I Could Never Turn Down My Big Chance - Liverpool FC Goalkeeper Diego Cavalieri

Diego Cavalieri may still be coming to terms with the language, but there are other elements of English culture he got used to in no time at all.

In a recent interview in Liverpool's matchday programme, the Brazilian goalkeeper admitted to rarely leaving the house without a waterproof coat and an umbrella due to the ever present threat of rain in his new home country.

Not that he is complaining though – that is clearly not in the nature of a laid back character who takes positives where others see negatives and who has become an instant hit with team-mates and staff at Melwood thanks to his naturally sunny disposition.
It's just as well he tends to look on the bright side of life though, particularly as his chances of becoming a regular in Liverpool's first team are being thwarted by a certain Pepe Reina, a keeper rated by many as one of the very best around.

Cavalieri knew this would be the case when he left Palmeiras behind for a new challenge abroad and despite having made just three appearances for the Reds so far he remains adamant that moving to Anfield as back up to the Spaniard was unquestionably the right decision.

"I knew when I came to Liverpool that it would be a really difficult job to compete with Pepe because he is one of the best goalkeepers in the world," said the 26-year-old.

"But for me it was an opportunity to sign for one of the biggest clubs in the world and I believe I will get chances here.

"I know my own capabilities and I know that if I work hard all the time then I will have a better chance of showing what I can do when I do get the opportunity to play."

One such chance arrived on Tuesday night when Rafa Benitez named a reshuffled starting XI for the Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven and Cavalieri was given the nod in goal.

He didn't manage to keep what would have been his first clean sheet since joining the club but he certainly didn't do anything wrong either as he played his part in a commanding victory over the Dutch champions.

"It was a very important win for us because it meant that we finished first in the group," said Cavalieri.

"For me it was a very important moment because it was my first ever game in the Champions League and I really enjoyed it.

"I am very happy because it was a good night for the team and also a good night for me because I was part of it.

"I was happy with the way I played even though I was disappointed to concede a goal and now I just have to continue working hard in training every single day because it is perhaps more difficult for a keeper to come into the team without much match preparation than it is for outfield players."

Part of Cavalieri's preparation is to work on a daily basis alongside the man he is charged with ousting but that hasn't stopped him from forging a strong bond with Reina.

"I have an excellent relationship with Pepe," said Cavalieri. "He has helped me from the moment that I first came to the club.

"I knew about him before I signed because I had seen him play many times on television and it was clear that he was a very good keeper.

"But having worked with him I am now even more impressed because I have been able to see his qualities from closer up.

"So I am very happy to work alongside Pepe and with the other goalkeepers at the club."

Not having quality goalkeeping back up cost Liverpool dear last season with many commentators attributing their failure to progress in the FA Cup to the presence of Charles Itandje. The French keeper is still at Anfield having failed to complete a summer move to Galatasaray, his place as back-up to Reina now well and truly lost to Cavalieri.

That is one battle that the Brazilian has won but he knows shifting Reina from the Reds number one spot is another matter entirely.

"I know that Pepe is the manager's choice and I will always respect the manager's decision," said Cavalieri.

"All I can do is keep working hard all the time, try to get better and make the most of any minutes that I get on the pitch."

For the time being at least, Cavalieri is just happy to be part of a Liverpool squad which seems to be going places.

Top of the league in England and winners of their group in Europe, this is a season of rich promise at Anfield and there is a growing belief in the dressing room that the Reds can go on to build on the impressive start they have made to the campaign.

"I think that is true," said Cavalieri. "The players in the dressing room have a good feeling right now.

"We know that if we work as hard as we can then we will have a chance of achieving our aim at the end of the season which is to win trophies for Liverpool.

"We are doing well in the Premier League and also in the Champions League but there is still a long way to go in both competitions so now we must keep our focus and hopefully this will allow us to achieve our objectives."

He may be missing the sunshine of his native homeland but as far as Diego Cavalieri is concerned the future is looking bright at Anfield.

Stay First By New Year And We’re 80% There – Liverpool FC Boss Rafa Benitez

Upbeat Rafael Benitez believes Liverpool have an 80% chance of winning the league if they go into the New Year still top of the table.

The Anfield manager was responding to quotes attributed to him yesterday that stated his team could only lift the title if their main rivals “messed up”.

Benitez distanced himself from the report, and instead chose to talk up Liverpool’s chances of ending a title drought that stretches back to 1990.

Liverpool, who currently head second-placed Chelsea by a point after 16 games, have historically performed better in the second half of the season under the Spaniard.

After this afternoon’s visit of Hull City, the Anfield outfit travel to fellow title aspirants Arsenal on Sunday week before entertaining Bolton Wanderers on Boxing Day followed by an away clash at Newcastle United two days later.

And Benitez is convinced his team have an excellent opportunity if they remain top after the Christmas period.

“The second half of the season is usually better for us so that is why I think we can win the title,” said the Liverpool manager. “There are important players who aren’t playing now and they could be good additions for us going for the title. We have a lot of confidence, if we can improve two or three things we will be up there.

“We are top of the table and we are doing well away, and have only made two mistakes at home. Clearly we have confidence because we have players of quality.

“If we are top of the table after the Christmas period, I think we will have an 80% chance of winning the title.

“We know if we finish that period still at the top we will have a lot more chance of winning it. And with people coming back, the second period will be even better for us.

“A month ago I was saying we needed to prove something, but we are proving to everyone that we can. You cannot make too many mistakes. But we are top, it would be stupid to say we couldn’t win the title.”

Of the alleged quotes, Benitez said: “The comments were from an interview with a French magazine. I was surprised to read what I was supposed to have said. But really not surprised, because everyone in Liverpool knows about this, it was not true.”

Benitez will again be without Fernando Torres for today’s clash against high-flying Hull. Torres, who is recovering from a hamstring problem, will visit a specialist in Barcelona for a second consultation on the injury.

And Benitez believes the striker has a chance of playing again this year.

“I spoke to Fernando this morning and he’s tired, but that is because he is working so hard and he is improving,” said the manager yesterday.

“It is physical more than anything because his mentality is very good. His rehab is going well and I’m not going to put a time on it, but I think it will be one or two weeks.

“It’s important to understand Fernando’s a very important player for us, a key player, because of his goals, the way he beats players and he is always a threat.

“Obviously it’s much better with him playing but we have other players. Ngog, Babel, Kuyt, Keane, they can all score goals too.”

Torres, who finished third in the Ballon d’Or earlier this month, was yesterday named on a five-man shortlist for FIFA’s World Player of the Year.

The striker has been nominated along with Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo, AC Milan playmaker Kaka and Barcelona duo Lionel Messi and Xavi for the award, the winner of which will be announced on January 12 in Zurich.

And Benitez said: “I am pleased he has been nominated, it is well deserved. To score 33 goals in your first season in England and then to win the European title with Spain shows his quality.

“There are some very good players also nominated, but I feel Fernando has a good chance.”

Madrid Boss Ramos Ready To Swoop For Alonso

According to reports in Spain Real Madrid’s new manager Juande Ramos is gearing up for a big money bid in January for Liverpool’s creative midfielder Xabi Alonso.

The 27-year-old who moved to Merseyside from Real Sociedad in 2004 has been the subject of great interest from Arsenal in recent months, with Gunners’ boss Arsene Wenger apparently making a bid for the player on deadline day on September 1st.

It is unclear at this stage whether Rafa Benitez would consider allowing the player to leave given the important role the Spaniard has played this season alongside Steven Gerrard and Javier Mascherano.

Known for his eye-of-the-needle passing and spectacular goals, Alonso’s profile in his homeland was further raised by his appearances for Spain in their Euro 2008 success. Real Madrid are suffering from an extraordinary injury crisis and new man Ramos has decided to act swiftly and decisively as soon as the transfer window opens.

With Mahamadou Diarra ruled out for the season and doubts lingering over the season-long sustainability of midfield Dutch quartet Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart, Royston Drenthe and Arjen Robben, Ramos is known to be scouring the Premier League for replacements.

This week alone the former Spurs boss has been linked with moves for Portsmouth’s Lassana Diarra and Didier Zokora, however, it now appears he has set his sights on the Liverpool man.

Benitez Won't Allow Dissent

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has laid down the law to his title-chasing squad and warned he will not allow egos to derail the pursuit of silverware.

Benitez adopted the hardline stance after insisting he would not tolerate dissenting voices within his own dressing room and ordering anyone agitating behind the scenes to stop “disrespecting their team-mates”.

Liverpool’s emergence as genuine Premier League title contenders has coincided with Benitez cutting back dramatically on the number of changes he has been making to his starting line-ups compared to previous seasons.

His decision to ditch a policy of rotation has resulted in players such as Ryan Babel, Daniel Agger and Yossi Benayoun all going public on their frustrations, while £20.3million striker Robbie Keane found himself sitting out at Ewood Park last week.

Victory at Blackburn was the first time in a month that Liverpool had scored three goals in a game and Benitez is unlikely to see the need to alter his team too much against Hull today with Dirk Kuyt having recovered from a hamstring problem.

That would mean no place again for Keane or Agger, while Babel faces an anxious wait after back-to-back starts following his antics in trying to negotiate a loan move back to Ajax.

It promises to be a fresh test of their patience, with talks on a new deal for Agger proving a problem and Tottenham waiting in the wings should Keane get itchy feet.

Benitez highlighted the fortunes of Vladimir Smicer, who made just two starts in 2004-05 but ended up scoring in the Champions League final success over AC Milan, as why his players need to be patient.

“Rotation has been a topic of conversation for a long time, and the players all know they will get chances in the team,” said Benitez. “They will all get opportunities, and the chances are they will be involved in important games.

“Just look at what happened with Vladimir Smicer. He was hardly getting a look-in, then suddenly he was playing in the Champions League final and scoring one of the goals that helped us win it.

“We will have a lot of games, and injuries are bound to kick in, so everyone will be involved. You can be sure of that. Harmony in the squad is vital, the atmosphere in the camp is very good and positive. It isn’t always easy keeping a large squad happy, but all I would say to the players is that they must respect the rules.”

“They have to accept there is a right way of doing things, and that means having respect for your team-mates and what we’re trying to do.

“Don’t show disrespect to your colleagues. That’s a very important principle.”

Players Happy To Have Stayed At Liverpool FC

Given the rate at which players are being linked with moves away from Liverpool, it would be easy to assume the Anfield outfit were struggling to avoid the drop rather than being a point clear at the top of the Premier League.

And a puzzled Rafael Benitez has just two words for those growing restless among his squad: Vladimir Smicer.

Both Ryan Babel and Yossi Benayoun have recently expressed their growing frustration at bit-part roles, while the future of Daniel Agger is far from certain with contract talks still ongoing and Real Madrid lying in wait.

Babel, desperate for first-team action, even went as far as to encourage Benitez to allow him to return back to Ajax on loan for the remainder of the season.

With Liverpool enjoying their best-ever start to a Premier League campaign and safely through as group winners to the knockout stages of the Champions League, the last thing Benitez expects is players wanting out.

And the Spaniard cites Smicer as an example of how every squad member can prove valuable.

During Benitez’s debut Anfield campaign in 2004-05, Smicer had made just 15 previous appearances – only two of which were starts – during the season when he replaced an injured Harry Kewell in the Champions League final.

The Czech schemer went on to score in both the game and the penalty shoot-out to help Liverpool win the European Cup and etch his name in the annals of Anfield folklore.

And Benitez says: “My players will all get chances, they know they will play in important games for us. I always use the example of Smicer. He wasn’t playing but ended up scoring in the Champions League final.

“We may have players who aren’t playing too many games for us at the moment, but in the end they could be crucial for us.

“It is just a question of them having to keep working hard. You usually have a few injuries, so everyone will be involved.

“But I can guarantee the atmosphere is really good and the mood is really positive. If the players respect the rules and each other there is not a problem.

“They understand the rules, they understand our way. How can you prove you are good enough to be playing? By working harder.”

Benayoun has started Liverpool’s last two league games, while Babel was a goalscorer in Tuesday’s 3-1 Champions League win at PSV Eindhoven.

And Benitez admits: “It is more difficult for the players who are not playing. Ryan Babel has been linked with a move away, but it was Ajax who approached me.

“They were selling (Klaas Jan) Huntelaar and wanted Ryan on loan, and I said no. He will stay with us; he can be a very important player for the rest of the season.

“The problem Babel has is the form of Albert Riera. If it was the other way around, Riera would have a problem. But that is what it is like at the very top.”

Liverpool will aim to maintain their lead over second-placed Chelsea when they take on surprise package Hull City at Anfield this afternoon.

Only the top two and Everton can boast an away record better than Phil Brown’s sixth-placed side, who have already won at Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur and went down fighting to a 4-3 defeat at Manchester United last month.

Hull have never beaten Liverpool in 12 previous meetings, with the last league encounter at Anfield, in the old Division Two back in 1959, ending in a 5-3 home win.

And Benitez says: “They have a good mentality, they try to get forward and score and aren’t scared of the name of the other team.

“They’ve been scoring goals against Man United, Arsenal and Tottenham. It will be difficult but we know we have enough in the team, in the squad, to beat anyone.

“If we play well and create chances we have to take them, but also have to be patient.”

Patience is something Liverpool supporters have had to show with Andrea Dossena. By his own admission, the left-back has struggled to adapt to the English game since his £7m summer arrival from Udinese.

However, the Italian posted noticeably improved performances against West Ham United and PSV in the last fortnight.

And Dossena believes the upturn has been a result of staying behind at Melwood to put in the extra hours on the training ground to help his game.

“I have asked to work even harder because I want to find my best form,” he says. “I have been doing extra running and work in the gym as well as other things that are open to all of the team. I have been staying after training to do this.

“Working with Rafa Benitez has been very good. He focuses on the details, which helps you to improve.

“Every day he gives you advice, and also during the match. He does this with every player.”

Dossena adds: “It has not been easy at the beginning but I think things are better now.

“It’s very different from Italian football but I am getting used to it.

“The game is less physical there. There is more pressure when you are on the ball in England. And another thing is that the pitches are always wetter here!

“I would like to improve defensively. I am only just starting to reach my best level and I hope fans will see that soon.”

Dossena is likely to continue at left-back with Fabio Aurelio having only just returned to training after a calf problem. Pepe Reina, Xabi Alonso, Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt, all rested in midweek, will come back into contention.

Manchester City Preparing World Record Bid For Fernando Torres?

The super-rich Citizens are ready to test the Reds' resolve to hang on to Spanish striker Fernando Torres by offering £50 million for his services, according to a report.

British tabloid the Daily Mirror state that Premier League money-men Manchester City will offer a world record amount for Liverpool forward Fernando Torres in January.

The Blues' Arab owners are thought to be ready to offer £50 million (€57m) for the Spanish international, smashing the £46m (then €76m, at a different exchange rate) Real Madrid paid for Zinedine Zidane in 2001.

However, the Citizens are prepared for 'El Nino' to reject a switch to Eastlands, in January at least, and have therefore arranged contingency plans.

With Spanish club Valencia reported to be in fancial turmoil, a bid for Torres' Spanish international team-mate David Villa is on the cards.

But rumour has it that Valencia president Vicente Soriano is ready to turn down any bids coming from Manchester, even if they were willing to part with as much as £60 million (€68 million).

Consequently, City manager Mark Hughes has sounded out Portsmouth's Lassana Diarra and Blackburn Rovers' Paraguayan international forward Roque Santa Cruz, who he brought to the club when he managed them last season, as more appropriate targets.

Benitez Unsure Liverpool Can Win Title

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has sensationally written off his team's chances of winning the Premier League title this season.

The Anfield side currently top the table, one point ahead of Chelsea and six ahead of Manchester United, although Sir Alex Ferguson's side do have a game in hand.

But Benitez doubts his team's ability to last the pace.

'For us to win the league we need Chelsea, Man United and Arsenal to mess up their season,' said Benitez.

'It is very rare that three teams all mess up.

'So there's no point waiting for our direct adversaries to slip up because it won't happen.

'They all have a lot greater financial means than us.'

And Benitez compared Liverpool's situation to that of Valencia, who we won the league with in La Liga.

'For me, Valencia and Liverpool are similar — for them to win, the bigger clubs have to do badly.

'When I won La Liga with Valencia that's what happened, Real Madrid and Barcelona were in transition, so it was easier.'

Barmby Slams Keane Critics And Says: Robbie Will Be Fantastic For Liverpool

Nicky Barmby is furious with critics of Robbie Keane. Barmby joined Liverpool having earlier played for Tottenham - just like Keane - and he sees similarities between their plights.

Former England forward Barmby, now at Hull, was a big-name signing at Anfield when he joined in 2000 but struggled to nail down a regular spot.

Barmby says Keane needs to be given time to prove himself, with the Irishman having returned to the Liverpool team for Liverpool's Champions League clash against PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday.

Barmby said: 'People don't realise it doesn't happen just like that. Some players it does, other players it doesn't. Robbie Keane is class and you can't buy that easily. You don't lose your ability.

'I am sure the second half of the season he will be fantastic for Liverpool but just needs time to bed down. Robbie will be fantastic for Liverpool.'

Barmby does not think that Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez doubts him as much as people think. 'They don't pay all that money if they don't think he is a good player,' said Barmby. 'He is world class.'

Liverpool's Fernando Torres More Popular Than Cristiano Ronaldo

According to a new worldwide survey of 32,000 supporters from 185 countries Liverpool's Fernando Torres - not United's Cristiano Ronaldo - is the most popular Premier League star.

The results of the Barclays Global Fan Survey show the success of the Premier League, which is watched in 611 million homes across 211 countries.

According to the poll, the Premier League is followed by 98 per cent of respondents, more than twice the level of interest in the closest rival, Spain's La Liga.

United remain the most popular club with 26 per cent of the support, just ahead of Liverpool. Arsenal have 15 per cent and then Chelsea.

Kop striker Torres admitted: "To be voted the favourite player is a massive honour."

Carragher Backing Liverpool's Local Lads To Come Good

Jamie Carragher wants the Liverpool youngsters who played in the Champions League win over PSV Eindhoven to show that graduates from their much-criticised academy can be first-team successes.

None have managed it since the centre was built in Kirkby 10 years ago at a cost of £10million. But Liverpool's vice-captain sees hope for the future in the club's young English defenders Stephen Darby and Martin Kelly and midfielder Jay Spearing, all sent on as substitutes in Holland on Tuesday.

Darby, a Liverpool boy, and Spearing, from Wirral, both 20, were in the sides that won the FA Youth Cup in 2006 and 2007, while 18-year-old Kelly hails from Bolton.

Carragher, a Liverpool lad, said: 'It is more difficult than when I started. We are regarded as one of the best teams in Europe and that makes it more difficult for the younger players who are trying to break into the team.

'Playing for Liverpool in the Champions League is something they will remember for the rest of their lives. Jay told me he received 37 text messages after the game, so that shows just how pleased his family and friends are and it's the same with all of us. We're all delighted for them.

'When you are a local lad who has come through, you have a bit of an extra feel for the club. That's not a criticism of the foreign players but the club does mean so much to the local lads and you can see that in those young lads every day in training.'

Cavalieri Hails Reina's Influence

Liverpool keeper Diego Cavalieri has praised first-choice stopper Pepe Reina for helping him settle at Anfield.

The Brazilian, who played in the 3-1 Champions League win at PSV Eindhoven, says Reina has been a huge help since he arrived in England in the summer.

"He's a good keeper, a good person and has been a good help to me," Cavalieri told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"I'm very happy in Liverpool, with Pepe, the goalkeeping coach and with friends. For me it's very good"

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez signed the 26-year-old from Palmeiras for £3.5m on a four-year contract to act as cover for Reina who, for the past three seasons, has won the Premier League's Golden Glove Award in recognition of his impressive form.

Agent Unsure Over Agger Stay

Daniel Agger's agent has admitted he is unsure if the Danish defender will stay at Liverpool.

The 23-year-old's future has been the subject of speculation in recent weeks with AC Milan and Real Madrid credited with an interest in the central defender.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez has expressed his desire to keep Agger, but talks over a new deal at Anfield have stalled.

Agger has just 18 months to run on his current contract and the player is reported to be seeking an improved deal to extend his stay on Merseyside.

The Danish international's representative Per Steffensen refused to confirm Agger would be staying at Liverpool.

"He still has 18 months left on his Liverpool contract, that is a fact," Steffensen told The Times.

"It's not only up to Daniel. He has said he is happy at Liverpool but there are always two parties.

"I don't know if he will stay."

Stevie: Why Christmas Is So Crucial

Steven Gerrard believes the upcoming Christmas period is the most important for a long time as Liverpool attempt to maintain their lead at the top of the table.

Rafa Benitez's men know they will stand a real chance of fighting for that elusive league title if they can enter the New Year in pole position - something they haven't done for 12 years.

Liverpool will bid to maintain - or improve upon - their one point lead over Chelsea against Hull on Saturday before a festive calendar made up of Arsenal (a), Bolton (h) and Newcastle (a).

Gerrard admits these fixtures could make or break the season.

"We're coming up to Christmas and that's when things really start to take shape," the skipper told the official LFC Magazine.

"The festive season might not be as congested as it has been in the past few years in terms of the number of games we're going to play, but the results are more critical this season than they've been for ages – because of where we find ourselves in the league."

Liverpool top the table after impressive victories over Manchester United, Chelsea and Everton, although they've struggled with form of late with home draws against West Ham and Fulham.

Gerrard is conscious of the team's achievements so far but knows there is plenty of room for improvement.

"I don't really think we've played our best football this season," said the 28-year-old. "We might have done it for 45 minutes here and there, but for a full 90 minutes, the closest we've come has been at Stamford Bridge."

That victory, courtesy of Xabi Alonso's deflected strike, ended Chelsea's 86-match unbeaten home record and heralded Liverpool's potential to win their first league title in 19 years.

"Looking back at the first half of the season, there's a lot for us to be happy with," added Gerrard.

"We've put ourselves in a position we haven't been in for a long, long time. But the fact is that the hardest part of the season is still to come.

"United are going to get stronger. Arsenal keep proving that they can't be written off. People have done that and they've gone out and beaten United at home and Chelsea away. Chelsea have had a stumble but they'll be back too."

Hull visit Anfield on Saturday hoping to emulate West Ham and Fulham's performances, and the Liverpool captain is cautious of the threat these teams pose to their title hopes.

He said: "You see from results around the country that everyone can make life tough for teams at the top. It's a cliche, but there aren't any easy games in the Premier League. We're not playing particularly well at the moment, but we know that. No-one's pretending otherwise."

Gerrard is hoping the Reds build on back-to-back wins against Blackburn and PSV Eindhoven.

"There are 40-odd thousand people at Anfield every other week and about 4,000 people who follow us all over the country and beyond," he said.

"They've seen success. We've won everything in my time at Liverpool except for the Premier League. That's the one they want.

"It's a burning desire. I know, because I share it. We all do."

Hearts Boss Wants Krisztian Nemeth

Liverpool youngster Krisztian Nemeth is attracting interest from north of the border.

Hearts boss Csaba Laszlo has revealed he would love to sign the 19-year-old Hungarian striker in the transfer window but admits the deal is unlikely to happen.

Nemeth has made his mark for Gary Ablett’s reserves since arriving from MTK Hungaria in the summer of 2007 and is tipped to break into Rafa Benitez's first team squad.

“Do I want to sign more Hungarians? Yes, if they're good enough,” said Laszlo.

“We were interested in Liverpool starlet Nemeth but his price is very high and we don't have money to waste.”

Ajdarevic Seeks Rovers Switch

Astrit Ajdarevic is hoping a trial spell at Blackburn will see him awarded a permanent contract.

The Swedish starlet is currently on the books of Liverpool's youth academy, but has grown frustrated at a lack of opportunities at Anfield.

At 18 he feels the time has come for him to be pushing for regular first-team football.

With the likelihood of that happening on Merseyside becoming increasingly unlikely, the midfielder is keen to take on a new challenge elsewhere.

He remains confident that Rovers boss Paul Ince has been impressed by what he has seen, but accepts that the uncertainty surrounding the former England international's future is causing a delay in negotiations.

"Ince has said that he is interested," Ajdarevic told Fotbollskanalen.

"His situation is not the best though. I'll just have to wait for things to cool down at the club. I still expect the situation to be resolved.

"At Blackburn, I have been training with the first-team and that has always been my goal.

"I am very pleased to have had the opportunity and everything looks good."

Rafa Benitez: Now It’s Time To Focus On The League

Rafael Benitez is determined Liverpool will still be top of the Premier League when they return to Champions League action in February.

Liverpool won Group D with a 3-1 victory at PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday to justify Benitez’s faith in his supporting cast, with a clutch of fringe players impressing.

With no European matches to worry about before the last-16 phase begins in late January, and only the FA Cup as a distraction, Benitez and his squad can now focus on their main aim of ending a 19-year wait for their 19th championship.

Liverpool have 10 league games in that time, starting at home to Hull City on Saturday, and Benitez has every intention of seeing his side continue leading the way before European football comes around again.

“We now have almost three months to concentrate on the Premier League, and the FA Cup,” he says. “We would want to go back into Europe next year still top of the table.

“We have qualified for the next stage in Europe, we are top of the Premier League, and now we concentrate on domestic considerations. We do not want to give up top spot, if we are still there when we start up again in Europe, the chances of a really good season will be obvious.”

Benitez was delighted to see youngsters Lucas and David Ngog produce telling performances, along with the misfiring Robbie Keane.

Having had the club’s youth structure also thrust under the microscope, Benitez was more than happy to sing the praises, too, of local boys Stephen Darby, Jay Spearing and Martin Kelly who made their European debuts.

Benitez said: “I was so pleased to be able to give three local lads a run-out in the Champions League, it is something I have been wanting to do because we do have good young players coming through.

“It is good to bring players through, whether from the Academy or when we have signed them from abroad.

“It was good not to have to bring on Steven Gerrard from the bench to win us a game. It has been good to give a opportunity to these boys, I could not be happier with them.

“With Ngog he has a very bright future at Liverpool. They have not played too many games for the club, but they showed with good performances that they have futures with Liverpool.

“In a few months you can see the progress they have made, and in a few months they will still be improving.”

Lucas, who was man of the match on Tuesday, had come in for criticism from some sections of the Anfield support who made him the scapegoat for the recent goalless draw at home to Fulham.

“Myself and the staff, as well as his team-mates, know that Lucas is a very good player,” said Benitez. “He showed that he has character and quality.

“Maybe Lucas has been spurred on by some of the criticism. But this week he has shown he is a good professional and his reaction to questions about his form and the reaction to him from some fans recently, has been very good.”

Liverpool Need Home Tonic To Bolster Title Push

The inconsistent home form of Premier League leaders Liverpool continues to pose serious questions about their ability to end the long wait for an English league crown.

Hull City are the visitors to Anfield on Saturday. Liverpool are yet to lose on Merseyside but their last two matches on home turf ended in suffocating 0-0 draws with Fulham and West Ham United.

Against West Ham the final whistle was greeted with jeers despite the point taking them clear of Chelsea.

Stoke City also escaped with a 0-0 draw earlier in the season, so the visit of high-flying Hull, whose away from has been superb in their first season in the top flight, will offer no guarantees of three points for Rafael Benitez.

The desperation of the Liverpool fans for a first title since 1989-90 has led to a muted atmosphere at Anfield in recent matches, with their worries appearing to sit heavily on the shoulders of the players.

With striker Fernando Torres injured and Robbie Keane failing to spark, Liverpool have become jittery as they struggle to break down entrenched visiting defences.

Dutchman Dirk Kuyt is also injured and Keane is likely to shoulder the burden of providing much-needed firepower on Saturday as he struggles to justify his big-money close-season move from Tottenham Hotspur.

"I'm not the kind of person who gets down about things," Keane, who has managed just four goals for Liverpool and has been linked with a move in January, told the club's website.

"I'm confident in my own ability and I know I'll score a lot of goals for this club. There's a lot more to come from me.

"I've only been here a few months and it takes a bit of time to settle into a new club. That's not an excuse but I deserve to be judged a little further down the line."

Hull have been a revelation since gaining promotion. They play with flair and adventure away from home and in Brazilian Geovanni they have one of best midfielders in the top flight.

His goals have helped Hull to sixth place and their four away victories include a stunning upset of Arsenal in which Geovanni scored a contender for goal of the season.

Former Liverpool player Nick Barmby, now back with his hometown club, said the trip to Anfield, Hull's first in a league match, will hold no fears.

"We'll go there full of confidence and we'll give them a game," Barmby told Hull's website (www.hullcityafc.premiumtv).

Second-placed Chelsea, who are just a point below Liverpool, will be looking to pounce on any slips when they host struggling West Ham United on Sunday.

Didier Drogba, scorer in the week against CFR Cluj in the Champions League, is likely to start for the Londoners after completing a ban for throwing a coin at fans.

Champions Manchester United face a difficult away trip to Tottenham on Saturday as they seek to keep the leaders in sight before heading off to the Club World Cup in Japan.

Shot-Shy Albert Riera Vows To Score More For Liverpool

Albert Riera scored a scorcher from 25-yards that flew into the top corner of PSV Eindhoven's net on Tuesday evening. Ryan Babel and David N'Gog were also on the scoresheet as Liverpool finished their Champions League group campaign on a high, coming back to win 3-1 in the Netherlands.

Now, the Spaniard has admitted that he liked the taste of finding the net and feels he can add more scoring punch to the Reds' already high-octane midfield. All he needs to do is start shooting more often.

He told the club's official website: "It was a very important goal for getting the win, but I'm sure I will wait a lot of matches to score a goal like that one again.

"However, we were talking in training about shooting from quite far out. Sometimes I try it and it works... sometimes not.

"I was in a great position had a go. Now I have to try shooting like that more often. Some players like Stevie [Gerrard] or Xabi [Alonso] like to try shots from far out and they have scored some great goals.

"I'll do it especially at Anfield, because a lot of teams come to defend and it is difficult to get chances in those matches."

He added of the mood in the Premier League leading Reds camp: "We are really confident and want to keep playing this way."

Torres: English Defences Harder To Penetrate Than Those In Spain

Spanish hit-man Fernando Torres claims that he under-estimated the strength of defences in the Premier League.

Skilful striker Fernando Torres scored 33 goals in all competitions last season; 24 of those arrived in 33 outings in the Premier League.

Torres never managed that sort of ratio while donning the red and white stripes of Atletico Madrid, but the service he received from the likes of Xabi Alonso and Steven Gerrard was perhaps superior to what he was used to at Vicente Calderon.

Nevertheless, Torres has confessed that upon arriving in England, he expected the defences to be weak and easy to unlock. But the
24-year old now admits he under-estimated Premier League rearguards, as his markers are stronger, and more atheltic, than he initially expected.

He is quoted by Setanta Sports as saying: "At first, I thought English defences were very weak, but I quickly realised they don’t offer you any gift once you’re on the pitch.

"It’s even harder than in Spain," he said.

"Defenders are tall, strong and fighters and the referees only give you a foul once you are bleeding.

"At the same time it’s good because you have to have the same athletic level as them, not ask yourself any question and go for it," he added.

"If not, they eat you!"

Liverpool Pleased With Emmanuel Mendy's Progress

The Reds' list of teenage gems continues to grow as yet another Spaniard looks poised to make his mark on Merseyside.

In a week where Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez gave three young hopefuls their first taste of European football, reserves boss Gary Ablett has voiced his delight with the development of another promising prospect.

English trio Jay Spearing, Martin Kelly and Stephen Darby each came off the bench to make their Champions League debuts in the Reds' 3-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday night.

It may be several years before Emmanuel Mendy follows suit, as the young midfielder has only just broken into the seconds at Anfield, but Ablett has high hopes.

He told the club's official website: "He is young, he is new to this and he is a little bit raw. The language is a bit of a problem for him at the moment, but when you speak to him he will look at you right in the eye because he wants to listen and he wants to learn.

"He's come into the team in a difficult situation because we are not playing very well. I think he can be quite pleased with his contribution over the last couple of games. He has not let anyone down.

"Young players are going to make mistakes and it is a massive learning curve for him to get used to a new life here during the last couple of months, but he is one we will stick with and keep working with because he wants to improve."

Mendy joins an ever-growing list of highly rated Liverpool lads, which includes compatriot Daniel Pacheco and Hungarian sensation Krizstian Nemeth.

Robbie Keane: I’ll Become A Liverpool Scoring Sensation

ROBBIE KEANE is confident he will overcome the lean start to his Liverpool career and score the goals to justify his place in Rafael Benitez’s plans.

The Republic of Ireland international has netted just four times in 23 appearances since his £20million summer move from Tottenham Hotspur, where he scored 107 goals in 254 games during a six-year stint.

Keane was dropped from the weekend win at Blackburn Rovers, prompting speculation in some quarters that Liverpool could cash in on the 28-year-old during the January transfer window.

Although warning the player he must improve his form, Benitez stated at the beginning of the week he has no intention of parting with the striker next month.

And having been recalled for the 3-1 Champions League win at PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday night, Keane insists he is going nowhere while convinced he will soon find the target on a regular basis.

“I know I will score a lot of goals for this club,” said the forward. “Sometimes it doesn’t work out as well as you’d like but I know for a fact it’s only a matter of time before I start scoring a lot of goals.

“In football everyone goes through stages. I don’t want to keep harping on about it because I’m not worried so I don’t see why others should be.

“I’m confident in my ability and always have been. I haven’t scored all those goals over the last 10 years for nothing, and I know it’s not going to stop now. But I accept that at club like Liverpool, as a striker you are judged on the goals you score. I love scoring goals, but I also love being involved.”

Such has been Keane’s underwhelming form this season, his appearance in Holland was only the fourth time he had played the full 90 minutes as a Liverpool player.

But the striker is determined to prove a success at his boyhood club and hasn’t even considered moving a possible departure.

“There has been lots of speculation and people like to create something that’s not there but that is out of my control,” said Keane. “For me it’s not even an issue. Why am I so committed? I have only just come, I’m a Liverpool player, and I intend to be for a long time, not just five months.

“In life sometimes things don’t go as well as you’d like all the time. But I’m not just going to throw in the towel and accept it, it’s about performances like tonight, getting out there and showing what you’re made of.

“I know I have got a future at this club. I don’t want to see the headlines saying ‘I’m staying,’ because that’s not even a question. I am staying because I have just come, I want to be part of a Liverpool side for the future, and I want to be a big player for this club and I will keep working hard to try and make that happen.

“I will just keep going. It’s not for me to say what I’m doing, but what I will say is I have only been here a few months and you should judge someone over a while, not judge them over just a few months and jump the gun on things.”

Although Keane failed to score in Eindhoven, he turned provider for David Ngog.

And he added: “I really enjoyed it. I was getting involved a lot and enjoyed playing in the position off the main striker. I got involved and created a few chances for the lads. That’s my game, that’s what I like to do.

“I love scoring but I love creating goals for others and I did that for David. I get a buzz out of that which is great and he took it well. I feel happy enough with my performance.”

Ryan Babel: Why I Asked To Leave Liverpool

Ryan Babel has admitted he did ask Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez about a loan move away from Anfield - and that the Reds boss offered him no assurances about his place in the side.

The young Dutchman scored a fine header to set Liverpool on their way to a 3-1 Champions League victory over PSV Eindhoven yesterday.

Before the match Babel’s commitment to the cause and claims he had tried to get a loan move back to Ajax were talking points.

Babel’s agent claimed the 20-year-old winger had wanted him to sound out Ajax about the proposition.

But Liverpool have made it very clear Babel is going nowhere and must knuckle down to his role in the squad, having been unable to convince Benitez he should be a regular in the starting line-up.

Now Benitez, as with Yossi Benayoun and the out-of-form Robbie Keane, has had to spell out the need to accept the squad system, and that they will not be sold.

Babel said after the win in Eindhoven: “I have talked to the manager about my future, about maybe a loan somewhere so I can play every week.

“Ajax was only an example, a possibility, not something I was trying to make happen.”

Ajax had been keen on the idea, but have been told there is no chance of such a move while Liverpool are fighting for the Barclays Premier League title.

Babel said: “Rafa has said no. He did not promise me anything for the rest of the season, there were no conditions and I have to accept this.”

TOMMY SMITH: Rafa Benitez The Architect Of Liverpool's Perfect Show

There are plenty of positives to take from Tuesday night’s victory in Holland.

In the absence of Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres, we’ve seen goals – and good goals at that – coming from other areas and other players.

Daniel Agger has come back into the side and put in a top performance alongside the ever reliable Jamie Carragher. The pair were probably our best players, but Robbie Keane also showed some good touches, particularly in the second half, which indicates his doubters may well be eating their words soon.

Hopefully, Robbie’s confidence is on the rise now because we all know what a good player he is.

Other players who the fans have been unsure about also put in much improved displays, which can only auger well for the rest of the season.

But the person who deserves the biggest pat on the back today is probably the manager.

Rafael Benitez, along with his staff at Anfield, had clearly done his homework on PSV and it showed.

He’s often been criticised for rotating too much – it’s a concern I’ve shared on occasion – but no-one is mentioning that today, are they?

Rafa had obviously done his scouting on the Dutchmen and made a number of changes which worked well and saw us control the game.

PSV aren’t a good side nowadays and they visibily wilted at half time as Babel put Liverpool level. There was only going to be one winner after that.

I’ve said before the Dutch League isn’t up to standard these days and if PSV have been Holland’s champions over the last few years, it doesn’t say much for their set- up.

But you can only beat what’s in front of you and that’s what we have done, and pretty emphatically.

Riera’s goal was a beauty and Ngog finished off the sort of pass from Keane which I’m sure the Irishman would like more often to be on the end of himself.

So, after all the stuttering performances recently, we’re top of the Premier League and have also topped our Champions League group with a record points haul.

Of course, it’s only December, and no-one gets any prizes at this time. But it’s not looking too bad... is it?

Milan Chief Denies Agger Comments

AC Milan chief Adriano Galliani has denied quotes attributed to him reportedly discussing their interest in Liverpool defender Daniel Agger.

Denmark international Agger has been strongly linked with a move to the San Siro due to a delay in agreeing a new deal at Liverpool.

He recently admitted he is happy at Anfield, and Reds boss Rafa Benitez also outlined his intention to hang on to the centre-half.

Real Madrid have previously acknowledged an interest in Agger and reports have also suggested that Milan are keen on the stopper, who turns 24 on Thursday.

Galliani was quoted by the Danish media as saying that the former Brondby youngster is on a list of 'three or four names' Milan are considering signing in January.

However, the Italian giants have issued a statement denying that Galliani spoke to the press in Denmark regarding Agger.

A statement on the club's official website read: "With regard to the alleged phrases Adriano Galliani issued to the press in Denmark, and reported by several Italian outlets, the Rossoneri's CEO denies that he has ever issued any statement."

Match Report: PSV Eindhoven 1 - 3 LiverpooL

Liverpool had to come from behind against PSV Eindhoven to clinch top place in Group D, but in the end this Champions League victory was achieved at a canter at the Philips Stadion.

Boss Rafael Benitez rested Steven Gerrard and sent out a much-changed side against the Dutch champions and found themselves behind when Danko Lazovic struck after 36 minutes.

Dutchman Ryan Babel found an equaliser just before the break and from then on there was only ever going to be one winner. Albert Riera belted home a 30-yarder for the second before French youngster David Ngog added a third to ensure the night ended comfortably for the Reds.

Benitez would have been further contented after he was able to blood three local youngsters in European football - Stephen Darby, Jay Spearing and Martin Kelly all getting their first taste of Champions league football.

PSV needed to win to have any chance of qualifying for the UEFA Cup, but they fell away badly after going ahead, while Liverpool will now go into next week's draw for the last 16 as group winners and certain of playing at home in the second-leg of their tie.

Liverpool left out Gerrard, Xabi Alonso and Jose Reina with Robbie Keane recalled to play up front alongside Ngog. Babel was included on the wing while Lucas started in midfield.

Diego Cavalieri got a rare run-out in goal, with Jamie Carragher captaining the side.

Despite their much-changed side and the fact qualification for the last 16 had already been achieved for the sixth time in seven seasons, Liverpool began full of energy.

A second minute Andrea Dossena cross was headed just wide by Riera, while Babel almost created a shooting opportunity as he glided in off the right flank.

Babel, because of his former association with Ajax, was jeered by the home faithful.

PSV's first attempt on goal came after 15 minutes when Timmy Simons let fly from 20 yards and Cavalieri opted to punch away when he could have caught the effort.

Then after Nordin Amrabat ran from half way, he was muscled out of a shooting chance by Carragher in the box.

There was little urgency or pace about the game, but it was brought to life after 36 minutes when PSV took the lead.

Liverpool were furious with the goal and Riera was booked for arguing with a linesman who had failed to spot Lazovic a yard offside before he fired the ball home from a couple of yards.

A corner from the right had bounced off Dirk Marcellis straight to Lazovic, with Liverpool defenders certain he was offside before he beat Cavalieri from close range. Television replays showed they were right.

Four minutes later Alvaro Arbeloa and Simons were booked after a confrontation following an Arbeloa foul on Lazovic.

But with just seconds of the half remaining, Babel rose to head home a Lucas free-kick for the equaliser.

Babel, so often a peripheral figure when he gets into Liverpool's starting line-up, was showing far more intensity and when he cut in from the right after 59 minutes, he slammed a low shot into the side netting.

Lucas then got a cross in from the left and Keane, trying to get the ball onto his right foot, saw the chance slip away from him just 10 yards out.

PSV still needed the win to keep their UEFA Cup hopes alive and kept coming forward at pace. It took a fine saving header from Arbeloa to stop Amrabat reaching a far-post cross.

After 67 minutes Edison Mendez was cautioned for following through into Lucas' ankle.

But two minutes later Liverpool were ahead when Riera lashed a 30-yard shot past Andreas Isaksson.

Benitez sent on youngster Darby for Arbeloa before the re-start for his first taste of European action.

Benitez was soon to introduce another of Liverpool's local youngster when Spearing replaced Riera after 75 minutes.

Two minutes later the game was virtually all over when Keane's fine ball sent Ngog racing away from the half-way line to coolly slide home the third.

PSV sent on Reimond Manco for Mendez, while another Liverpool teenager, defender Kelly for his debut in place of Carragher.

Mascherano took over as skipper before PSV made a change of their own with Stefan Nijland replacing Otman Bakkal.

Totti Wants Roma-Liverpool Final

Roma captain Francesco Totti would love to play Liverpool in the final of the Champions League, in order to avenge their defeat in the final of 1984.

The Giallorossi extended their winning streak to six earlier tonight, with a convincing 2-0 win over Bordeaux in Rome. Matteo Brighi and Francesco Totti grabbed the goals for the home side, as they assured themselves of top spot in their Champions League group.

Totti has been an integral part of the incredible Roman resurgence of late, since making his return from injury earlier in the season. As a result, the capital club are now undefeated in their last eight matches in all competitions.

Following the completion of tonight’s match, Il Capitano spoke to Sky in regards to the knockout phase of the competition.

“All roads lead to Rome? As for us at present, we are at the tollbooth. The centre of the city is still far away, but we know the roads well so we should be fine,” Totti jokingly said.

“On a more serious note though, this may very well be my last chance to play a match of such significance in Rome, and so I would love to make the final.

“Hopefully it will be another Roma-Liverpool final, just like it was in 1984,” he added.

Totti then made some final comments concerning the side’s resurgence in recent times, and the pleasure it has brought to the club.

“In the space of just one month, everything has changed.

“For example tonight is the first time that we have finished first in a Champions League group, making it an unforgettable day.

“What makes it even better is that after the first matchday, we were not sure if we would even qualify, let alone finish first, and so we are all very pleased with our efforts,” he concluded.

The talisman of Roma will be keen to lead his troops to their seventh successive victory on the weekend, when they do battle with Cagliari at the Stadio Olimpico.

Kuhn Backs Liverpool To Lift Champions League

Aalborg’s temporary coach Allan Kuhn has backed Liverpool to win the Champions League over Wednesday’s opponents Manchester United.

Kuhn took charge of the Danish side following the departure of Bruce Rioch and this week’s Champions League clash is the last of his 12-match stint as coach.

The 40-year-old has confessed that he believes Liverpool will be the team to lift Europe’s top honour this season rather than last year’s winners United.

Ahead of this week’s clash at Old Trafford, Kuhn responded to a question as to whether he believed United would triumph once again come May by saying: “No. They won't win it again.

“Liverpool will. I am a Liverpool fan, so that is what I hope will happen.

“Manchester United are a great side, but I think it will be more difficult for them this time. Maybe they got a little luck with the John Terry penalty.

“You do need luck to win the Champions League, but there are a lot of great teams around to give them a fight.”

Aalborg have yet to lose under the leadership of Kuhn but the former Lyngby player admits that may well come to an end on Wednesday at the Theatre of Dreams.

Future Bright For Reds - Benitez

Rafael Benitez has written himself into Liverpool history with his 40th European victory as Anfield boss, but it was the performances of his youngsters against PSV Eindhoven which pleased the Spaniard the most.

The convincing 3-1 win over PSV in their last Champions League pool game - which confirmed top spot in Group D - set a points record at this stage of the competition and saw Benitez overtake Bob Paisley's club record number of wins in Europe.

But Benitez was more pleased with being able to blood a trio of local youngsters, while seeing his own heavily-criticised young foreign imports also come good.

Lucas and David Ngog have born the brunt of such criticism of late, but both were outstanding against an increasingly dispirited Dutch side.

Once Ryan Babel had equalised Danko Lazovic's opener for PSV there was only going to be one winner with Albert Riera and Ngog scoring fine second-half goals.

Benitez said: "It is always good to be able to bring on local youngsters, produced by the club.

"And Stephen Darby, Jay Spearing and Martin Kelly all did well on their European debuts.

"Everything went right and I was delighted with the over-all performance. There were plenty of positives for the club and it's future."

Babel's goal was Liverpool's 300th in the European Cup, and the victory saw Liverpool pip Atletico Madrid for top spot in group D.

Benitez said: "We wanted to win the group to make sure that we had the second leg of the next round at Anfield.

"And there were so many positive things to take from this performance. We were able to use three young lads, and the performances of two other young players, Lucas and Ngog, were outstanding.

"We were able to make a lot of changes, and all the players coming in did well. Diego (Cavalieri) in goal was very good, Ryan (Babel) scored a fine goal and worked hard throughout."

Benitez added: "Once we had got level we were always a threat. I was very pleased with the overall performance, we are always able to say that people like Jamie Carragher, Alvaro Arbeloa and Daniel Agger have played well.

"But this time we are able to say that about young lads and many of our squad players.

"We have won the group and that gives us growing confidence. We will now be drawn against a team who have finished second in their group, and we cannot play the other English sides at the next stage.

"I can only hope for a good draw next week and look forward to a second leg in front of our own fans in the next round."

PSV coach Huub Stevens maintained that his side were able to "leave the pitch with their heads held high".

He said: "Liverpool were more experienced. We made some silly mistakes in the first half, and kept repeating them in the second period.

"But I felt we started the game well, even if initially a little doubtful. And we deserved to be in the lead.

"But we conceded a goal seconds before the break and the mood in the dressing room at half-time was one of great disappointment.

"But the way we had played in that opening spell gives me confidence for our games to come in the Dutch League."

Rafa Benitez To Sign New £16million Liverpool Deal

Rafa Benitez was celebrating a double last night as Liverpool topped their Champions League group and he was offered a new £16million deal.

American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett are rewarding their Spanish manager for his success so far this season.

While Liverpool topped their group to ensure an easier draw in the knockout stage, Benitez's advisor was penning the fine print on a four-and-a-half year contract.

The final package will be settled over the next few days, but it is thought he will earn in excess of £16million over the course of the deal.

The deal is a victory for Benitez, who said the length of the contract, not the money, was the issue.

The owners wanted to follow the US-sports style of a single-year extension, but have backed down.

Reds Rejected Babel Return

Liverpool blocked a request from Ryan Babel to return to Ajax on loan, according to the winger's agent.

The Holland international moved to Anfield from the Amsterdam Arena in 2007 as Reds manager Rafa Benitez paid £11.5million.

However, Babel has struggled to secure regular first-football and has found opportunities increasingly limited this season following Benitez's decision to ditch his rotation policy.

And Babel's representative, Winnie Haatrecht, claims the 21-year-old - who started against Blackburn at the weekend - is concerned at his lack of first XI action and that he requested a temporary return to Ajax in the past, which was rejected by Liverpool.

Haatrecht told De Telegraaf: "Ryan feels he is sitting too much on the bench and he wanted to play more.

"He requested me to ask Ajax if they would be interested in a temporary return.

"After they responded enthusiastically, I asked Liverpool to cooperate. The club, however, will not let him go.

"Rafa Benitez feels Ryan is too important. Hopefully this will be translated into increased minutes.

"Let us be clear Ryan is very happy, but to develop he needs to play more minutes."

Benayoun Joins Babel In Eyeing Liverpool Exit

Israeli International Yossi Benayoun has joined Liverpool team-mate Ryan Babel in voicing his discontent about limited opportunities at the Premier League club, with the former West Ham United player revealing that he will assess his situation at the Merseyside club in January or at the end of the season.

Benayoun was unveiled at Anfield on the same day as Babel last summer, but like the Dutchman, who declared that he wished to return to former club Ajax on loan is unhappy at having to settle for a place on the bench under Reds boss Rafa Benitez in the Premiership this season.

While 28-year-old Benayoun understands that it is hard for Benitez to drop anyone from a Liverpool side that is currently top of the Premier League and is prepared to be patient. Benayoun is also, having to consider if his long-term future is at Anfield or whether it lies elsewhere.

Benayoun told the Sun: “The boss had a chat with me a couple of weeks ago after stuff appeared in the newspapers about my future.

“I didn't ask for any talks - he said he wanted to speak to me about it and he just told me to stay calm, because I would get my chances in the team.

“We agreed it was important now for me to put any of my personal feelings to one side and concentrate on trying to keep us at the top of the table.

“There will be time for me to think about my situation in January or at the end of the season.

“So for now I'm happy to put that behind me and focus on doing my bit for the team. The problem for me is the manager is not rotating as much as he used to.

“It is the same 11 players every week, and they are doing so well, so no one can really complain.

“I have to be patient, but I'm still not sure whether, in the long term, my future will be here.”

Ian Rush: Hyypia Is A Liverpool 'Great'

The legendary Ian Rush believes that giant defender Sami Hyypia is well on his way to legendary status at Anfield.

The big Finn, signed for only £2.5 million from Dutch club Willem II a decade ago, has proved to be bargain buy, Rush thinks, and still has part to play for the Reds this season.

"Sami Hyypia has been a tremendous servant to Liverpool and he’s got to be up there with the best signings the club has ever made," Rush told The Liverpool Echo today.

"The big Finn is nearing 10 years at Anfield in which he has played over 450 games. It’s hard to believe he cost only £2.5million from Dutch club Willem II.

"He might be 35 but he proved again at Blackburn on Saturday that he’s still capable of playing at the highest level. It’s been nice to see him get a chance in recent weeks and he’s been excellent."

And Rush also commented on the fact that injury to Martin Skrtel has cleared the way for Hyypia to step up and prove his worth to Liverpool once again, and also that the player provides a positive example to other players currently on the fringes of the Liverpool first-team set-up.

"It’s funny how things work out because if Martin Skrtel had stayed fit then Sami probably wouldn’t be playing and possibly looking to move on in January," the Welshman added.

"As it is the defender has shown he’s still a valuable member of the squad and he is a great example for the Reds’ other fringe players."

Jamie Carragher Captures The Sacred Scent Of Liverpool

It is quite a while since Anfield was the name that used to draw me to my job like no other; a place where you could not help but write well because its legend and the people who breathed its air demanded it of you. Frankly, in all of football, it had a sacred scent unlike any other.

I was reminded of this, both in a sharp and warming sense, on the flight to Shanghai for the recent Masters Cup tennis tournament, because I had invested the best £18.99 of the year on Carra, My Autobiography and once I had picked it up, the next six hours of the flight passed so satisfyingly, I did not even notice the bumps.

Jamie Carragher made his debut for Liverpool the year my football correspondent days drew to a close and has played more than 500 times in the shirt since. He has seen the identity of the club he loves eaten away at, he has played for three managers, Roy Evans, Gérard Houllier and Rafael Benítez, into whose strengths and weaknesses he delves fascinatingly. He is the embodiment of the one-club man — though his first love, he confesses with images to prove it, was Everton — but does not know if his career will end at Liverpool because he will go on “until my body can take it no more”.

Carragher’s autobiography is not the usual “life-story before he is even wet behind the ears” job. He says that he would have waited longer to tell it but there were things he wanted to get off his chest and the upshot is a story so grippingly strong and full of insight, it should be the template for any player tempted to burst into storytelling the minute they score their first goal for England.

Carragher is a man of his people and it is for them, especially, he writes. “We all dream of a team of Carraghers,” the Kop sings to the tune of Yellow Submarine. He yields to no man in his love for them — though their verbal attacks on certain players from other clubs are criticised — nor they, apparently, for him. If this book is not bought for you, treat yourself to it.

Match Preview: PSV Eindhoven vs. LiverpooL

Liverpool travel to Holland to take on PSV Eindhoven in their final clash of the Champions League group stages. It is something of a dead rubber, for the visitors at least, and questions are being asked as to whether they will put on their best show.

The Reds have already secured safe passage to the knock-out rounds, as they sit all but top of Group D – only Atletico Madrid’s slightly superior goal difference keeps them in second spot.

But that doesn’t seem to worry the Merseyside club terribly much. Indeed, it could work out better for them if they concede first place to Atleti, pending results in the other groups. Rafael Benitez, the Liverpool manager, said as much when discussing his side’s prospects yesterday.

"It is difficult to know whether you want to finish first or second," Benitez said. "We cannot play an English side in the last 16, so that reduces the options. Looking at the groups we could finish top and end up playing against Juventus or Real Madrid. It is also possible to face Lyon or Bayern Munich so it is very difficult to decide who you’d rather play next."

Still, top spot would guarantee the Anfield giants a home game in the second leg of their last-16 tie, something which has served them well in the recent past. And after trouncing PSV in the reverse fixture earlier this season, they must be favourites to claim the points tomorrow night.

The Dutch giants have no hope of progressing from the group. They sit last, their inferior goal difference leaving them behind Olympique Marseille, although they share the same number of points.

Thus, PSV are still able to snatch a spot in the UEFA Cup if OM lose to Atletico – who have already qualified – if they defeat Liverpool at home, or if they draw, or even if they lose.

But that all depends on the French side. If Marseille match Eindhoven’s effort, then they will continue their European campaign and the Eredivisie giants will drop out of continental competition altogether.

So expect PSV to field a strong line-up, versus Liverpool’s potentially weak one, in what could be their final hit-out in Europe this season.


FORM GUIDE

PSV Eindhoven

Nov 16 Ajax Amsterdam 4 - 1 PSV Eindhoven
Nov 22 PSV Eindhoven 4 - 0 SC Heracles Almelo
Nov 26 Atlético Madrid 2 - 1 PSV Eindhoven
Nov 29 Heerenveen 2 - 2 PSV Eindhoven
Dec 06 PSV Eindhoven 4 - 2 FC Groningen

Liverpool

Nov 15 Bolton 0 - 2 Liverpool
Nov 22 Liverpool 0 - 0 Fulham
Nov 26 Liverpool 1 - 0 Marseille
Dec 01 Liverpool 0 - 0 West Ham
Dec 06 Blackburn 1 - 3 Liverpool


TEAM NEWS

PSV Eindhoven

The hosts have a few injury concerns, most notably Ibrahim Afellay. The promising playmaker has been out of action since suffering a sprained ankle against Atletico late last month. Jan Kromkamp is carrying a similar knock.

Dirk Marcellis and Nordin Amrabat returned recently, while Danny Koevermans could feature despite a calf problem.

Liverpool

Fernando Torres will be missing until the New Year after re-injuring his hamstring against Marseille. Dirk Kuyt is also injured, meaning Robbie Keane could be recalled after sitting out Saturday’s win over Blackburn Rovers. David N’Gog and Ryan Babel are other striking options.

The likes of Pepe Reina, Jamie Carragher, Javier Mascherano, Xabi Alonso and Steven Gerrard could well be given a breather in favour of bench-warmers like Damien Plessis, Diego Cavalieri, Yossi Benayoun and the under-fire Lucas Leiva.


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Jason Culina (PSV Eindhoven)

The Australian international is one of the more unassuming players to grace Europe’s elite competition, but he is often at the heart of all that is good about PSV. Solid as a rock, neat on the ball, tidy with a pass and, most of all, a tireless worker. Can play pretty much anywhere and everywhere, and will be vital to his side’s chances against the Reds.

Lucas Leiva (Liverpool)

The Brazilian youngster has come in for staunch criticism in recent weeks due to his lacklustre performances. Has had few starting opportunities this term – Alonso, Mascherano and Gerrard are stiff midfield competition, after all. But after receiving a vote of confidence from Rafa Benitez he should be given the chance to answer his critics. Will he step up?

Torres Delighted To Be Free Of Atlético Pressure

The goalscorer believes he rose too quickly and was handed too much responsibility at a time when he was not old enough to have it.

Fernando Torres has revealed that he is enjoying life at Liverpool because he feels free after becoming burdened by the attention and captain's armband at Atlético de Madrid.

The Spanish international striker has become an idol at Anfield since his move in the summer of 2007 and he thinks that it was the lifting of all the pressure placed on him at Vicente Calderón that helped.

At 19, Torres was made captain of Los Colchoneros and he thinks that he was too young to be the leader of a team and is revelling in the fact that he is not the main man at Liverpool.

"Here I am not longer like I was in Madrid where everything was focussed on me," he told Spanish news agency EFE.

"I did not have any experience so how could I have been the leader of players with more experience? That was pressure.

"At Liverpool I feel free because I do not have the captain's armband. My play has gone up in quality since moving here."

Torres is still a fan of the Spanish outfit and admits that he would relish being able to meet them again in Europe this season in his home city of Madrid.

"Liverpool is in a different dimension to Atlético, even though they will always be the club for life. My dream is really to play in the Champions League final against Atleti in the Bernabéu," he continued.

When Rafa Benítez was given permission to talk to Torres about a move to Liverpool, the youngster was not expecting the call and stated that he had to do some checking up.

"I thought it was a joke and called Pepe Reina to see what the manager's phone number was," he added.

Benitez Set For Juventus Move?

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez may be set for an unexpected move to Juventus, if the latest reports are true.

Despite having hit back at speculation that he was demanding a significant pay rise in recent times, the Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is reportedly considering a move away from the club.

According to the News of the World, the reason behind Benitez’s decision to reject the proposed renewal of his contract at Liverpool was due to the fact that there has been interest shown by an Italian team.

As a result, it appears that the Spanish tactician is one of the candidates to eventually succeed Claudio Ranieri at the club, and if the rumours are said to be true, expect there to be a large sum of cash involved.

With Real Madrid also reported to be tracking the Liverpool manager, the Bianconeri may have a battle on their hands if and when he declares his availability.

Rafa: Reds Want Home Advantage

Rafael Benitez says Liverpool are determined to win away to PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday to be sure of finishing top of Champions League Group D.

Claims that he has been demanding a massive pay-rise have been angrily rejected by the Reds boss, who claims he is more concerned with seeing Robbie Keane prove he is worth the £20million price tag while ensuring Liverpool finish top of their group ahead of Atletico Madrid.

Benitez said: "We want to be top of the group, if only to ensure that we are at home in the second leg of the first knockout stage match in the next round.

"It is debatable whether it is important to finish first or second, because you can come up against some very good sides in the next phase who have finished second in their group.

"But as a club we always want to win. And that is the aim now. I will probably utilise the squad more, and I have left Dirk Kuyt at home to give him a rest.

"There is a very small injury problem, but I want him to have a rest after playing so many games this season."

Why Robbie Keane Has Turned From Liverpool's Missing Link To A Spare Part

Rafael BenÍtez must have believed that he was building a forward trio with the movement, flair and goalscoring ability to rival Carlos Tévez, Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United when Robbie Keane joined Fernando Torres and Dirk Kuyt at Anfield in July.

Even at £20.3 million, Keane looked a great signing, but the dream move has been more of a nightmare. He’s the same talented forward he was at Tottenham Hotspur but he simply does not fit at Liverpool. I can’t pick out one game where he has recaptured his form of last season and it’s down to tactics and teammates.

I played with Keane for Ireland and he needs the right partner to bring the best out of him. He did not gel with Darren Bent or Jermain Defoe at Tottenham, but struck up a superb understanding with Dimitar Berbatov. Had Peter Crouch stayed at Anfield, they would have worked well together. Crouch would have provided flick-ons and lay-offs to put Keane in the position he likes best: slipped in behind the defensive line, slightly to the left of goal from a central starting position, running towards the net with the ball at his feet.

Torres is too similar and there is no doubt that he is the main man at Anfield, so Torres will be accommodated, not Keane. The Spain striker looks to pull away from his strike partner and ghost into space. Keane needs someone like Berbatov who is not afraid to do the opposite: stick close to him and play one-twos or through-balls, even in congested areas, using possession to create room to run into rather than finding it moments earlier through clever movement before the ball arrives.

Whoever he plays with for Liverpool, Keane looks lost, as though he’s not sure where to go. He spends a lot less time in and around the box than he did at Tottenham, and when he does enter it he does not resemble the poacher of last season because he has lost confidence. Being dropped by BenÍtez will take its toll on his self-belief too, as will the knowledge that he did not establish himself while Torres was out of the side.

At Tottenham, everything was geared towards supplying the front two because the midfield was not productive. But Liverpool’s midfield is a great strength, especially with Steven Gerrard bombing on. They are not afraid to bypass Keane. And neither, it seems, is BenÍtez.

Hyypia: Liverpool Should Enjoy Top Spot

Liverpool's veteran Finn has urged his team-mates to enjoy their current league position.

Sami Hyypia is pleased with the way Liverpool's season has gone so far and has urged his team-mates to forget about the extra pressure being top brings and concentrate on taking each game as it comes.

"I don't think we should see being top as extra pressure," said the defender.

"We have done well to get there and now we just have to do our best to stay there.

"All we can do is try to win every game and then we will see what happens, there is no point looking too far ahead or putting ourselves under any unnecessary pressure.

"We should be happy to be top and just enjoy being there."

Hyypia put in a man-of-the-match performance in the 3-1 Liverpool victory over Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, after replacing Daniel Agger at the heart of the Reds' defence. He believes that the victory was a timely boost for the Anfield men, and demonstrated the patience that is part of their armoury.

"It was an important win for us because we know if we keep on winning we will remain top," he said.

"Ewood Park is never an easy place to come and win and Blackburn played with a high tempo and made things hard for us but our performance was quite controlled and we got our reward in the end.

"We held on to the ball and eventually the chances came and thankfully we managed to take them."

The Reds had drawn their previous two games at home against West Ham United and Fulham and Hyppia was pleased that they returned to winning ways, identifying Xabi Alonso's opening goal as crucial to the victory. He also praised the performance of Steven Gerrard, who scored the clinching third goal in injury-time at the end of the game.

"The first goal in any game is always important but particularly in this game because we had gone a couple of matches without scoring.

"We managed to get it and when we scored again I thought that was it but they managed to score towards the end and that put a little bit of pressure on us.

"But Steven came up with the goods again and it was nice to see that one go in. We knew the points were in the bag then. We’re happy to take the three points."

Rafa Benitez Hits Out Over Money Grabbing Contract Claims

UNHAPPY Rafael Benitez has hit out at claims he has demanded a massive pay rise in negotiations over a new contract.

The Liverpool manager is furious that talks over a new deal at Anfield are being depicted in some quarters as money-orientated.

Benitez insists he instructed his agent, holding talks with Liverpool co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett over a new deal to replace his current contract which runs out in 18 months, not to discuss money first.

And the Spaniard said: “I was surprised by what I read. I was surprised that I have seen that I was demanding more money. That is not true.

“I told my agent when he went into the talks to not talk about money, the question was about the length of the contract, and after that it was my role. The last question was about the money.

“So when you see things said (about money), it means people are either not telling the truth or that people have very bad information or they want to create a mess.

“I was very disappointed with this. I say again, it is not true. I was not asking for anything, just telling my advisors to go to the meeting and hear what they (the owners) want. The owners were talking about an extension.

“Again I say, people have very bad information. Hopefully it will be resolved sooner rather than later, but I do not know when.

“I was pleased with the first meeting, and more so in the second meeting, that was better. Again I am very clear, people are trying to create a mess and I do not know why.”

Meanwhile, Yossi Benayoun has held clear-the-air talks with Benitez – but admits his long-term future may still lie away from Anfield.

Benayoun went public last month with his frustration at playing a bit-part role for Liverpool this season.

The Israeli international has since been reassured by Benitez he will be given first-team opportunities for the Premier League leaders.

And Benayoun has started the last two games, scoring in Saturday’s 3-1 win at Blackburn Rovers, and is likely to retain his place for tonight’s Champions League group game at PSV Eindhoven.

But the midfielder has intimated he could review his position during next month’s transfer window, with Ajax, Roma and Spartak Moscow among a clutch of clubs monitoring his situation.

“The boss had a chat with me a couple of weeks ago, after all that stuff appeared about my future,” said Benayoun. “I didn't ask for any talks, he said he wanted to speak to me about it.

“He just told me I had to stay calm, because I would get chances in the team, and we agreed it was important now to put any personal feelings to one side and concentrate on trying to keep us at the top of the table.

“There will be time to think about my situation in January or at the end of the season, so for now, I'm happy to put that behind me and focus on doing my bit for the team.

“The problem for me is that the manager is not rotating as much as he used to. It is the same 11 players every week, and they are doing so well, no-one can really complain.

“I have to be patient, but I'm still not sure whether, in the long term, my future will be here.”

Will Not Sell Robbie Keane But He Must Improve, Says Liverpool's Rafael Benitez

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez insists he will not sell misfiring striker Robbie Keane but admits "he is not playing at his level".

After being dropped for the game at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, Keane will be handed the responsibility of scoring the goals on Tuesday night which ensure the club's concluding Champions League group fixture ends in victory over PSV Eindhoven, hopefully giving them top spot in the group.

With Fernando Torres out with a hamstring injury and Dirk Kuyt also missing the flight to his native Holland with a similar problem, Benitez has little choice but to bring Keane back into the fold after the £20.3 million signing spent the entire 90 minutes at Ewood Park on the bench.

Benitez has told Tottenham, who are interested in bringing their former striker back to White Hart Lane, that he has no desire to sell the player, although Keane will be well aware that the Spaniard is not known for his patience when it comes to misfiring forwards.

Craig Bellamy, after an underwhelming campaign, lasted just 12 months before being sold to West Ham; Fernando Morientes left for Valencia within a couple of years of being signed by his compatriot, and Djibril Cisse was allowed to join Marseille, although Gerard Houllier had bought him shortly before Benitez took charge.

However, Benitez continues to back Keane, 28, despite his meagre return of two goals in 15 Premier League appearances. Keane also came in for criticism from some fans at a charity dinner attended by Benitez last week.

"We don't want to sell Robbie," insists Benitez, who is set to give keeper Diego Cavalieri a rare start.

"I think he knows we have confidence in him, but he knows also he is not playing at his level. You cannot give a player with his experience too many messages. He knows he has to perform well and he will be there.

"People talk about the fact he didn't play at Blackburn, but we were playing with Kuyt, who is a striker, and [Ryan] Babel, who is a striker on the left side.

"Carlos Tevez scored four goals last week for Manchester United and he didn't start the match against Sunderland, but there isn't the same debate. Why?

"Always at the beginning it is not easy and when someone moves to a top side it is more difficult, but Robbie has quality, he is working hard, so it is not a problem.

"For me the key is the team playing well. If the team plays well, he will have more chances and he will score more goals. I think all the players want to play, so he will be disappointed. He will be thinking, 'I want to play, I need to play'."

ACADEMY: Liverpool Go Into Manchester United Clash On A High

Liverpool under-18s followed up their FA Youth Cup win Leeds with another excellent 3-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion at the Kirkby Academy on Saturday.

Goals from Joe Kennedy, James Ellison and substitute Lauri Dalla Valle saw Hugh McAuley’s side remain second behind leaders Manchester City in FA Premier Academy League Group A table.

Liverpool almost went behind in the opening minutes, but Danish keeper Martin Hansen saved well low down from Josh Knight.

The home side hit back with Ellison being denied by the Baggies keeper Ryan Allsop, but from the resulting corner captain Kennedy stabbed home after six minutes.

West Brom hit back and Hansen saved twice and despite going close from Michael Scott and Adam Pepper’s free-kick it wasn’t until the second half that Liverpool doubled their lead.

On the hour mark a quick move on the break ended with striker Ellison finishing off with a inch-perfect strike.

Liverpool completed the win when substitute Dalla Valle came off the bench to score a third on 71 minutes. The Finnish striker went on an excellent run down the right before cutting in and cracking home an unstoppable effort.

Coach McAuley said: “It gave us a chance to play a few of the lads who didn’t play at Leeds. And they took their chance well.

“It was a good win, and we scored three good goals. But I was a little disappointed at times with the quality of the game in regards to the passing and the movement.”

Liverpool’s will look to end the year on a high when they take on Manchester United at the Kirkby Academy this Saturday (kick-off 11am) before the four-week Christmas break.

McAuley said: “We are second in between Manchester City and United. United can overtake if they beat us, so we will be looking for a good result to end the year in second. The fact we are also still in the Youth Cup gives us fresh impetus to come back after the break to go from there.”

Jack Metcalf picked up a knock and went off at half-time against West Brom, but is expected to be fit to face United.

LIVERPOOL UNDER-18s: Hansen; Metcalf (Dalla Valle 45), Kennedy, Wisdom, O’Connor; Scott, Pepper, Roberts, Cooper (Ince 57); Kacaniklic (Pourie 65), Ellison. Subs: Duyan, Buchtmann.

Liverpool Run Out Of Suitors Amid World Financial Woe

Top of the league and a top place in their Champions League group if they collect more points in Eindhoven tonight than Atletico Madrid do in Marseilles but Liverpool's co-owner has not dismissed suggestions he has employed investment bankers to find a buyer for what appears to be the most unwanted English club.

In an interview with a Canadian radio station, George Gillett avoided a direct response to a suggestion that he and co-owner Tom Hicks have enlisted the help of Merrill Lynch to find a buyer, with the loans they took out to buy the club due for rescheduling in January. "We wouldn't have any comment on that, there's too much speculation already'," Gillett said. Some financial analysts believe that with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, who has been trying to purchase the club for the last two years, no longer interested, a purchaser will probably only now be found if the Americans are forced into a fire sale by their banks foreclosing on them or them running out of money. The Americans may be wishing they accepted the £500m Sheikh Maktoum offered them before the credit crunch hit and may even accept £350m, the total sum of the loans, some financiers believe.

There appears to be no prospect of the mystery Middle East suitor who came to the table several months ago returning, despite the competition provided by Sheikh Maktoum having gone. Though some sources suggest a £500m deal, with the prospective buyer also taking on the club's debt, was agreed and that the deal was within minutes of being signed, that prospect seems to be in the past.

Gillett said that he was not worried about the club's revenues dropping in the financial crisis. The public's discretionary spend on sport to "take your mind off the trouble of the day" tended to hold up well, he said. "We have a list of season ticket fans which is substantially larger than the amount of tickets available," Gillett added. But Liverpool's growth is dependent on having owners who can fund a new stadium, a project which, Gillett reiterated, was off in the "intermediate" future.

Emotions do not drive decision-making for individuals like Gillett but he and the Canadian media present his "soccer" franchise "over the pond" as the antithesis of his Montreal Candiens hockey franchise. While he eulogised about the cash he has ploughed into a new training facility for the Canadiens, his distaste of the British media which he expressed after a business conference in London last month was barely concealed once again.