rangers In Pre-season Friendlies

Liverpool have announced a prestigious pre-season friendly with La Liga runners-up Villarreal.

And the Anfield club are also expected to confirm soon another warm-up game against Rangers at Ibrox.

So far the only date confirmed is the July 30 visit to Villarreal, a side Liverpool could end up facing in the Champions League next term.

The match is part of the deal that took Spain international goalkeeper Jose Reina to Anfield in the summer of 2005.

Liverpool are also almost certain to be facing a trip to Ibrox to face the beaten UEFA Cup finalists. That date could be July 26, but there has been no official confirmation yet.

Liverpool will travel to Switzerland in early July for their usual pre-season training camp, where a couple of games against local opposition will be organised.

Liverpool also hope to have a friendly on the weekend prior to the start of the new Premier League season.

There are no plans for a pre-season tour to the USA or the Far East, as Liverpool have staged in previous years.

Liverpool enter the Champions League at the third qualifying round stage next season, and the draw will be made on August 3.

The Premier League starts on August 9, with the third qualifying round first leg on August 12/13 with the second leg on August 26/27, with the group stages starting on September 16-17.

Reds Up Barry Bid

Liverpool have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Aston Villa skipper Gareth Barry, raising their bid to ₤12 million.

Villa boss Martin O’Neill immediately rejected the Reds’ initial ₤10 million offer for Barry, and is desperate to hold onto the England midfielder.

But according to The Sun, the Merseyside giants are prepared to fork out at least ₤12 million to capture their main transfer target.

O’Neill and Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez have been at loggerheads in press recently regarding the latter’s decidedly open approach for the 27-year-old.

O’Neill claims the former Valencia boss has been excessively aggressive in his pursuit of Barry, while Benitez feels the former Celtic manager should resign himself to the fact the player may have to leave Villa Park to achieve his European ambitions.

Villa have offered Barry wages of ₤70,000-per-week — a ₤30,000 raise — to stay, but the lure of Champions League football and the possibility of linking up with close friend Steven Gerrard could prove too difficult to refuse.

It is understood Barry has been targeted to replace Reds playmaker Xabi Alonso, who has reportedly become unsettled at Anfield after an injured-ravaged season.

Juventus director Jean-Claude Blanc travelled to Liverpool this week to negotiate a fee for the Spain star, who will represent his country at EURO 2008 this summer.

Juve reportedly offered in €14 million (₤12 million) for the 26-year-old, but Benitez is demanding in excess of ₤16 million for the man he bought from Real Sociedad for ₤10.5 million in 2004.

And it is believed that if the Barry deal does not go through, Liverpool will call off negotiations altogether.

Spain Hope Torres Can Show His Liverpool Form

If Spain finally manage to end their hoodoo of underachievement at major championships it is likely to have a lot to do with striker Fernando Torres.

The 24-year-old former Atletico Madrid player has had a spectacular first season with Liverpool in the Premier League, scoring 33 goals in all competitions.

Unlike many of his compatriots, the gangly centre-forward took little time to adapt to the high-tempo, rough and tumble of English football and there are already hopes he could go on to become an Anfield idol like Ian Rush or Robbie Fowler.

His pace, athleticism and skill have been used to full effect by Rafa Benitez's side and few would argue he has been one of the league's outstanding players this season.

The problem for Spain is that Torres has not yet shown the same form for the national side.

At Liverpool, Torres relies on quick service so that he has room to run at defences. Spain spend so much time elaborating their attacks that he is invariably closed down almost as soon as he receives a pass.

Torres has found the net just twice in the last year and a half for Spain and his total of 15 goals in 47 games is a relatively modest one for an international striker.

However, Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro believes Torres has become a far better player since moving to England.

"Fernando Torres has made an incredible improvement," said the Real Madrid defender.

"Last year I saw him as a bit of a softie, someone who hid, but then he went to the Premier League, where you can't be a softie and he exploded."

Spain will now have to exploit that talent if they are rise to the challenge of defeating likely quarter-final opponents of the quality of Italy, France or the Netherlands.

"El nino" (the kid) is certainly used to carrying the weight of expectation on his young shoulders.

He made his debut for Atletico Madrid at 17, was their youngest captain at the age of 19 and almost single-handedly led their attack for five seasons in the top flight.

Almost as soon as he made his international debut he was seen as the heir to Raul's crown as the national team's golden boy. Euro 2008 will provide him the chance to live up to that billing.

Liverpool FC Target Albert Riera Asks For Transfer

Liverpool have been placed on alert after target Albert Riera yesterday underlined his desperation to leave Espanyol.

Riera wants to exit the La Liga outfit after growing tired of criticism from supporters after the team’s poor ending to the season.

Espanyol sporting director Paco Herrera, a former coach and chief scout at Anfield, maintains Riera will only be allowed to leave should a club trigger the £16million release clause in the player’s contract.

Riera is one of several players Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has under consideration.

And the Anfield outfit are hopeful they could capitalise on Riera’s desire to depart to help significantly lower the asking price, with Argentinian winger Sebastian Leto a possible makeweight going the other way.

“I want to leave Espanyol,” said Riera, who is also interesting Blackburn Rovers. “I do not want to be part of a club that does not take care of or protect its players.

“I do not know if I will go to Liverpool or some other team. I am staying hopeful and I would really like everything sorted out within the next two weeks.

“It would be best for everyone concerned because I know that my transfer would clearly be beneficial. I do not want to cause any problems.

“I don’t want to be at a club where the supporters have no love for the players, or where it depends on whether the team qualifies for Europe or not.”

But Espanyol sporting director Herrera said: “If he says he is going to go then he has more information than his club – he must know that there is an interested club who will pay the amount of money needed.”

Sections of the Espanyol support held up large banners at their final game of the season against Almeria questioning the commitment of the players after they failed to win any of their last 10 games.

The sight dismayed Riera, who added: “The things with those banners last Sunday against Almeria was intolerable. All that about the European Championships and going on holiday was very unpleasant and should not have been allowed.

“There are some things that should not be allowed and we all know that in certain sections of the ground and with certain sets of fans the board allows almost anything to happen. That is not normal and cannot go on.

“I have had enough of all these stories about in-fighting, bad feelings between players and things causing problems. Every time we do not win this comes up. This does not help at all.”

Riera, who believes Espanyol’s poor form cost him a place in the Spain squad for next month’s European Championships, was on loan at Manchester City towards the end of the 2005-06 season.

The agent of Catania defender Juan Vargas has claimed Liverpool are also interested in the highly-rated Peru international left-back.

Gustavo Ghezzi said: “To know the future of Vargas will take some time, since there are so many teams chasing the player: in any case, I’m confident that Catania will sell him. They want £11 million cash.

“The teams? AC Milan, Inter, Napoli, Fiorentina, Roma, Palermo, Sevilla, Tottenham, Liverpool, Real Madrid. There is a queue.”

However, the 24-year-old is expected to join either Real Madrid or Fiorentina, with Liverpool having made Udinese’s £8million-rated Andrea Dossena their priority at left-back.

Meanwhile, Benitez has told Scott Carson that his transfer fee will only be determined by the club.

Carson this week called for a reasonable valuation despite Liverpool having agreed a price believed to be around £10m with Villa when the 22-year-old joined moved to the Midlanders on loan last August.

Villa must now decide whether to exercise their option to sign Carson on a permanent basis and Benitez is not prepared to reduce the fee.

“It is a matter between the clubs,” he said.

“We agreed the fee with Aston Villa last year.

“The fee has been there for one season so to talk about the fee now is not correct.

“We agreed with Martin O’Neill and that was the situation.”

Liverpool have confirmed their pre-season friendly in Villarreal will take place on Wednesday, July 30.

Rafa To Swoop For Garcia?

Liverpool are leading the race to sign Real Zaragoza forward Sergio Garcia, according to reports.

The 24-year-old has established himself as one of La Liga’s most promising attackers over the past few seasons, earning interest from several clubs across Europe.

Tottenham boss Juande Ramos is known to be a keen admirer of the former Barcelona trainee, and has long been linked with a move for the former Barcelona trainee.

But according to AS, the Reds are preparing to swoop for the ex-Levante striker, who was recently called up to Luis Aragones’ Spain squad for EURO 2008.

Rafa Benitez will be looking to strengthen his attacking options for next season, as Peter Crouch and Andriy Voronin are near-certainties to leave Anfield this summer.

Zaragoza’s relegation means Garcia will almost definitely be moving on, and although his contract contains a release clause of around ₤12 million, compatriots Ramos and Benitez could be forced into a bidding war for their fellow Spaniard.

With the Blanquillos preparing for a mass exodus, Benitez may be doing quite a portion of his shopping at La Romareda during the off-season.

Argentine attackers Diego Milito, Andres d’Alessandro and Pablo Aimar could well find their way onto Rafa’s wish-list, and the latter could be keen to link up with the man who coached him to two La Liga titles with Valencia.