Rafa Benitez: I Had To Protect Players For Tuesday

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez was in little doubt the penalty from which Reading scored their first goal should not have been awarded, because the foul was outside the area.

He was equally convinced his team should have been given a chance to score from the spot too.

“I think it was outside,” he said of the first turning point.

“Then it should have been a penalty for us.”

Liverpool, who have a very important week in prospect in the Champions League and Premier League, finished the game with Steven Gerrard on the substitutes’ bench - after Benitez decided it was time the captain had a rest.

“We knew it was tough, because some of our players were playing a lot of games in a row,” he explained.

“At 3-1 (down), you have to protect your good players.”

The Reds had several opportunities to get back in the match, and Benitez added: “It was a strange game. We had a few chances but did not take them.

“After some decisions which we didn’t get, we couldn’t change the result.

“The ’positives’ are no injuries and no yellow cards.”

Gillett Set For Marseille Showdown

George Gillett is expected to fly in to witness Liverpool's night of European destiny in Marseille.

The Anfield club's co-owner has made a surprise decision to be at the Stade Velodrome to see for himself whether Liverpool can pull off the great escape and force their way into the last 16.

Gillett and Tom Hicks were not expected on this side of the Atlantic until later in the week for their much-heralded meeting with boss Rafael Benitez, following the fall-out over the new American owners' transfer policy.

The pair were due to be on Merseyside at the weekend for the Barclays Premier League clash with Manchester United, but Gillett will now have the chance for a low-key chat with Benitez in the south of France first.

Gillett will hope to witness Liverpool's third successive group victory, this time against the French side, which will ensure a remarkable qualification for the knock-out stages few expected after the Reds' dreadful start to the campaign.

That included a 1-0 defeat by Marseille at Anfield in October, a result that eventually plunged Benitez and the club into a crisis few could have predicted, with the manager's own position under threat.

There has been a considerable thaw in the relationship between owners and manager of late, brokered by chief executive Rick Parry and Gillett's son Foster, who has been installed to work alongside Parry at the club.

Victory in Marseille would make serious talks later in the week far more convivial.

And Benitez is fully aware of the task against the French. Impressive home wins over Besiktas and Porto were largely expected, but a victory in Marseille in a winner-takes-all clash is a totally different matter.

The game has been reduced to a straight knock-out cup tie with the winners sure of progression to the last 16.

Marseille's boss Eric Gerets has spelt out how his own side will approach the dramatic tie.

He said: "We will fight to the death to get into the next round.

"We know Liverpool must win too, but our victory at Anfield was a big blow for them and it also shows that we can beat them.

"We really have not played any bad matches in the competition, any we have lost have been because of positional or individual mistakes by young players. Generally we have done well in this group."

The group is finely balanced with all four clubs having a chance of qualifying.

Porto and Besiktas clash in the Dragao Stadium at the same time on what will be a nail-biting night.

The odds favour the French club reaching the next stage because a draw, coupled with a Porto win, would send Marseille through due to their victory at Anfield on October 3.

If Besiktas triumph in Portugal then a draw would be enough for Liverpool. Then the Turkish side would finish as winners of the group while Porto, Liverpool and Marseille would all have eight points with the English side progressing by virtue of their superior record against the other two teams.

That would be a heavy blow to the French who must have thought they had the edge over the Merseysiders after that win at Anfield in Gerets' first game in charge, thanks to a Mathieu Valbuena strike 13 minutes from time.

It was their second successive victory and gave them top spot in the section.

However, since then Marseille have gained only one point - at home to Porto - and have lost their last two games at Porto and Besiktas by the same 2-1 score.

Benitez will attempt to send out a calm, controlled Liverpool for the vital tie.

He has a showdown with Manchester United in the league five days later, and a Carling Cup tie at Chelsea the following week.

Clearly a make-or-break spell for manager and club, but Benitez believes his players can handle the situation.

He said: "The players have experience of playing several important competitions at the same time so they will know how to handle this, they can do it.

"What is important is that we approach every game knowing we are playing well, we have confidence and then you only think about the next game when you have won the first one."

Benitez is hoping that Danish defender Daniel Agger will be back from a metatarsal injury to contest a centre-back role with Sami Hyypia, while Fabio Aurelio and Xabi Alonso are also in contention.

Champions League Exit Could Spark Fresh DIC Bid For Liverpool

Despite the tough talk coming out of Texas, Liverpool's long-term ownership remains in doubt and much could still rest on Tuesday's Champions League showdown in Marseille.

Tom Hicks, friend of George Bush and a man you just know Bill Shankly would have loved to work for, has rubbished suggestions that a breakdown in his relationships with co-owner George Gillett and manager Rafa Benitez led him to make it known in the City he would consider selling up.

Dubai International Capital, the state-sponsored investment company dramatically beaten to the Liverpool deal by Hicks and Gillett in February, would like the opportunity to show that they would have been the better choice all along.

For now, DIC are likely to maintain a dignified silence, but having conducted an investigation into who leaked sensitive documents which derailed their initial bid, they have watched events at Anfield with mixed feelings of frustration and vindication.

The £1 billion valuation Hicks has placed on a club he and Gillett bought for under £220 million is ridiculous, but if a more sensible price were set, a renewed DIC bid, led by Liverpool fan Sameer al-Ansari, would be a distinct possibility.

Reading 3 - 1 LiverpooL

Liverpool began their most important week of the season with a defeat at Reading which suggests the Barclays Premier League title will once again be heading away from Anfield this season.

Rafael Benitez's side must now fight for their Champions League lives in Marseille on Tuesday night before having their domestic credentials put under intense scrutiny again by Manchester United at the weekend.

Reading recorded their first victory against one of the so-called 'big four' thanks to a Stephen Hunt penalty and second-half strikes from Kevin Doyle and James Harper.

All Liverpool had to take away from Berkshire was Steven Gerrard's equaliser but referee Andre Marriner also had a big part to play in the proceedings.

The official - who had sent off Chelsea's Michael Essien at Derby in his previous top-flight game - appeared to have called the Reading penalty incorrectly and also failed to spot two occasions when Liverpool should have been awarded spot-kicks.

Liverpool should have been ahead in the seventh minute and it was a surprise when Fernando Torres, who had hit a hat-trick on this ground in a Carling Cup tie in September, could not accept a simple chance.

John Arne Riise's long-throw eluded Ibrahima Sonko as he jumped with Peter Crouch and the Spaniard was left with the simple task of slotting past goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann. Instead he allowed the American to parry.

Reading seized on the let-off and produced their finest 20 minutes of the season so far, attacking their opponents with the verve that had served them so well in the previous two campaigns but had been replaced by self-doubt during this one.

Their goal needed a large slice of fortune, however, as referee Marriner, having consulted a flag-waving linesman, called Jamie Carragher's felling of Brynjar Gunnarsson wrongly as the pair thundered to the brink of the Liverpool box.

There was no question that the Icelander had been impeded but replays suggested contact had been made just outside the box and Carragher howled his displeasure.

Hunt despatched the penalty with panache, however, and Reading continued to attack, with a Bobby Convey drive beating Jose Reina and only just clearing his crossbar.

Reading's previous frailties were not long in reappearing and Gerrard took full advantage to put his side on level terms in the 28th minute.

Torres eluded Sonko to take down a long ball and quickly set up his skipper with a sideways pass. Gerrard had little difficulty shrugging off Hunt's challenge to reach the box and slot past the exposed Hahnemann.

That deflated Reading but fortune favoured them again when Liverpool were denied a much stronger penalty shout than the one previously given to the hosts.

Ivar Ingimarsson's header straight to Gerrard not only surrendered possession cheaply but also allowed Torres to move swiftly into space and when Sonko stuck out a boot in the box he tumbled. But play was allowed to continue.

Andriy Voronin fired in a couple of snapshots from the right of the box as Liverpool ended the half in the ascendancy, but when Momo Sissoko went down in the box under yet another strong Sonko challenge, again no penalty was awarded.

Reading began the second period on the back foot and there was a let-off when Torres sent a diving header across goal after Nicky Shorey's error had allowed Crouch to fire in a cross from the right.

The home defence then made a hash of their offside trap before yet another penalty decision went their way.

Torres's trailing leg was clearly caught by Sonko and this time the Spaniard also appeared to have been hurt. Again television replays confirmed contact had been made.

If the home fans sensed it was to be their night, Doyle gave them concrete proof on the hour by sending a glancing header past Reina to put Reading back in front.

Gerrard had been booked for felling Hunt on the run and when Shorey swung in the free-kick the Republic of Ireland striker lost his marker to produce a slight but perfectly-aimed deflection.

Doyle then fired just over but again Reading were in luck when Gerrard saw a drive smack off the bar seconds before Harper made it 3-1 at the other end.

Convey's pass enabled the hyperactive midfielder to scamper clear of the defence and any fears the home support had that he would be unable to finish were wiped away by a cool side-step to get past Reina and a shot into the empty net.

Harry Kewell, who had come on for Torres, fired a good chance across goal and just wide at the other end.

It just was not Liverpool's day - as Crouch proved again in stoppage time with a drive that beat Hahnemann but rebounded back to the goalkeeper off a post.

Marseille Swayed Rafa'sTthoughts

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez admitted his mind was already on Marseille after his side slipped to a 3-1 defeat at Reading.

The Spaniard took off skipper Steven Gerrard and star striker Fernando Torres to make sure they were not ruled out of Tuesday night's must-win Champions League game in France.

Torres was hurt during the match but Benitez claimed he expected the former Atletico Madrid man to be available for a game that will go a long way towards shaping Liverpool's season.

Benitez said: "We were losing 3-1 and we knew it was really difficult so I was trying to protect the key players for the next game.

"We tried to change it with different players with pace and fresh legs. The Champions League is important. Marseille is the target now.

"Torres had a kick on his ankle so was at risk. He will be okay."

Benitez was convinced referee Andre Marriner had blundered when he had to make penalty decisions at either end of the pitch - awarding Reading one that appeared to be outside the box and denying his side two stronger shouts.

He said: "I am not happy with the decisions but we didn't take our chances and that was maybe the key. We should have had two penalties."

Reading manager Steve Coppell was determined to enjoy his side's first success against one of the so-called 'big four' clubs.

And he insisted his players deserved plaudits for their contributions rather than everyone focusing on Liverpool's shortcomings.

He said: "Wins now, because we are not having as many as last year, they are treasured. Any team in the bottom half of the table would say that. We fully intend to enjoy it tonight.

"For our penalty I would say it was more of a penalty than not. It's not fair to say we won a game but it was on a dodgy penalty - they played a crap team because they were looking for Tuesday's game and, PS: Reading played as well."

But Coppell, a boyhood Liverpool fan, made it clear he sympathised with Benitez.

He said: "In terms of priorities of the games this week I would say we were third (Liverpool play Manchester United next weekend).

"I don't want to put words into Rafa's mouth but Marseille has got to be the number-one priority."

Liverpool Kicks Off Crucial Week Of Premier League And European Action With Vvisit To Reading

The Reds have a must-win Champions League match at Marseille followed by a clash with fierce rival and defending Premier League champion Manchester United, but first has to defend its unbeaten start to the English season at Reading.

Fortunately for Liverpool, it appears to have overcome a rocky spell that included a cluster of drawn matches and has hit 21 goals in its past five games, while conceding just once.

Liverpool is seven points behind leader Arsenal, which is at Middlesbrough on Sunday, and manager Rafa Benitez is eager for another three points as he seeks to end Liverpool's 17-year streak without an English league title.

"I always think of one game at a time and the players know how important this match at Reading is,'' Benitez said. “We need to be focused in every game and we want to keep the pressure up on the other teams.''

And Liverpool should be confident of doing just that.

It has already beaten Reading this season, with Fernando Torres hitting a hat trick for a 4-2 League Cup win.

With Liverpool scoring whoever is in the team, Benitez may rest the Spain striker for the upcoming matches and field Peter Crouch up front.

Benitez also has to decide whether to bring Xabi Alonso, Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio back into the team after they returned to training after injuries, while Jamie Carragher has recovered from bruised ribs and is set to play.

With a 10-point gap having developed between ninth and 12th, Reading is marooned in the bottom half of the standings and keen to put distance between itself and the relegation zone - which is just three points back.

"It will be a tough game against a side with a very good team spirit,'' Benitez said.

Reading will be without John Oster because he needs ankle surgery, while defender Michael Duberry is not ready to return even though he has resumed training following cracked ribs.

Victory for Liverpool is even more important because Manchester United, which is three points ahead in second place, has a home match against last-place Derby.

Reading v Liverpool - Reds' Benitez Has Dilemma On Carragher - Royals Miss Oster

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez will be looking to maintain the club's unbeaten record in the Premiership this season and eyeing a victory over Reading at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday.

While The Royals have picked just one point from the last four games, The Reds are in a blazing form having won their last three league games, five in all competitions.

Steve Coppell's side are without winger John Oster who has to undergo an ankle surgery, while defender Michael Duberry has joined in training after recovering from cracked ribs but apparently is not fit to play.

Benitez however has a dilemma whether to play Jamie Carragher if the defender recovers fully from the blow to his ribs. The former England international is just a booking away from a suspension and given that Reds next play Manchester United in the league, Carragher could well not be risked.

Daniel Agger may return from his long absence due to a metatarsal problem while Jack Hobbs is also an option.

Teams:

Reading (from): Hahnemann, Federici, Murty, de la Cruz, Ingimarsson, Sonko, Bikey, Cisse, Shorey, Rosenior, Gunnarsson, Harper, Fae, Hunt, Convey, Doyle, Kitson, Long, Lita.

Liverpool (from): Reina, Arbeloa, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Hobbs, Riise, Benayoun, Gerrard, Mascherano, Lucas, Sissoko, Kewell, Babel, Kuyt, Voronin, Crouch, Torres, Itandje.

Benitez Set To Gamble

Rafa Benitez is prepared to gamble with Fernando Torres’ fitness ahead of a landmark week in Liverpool’s season.

The in-form forward was subjected to a physical battering at Reading in the Carling Cup earlier this season.

But the Anfield boss would be happy to push his top scorer back into the front line on Saturday, even with the must-win Champions League clash at Marseille looming just three days later.

Benitez admitted yesterday he hadn’t decided on his starting line up for Saturday's tea-time trip to the Madejski Stadium, but said he would have no qualms about handing Torres his fourth start in succession, matching the longest run of games he has had since joining the club.

“I think it will be difficult for all our players because Reading are physical and they are strong,” explained Benitez.

“It is especially difficult for the strikers. But Torres is strong enough and he also has ability and good movement, so if the team is playing well he can manage with the physical game.

“I think Torres can produce good movement and it will be difficult to control him.

“He has been resting for one month so he is fresh and we can use him more often now.

“The key for me is when you have two games in a week, with only two or three days in between, it makes a big difference in how you play.

“But Torres is fit and we don't have any problems about him playing two or three games now.”

Benitez added that some players are better suited to the demands of back to back fixtures.

“We try to manage the players, but some players can handle the games better than others,” he added.

“If we can talk about one – Momo Sissoko – he can play at a very high tempo and be fit in two or three days. Other players who are older or who play in another position may need four or five days. So you need to know all these things.

“Torres is a player who can work for the team, but I am pleased with all our strikers.

“Voronin can do the job, Crouch can do the job and Kuyt can do the job, too. All of them work hard to defend for the team and all of them can go forward and score goals.

“So I am really pleased with the forwards.”

Rafael Benitez Wants His Players Fighting Fit For Marseilles

In dressing-rooms at football clubs up and down the country, the hottest topic of the moment is Ricky Hatton’s WBC welterweight title contest against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in the early hours of Sunday, but woe betide any Liverpool player who intends to stay up until 4am to watch the action live on Sky Box Office.

With a critical Champions League encounter away to Marseilles on Tuesday evening, Rafael Benítez, the manager, has told his players that they cannot risk disrupting their sleep patterns by watching the Hatton bout. This may sound like a typical instance of megalomania from a manager who upset his players at Valencia by banning paella, ice cream and olives from the canteen at the training ground, but Benítez feels it is necessary. After their 5.15pm kick-off for the Barclays Premier League match away to Reading on Saturday, they will fly back to Mer-seyside and have a meal together before being sent home under strict instruction to get a good night’s sleep.

“We try to control these things,” BenÍtez said yesterday. “After the game the players will have dinner and we take care of these things. Some players need more time than others, but it’s really important to rest, especially in this situation, where we are playing late away and then away again soon after. I don’t think the players will be staying up to watch the fight. Anyway, they have DVDs.”

With a light training session planned at Melwood on Sunday before a 10am flight out of John Lennon International Airport on Monday, BenÍtez is determined that his team will be in peak condition for the challenges that lie ahead next week. With that in mind, he was delighted to report yesterday that Daniel Agger and Xabi Alonso could be in the squad that travels to France after being given the all-clear to step up their training after being sidelined by metatarsal fractures, and that Jamie Carragher is fit to play at Reading, having recovered from a rib injury.

As well as the match in Marseilles, which they must win in order to guarantee their progress to the Champions League knockout stage, Liverpool have a crucial league match at home to Manchester United on December 16. Somewhere in the midst of this BenÍtez must also find time to sit down with Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr., the club’s owners, in the hope of resolving the disagreements that have cast serious doubts about his long-term future at Anfield.

BenÍtez, fully aware how his position has been compromised by his recent fall-outs with the board, has been far more contrite over the past ten days as he has sought to repair his relationship with Hicks and Gillett, but he is eager to press his case with regard to strengthening the squad during the January transfer window. A new central defender to cover for Carragher, Agger and Sami Hyypia remains a priority, as does securing a permanent deal to sign Javier Mascherano, whose contract at Anfield expires on June 30.

BenÍtez antagonised Liverpool’s owners last month by negotiating a £17 million deal directly with Kia Joorabchian, the head of the companies that own Mascherano’s economic rights. Hicks and Gillett effectively vetoed that deal, feeling that BenÍtez was wrong to commit to such a sum, but the Spaniard is eager to impress on them the importance of securing a long-term deal for the Argentina midfield player, who, concerned by the lack of reassurances from the board about BenÍtez’s long-term future, is attracting rival interest from Barcelona and Manchester City.

“Clearly, I hope Mascherano stays here,” BenÍtez said yesterday. “We are talking now about this but I have confidence because he tells me he wants to stay. I am confident he can be persuaded to stay here. He is playing well and everyone knows he is a good player and there are not too many world-class holding midfielders around. He wants to stay, our supporters like him and we will try to keep him.”

Mascherano The Priority As Benitez Ends Rift At Liverpool

Rafael Benitez insists he will sign Javier Mascherano permanently despite growing speculation linking the on-loan midfielder with a move away from Liverpool.

The Anfield manager is upbeat about the prospects of completing a £17million deal for the midfielder but is fully aware he has no control over a third-party's ownership of the Argentine and any desire they might have to tout the player around Europe's richest clubs.

Mascherano, who caused West Ham so much trouble with his contract there, has a similar loan deal at Liverpool, the key difference being that the Anfield club's agreement is within the regulations the London club breached last term.

But that means Mascherano is now being linked with Barcelona, Juventus and Manchester City, while Benitez's own attempts to buy the player were blocked by Liverpool's American owners in their well-publicised recent fall-out.

However, Benitez remains confident the 23-year-old will eventually sign a permanent deal at Anfield. He said: "Clearly, I hope Mascherano stays here. We are talking now about this but I have confidence because he tells me he wants to stay.

"I am confident he can be persuaded to stay here. When I spoke to Javier, he told me he wants that, so I have confidence that we will sign him.

"He is playing well and everyone knows he is a good player and there are not too many world-class holding midfielders around. He wants to stay, our supporters like him and we will try to keep him."

Benitez's renewed confidence could have sprung from what is a clear thawing of his relationship with Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

The fact the Spaniard watched his reserves win over Everton earlier in the week, with Gillett's son Foster by his side, underlines that normal service has resumed.

Foster was installed at Anfield to work alongside chief executive Rick Parry, and it would be inconceivable now to suggest discussions about January transfer targets are not ongoing.

Mascherano, rested for last weekend's 4-0 win over Bolton, is now set to play a key part in a critical week that will define Liverpool's season. After Saturday's Barclays Premier League trip to Reading, Liverpool face a make-or-break Champions League tie in Marseille on Tuesday, where only a win will keep them in the competition.

The following Sunday, Manchester United visit Anfield, while a trip to Chelsea in the Carling Cup quarter-finals comes three days later.

Benitez will be boosted by the likely return from injury of four key stars for some or all of those four vital games. Jamie Carragher, Daniel Agger, Xabi Alonso and Fabio Aurelio are all back in training and are likely to be involved at some stage soon.

Triple Injury Boost For Benitez

Rafael Benitez has been handed a triple injury boost with the news that Xabi Alonso, Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio could be back for what promises to be one of the biggest weeks in the club's season so far.

The Reds boss revealed the trio are close to a return and added the club's medical staff will be assessing their fitness at Melwood on a daily basis. Jamie Carragher has also recovered from his bruised ribs and is line to play at Reading on Saturday.

"Alonso trained today and is very close to a return. Agger is closer as well and Fabio could be back," commented Benitez.

"Carra is okay and he can play at the weekend."

Despite crunch matches coming up against Marseille and Manchester United, Benitez is adamant his players will be fully focused on keeping up the pressure at the top of the table when they visit Reading this weekend.

Having scored 21 goals in their last five matches Liverpool are in a rich vein of form, and the boss admits he would be more than happy with a repeat of the scoreline that saw Fernando Torres fire a hat-trick in the Carling Cup tie back in September.

"I always think of one game at a time and the players know how important this match at Reading is," added the Reds boss.

"We need to be focused in every game and we want to keep the pressure up on the other teams.

"We have experience against Reading. I remember when we won 4-2 at Reading in the Carling Cup this season and people said it was an easy game. It wasn't. I remember watching the video of the game after the game and they gave us some problems, and it won't be easy. It will be a tough game against a side with a very good team spirit."

Liverpool’s Kuyt Prepared For Reading’s Physical Challenge

Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt is prepared for the physical challenge of Reading and is hoping boss Rafa Benitez selects him for Saturday’s away fixture in the Premiership.

The Dutch international saw his team-mate Fernando Torres being dished out a barrage of crunching tackles when the Reds took on the Royals in the Carling Cup in September. But the Spain ace had the last laugh as he scored a fine hat-trick.

Kuyt told Liverpoolfc.tv: "That is what the Premier League is all about. There are quality players but you also have to get used to the physical challenge.

"Fernando did really well. He kept getting kicked but kept getting back up and scored goals – that's always the best answer.

"I like the physical side of the game in England but sometimes you get the feeling defenders get more protection than attackers."

He added: "Rafa didn't pick me for the Carling Cup but hopefully he will on Saturday. I will be ready and hopefully I can go on scoring goals against them."

Rafa Issues Reds Challenge

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has challenged his side to maintain their rich vein of form as they look to keep pace with the leaders at the top of the table.

The Reds have won their last five games, scoring 21 goals and conceding just one in the process.

Liverpool travel to Reading this weekend before vital games against Marseille and Manchester United and Benitez is demanding more from his players.

"I'm really pleased at the moment because we are creating chances, scoring goals, not conceding and we're winning games. There are lots of positives for me to look at right now," Benitez told the club's official website.

"When you've scored 21 goals in five games and only conceded one then it would be easy to say that's enough, but as a manager you always want to improve.

"We have a lot of players still to come back like Fabio Aurelio, Xabi Alonso, Jermaine Pennant, Daniel Agger and Steve Finnan and so when they're all fit and available we can be better still.

"We've a big period coming up and we know that in football one result can change everything.

"Our confidence is high at the moment but we have to keep going and keep winning.

"There are lots of big games to look forward to - starting this weekend at Reading - and we have to show the right mentality in each of them."

Gerrard: Hard Working Torres Makes A 'Big Difference'

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has praised the contribution that Fernando Torres makes to the side - and not only in a goalscoring sense.

Despite the hefty price tag, few could argue against Fernando Torres thus far proving Liverpool's most successful summer signing.

The 23-year-old has already netted 11 times for the Reds even though he has been used sparingly by coach Rafa Benítez.

A firm favourite with the Kop just a few months after moving from Spain, Torres has also earned the respect of Anfield skipper Steven Gerrard.

"Fernando is getting a lot of praise at the moment and rightly so because the way he has settled into English football has been amazing and the way he has played is frightening," Gerrard told the Liverpool Echo.

"It can be difficult for players from abroad to settle into English football but at the moment Fernando looks like he's been playing here for years.

Everyone is talking about the goals he has scored and the way he has scored them but I don't think we should lose sight of all the hard work he is putting in off the ball as well.

He defends from the front and doesn't allow defenders to have a second on the ball. If they even think of dwelling on it he is on to them straight away. He is always looking to help the midfielders and the defenders and that makes a big difference. I've got to be honest, I'm made up to have him in our team."

With the likes of Crouch and Kuyt spearheading the attack for the majority of last season, Liverpool were often criticised for lacking pace up front. Gerrard agrees that Torres' pace and skill in running at defences is a useful weapon.

"It is great to have someone who gives us that different option. Fernando loves running in behind defenders and that gives us the option of hitting him early before defences have even had a chance to react. He's had a great start to his career and long may it continue."

Rush: Liverpool Must Keep Crouch

Liverpool goalscoring legend Ian Rush is convinced that Peter Crouch must stay at Anfield.

Peter Crouch's future at Liverpool is a regular subject of speculation, with manager Rafa Benitez's rotation policy restricting his playing time this season in particular.

But someone with an eye for a goal, and a goalscorer, is one of Liverpool's all-time scoring greats, Ian Rush - and he has no doubt whatsoever that the club must hang on to Crouch.

"He has done nothing wrong," said Rush.

"Every time he has played for Liverpool he has been superb.

"He's a fantastic different option for Liverpool and England and has never let Liverpool down.

"He [Benitez] can't ask Peter Crouch to do anything else. He has done exactly what he's been asked to do but he's got to be patient.

"He has become a better player simply by being at Liverpool Football Club."

Liverpool’s Hobbs Hopeful Of Premiership Start At Reading As Carragher One Yellow Card Away From Suspension

Young Liverpool defender Jack Hobbs is hoping for a Premiership start in Saturday’s game at Reading.

The 19-year-old, who had joined the Reds from Lincoln City in 2005, had come on as a substitute in his Premiership debut in the second half in Sunday’s win over Bolton Wanderers at Anfield as Jamie Carragher was injured with a blow to his ribs.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez has however expressed his confidence that Carragher will be fit for the Madjeski Stadium trip. But the England international is only a yellow card away from making it five for the season if he enters the book against the Royals, which would then see Carragher miss the big clash against Manchester United the following weekend.

"Carra has a week to recover to the Reading game, but if I can fill in and help out I will do," Hobbs said on the club’s official website.

"I'd look forward to it and feel I am ready. I was a little bit nervous when the manager told me to strip off on Sunday. When he called me over I didn't know that Carra was injured, but when I got told I was on I was excited and nervous. I just wanted to get out there and do it.

"It's another step in my career. It's a bit more experience for me and it will make the time easier. I'm glad to have come through it without any mistakes.

"Fingers crossed I can get another chance at Reading. Steve Finnan's injury isn't that bad but I'll keep training this week and see what happens. It depends on injuries how often I play this season, but I will keep training hard and see what happens and if I get a chance, I know I must take it."

He added: "I'm relieved and quite pleased to have finally made my Premier League debut. I'm just glad to have got a run out, really happy.

"I've been on the bench a few times but haven't been part of it in the league, but I was glad to just get out and do my bit for the team.”

Manchester City After Javier Mascherano?

Manchester City are reportedly set to make a £17million move for Javier Mascherano.

The Liverpool midfielder's long-term future remains uncertain as the Reds continue to stall over making his deal permanent and according to Wednesday's papers, City are now in the picture.

Rafa Benitez is reportedly urging Liverpool's American owners to make funds available to keep the Argentina international but with no offer on the table, the door is now open for the Eastlands outfit to make a bold approach.

The Daily Star claims a meeting took place between one of Mascherano's advisors and a close associate of City owner Thaksin Shinawatra last week.

Mascherano is owned by a consortium headed by Kia Joorabchian and the deal which took him from West Ham to Liverpool is due to run out at the end of the season - at which point the Daily Star claims Liverpool would have to cough up £17m to keep him at the club.

But City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson has pinpointed the 23-year-old as one of his primary targets and the Eastlands outfit could even attempt to conclude a deal which would see him complete his move in the January transfer window.

According to The Independent Mascherano is also wanted in Italy, although he is thought to prefer a switch to Barcelona in Spain if he does leave the Premier League.

Liverpool Capello Link Is 'Nonsense'

Liverpool were quick to distance themselves from rumours linking Fabio Capello to Anfield.

Fabio Capello, having already expressed an interest in succeeding Steve McLaren as England boss, has been linked with Liverpool this week.

Current boss Rafa Benitez’s public row with Reds co-owners George Gillet and Tom Hicks over the availability of transfer funds was cause for concern at the club. The Americans were said to be aware of Capello’s availability.

However, Benitez has apparently shown remorse after the spat, with the situation unlikely to go any further. The club has acted quickly to quell the rumours.

Spokesman Ian Cotton said: "This story is complete nonsense."

61-year-old Capello is currently out of work since being sacked by Real Madrid after winning the Spanish title last season. Chief Executive Rick Parry was adamant that no talks had taken place.

"It is absolutely, completely and utterly untrue. Capello has not contacted us and we have not contacted him."

Liverpool Unite Around Torres´s Goals

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has become a beacon of light amid a public dispute between Reds manager Rafael Benitez and the club's American owners, George Gillett and Tom Hicks, over transfer policy.

The Spain striker's goal in the 4-0 win over Bolton last weekend was his 11th in 17 matches and left the Reds six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal in third place.

Liverpool haven't been champions of England since winning the last of their record 18 titles in 1990 but hopes are growing at the north-west side that they may be getting themselves into position to mount a sustained challenge.

Meanwhile keeper Jose Reina is just glad to be in the same team as Torres after playing against his compatriot in Spain.

"I was Fernando's favourite goalkeeper back in Spain, he put so many goals past me," Reina said.

"Fernando has been getting better and better over the last few weeks. He has become a very important player for us, he has pace, and he can now finish.

"He has the qualities to play consistently at a very high level, and now he is at that level in England. He is quick, strong and clever. He has great movement and can be aggressive to cope with playing against big defenders.

"He is so important. He can be a target player, but he can play other roles. Let's see how much more he can progress, I believe he will do that."

Torres, who joined Liverpool for more than 20 million pounds (40 million dollars) from Atletico Madrid, has scored four goals in five games.

Steven Gerrard, the Liverpool captain who himself has scored eight in nine, said of the forward: "Getting into double figures before Christmas is great for him and the team. We know if we get him chances, he will score."

However, Benitez added there was plenty of work left for Liverpool to do if they were to be crowned English champions for the first time since the creation of the Premier League.

"We haven't hit the high standards that we are capable of, not just yet. We can improve a lot, we have injuries at the moment and when they are all fit we will have even more players with quality.

"It will mean we can change players during the game and for different matches to give us fresh legs to be able to maintain the level we require.

"We need to play every game with a very high tempo, and with more players fit and available we will be able to sustain that," the Spanish boss added.

"To win a title it is not just about winning games and staying close.

"It is all about the small details and they can make a big difference. We can play better but we are in a very good position."

Brazilian Star Raves About Liverpool Duo Gerrard & Torres While Barca & Juve Wait On Mascherano

Liverpool's young Brazilian star Lucas Leiva is relishing the chance to play alongside two colleagues he rates among the best in the world.

Lucas has been drafted into Liverpool's midfield in recent games late alongside skipper Steven Gerrard, and with record signing Fernando Torres in front of him.

The 20 year-old, who signed in the summer for £5million from Gremio, is rated in South America as the best Brazilian of his age group and he has adapted to the English game remarkably quickly.

And having Gerrard and Torres around to help him has been a key factor, he claims.

Lucas said: "It is fantastic playing alongside Steven Gerrard, he is among the best in the world. And to have Fernando up front - he too is one of the best in the game - as well is a dream for me."

Lucas has impressed in Liverpool's last two Barclays Premier League games against Newcastle and Bolton.

He said: "Stevie and I are obviously different players. I am younger and I am still learning and he is helping me a lot.

"When I play in midfield with him I have to play more of a holding role because he can go forward, create chances and score goals himself. Hopefully, when I have played more games and got more confidence I can go forward more myself.

"But I am happy just to be playing because I can learn from players like Steven.

"It is fantastic to play alongside him because he is one of the best players in the world.

"Hopefully, one day, I will be as good as he is but that is a long way away."

And Lucas is revelling in the fact that Torres, with 11 goals in 17 games, is proving already to be a success at Anfield.

Lucas added: "Fernando is a fantastic player and he can score a lot of goals. He is a very good striker and he can be the best striker in the world."

Lucas has proved to be a more than adequate understudy for Javier Mascherano, and has recently been given the chance to shine.

Liverpool are still trying desperately to tie down the Argentinian on a permanent contract, but if that proves to be too difficult Lucas could comfortably step into the role.

With that deal on hold until the club's American owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, have their much heralded meeting with boss Rafael Benitez later this month, there are concerns that Mascherano could slip through the net.

Both Barcelona and Juventus are monitoring the situation, and Liverpool know they must come up with £17million to make the loan deal permanent.

Whether the Americans will sanction that deal remains to be seen, and has been one of the main fears for Benitez as he has expressed his concerns about the club's transfer policy.

Lucas could end up as the beneficiary of any delays in that move, or even the loss of the player altogether.

For now he is just happy to be making his mark at his new club.

He said: "We are scoring a lot of goals at the moment and we have to keep that going.

"It is hard to say why it is happening at this time but the team is playing really well and we are creating plenty of chances.

"We have played really well in the last five or six games and the confidence is much better because we are scoring goals and winning but now we have to look forward to the next game."

Results Serve To Further Strengthen Rafa Benitez's Hand

It seems Tom Hicks was right after all. Rafael Benitez should focus on coaching and training his team – because he seems to be doing a pretty good job of it at the moment.

And all in all, this approach will only help Benitez if his simmering confrontation with the Americans boils to the surface again.

The best thing he can do now is to keep quiet and concentrate on getting Liverpool another three points at Reading on Saturday and taking them through to the Champions League knockout stages with victory in Marseille in a week’s time.

All of which would give him not only more points and more progress, but more bargaining tools when Hicks and Gillett make their way over the pond in two weeks’ time.

With the small matter of re-financing the stadium, you can hardly blame the duo for not exactly waving open cheques at Benitez even as January gets ever closer.

But the manager shouldn’t be worrying about this. He needs to put all his energies into getting his side into a position whereby it will be impossible for him not to be backed financially.

Imagine how the conversation will go if Liverpool beat Manchester United at Anfield in a fortnight and really prove how serious they are as title challengers this term.

Would you like to look Benitez in the face and tell him he can’t have what he wants to put the finishing touches to the squad he will need to see out the second half of the season?

No, and neither will Tom Hicks. He will if he has to and he was right to do so when this feud was made public.

But he will be wary that anyone who isn’t fully behind Benitez at Anfield these days is in a pretty lonely place – last week’s march to Anfield before the Porto game proved that. Benitez doesn’t need petty press conferences to make that point. At the moment, the only point he needs to make is through his players and they are doing a fine job of that.

Especially when he picks the right ones, and that was exactly what happened against Bolton on Sunday.

Peter Crouch up front with Fernando Torres works a treat because they are the two Liverpool strikers who give defenders the most problems.

Crouch is one of those forwards that you just have to watch. You can’t afford to take your eyes off him and the way he occupies opponents is perfect for Torres.

The Spaniard likes to roam free and into slightly wider areas and someone like Crouch up there enables him to do it.

He scored on Sunday and he hit a hat-trick when he played up front with Crouch a Reading in the Carling Cup. No coincidence.

It’s back to the Madejski Stadium again on Saturday and, while Benitez might want to have someone a bit deeper like Kuyt or Voronin away from home, I’d like to see him go for it a bit more.

With two out-and-out centre-forwards like Crouch and Torres you might leave yourself wide open, especially in a 4-4-2. But I think Reading are worth taking the risk against.

Liverpool are safe enough at the back these days and if you are a bit vulnerable the answer is simple. Just outscore them.

It will mean another victory on the pitch and perhaps, more significantly long-term, victory for Benitez in the boardroom.

After all if Liverpool keep winning this week it will only strengthen his hand.

Rafa Hails Torres And Claims: We Will Be Close

Liverpool kept up their push for the title after another stunning show by Fernando Torres.

And boss Rafa Benitez is confident his men will stay in the hunt after crushing Bolton at Anfield yesterday to move up to third in the table.

"In the last three years we were too far behind, this year we are closer and we have a better squad," said Benitez. "I have confidence, but we need to see where we are at the end of January. We'll play a lot of games and we have some problems with injuries. If we don't make mistakes we will be close."

He added: "The team is playing well, we weren't fantastic but it's a good win.

"It's also important we don't have just one striker scoring 20 goals a season - we need others with 15."

Sami Hyypia, Torres, Steven Gerrard and substitute Ryan Babel swept aside Bolton but the win was marred when Jamie Carragher was flattened by Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina for the second time this season.

Carragher went off with damaged ribs after his team-mate clattered into him as they attempted to clear the ball.

A similar incident at Sunderland put Carragher out for three matches with an identical injury.

Benitez must wait to find out if he has cracked ribs but could see the funny side as he said: "I think Pepe is going to kill Carra or finish his career one day."

Liverpool could afford to laugh at the collision as Nicolas Anelka failed to take advantage of the mix-up and somehow contrived to miss an open goal with Bolton just 1-0 down.

Wanderers boss Gary Megson was unhappy with his side's display. "We didn't play well or compete anywhere near the level we did against Manchester United," he said. "We must do that every time and make that game the standard."

We'd Follow Benitez Out The Door, Warns Torres

Liverpool star Fernando Torres has warned the club’s owners that they risk a players’ revolt if their ongoing feud with Rafa Benitez results in the Spaniard’s dismissal.

The Reds faithful have already made their support for the manager very clear both ahead of and during last week’s Champions League triumph against Porto, and now ‘El Nino’ has left no doubt as to where the allegiance of the players lies.

“He cannot leave. The fans have given their verdict and it was clear,” said Torres, who continued his rich vein of form in front of goal with a stylish second during the 4-0 drubbing of Bolton Sunday.

“Benitez has created a team of people who are indebted to him. It’s certain if he goes many players will think about their futures.

“Benitez is not just another manager. He created a team and put his faith in players that owe him a lot.”

The manager himself refused to be drawn out his love-hate relationship with the club’s American owners during the post-match press conference. He did speak out in praise of his young striking sensation, however, while at the same time warning against Torres-dependence.

“Yes, it is great to have a striker who can give you 20 goals a season but it is easier for defenders if he is the only man they have to worry about.

“You also need others who will give you 15 and players who can score important goals — and we have that.

“We scored four today but it could easily have been more.”

Carragher To Be Fit For Reading

Liverpool stalwart Jamie Carragher is expected to be fit for this weekend's trip to Reading despite picking up a rib injury on Saturday.

The defender was injured in a collision with goalkeeper Pepe Reina against Bolton Wanderers, which resulted in Nicolas Anelka's astonishing miss with the goal at his mercy.

Carragher was substituted early in the second half to be replaced by debutant Jack Hobbs, a product of the Anfield youth system.

But some fans had expressed reservations about the youngster starting in Saturday's Premier League fixture, which might have been necessary due to the Reds' current injury crisis in defence.

However manager Rafael Benitez has confirmed that Carragher is likely to shake off the problem in time for the journey south to Berkshire.

"Carra took a knock in the ribs when he collided with Pepe but I do not think it was that serious," the Spaniard told the club's official website.

"I'd expect him to be fit for the Reading game."

Veteran Sami Hyypia also played in the centre of defence against the Trotters yesterday and may be required to continue in the role with a number of players still on the sidelines.

Daniel Agger is expected to make a comeback in the next few weeks, while full-back Steve Finnan also missed the Bolton game with a calf problem but is likely to return against the Royals.

LiverpooL 4 - 0 Bolton

Liverpool maintained their unbeaten Barclays Premier League record, made it five successive wins and continued to rattle in the goals.

After demolishing Bolton, they have scored 21 goals in that five-game run to move into third place in the table, a point behind Chelsea with a game in hand.

In a week that has seen boss Rafael Benitez seemingly settle his public dispute with the club's American owners, his side have been in tip-top form.

Four goals against Porto and four against a dispirited Bolton has dispelled any lingering doubts about Benitez's side.

From Besiktas to Bolton over the past weeks there is now a list of people who have learned to their cost that if there is trouble in the corridors of power at Anfield, it ends when the players walk on to the pitch.

Goals from Sami Hyypia and Fernando Torres - his 11th in 17 games - had Liverpool in command at the break and a Steven Gerrard penalty sealed what was a comfortable victory before Ryan Babel tapped in the fourth.

Bolton had gone five games unbeaten under new boss Gary Megson, but despite a initially defiant display, they were eventually brushed aside.

Bolton made four changes from the side that produced their best display of the season in beating Manchester United last weekend. Jlloyd Samuel, Gary Speed, Gavin McCann and Lubomir Michalik all returned in a team that included two former Liverpool strikers, Nicolas Anelka and El-Hadji Diouf.

Bolton started with Kevin Davies, usually a striker, on the right of midfield, but moving in to support Anelka when the Trotters broke out.

And that ploy caused Liverpool more than a few problems.

Initially, Bolton were under pressure as Harry Kewell and Yossi Benayoun ran at their defence. Ricardo Gardner had to kick away from an open goal from Peter Crouch, and then Jussi Jaaskelainen needed to be alert to scoop away a Torres close range effort after Benayoun's run.

Bolton come into their own at set-pieces, and when a Diouf corner was flicked on by Abdoulaye Meite right in front of Jose Reina, the ball was hastily cleared.

Diouf was booked on 11 minutes for a nasty tackle into Alvaro Arbeloa's ankle with the ball long gone. And it was Liverpool who went ahead from a set-piece of their own.

Gerrard's 16th minute free-kick was flicked into the bottom corner by Hyypia.

Crouch, with a header over from Gerrard's corner and then Kewell with a snap shot that flew wide threatened to increase the lead, but generally Bolton were working very hard to stop Liverpool's build-up from the back.

Anelka and Diouf were always capable of causing problems for Liverpool's defence, while Campo, Speed and Gavin McCann battled to regain possession.

Torres saw a cross-shot go wide of the far post, but at the other end Davies got away into space on the right to fire in a fierce low shot that Arbeloa hooked away from a gaping net.

And on 38 minutes, Anelka should have equalised. Reina and Jamie Carragher collided on the edge of the box, and the ball ran for the Frenchman on the right of the six-yard box.

But somehow he managed to miss an open goal from 12 yards, putting his effort into the side netting. And Bolton were to regret that clanger.

A minute from the break, Torres eased Liverpool's tensions with a stunning goal. Gerrard's 35-yard, inch-perfect through ball, sent Torres into the box to clip his 12th goal of the season over Jaaskelainen.

Gerrard surged into the box and saw a fierce drive deflected by Jaaskelainen four minutes into the second-half, and a minute later Carragher was replaced by teenager Jack Hobbs, who made his league debut. Carragher had been hurt in that first-half collision with Reina.

But on 54 minutes Gerrard did beat Jaaskelainen, this time from the spot. Peter Crouch looked to be impeded by both Meite and Michalik as he went for a Gerrard cross.

Referee Steve Bennett pointed to the spot and Gerrard drilled the penalty home.

Reina saved from an Anelka snap-shot on 59 minutes but all hope had gone for the Trotters.

Campo was booked for a foul on Benayoun on the edge of the box and Torres almost scored again when he surged in from the right, beat three men and chipped the ball over the far angle.

Stelios Giannakopoulos replaced Diouf on 65 minutes, and a minute later Babel took over from Kewell for Liverpool.

Dirk Kuyt replaced Torres on 76 minutes, and the Dutchman helped Gerrard set up Babel for the fourth with six minutes left.

Meite headed a Babel effort off the line soon after as Bolton were reduced to praying for the final whistle.

Sheikh Wants Fans Backing

Dubai billionaire Sheikh Mohammed is waiting for the green light from Liverpool fans before trying to buy out US owner Tom Hicks.

As Mirror Sport revealed yesterday, Hicks is considering selling his stake in the club.

And while City sources indicate Hicks has placed a valuation of £1billion on the club, there is interest from Sheikh Mohammed, head of the Dubai International Capital group.

Dic were in £450m takeover talks with Liverpool last year, before pulling out when the board held out for Hicks in a £219m deal.

Now the Sheikh - full name Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum - who is worth £7bn, is interested again and could be welcomed by fans who voiced their support for boss Rafa Benitez and their anger at the owners on websites yesterday.

"Both Yanks can XXXX off if they sack Rafa," said one fan, with another adding: "These cowboys have taken a massive loan to buy the club. Where is the bloody investment?"

And a third suggested: "It would have been better if we'd sold to the Dubai consortium."

Duo Fighting For A Future At Anfield

Rafael Benitez wasn’t the only person fighting for his Liverpool future that emerged from Wednesday’s Champions League victory over Porto with their reputation enhanced.

For differing reasons, both Peter Crouch and Harry Kewell have found themselves mainly with their face pressed up against the window of first-team action at Anfield this season.

It has led to speculation they will soon be plying their trade elsewhere, Crouch long touted to be ushered out of the club in next month’s transfer window while Kewell becomes a free agent in the summer.

But the players were given reason for encouragement by Benitez yesterday that their Anfield careers are not so cut and dried.

Crouch is out of contract in 18 months and Liverpool have yet to make a move to offer the striker a new deal.

That has alerted a clutch of potential suitors, with Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson linked with a January bid for the England international.

But Benitez has dismissed the notion Crouch is up for sale and has challenged the forward, who scored the final goal in the midweek 4-1 win, to prove he deserves an extended stay at Anfield.

“Peter knows how to win a new contract,” says the manager. “He has to work really hard, play very well and score a lot of goals. So he has a chance to win a new contract because he can do all of this.

For now, though, we have to win a lot of games and then we will talk about his future later on. He does not play every game, but now with two games every week for some while he will get his chances to impress.”

Benitez adds: “I do not think it will be the situation that he will walk away for nothing in 18 months, that will not happen. For now, though, I just want him to score more goals.

“The key is for him to score, play well and be happy. Then we will have the conversation about a contract.

“We do not want to sell Peter, we are really happy with him. Players in top sides know they cannot play in every game, but you can see how important he is for us.

“Against Porto in midweek he and Harry Kewell were key substitutions that helped us win the game. We do not want to see any transfer movement involving him.

“I want to see Peter score a lot more goals for us, he is not for sale. He is a good professional, he is always ready and waiting for his chance.”

Crouch revealed this week that he will “do everything” to stay at Anfield, but Benitez has reiterated the player must bide his time as he jostles with Fernando Torres, Dirk Kuyt and Andriy Voronin for a place up front.

“In a top side you need good players, but they cannot play every game, that is impossible,” he says.

“Crouch is a key player for us, we do not want to sell him. But when someone is not playing every game other clubs ask about them. They will be trying to get close to the player. But we do not want to sell him, we want him here to help us win the title.

“Manchester City have done well this season, and they have some money to spend. But they will not have Peter Crouch.”

Crouch is hopeful of a start tomorrow for the visit of Bolton Wanderers, who have lost just one of seven games since Gary Megson replaced the sacked Sammy Lee last month.

The Trotters haven’t won at Anfield in the league since January 1954, but will be buoyed by their 1-0 defeat of champions Manchester United last Saturday.

And Crouch says: “Bolton will come into the game on the back of a great result against Manchester United. Not a lot of teams will beat United and they will be in confident mood.

“It’s always a tough game against Bolton and we know that we will have to be at 100% to get the job done.”

Kewell, meanwhile, is also in contention for a recall to the starting line-up as he continues his quest for fitness.

He played 55 minutes on his first league start in more than 18 months in the 3-0 win at Newcastle United last weekend and made a telling contribution as a substitute in midweek, creating the decisive second goal for Fernando Torres.

Benitez has revealed that any decision over Kewell’s future will not be made until next year at the earliest, a time by which the winger can open talks with clubs from abroad over a transfer.

But the Anfield manager reckons the Australian wants to remain in England and preferably at Liverpool – and will give him every chance to ensure that.

“The key for us is to keep Harry fit,” says Benitez. “If he is fit he is player who can beat players, create chances and score goals. He is important for us. We have nine games in December and we need all of our players.

“I don’t know when we will talk about his future. I’m not thinking about that. It’s important to see him training and ready for every game.

“We will have time and he knows that we will need to talk. But it will not be until after January or February, we will see, we aren’t exactly sure when.

“He’s not yet ready to pay a full game. I would sooner have Harry for 55 minutes at 100% than 90 minutes at 50%. He is training hard and trying to be ready but with our busy schedule he will get more games now.

“He is close to playing 90 minutes now, every week he is physically getting much better.

“I think Harry will be happy to continue here in England and especially at Liverpool.”

Boots Hold Key To Daniel Agger's Recovery

Daniel Agger could make his long-awaited return for Liverpool next week – thanks to a special pair of football boots.

The Denmark international has not played since the goalless draw at Portsmouth on September 15 after breaking a metatarsal in his right foot.

Agger was thought close to a comeback earlier this month only to complain of further discomfort in the same area.

However, the 22-year-old will train next week in a specially-commissioned pair of boots designed to protect the metatarsal.

And if Agger comes through training with no problems, he could be considered for next Saturday’s Premier League visit to Reading.

“I was talking with him this morning,” said Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez yesterday. “He is comfortable training in trainers but has had some problems with his boots. They are producing some news boots for him and I’m sure they will help him.

“It will be impossible for him to be fit for this week, but he may be back for next week if he is comfortable with the new boots.

“We don’t want to put a date on it. We just want to see how he progresses.

“But I don’t think he’ll be out for weeks. He can run and can kick the ball, but with the boots he felt something. He is training and doing more or less everything in terms of physical.”

Mascherano Holds Key To Rafa Benitez's Future

As Liverpool's American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett marvelled at Fernando Torres' goalscoring skills against Porto on Wednesday night, or more likely, pondered why a man costing £26.5 million could only beat the goalkeeper twice, it is unlikely that their eyes ever wandered to the stocky little Argentine furiously chopping the midfield wood, name of Javier Mascherano. To be fair, their £417 million investment in the club does not require them to appreciate the finer points of "soccer" nor to realise, which they apparently failed to do, that the 8-0 win over Besiktas last month represented anything special.

But if someone could have explained to them why Mascherano is as important to Liverpool as Torres and captain Steven Gerrard, even though he does his best work in their shadows, Hicks and Gillett might have a better understanding of the public attack on them by manager Rafa Benitez.

The owners, having allowed Benitez to pick their pockets for the best part of 100 million greenbacks in the summer, may regard him as cheekier than Oliver Twist for coming back for more so soon afterwards. Yet Benitez's call for new signings was really a singular plea for the permanent signature of Mascherano, who has blossomed from West Ham ugly duckling to Liverpool swan.

Benitez has a particular affinity for Mascherano, having spent four hours wooing him in January when he was on the point of signing for Juventus, which is why Rafa has pushed his luck to the point of losing his job. And though he now says he wants to kiss and make up with Hicks and Gillett, he is still a long way from being sure of staying as manager, even though fans from Norway and Ireland joined Scousers in singing his name in midweek.

Supporters regard Benitez as their most popular manager since Bob Paisley, though his outspoken attacks on Hicks, in particular, plus his veiled assaults on chief executive Rick Parry, have more a ring of Bill Shankly, who said: "There's a holy trinity of the players, manager and the supporters. Directors don't come into it. They are only there to sign the cheques."

Benitez seems to share that opinion, a dangerous one because football has changed irrevocably since then and the men who pay such fortunes to the piper call the tune and the key in which it is played. Rumours that Hicks is already so disillusioned that he wants out can probably be discounted. "It's been a big misunderstanding blown very much out of proportion," Hicks said yesterday. "George and I are happy to see that it has settled back down.

"I am not selling any of my shares to anybody," Hicks added, emphatically denying a British media report on Friday that suggested he was planning to offload his stake.

Both he and Gillett, though, are entitled to ask why there is such a rush to sign Mascherano, who is under contract until May when Liverpool have first option to buy him for £17 million.

Mascherano himself says: "It's not my problem and it's not causing me a problem. But I think they [Benitez and the owners] have to be there trying to solve their differences because it's more important than my situation. I hope I will stay here but it's very important Rafa stays as the manager. I think he will stay. I don't think he and the owners have too big a problem."

In his apparently new conciliatory mode, Benitez wants talks with Gillett and Hicks before the scheduled meeting on Dec 16 after Liverpool's Premier League game against Manchester United at Anfield. One can understand his reasoning, not wanting the owners to make a decision on his future after what promises to be a critical six days of the club's season. Before the United game, Liverpool play their final Champions League group fixture in Marseille, where only victory will guarantee their place in the knockout stages and where defeat could see them miss out even on the UEFA Cup.

That would not encourage any loosening of the purse strings by owners who talk a good game about being in it for the glory and understanding the Liverpool tradition yet are not so old-fashioned that they do not want a return on their investment. Such is the pressure on Liverpool managers to succeed that Paisley, the most successful in their history, once said: "I was there during the bad times, too. We finished second one season." He actually finished second twice, something Liverpool have managed on only two occasions in the 17 seasons since they last won the title. Although second place now brings with it automatic entry into the Champions League, it has never been viewed at Liverpool as anything but something nasty you occasionally step into.

Benitez has funds of goodwill with the fans because of the 2005 Champions League win and last season's place in the final. He will ultimately be judged, however, on whether he can construct a side to win the Premier League.

Striker Peter Crouch, restricted to cameo appearances this season, can certainly not be described as the manager's pet but says: "It's starting to come good now. We are confident at the moment, so I am sure we will have a strong second half to the season." That is assuming he is still at the club for the second half.

As for Mascherano, he says: "I'm very close to signing for Liverpool and I want to play for them. It's possible in the next month there will be a meeting and everything will be resolved." If he were playing in the States, where players have so many consonant-riddled names that clubs spell them phonetically in their programmes, he would appear as MAS-KER-R-NO. But his hopes of remaining a Liverpool player will depend on whether Hicks and Gillett believe Benitez has spelt out his own message too forcefully for their liking.

Outlook Is Brighter For Benitez As Hicks Speaks Up To Heal The Rift

Liverpoool owner Tom Hicks last night broke his silence on the civil war at Anfield to give under-pressure manager Rafa Benitez a vital peace offering.

Hicks insisted he 'got along just fine' with Benitez and described speculation that the Liverpool manager might be sacked as 'unfair'.

The Texan's comments will be a huge relief to Benitez, who has cut an isolated figure in the last couple of weeks despite Liverpool going into today's match against Bolton unbeaten in the Premier League.

It will also delight thousands of fans who demonstrated their support for Benitez during the midweek Champions League win against Porto.

Hicks confirmed that he and fellow owner George Gillett will fly to England in 11 days — 48 hours after Liverpool's decisive European qualifier against Marseille — to discuss plans with Benitez.

On the agenda will be the fate of Javier Mascherano and Peter Crouch. Benitez wants to tie up a £17million deal for Mascherano as soon as possible while the owners would prefer to wait until the summer when the Argentinian's loan deal ends.

Benitez is also keen to resist a £12m bid from Manchester City for Crouch but may have to convince the money men, who are aware that the England striker has only 18 months left on his contract and his value will fall if he is not sold in January. Hicks was incensed by Benitez's petulant behaviour at a press conference 10 days ago when the Liverpool manager sulkily repeated he would be 'focusing on coaching and training'.

Benitez has since tried to mend the situation and last night it appeared his tactic had worked, with the straight-talking Hicks suggesting they could continue to work together.

'We get along just fine with Rafa,' said Hicks. 'A small difference escalated into a huge issue, which was unfair to Rafa.

'He has the team playing very well now. It has been a big misunderstanding blown out of proportion. I'm glad things have settled down.'

Crouch Wants To Stay AT Anfield

If Peter Crouch feels like a misfit, it is probably because the forward has to prove himself again. From being released by Tottenham Hotspur, to being unfancied at Aston Villa, to recent speculation that Rafael Benítez, the Liverpool manager, has been willing to sell him, to doubts about his international credentials, Crouch has sometimes been a target in more ways than one.

The margins between success and failure are so small that he might have been England’s hero with an equalising goal against Croatia in the European Championship ten days ago. Instead, he has to ensure that preconceived ideas about his height of 6ft 7in are not adopted by the next head coach of England, as well as Liverpool if they part company with Benítez.

Crouch has faced criticism from opposition players and fans and even DJ Spoony, the BBC Radio 5 Live presenter, made fun of his lanky frame this week. “When things are bad you have to get out there and prove people wrong,” Crouch said. “When they’re going right you have to stay on top of it, not become lax or to let your standards slip. I’m stronger now and know what my role is, whereas before I was maybe trying to do too much.

“I didn’t fit in at Aston Villa under David O’Leary, so I had to move on. Hopefully my form for England [14 goals in 24 appearances] will count for something. When the new [England] manager comes in, the challenge is to impress in training. He will have his own philosophy and there will be change — new faces. But we have enough quality now, maybe we just haven’t shown it.”

Crouch has started only two Barclays Premier League and four Champions League matches this season, scoring four times, prompting speculation about a move. Benítez said yesterday that Crouch was not for sale after Thaksin Shinawatra, the Manchester City owner, said that Sven-Göran Eriksson, the club’s manager, was interested in the forward.

“At the start of the season I was frustrated that I was not in the squad,” Crouch, who was speaking at the launch of Gameloft’s Real Football 2008, said. “I wondered whether he [Benitez] fancied me. Within a few weeks I was playing. He chops and changes, never lets on what he’s thinking. It is hard to read the manager. If I knuckle down I will get a number of matches to justify my place.

“I literally have no idea whether I am playing — unlike every other manager I have worked for. He usually tells us an hour and a half before kick-off if we are playing. In training the day before he’ll sort out a team shape with two sets of players and then swap things around. We know the system, just not the players.”

Still only 26, Crouch has played for seven clubs and has accrued transfer fees of £15.5 million “I feel settled in my prime,” he said. “I do want to stay at Liverpool, but every now and then there is speculation and you realise that a big club are interested in you. Moving abroad is not something that I would be afraid to do — but we have the best league in the world.”

Had his goal ensured England qualified for Euro 2008, he might have become established. “I thought that was my defining goal and moment,” he said. “But it didn’t mean anything. That’s how fine the line is — between taking your nation to the European Championships and just scoring another goal.”

Benitez Has Talks With Parry In Bid To Ease Tension

There are not many employees who covet an office near the boss, but Rafael Benitez is one of them. The day-to-day contact he enjoyed with Foster Gillett, the son of Liverpool's co-owner, George Gillett, who was installed as his representative in Liverpool in August, gave him the ear of the management.

The two men, who according to Benitez were in and out of each other's adjoining offices at Liverpool's Melwood training ground, have seen far less of each other since the American returned in October to Montreal for reasons which are still not altogether clear and Benitez, in the course of putting a troubled 10 days with his owners in the past yesterday, underscored the value to him of their being together. "When Foster is around it [is] easier," said the Spaniard, whose public indignation over the club's transfer policy stems in part from the insistence by George Gillett and Tom Hicks that he deals with the chief executive, Rick Parry, on such issues.

Gillett Jnr stayed on in Liverpool this week after flying in for the Champions League win against Porto on Wednesday, though Benitez had not yet encountered him at Melwood when he spoke. "Maybe we will talk this afternoon," he said. "I missed him after the [Porto] game because I was talking to Spanish radio journalists." Those journalists may have helped put off what might be an uncomfortable reunion for Benitez, whose indignation expressed at two press briefings are known to have angered the American's father and his co-owner at Liverpool, Hicks.

Though reports yesterday that Hicks and Gillett may be ready to sell up at Liverpool already are wide of the mark – Parry described the claim as "utter garbage" – they certainly seem to be keeping Benitez at arms' length. The Spaniard has received none of the periodic emails he gets from the club's owners since the midweek win which keeps another improbable European recovery story alive. Was this a disappointment, he was asked yesterday? "Maybe it's another misunderstanding," he replied. The Americans' response – like much else at the club it seems – has been through Parry this week. There was "information" Benitez said, but he would not say what.

The Liverpool manager did reveal that he has sat down with his chief executive in an attempt to resolve their differences. "The meeting with Rick Parry was about the problems we have had and the problems we could have in the future," Benitez said. The Spaniard, who is known to want to stay in a city where his family are very happy, went to some lengths to demonstrate that he has taken on the Americans' message about focusing on the players he has. The message was not delivered repeatedly as an ironic riposte, as it was last week, but with the air of a man acting on orders.

"My idea is to keep working with the players," Benitez said. "I will prepare the team and take care of the team," he added later. Victories over Newcastle and Porto make swallowing pride a little easier for the Spaniard. But he certainly does not feel he has acted inappropriately. "I think it [my behaviour] was normal," he said. "All managers want the best for their club." His mood if Liverpool do not prevail in Europe – they visit Marseilles on Wednesday week – and maintain the form they showed at St James' Park is more difficult to predict.

The extended absence of centre-back Daniel Agger, which led Benitez to rely more heavily on Sami Hyypia than he would have wished and fuelled a row over the Americans' refusal to sanction an immediate approach to Milan's Kaka Kaladze, will continue for a few weeks yet. Agger, probably Liverpool's most badly needed player, did not take to a new pair of boots made for him after his metatarsal fracture and is awaiting another pair before making his return. Fabio Aurelio is near a comeback, though Benitez must wait longer for his influential midfielder Xabi Alonso.

Benitez also said that he does not want to part company with Peter Crouch, despite suggestions from Thaksin Shinawatra that Manchester City are interested in him.

EPL Preview: LiverpooL vs Bolton

If Anfield owners Hicks and Gillet thought that they would be able to get rid of Rafa Benitez, they surely would be thinking otherwise now. The fans marched through the streets of Liverpool chanting the beleaguered manager’s name before their team responded with a crushing victory over a Porto side that are no walkover. And prior to the Porto victory was an annihilation of Newcastle at St James'.

If anyone sees a more one-sided game this season in a match not involving Derby being away from home, I would be surprised. In truth the 3-0 score line didn’t reflect the Reds' superiority; Torres alone could have bagged 4 goals.

The game could be contrasted with the Porto one, though, in which though the scoreline slightly flattered the Reds. Still, it showed that the teams spirit of Istanbul remained with the players continuing to fight even at times when the quality of the play was lacking.

In any case, the result is what mattered and the fans chanted the players’ names - Benitez’s, too - throughout the night. The manager was clearly touched, saluting the fans and praising them in his post match press conference.

If Hicks wants to fill his new stadium, getting rid of Benitez would be a miscalculated error in many ways. He would lose the backing of the fans; he only has to look at the tapes of when the Glazers needed numerous police security to leave Old Trafford for a glimpse into the future.

However, fans are fickle: Manchester United fans do not hold the Glazers up in such a negative light anymore. This is due to success; their team won the league and then the owners backed Ferguson to the hilt in the summer.

But nonetheless, getting a new manager into Liverpool will not take them closer to winning the league; any new man will come with new ideas, ideologies, and will want different players. The adaptation process takes time, and it would mean that the effort spent during Rafa’s tenure would have been pointless. Many players are at the club because of the man; the thought of losing players like Torres, Reina and Alonso should cause anyone connected with Liverpool some missed sleep.

It has been unfortunate that Rafa aired his recent grievances to the media - that was very un-Liverpool like. It has been distressing seeing this apparent slanging match going on in the papers, fuelled by opportunistic journalists.

But one silver lining is that it's now clear to all that the communications lines behind the scenes have to be improved, and hopefully the chief executive, Rick Parry, is seeing to this.

In that sense, it will be interesting to see the outcomes of the talks between he and Benitez, scheduled for December 16th. Anything but glowing support given to Rafa will see the owners confined to America: they will be unwilling to sit amongst the fans that greeted them with such optimism earlier. It could be different this time around.

Gary Megson’s Bolton pose a different proposition these days, too. After struggling earlier in the season, they have recorded a great result against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena – it's no mean feat to get a very credible draw there against a rejuvenated Munich side.

They followed this result with a hard fought win over a Manchester United side who had been in great form of late and had also been scoring goals for fun.

As such, they will approach this game believing that they can get a shock result after their recent exploits. They know the points are vital as they look to avoid relegation and propel themselves further up the league.

Megson decided to rest Anelka and Diouf - both former Reds players - in Boltons Uefa cup tie against Aris Salonika which they drew 1-1. This displayed where Megson’s priorities lay.

Bolton go to Anfield looking to follow last Saturday's shock victory over Manchester United with another against Liverpool, and thus end the Reds' unbeaten league record. The Trotters are looking to complete back-to-back wins for the first time in 20 Premier League outings, which would also take their all-time total of wins in this league to 100. Liverpool have won seven league games; Bolton have lost seven.

Both clubs were successful in Europe midweek, but both need victories from their final group matches to qualify to the knock out stages of their respective competitions. The Merseysiders have not lost a league game in nearly seven months, and boast the tightest defence in the highest league. Liverpool are protecting an unbeaten home Premier League record against Bolton, comprising seven wins and one draw

FORM GUIDE

Liverpool

Nov 28 v Porto (H) WON 4-1 (Champ League)
Nov 24 v Newcastle (A) WON 3-0 (PREM)
Nov 10 v Fulham (H) WON 2-0 (PREM)
Nov 6 v Besiktas (H) WON 8-0 (Champ League)
Nov 3 v Blackburn (A) DREW 0-0 (PREM)

Bolton

29 Nov v Aris Salonika (H) DREW 1-1 (UEFA)
24 Nov v Man United (H) WON 1-0 (PREM)
11 Nov v Middlesbrough (H) DREW 0-0 (PREM)
8 Nov v Bayern Munich (A) DREW 2-2 (UEFA)
4 Nov v West Ham (A) DREW 1-1 (PREM)

TEAM NEWS

Liverpool

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has no fresh injury worries to contend with as the hosts look to maintain their unbeaten record. Xabi Alonso, Daniel Agger and Jermaine Pennant are still sidelined for Liverpool. Peter Crouch is pushing for a place in the starting line-up after scoring off the bench against Porto. Fernando Torres is expected to lead the attack with Crouch battling it out with Dirk Kuyt and Andrei Voronin to partner the Spaniard. Benitez is expected to shuffle his pack with Harry Kewell and John Arne Riise both possibly returning to the starting XI.

Probable Starting X1 (Reina, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Riise, Kewell, Lucas, Mascherano, Gerrard, Torres, Kuyt)

Bolton

Bolton boss Gary Megson is forced into making three changes, with Kevin Nolan and Nicky Hunt suspended and Danny Guthrie ineligible to play against his parent club. Ivan Campo is set to return to the starting XI after being ineligible in Europe. Gavin McCann is doubtful after picking up a nasty head injury against Aris Salonika. Nicolas Anelka will be restored to the side after starting only as a substitute against Aris Salonika.

Probable Starting XI (Jaaskelainen, O’Brien, Joey O’Brien, Meite, Cid, McCann, Campo, Giannakopulos, Anelka, Diouf, Davies)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Liverpool

Fernando Torres has been in devastating form and seems to be taking of the burden off Steven Gerrard's shoulders; he has too often has been left to carry the side.

Bolton

Anelka has been in great form, and loves scoring against his old sides. His pace will be a big threat.

Liverpool Owner Tom Hicks To Sell Anfield Stake

Liverpool may be entering a period of upheaval after it emerged co-owner Tom Hicks is looking for a way out of the club.

City sources have confirmed that Hicks, who has been at the forefront of a dispute with manager Rafa Benitez over signings, is preparing to sell his shares.

Hicks took control at Anfield, alongside fellow American George Gillett, following a £219 million takeover.

Both men initially rang the praises of Benitez, calling the manager a genius, with many supporters predicting Liverpool would lift the Premier League title this season after a £40m summer spending spree.

However, results have been inconsistent, sparking criticism of Benitez's rotation policy and prompting the Spaniard to demand more funds in January.

Hicks and Gillett have so far been reluctant to release more money for players, prompting a very public breakdown in relations.

Now it seems developments have reached a head with Hicks hoping to cash in on his investment, as reported in the Mirror.

The businessman has reportedly put a £1 billion guide valuation on the club, and while City analysts have dismissed this as ridiculous, it was revealed last night that Dubai International Capital, the investment group headed by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, are ready to make a new bid having previously attempted a takeover.

Thaksin Confirms City Interest In Crouch Deal

Manchester City could be set to move for Peter Crouch after the club's chairman, Thaksin Shinawatra, revealed that manager Sven-Goran Eriksson was a big fan of the striker.

The Swede is a known admirer of the Liverpool and England striker, and it is no secret that City are in the hunt to bolster their attack in the forthcoming January transfer window, when Eriksson will be given about £30m to spend.

"Sven is looking for one striker and one or two midfielders," admitted Thaksin today. "Sven does like Peter Crouch, very much. But he has yet to decide [whether to make an offer]."

Crouch has been regularly linked with a move away from Anfield this season following the high-profile arrivals of Fernando Torres, Andriy Voronin and Ryan Babel.

Having started just eight matches in all competitions for Liverpool this season, Crouch could look favourably upon the opportunity of regular first-team football with his former international coach.

Thaksin, however, is adamant that City, who are also interested in resigning the Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka, will not be held for ransom over any player.

"We are looking for good players that are good money, not too expensive," he said. "I am not in the position to buy everything at any cost. Sven will pick the right person at the right price."

Riise Confident Of Winning Over Fans

Liverpool’s John-Arne Riise is aiming to win back the affections of the Anfield crowd, after suffering a recent dip in form.

The Norwegian international still feels he has a lot more to give and he has been heartened by Liverpool’s impressive recent form, resulting in 17 goals in just four games.

He told Liverpool’s official television station, “We struggled with scoring goals but in the last few games we've shown we're back in business. We're also very tight at the back right now, so it's good.”

”I think we've played well all season but have had the problem of not scoring enough goals. As soon as we got a couple then lots have come, like in the Besiktas game. Every time we went forward we scored. Of course, the new players have had more time to settle in, but really I think we're just proving how good we actually are.”

Riise knows there is still room for improvement though, as Liverpool face an uphill struggle to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League.

”Of course the way we're playing and the amount of goals we're scoring is good, but you can always improve. We know this and, yes, I think we can get better.”

Liverpool face Bolton this weekend and Riise is relishing the physicality of a game against Gary Megson’s side.

“I look forward to it because it's part of my game. I don't like the games where you don't do anything. I like going off the pitch feeling pain and being tired because you've made a lot of tackles. That's what football is about. It's a great feeling to come away from a game knowing you have fought and won. Bolton will be this kind of game.”

Having missed out on the last two games, because of competition for places, Riise is keen to win the hearts of the Kop again, who have become increasingly frustrated with his lacklustre performances.

“I think I started the season in not my best form. I didn't feel confident and at my best, but the last six or seven games before the internationals I felt very good. I felt like I was getting my strength and my aggression back, and I'm ready to go.”

“I know some fans have been a little bit frustrated with me, that's the way it goes. I have to turn that round, hopefully starting on Sunday. The fans know I try to give 110 per cent when I go on the pitch, even if it doesn't always look like it. I have given them joy before and hopefully I can do it again.”

Liverpool Still Without Alonso, Agger & Aurelio

Liverpool are still without Xabi Alonso, Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio as Rafa Benitez’s unbeaten side in the Premiership host 15th-placed Bolton Wanderers on Sunday.

Reds midfielder Alonso and centre-back Agger are on the sidelines with metatarsal problem while left-back Aurelio is only now back in training and expected to be fit for Champions League trip to Marseille on December 11.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez said: "Because of the type of injury Xabi and Daniel have – metatarsal – we have to be really careful."

Alonso had made a return from the injury against Arsenal at the end of last month but could not last the whole duration and has been out since, after initially along with Agger last featuring against Portsmouth on September 15 before picking the setback on international duty