Gareth Barry Will Cost Liverpool £8m And Peter Crouch

Martin O'Neill wants £8million AND Peter Crouch for Gareth Barry.

That is what the Aston Villa manager will tell Liverpool when they make their improved offer for the England midfield star.

Anfield gaffer Rafa Benitez is poised to make a new bid for Barry after O'Neill dismissed his opening £10million offer, made up of cash and players.

O'Neill is determined to play hardball in the negotiations for his talisman and skipper, who has been at the club for more than a decade, and will only reluctantly let him go if he feels it is a good deal for Villa.

The Ulsterman feels Barry is worth at least £15m, following his best season for club and country, and is prepared to consider Crouch as a makeweight in any transaction.

But O'Neill's £7m valuation of Crouch is way below Benitez's stated asking price of £15m.

Benitez will want much more for the England striker - who is being eyed up by a number of other Premier League managers including Harry Redknapp at Portsmouth - even though he is set to cash in on Xabi Alonso's imminent move to Juventus.

Liverpool are willing to throw Jermaine Pennant into the mix, although O'Neill is reluctant to accept the former Birmingham winger as part of any deal.

Benitez is quietly confident of landing Barry, who linked up so well with Steven Gerrard for England, and O'Neill's bargaining position may not be as strong as he believes.

Barry, 27, has undermined him by admitting he is flattered by Liverpool's interest and that he would like to play in the Champions League.

The midfielder has also refused Villa's offer to make him the best-paid player in their history and could force O'Neill's hand after stating he wants his future resolved quickly.

Rafa Awarded Honorary Doctorate

Rafael Benitez is today being honoured in his homeland with an Honorary Doctorate from the Miguel Hernandez University (Elche) in the province of Alicante.

The Liverpool manager will be joined by his family for the ceremony on Wednesday afternoon.

The award is to recognise his stature as a coach and the way he uses scientific methodology in his training sessions.

Also expected to attend the event are celebrities from the world of sport and culture, as well as politicians from the academic field.

Before he receives his award, Benitez will meet up with students currently studying sports sciences at the UMH.

Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv: "I'm really pleased and proud.

"The award is in recognition of a long career in football. It's not easy to spend so long in one career after you leave university and so I am delighted.

"Of course to have a long career you need the support of your family and the other people behind you on your staff. I've had that and been fortunate that everyone has been working really hard with me."

Manchester City Chief Lined Up As Parry Faces The Axe At Liverpool

The future of Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry looks uncertain after it emerged that his opposite number at Manchester City has been approached about his job.

Last season Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks labelled Parry a failure and called on him to resign. Now the Hicks camp have asked Alistair Mackintosh if he would consider a switch.

With Mackintosh unsettled by life under Thaksin Shinawatra at City, a move to Liverpool would be attractive. The nature of his role at City is unclear after the appointment of executive chairman Gary Cook.

If Parry is to keep his job, he must hope that Hicks loses his power struggle with co-owner George Gillett. Hicks' plan to replace Parry will go through if he can persuade his business partner and former friend to sell his stake in Liverpool.

Mackintosh will be seen as a surprise choice in some quarters but it is understood that Hicks has been impressed by the manner in which the 37-year-old chief executive raised City's profile until the sale of the club to Thaksin by former chairman John Wardle last summer.

With Liverpool due to move to a new stadium in nearby Stanley Park in the coming years, Hicks also feels that Mackintosh's experience in relocating City to the City of Manchester Stadium could be a benefit.

Spain Fret As Torres Misses Training

Spanish international Fernando Torres was forced to miss training on Monday, after suffering a minor ankle injury in the 2-1 victory over Peru on Saturday.

Torres' absence was the biggest news in the Spanish camp on Monday. The Liverpool striker was unable to train with his team-mates after suffering a minor injury to his right ankle in the win over Peru.

The former Atletico Madrid hitman was restricted to the gymnasium, but the lethal striker should be available for Spain's final warm-up clash with the United States on Wednesday. Tests revealed the 24-year-old only has a minor ankle injury, and he should be back in action in no time.

Despite Torres' injury, the Spanish national team still completed an intense training session at the Ciudad del Futbol de La Rozas complex behind closed-doors. Luis Aragones divided the squad into two groups, defense and attack, as they underwent different kinds of exercises.

Aragones didn't provide the press with any details of who will turn out in their starting eleven against the United States on Wednesday. Still, a recovered Torres is expected to be in the team against America.

Spurs To Hijack Reds' Bentley Bid

Tottenham are set to hijack Liverpool's plans to sign David Bentley by offering Blackburn a cash plus players offer for the England star.

Tottenham boss Juande Ramos is set to make wholesale changes to his White Hart Lane playing squad this summer as he attempts to steer Spurs into the top four of the Premier League next season.

And according to The People, Ramos sees Bentley as a vital component if he is to achieve that goal for the North London side. Reports suggest that the Spaniard is ready to offer Rovers a deal that would see midfielder Hossam Ghaly, winger Aaron Lennon and £7 million head to Ewood Park.

Rovers boss Mark Hughes, whose future at Ewood is uncertain due to his reported presence on the shortlist for the Chelsea managers job, may be tempted by the offer as Lennon would act as a direct replacement for Bentley on the right wing, and Ghaly would provide back-up for veteran Turkish central midfielder Tugay.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has had Bentley and his England colleague Gareth Barry high on his summer shopping list ever since the Premier League season came to a close - but is more likely to offer straight cash for the former Arsenal man, who has expressed his disappointment at Blackburn’s failure to qualify for Europe.

Spurs, meanwhile, are reportedly set to turn to Diego Milito if they fail to hang on to their much sought after star Dimitar Berbatov, who may be lured by the chance to play in the Champions League next season.

Newcastle To Swoop For Anfeld Pair?

Newcastle United are being linked with a possible move for Liverpool pair Peter Crouch and John Arne Riise.

As Kevin Keegan looks to strengthen his Newcastle squad, there is speculation that he copuld mount a double bid for his old club's striker Peter Crouch and full-back John Arne Riise.

This summer will be Keegan's first opportunity to enter the transfer market on behalf of Newcastle since he ended his first spell as Magpies' manager nine years ago.

He is keen to mould his squad for next season and is therefore expected to make some significant signings this summer.

He has Nigerian striker Obafemi Martins recovering from an ankle injury sustained on international duty and set to join Australian Mark Viduka on the sidelines for pre-season. So a striker with the track record of Crouch is thought to be an attractibve proposition for Keegan.

At the same time Norwegian left-back Riise has been linked with Newcastle for some time. Keegan has only Jose Enrique as a specialist in that position, and Riise can also provide cover in midfield.

Currently Michael Owen - who missed England's two recent friendlies with an infectious virus - is the only 'fit' first-team striker at St James' Park, and he has suffered a catalogue of injury set-backs in recent seasons.

Crouch on the other hand just wants the chance to play regular first-team football.

Babel Targeting July Return

Dutch national team boss Marco van Basten is confident that Liverpool winger Ryan Babel will be fully fit again in time for the start of the Premiership season.

Babel, 21, is still reeling from having been ruled out Euro 2008 after tearing ankle ligaments during training on Saturday, but by the sounds of it thing could have been considerably worse.

"He needs five to seven weeks to recover," said Van Basten.

"He was on the other end of the field when he turned around. He told me that he heard something snap, and others heard it too.

"He went to a hospital and there it became clear he had torn a muscle."

Dutch olympic coach Foppe de Haan is also optimistic of the former Ajax star's recovery, and has even opened the door to the possibility of Babel representing his country in China in July.

“If Ryan recovers, he’s a sure candidate for a place in the team. With his qualities, he could be a very important player for us,” de Haan had declared yesterday.


“We must wait and see how long his convalescence will last.

"I find it a shame that Ryan has to miss the European Championship final stage. His absence is also a large blow to the national side. He could have been our secret weapon."

Fernando Torres Can Shine In Euro 2008 Says Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso is tipping club and country team-mate Fernando Torres to be one of the stars of Euro 2008 when it kicks off on Saturday.

After an incredible debut season at Anfield, in which the Spanish striker netted 33 goals in all competitions, Alonso insists that Torres is ready to terrorise international defences in Austria and Switzerland.

Alonso, whose own Liverpool future has been the subject of speculation since the end of the season, said: “The way we play with Spain is different to the way we play with Liverpool, but I think he is quite confident in himself.

"Whenever he gets the ball we think that something might happen. He has scored so many goals and hopefully he will continue this run in the Euros.

"Even the more optimistic could be surprised at how easily he settled at Liverpool because of the way he has performed. He has been so confident on the pitch and in front of goal and that is great news for Liverpool and Spain.

"And, obviously, it is hard but once he learns a few more things he will be even better."

Despite a record of underachievement in major tournaments, Alonso believes Spain are finally well equipped to challenge for glory at the championships.

Luis Aragones' side arrive in Austria and Switzerland heavily backed and expected to challenge for a trophy that has eluded them since the Sixties.

The history books provide less cause for optimism than the bookies though, with Spain having repeatedly faltered on the biggest stage.

"There is no clear reason, but it's clear we have underachieved," Alonso confirmed.

"Each tournament is a great chance for us to try and prove that we can perform and be positive in a final tournament.

"Because of that we have faith in ourselves and we will strive to reach the level we expect and want to reach."

Spain have an embarrassment of riches in Alonso's position, with the likes of Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas vying to partner Xavi in central midfield.

While being more than generous in appraisal of his rival Fabregas, Alonso makes clear that Spain's game plan revolves around getting the ball to Barcelona star Xavi's feet at every opportunity.

Alonso added: "It's great, with the qualities that they (Cesc and Iniesta) have. But the style of the national team is quite clear - get the ball to Xavi.

"We play possession football and with those players it's normal that it's quite an attractive prospect.

"Cesc has been great. Arsenal have presented a great style of football, with Fabregas at the hub of it.

"A couple of times this season they have been amazing. The player that has been the link between the defence and the attack, the team playmaker, has been Fabregas."

Alonso's own season, much like Liverpool's in fact, has been one of frustration.

A broken ankle saw him miss three months of the season but he is quick to spin a negative on its head; of the opinion that a prolonged spell on the sidelines makes him even fresher heading into the Euros.

"I feel that I have quite a good moment of form - I have quite fresh legs.

"Of course I had an injury before Christmas - for three months I was out - but now I am feeling fresher than if I would have played all of the games.

"It's been a disappointing season because of the injury but right now I am in a good moment and hopefully that will continue."

The greatest debate with regards Aragones' squad selection surrounded his omission of Real Madrid talisman Raul.

Having helped Real to the title by rolling back the years with a series of vintage displays, it was expected Raul would win a recall to Aragones' 23-man squad.

However, the veteran tactician elected to give youth its chance and Alonso is quick to play the diplomat when quizzed on Raul's snub.

"I have to respect the manager's decision. Of course it's the main debate in Spain - it's all over there - with Real Madrid having won the league and he having been one of the main reasons why.

"But the matter is in the hands of the manager."

Gareth Barry Drops Hint On Move To Anfield

Gareth Barry has dropped the biggest hint yet that he is considering a switch to Liverpool this summer.

Aston Villa are determined to hold on to their captain and manager Martin O’Neill wants to hold talks with the player.

A player-plus-cash offer worth £10m has already been rejected by Villa but with Rafael Benitez keen to add the England midfielder to his squad, decision time is looming for Barry.

And he admitted last night that the lure of instant Champions League football could be too tempting to resist.

“Champions League football helps any player,” he said. “You only have to look at the England squad to see the amount of players who get in the squad and start the games – the majority play in the Champions League.

“That's all about the decision that will have to be made by myself. Liverpool are in the Champions League and Villa are trying to push for that. That's all part of my decision if a bid gets accepted.

“There's so much to lose at Aston Villa. I've been there for 10 years, got a good rapport with the fans, I'm captain there, great relationship with the manager.

“But I would like things cleared up.”

Alonso-Juve: Crunch Talks Today

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso is reportedly on the verge of agreeing terms with Juventus, with contract talks scheduled today.

Alonso’s future has been in serious doubt for months following an injury-riddled campaign at Anfield, and the club’s interest in Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry has only fuelled the flames regarding his possible exit.

The Basque playmaker has stated his desire to remain on Merseyside with the rest of Rafael Benitez’s Spanish contingent, as well as close friend and Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta.

The 26-year-old would no doubt consider a return to his homeland, and Real Madrid and Barcelona have expressed interest in the former Real Sociedad man.

But with no solid offer forthcoming from Spain, Juve are the clear favourites to secure Alonso’s signature, his agent Inaki Ibanez declaring recently that the player is tempted by the Old Lady’s advances.

According to the Daily Mail, the Bianconeri are prepared to shell out ₤13.5 million for the Spanish international, who they will offer a five-year deal.

But the Reds are demanding in excess of ₤16 million for their midfield creator, whose potential absence could prove costly early next season while Javier Mascherano and Lucas Leiva are at the Beijing Olympics.

Crouch Ponders Anfield Exit

Liverpool striker Peter Crouch has admitted that his future may lie elsewhere as he pursues regular first-team football.

Though his goal-to-game ratio for England and Liverpool is impressive, the 27-year old continually found himself out-of-favour at Anfield and was handed just nine starts in the league last season.

Crouch’s former club of Portsmouth, along with Manchester City, have been linked with a move for the six-foot seven-inch striker this summer, with both clubs able to offer more certainties with regards to his place within the starting eleven.

With one eye on his place in Fabio Capello’s international set-up, Crouch met with Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez to clarify his position.

"I have spoken to Rafa. I have to play more games if I want to stay in the England set-up," he told the Daily Star Sunday.

"I didn't play enough last season, that's for sure. I need to play more at club level to be able to play at international level. You have got to be noticed.

"I need to play more games. I didn't get enough and it's something I have to look out for, for next season."

Should The Reds decide to move the forward on in the coming weeks, they are likely to request a fee of around £12 million.

Blanc Slams Door On Liverpool's Riise

Juventus chief executive, Jean Claude Blanc, has revealed the club will not be signing a left-back and thus has closed the door on Liverpool’s John Arne Riise.

The Norwegian left-back was linked with a move to the Bianconeri who are currently reinforcing their squad ahead of their Champions League return.

Riise’s future at Anfield is looking in doubt and reports in Italy claimed that Juve were paying close attention to the stopper.

However, the Bianconeri have revealed that they have no intention of signing a left-back.

“I can confirm that we will keep the left hand side of our defence as it is,” said Blanc.

“Cristian Molinaro and Paolo De Ceglie will be competing for the left-back place as they are two players who we have plenty of faith in.

“We want to show everyone that we can go far with our own home-grown players.”

The Bianconeri have already captured Albin Ekdal as well as Amauri and they are currently in talks over Xabi Alonso’s availability from the Reds.

Juventus president, Giovanni Cobboli Gigli, has in the past stated his intentions to focus on youth and it seems as if his philosophy is being adhered to by his directors.

Relief For Liverpool As Ryan Babel Injury Not As Bad As First Feared

Liverpool winger Ryan Babel should be fit in time for the start of the new Premier League season after it was revealed his ankle injury could take as little as five weeks to heal.

The 21-year-old was ruled out of Holland's Euro 2008 campaign after tearing ligaments in training on Saturday, but national team coach Marco van Basten insists he should be able to take his place in Rafael Benitez's side when they kick off the new season in August.

"He needs five to seven weeks to recover," Van Basten said of the former Ajax youngster.

"He was on the other end of the field when he turned around. He told me that he heard something snap, and others heard it too.

"He went to a hospital and there it became clear he had torn a muscle."

Liverpool's next confirmed match is a friendly away to Villarreal on July 30, by which time, if the Holland coach's assessment is right, Babel should be back in training.

Gerrard: I'll Play Anywhere For England

Steven Gerrard has admitted he is happy to adapt to playing in different positions across midfield for both club and country.

Under Fabio Capello's management with England, the Reds skipper has been utilised in several different roles. Even though central midfield is his preferred and most natural position, Gerrard said he will play anywhere to suit the team.

"That is not a concern," he added. "It is something I am quite used to at club level. I feel as if I am mature enough and experienced enough to adapt to different roles.

"You know my favourite role. I don't have to go on record and say it again.

"But, as long as I am in that starting XI and part of this England team, because I believe we will improve to get to where we want to get, I don't mind where I play.

"I think football has changed. In this day and age you can't afford to be selfish and think about yourself and spit your dummy out of the pram if you are not in your favourite position.

"You have got to adapt and be a team player and that's what I think I am. I have mentally accepted that - about six years ago."

The Liverpool captain also added he is enjoying the experience of playing under Capello for England, and said the former Real Madrid boss expects every player to perform to their highest level.

"Every single player has got things to prove personally and also as a team," said Gerrard. "We have under-achieved. All the staff are scrutinising us and looking at our strengths and weaknesses.

"Every time we train and every time there is an opportunity to meet up and play these games, you've got come to try and impress to stay involved.

"I am sure this manager will be ruthless if you don't meet the standards he wants. It is as simple as that.

"Training has been intense and, if you don't play the way Mr Capello wants you to play, or buy into his system, then I think it's 'goodbye' for you.

"The lads are learning how the manager wants us to play and how he wants the team set-up and he is also telling people individually what he expects from them."

Gerrard played the full 90 minutes in England's friendly 3-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday night and Peter Crouch joined him for the second half.

Juve Take Fresh Alonso Step

Juventus will resume negotiations with the agent of Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso on Tuesday, reports in Italy are claiming.

Preliminary talks took pace last Wednesday when sporting director Alessio Secco and director general Jean-Claude Blanc spent four hours with Inaki Ibanez.

Stories emanating from Turin claim that the Bianconeri offered the Spanish international a four-year contract worth £2.5m a campaign.

Although the representative is thought to be happy with the length of contract offered, it is believed that he’s attempting to net his client a salary which is a little closer to the £3m mark.

Juventus were hoping to wrap up the deal as soon as possible, but they may have to be patient to get their man.

Alonso seems to be in no rush to sort out his future before Euro 2008, while the Turin giants still need to convince Liverpool to sell.

Blanc recently flew to the English city for talks with boss Rafael Benitez in an attempt to reach an agreement over a transfer fee.

Juventus will reportedly offer up to £12m, while the Reds would like £18m.

However, the Alonso deal could also hinge on whether the Premiership giants can get in an adequate replacement after an initial bid for Aston Villa’s Gareth Barry was rejected.

Hyppia: Torres Is A Beast

Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia says that he was amazed by the impact that Fernando Torres had in his first year, and suggested that his willingness -eagerness even- to get 'stuck in' meant that he had absolutely no problem adapting to the rigours of the Premier League.

The former Atletico Madrid man has re-established himself as one of the hottest pieces of property in world football, after a stunning debut season at Anfield that saw him net 33 goals in all competitions.

"It is quite unbelievable that he scored so many goals in his first season because it's not easy to come to the Premier League and be successful right away," said the big Finnish defender

"I knew that he was a quality player, but what has surprised me is that he was very physical. I couldn't believe how much he liked to get involved when he first joined.

"He is very strong and doesn't avoid any contact, not even in training with his mates at Liverpool. In fact, he's one of the players who kicks me always.

"I tried to prepare him for the strength in the Premier League as much as possible but I think he always had it in him - he's a bit of a hard man.

"Torres is always a handful as his opponents at Euro 2008 will soon discover."

Torres is currently preparing for Spain's Euro 2008 campaign, which will see them lock horns with the Greece, Russia and Sweden in what should be a very competitive group.

Liverpool Trial Teen Striker

Liverpool have confirmed they have offered a trial to 14 year old striker Markus Johansson, from Swedish club Hagahojden.

Despite his tender years, Johansson has already forced his way into the senior side at Hagahojden and has three goals to his name.

The Reds have been watching the youngster since he impressed in a summer tryout last year and he will now travel to Liverpool in the summer in an attempt to impress the Anfield coaching staff.

Johansson confirmed that he would be travelling to England in the next few months. He said: “We have kept in touch with their Swedish scout. I will go to Liverpool in August and train with their Academy for a few days.”

The teenager also admitted that the chance to play for Liverpool is a dream come true although he was honest enough to confess: “I am already starting to get nervous.”

Despite his nerves, the youngster is looking forward to what is undoubtedly a great opportunity. He said: “I got to know about the trial last week. It will be great fun. There are no doubts that it will be the biggest opportunity of my life.”

He was also quick to point out that playing for Liverpool is a long held ambition of his: “My biggest asset is my strength and it is my dream to play for Liverpool.”

Shocker For Benitez: Liverpool Forward Babel Ruled Out Of Euro 2008 By Serious Ankle Injury

Holland winger Ryan Babel will miss Euro 2008 after tearing ankle ligaments in training.

Babel is expected to be out of action for several weeks and will therefore not take part in the summer showpiece in Austria and Switzerland.

The Liverpool attacker sustained the injury a day before Holland play their final pre-tournament friendly, against Wales in Rotterdam.

Holland coach Marco van Basten has not named a replacement for the 21-year-old although he is permitted to do so once Babel has been examined by a UEFA doctor.

The Dutch will line up alongside France, Italy and Romania in Group C. Their first match is on June 9 against world champions Italy.

Despite the injury blow, Holland boss Marco van Basten has delivered an ominous warning for John Toshack's Wales ahead of their meeting at Feyenoord's sold-out De Kuip stadium, demanding a flurry of goals to send his side into the Euro 2008 finals on a high.

That will be worrying for Welsh ears, because the last time they faced Holland they were thrashed 7-1 in Eindhoven in 1996, and Van Basten clearly wants a similar scoreline against a country they have beaten on all five previous meetings between the side.
Van Basten was disappointed with Thursday's 1-1 home draw against Denmark, when he fielded a side much closer to the one expected to face Italy in their opening group C match on June 9 in Berne.

"We must be more clinical and take our chances. This team has matured over the last two years and everywhere the expectation is so much higher, not surprisingly," he said.

"But we cannot allow ourselves to let teams off the hook when we are making chances and on top."

Former Manchester United ace Ruud van Nistelrooy scored early on against the Danes, but Holland could not build on that opener.

And now Wales could feel the backlash with a young, inexperienced side set to line up against the Dutch.

Van Basten said: "It is a bad thing for us, we are not cashing in on the numerous chances we create. This is often a Dutch problem, and one we must solve before we go to the finals."

The former Dutch master, though, was happy with Van Nistelrooy's contribution, the Real Madrid man only joining up with the squad on Monday after being excused the early training work along with other stars who had been involved in big matches of late.

Manchester United's Edwin van der Sar - the Red Devils' spot-kick hero in the Champions League Final - was another later arrival in camp.

"Van Nistelrooy took his chance well and looked sharp. But others must start to score as well," added the coach.

Before Babel broke down Van Basten reduced his squad to 23 after Wigan defender Mario Melchiot proved his fitness after struggling with a groin problem. The three unlucky players to step down were keeper Sander Boschker, Denny Landzaat and Khalid Boulahrouz.

Wales could find themselves facing virtually Van Basten's strongest side, but Arsenal's Robin van Persie is unlikely to be risked as he is still suffering from a thigh problem.

Van Basten, perhaps significantly, made a point that the forward had been risked too soon by the Gunners at the tale end of the season.

He said: "We are not going to do that because Robin is a special player we would rather see in the side to face Italy.

"He came back too quickly last season and had a relapse. Our doctors believe it is better to allow him to recuperate as long as possible rather than risk him being injured in a friendly."

Aston Villa full-back Wilfred Bouma will get his chance to clinch a place in the starting line-up against the Italians, as will Real Madrid's former Chelsea man Arjen Robben, who was replaced late on by Babel against the Danes.The KNVB said a replacement for Babel was being discussed.

The Netherlands are in Group C along with France, Italy and Romania for the June 7-29 tournament in Austria and Switzerland.

Torres Rules Out Reds Exit

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres insists he will be at Anfield for 'many years to come'.

The Spain international enjoyed a prolific first season in England following his move from Atletico Madrid, finding the net 24 times in the Premier League.

Torres' red-hot form in front of goal has seen him linked with a number of clubs throughout Europe, with Chelsea said to be considering an astonishing £50million offer.

But the Kop idol has assured manager Rafa Benitez and the club's fans that he has no intention of moving away from Merseyside.

He said: "It is an honour to be linked to clubs like Barcelona, Chelsea, or Arsenal - but I am not thinking about a change and I want to continue playing for Liverpool for many years to come.

"It's been quite easy for me. I have been able to enjoy every minute at a club where things have gone well.

"I have been part of a team where every player shares the same goals and where a player can rely on the support of his team-mates.

"I have also worked with a manager who believed in me. It was the combination of all these factors."

Hyypia - End Boardroom Bust-up

Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia has called on co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks to end their boardroom bickering in order to allow the Reds to focus on success.

Gillett and Hicks - who took control at Anfield in February 2007 - suffered a much publicised difference of opinion last term, which saw Merseyside swamped in speculation about the future of the American duo.

Liverpool, who had been tipped to challenge for the Premier League, ended the last campaign without a trophy and failed to reach a cup final for the first time in manager Rafa Benitez's four-year reign.

And veteran centre-back Hyypia has demanded Gillett and Hicks settle their differences in the summer in order to allow Liverpool to land silverware.

"I think Liverpool fans and the club expect success in a season and we didn't win anything, so I can't be satisfied," Hyypia said in The People.

"With what has gone on off the pitch I think everyone is professional enough to just concentrate on doing what they do on it and not get too distracted.

"But it doesn't help the football club to be successful and hopefully soon they can get things sorted so we can push on.

"I don't know the whole truth but I know everything is not right with the owners."

Liverpool To Offer ₤20m For Ribery

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is reportedly preparing an ambitious bid for Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery.

The French international, widely tipped to star for Les Bleus at EURO 2008 next month, has catapulted himself to superstardom since his arrival in Bavaria last summer.

The 25-year-old journeyman is now recognised as one of the most dangerous wingers in the game, alongside the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

His performances for Bayern have alerted some of the biggest clubs in Europe, and reports from Germany claim Liverpool will offer ₤20 million for the former Marseille man.

Benitez is keen to strengthen his attacking options over the summer, and has been monitoring a number of wide players, including La Liga stars Maxi Rodriguez and Albert Riera.

Ribery’s ability to play right across the pitch will no doubt attract the former Valencia boss, as will the Frenchman’s supreme understanding with Bayern hitman Luca Toni.

Benitez is planning to build a team around star striker Fernando Torres, and Ribery could prove a stunning addition alongside Dutch youngster Ryan Babel and Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard in the Reds’ 4-2-3-1 formation.

However, as Bayern paid around ₤17 million for the former Galatasaray man only a year ago, Rafa and co may have to up their bid if they wish to prise one of Europe’s most exciting talents away from the Allianz Arena.

Gerrard Desperate For Barry Buy

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has revealed he is desperate play alongside Gareth Barry next season, as the Aston Villa midfielder draws ever closer to an Anfield switch.

The pair are famous friends off the pitch, and their combination for England’s second goal during their 2-0 win over the United States on Wednesday showed exactly what Barry can bring to the Liverpool midfield.

Villa boss Martin O’Neill is reluctant to sell his skipper, especially given his ire at the overtly public manner in which the Reds have pursued the 27-year-old.

Gerrard has given O’Neill more to grumble about by reiterating that Barry is one of Benitez’s prime summer targets.

And the Kop idol is keen to see his England colleague in a red shirt next season, insisting his playing style will perfectly suit the Merseyside giants.

“We’re good friends on and off the pitch and I'm desperate for us to sign him,” Gerrard said.

“I am sure Gareth will find it hard to leave Villa. But he is 27 and needs Champions League football. He has been there for 10 years. Yet opportunities sometimes come up to better your career.

“I spoke to Rafa Benitez at the end of the season and I know he has players he is trying to bring in this summer. One of those is Gareth Barry. He will certainly help Liverpool to become a better team.”

“I’ve enjoyed playing with him for England. He keeps it simple and is easy to read.”

Mascherano Desperate For Beijing Berth

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano is determined to help Argentina defend their title at the Beijing Olympics this summer, despite his manager’s protests.

The 23-year-old could become the first Argentine to win back-to-back gold medals at the Olympics games, having been part of the Albicelestes team that triumphed in Athens in 2004.

But Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is desperate to persuade his midfield enforcer to skip the Games, as it would mean he would miss the first four weeks of next season.

The Reds have already released Brazilian gun Lucas Leiva for Olympic duty, meaning Mascherano’s absence would leave the team thin in midfield.

But the former West Ham man is keen to achieve history in China, and insisted his commitment to his country in no way lessens his loyalty to Liverpool.

“It’s important for any athlete to defend the gold medal,” said Mascherano. “I might be the only person from my country ever to do it and I’ll go down in history.

“I owe Rafa a lot in my career and I’m very appreciative of him but I want to go to Beijing because nothing counts for me more than helping my nation.

“He knows I leave my life on the pitch every time I play for Liverpool.”

Reds Let Crouch Leave

Liverpool striker Peter Crouch is likely to be granted his wish of leaving the club, after they finally backed down on their ambitious asking price.

The 27-year-old was aghast when Reds boss Rafa Benitez announced it would take at least ₤15 million to prize the lanky target-man away from Anfield.

Aston Villa and Portsmouth had expressed interest in bringing back their former striker, but Liverpool’s lofty price tag seemed to scare off all potential suitors, much to Crouch’s chagrin.

The England international had previously intimated his desire to leave Merseyside in search of regular football, in order to stay well and truly in view of Three Lions boss Fabio Capello.

The former Southampton man has received few first-team opportunities in recent times, as Spanish import Fernando Torres has clearly established himself as Benitez’s first-choice forward since arriving last summer from Atletico Madrid.

Liverpool gradually favoured a 4-2-3-1 system throughout the season, meaning Crouch was basically reduced to filling in when Torres was injured or rested – although he did usually impress when given the chance.

But Crouch’s hopes of regular football have taken a turn for the better, as Benitez and co are prepared to knock up to ₤5 million off their asking price, according to The Sun.

Pompey had an initial ₤7 million bid rejected, but Harry Redknapp may well snare his man if he can up the number to ₤10 million.

Villa are also still in the hunt, and as Gareth Barry looks increasingly likely to leave the Midlands in favour of Merseyside, the possibility remains of a swap deal that would see Crouch return to Villa Park.

End Of The Road At Anfield For John Arne Riise

John Arne Riise has been told he will be sold this summer should Liverpool receive a suitable offer for his services.

The out of favour left back claims he is in the dark about what lies in store for him at Anfield, even though the ECHO understands Riise has already been informed that he has no future at the club.

In an interview with a Scandinavian newspaper Riise revealed he has instructed his agent to speak to the club on his behalf in a last ditch attempt to find out whether or not he has any chance of extending his Liverpool career to an eighth season.

“My agent is set to find out what is happening,” he said. “I have to get things sorted out before pre-season starts.

“Those who have played internationals are due to meet up on July 7. I can’t wait and wait for an answer. I have to get an answer now.”

With Rafa Benitez already in the market for a new left back, the promising Emiliano Insua emerging from the reserve ranks and Brazilian Fabio Aurelio now back to full fitness, the likelihood is that Riise has played his last game for Liverpool and will be sold this summer.

Several clubs are interested in signing the Norwegian, although the Reds are yet to receive a firm offer.

Udinese’s Andrea Dossena remains Benitez’s first choice to fill the left back position next season and although a fee is still to be agreed negotiations are progressing and the Italian international is believed to be keen on a move to Anfield.

Dossena’s arrival would bring Riise’s Liverpool career to an end, particularly with Benitez keen to balance the books with player sales.

Liverpool Must Go Far And Wide For New Recruits

When Liverpool's new city centre store threw open its doors for the first time yesterday it was deluged by fans with shopping lists as long as a John Arne Riise throw-in.

But there were two special guests who had very different shopping on their minds from the majority of people at the biggest official club store in Europe in the newly opened Liverpool One development.

The thoughts of former Reds stars Jason McAteer and Jan Molby were concentrated more on the forthcoming Anfield bring and buy sale as Rafa Benitez gets to work on moulding his squad for the coming Premiership season.

Both are in no doubt about the areas the Liverpool manager needs to strengthen as, like everyone else in football, they have identified the wide areas as being in need of most urgent attention.

And both are happy that Liverpool have been linked with Aston Villa’s Gareth Barry.

But Molby and McAteer are split when it comes to who they would like to see added to the players roster at Anfield for the 2008/09 season, with the Dane being keen to see Barcelona star Deco in a red shirt and the former Irish international having his eye on Ricardo Quaresma of Porto.

“Obviously, Gareth Barry is the name on everyone’s lips at the moment and I think the speculation about Xabi Alonso leaving links into that as well,” said McAteer.

“We’ve already brought Philipp Degen in who is a Swiss international so that looks like a good signing.

“Down the spine of the team we can compete with anyone and that includes Man United, Chelsea and Arsenal.

“Reina is a fantastic keeper, we’ve got some brilliant centre-halfs in Jamie Carragher, Skrtel, Agger and Hyypia, in the middle of the park we’ve already got Stevie G and Mascherano and obviously there’s Torres up front.

“I’d like to see another striker at the club but, having said that, I think Peter Crouch deserves to stay at the club.

“He is a great player and he’s handled himself really well off the pitch despite the fact that he has had a difficult year.

“Peter has hung in there and I would like to see him given more starts next season.

“The flanks are the areas where we really need to improve. Harry Kewell’s already gone and it looks like Pennant will follow him, Dirk Kuyt has done a job on the right flank for the team but I’d like to see a real top quality winger brought in.

“Quaresma can sometimes be a liability and he is supposed to be a bit of a livewire off the pitch, but in terms of ability his quality is fantastic.

“He grew up with Ronaldo at Sporting Lisbon and as youngsters he was considered the better of the two of them.

“Obviously Ronaldo has come through a lot more than Quaresma, but I think a lot of that is down to Alex Ferguson and I think Quaresma could really flourish under Rafa Benitez.

“So maybe someone like him would be a good signing.

“But I also like the look of Bayern Munich’s Philip Lahm, who can play at fullback or in midfield.

“In fact, he would probably provide a nice balance with Quaresma because he doesn’t go forward quite as much and has a more defensive mind.

“The only thing is, quality like this costs a lot of money. But there is no reason why the manager shouldn’t be given that kind of money, especially if we want to challenge.”

Like every other Liverpool fan, Molby has been picking up on all the speculation linking Liverpool with various players, but Deco is the one who most captures his imagination.

“There are lots of rumours going around, as there always are at this time of year,” he said.

“I think we have more or less identified the areas where we need to strengthen – obviously the full back areas and on the flanks – but I also think we’re desperate for another striker and that would be my prime target if I was the manager.

“Berbatov has been mentioned, but I don’t know if we’ve got that kind of money.

“The one for me would be Deco. When he became available at Barcelona the first thing I thought was that he’d be great to play in the hole behind Torres.

“I’m not sure we need another out and out striker because I think Fernando Torres is one of those rare specimens who actually plays better up front on his own.

“For me, what we really need is an old style number seven, someone who can play in that role just off the main striker like Kenny Dalglish and Peter Beardsley used to, and I just thought that when Deco became available he would have been ideal.

“I know he’s had some ups and downs but he undoubtedly has ability. That boy can really play.

“I think it is really difficult because there aren’t loads of great wingers about.

“I know a lot of people have been looking at Mancini at Roma but I don’t think he’s a Premier League player and I wouldn’t bring him here.

“I think that Rafa has reached the stage where he believes that if we are going to bring in wide men to do well in the Premier League then they might have to be British, hence the talk about Stewart Downing and David Bentley coming to Anfield.

“We’ve tried with foreign wide men and it hasn’t quite worked out.

“I think Gareth Barry is a very good player. He is an intelligent footballer who is ideally suited to the way Rafa wants to play.

“He’s not a headless chicken, he knows the game inside out. The only problem is, if we do sign him we’re going to have to sell one of our central midfield players because he won’t be bringing him to play on the left and that will probably spell the end of Xabi Alonso.

“For me, Xabi is a once in a lifetime player and it will be a shame if he has to go, but maybe it makes sense if the fee that’s been bandied about is the right one.

“If it is, then maybe the time is right to take the money and run but I would be reluctant to see him go.”

The tills started ringing at Liverpool’s brand new superstore yesterday, and it is only a matter of time before the buying and selling begins at Anfield.

But whether any of the potential targets named by Molby and McAteer feature on Rafa Benitez’s shopping list remains to be seen.

Liverpool's Riera Bid Rejected

Espanyol have rejected Liverpool’s £9.5m (€12m) bid for Spanish international midfielder Albert Ortega Riera, according to reports.

The left-sided midfielder has expressed his desire to join a bigger club this summer, having impressed for the The Periquitos this season, breaking into the Spain squad and scoring a spectacular debut goal against Denmark in October.

Having drawn plaudits during a loan spell with Manchester City in 2006, the 26-year old is not short of Premiership suitors and Liverpool will have to almost double their bid if they are to meet Espanyol president Daniel Sanchez Libre’s £18.5 million valuation.

The Merseysiders have time to mull over an improved bid given Riera’s omission from Spain’s Euro 2008 squad, a factor that served only to heighten the midfielder’s growing frustration in Barcelona.

Though he along with teammates Luis Garcia and Raul Tamudo have all featured prominently for Luis Aragones, most recently in the friendly win over Italy in March, Riera feels that Espanyol’s poor second-half to the season has cost the trio their international places.

"I knew there could be surprises but I expected to be there," he said.

"But the second half of the season has cost us.

"Normally all three of us would be with the national team and now none of us are," he said.

"It's disappointing but there is no point looking back now.

"I will rest this summer and start to think about next season."

Gillett & Hicks Show Their Priorities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fernando Torres To Get Liverpool Pay Rise

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aberdeen And Hibs Join Queue To Land Liverpool Winger Hammill

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

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

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

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

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

Riise Wants Answer From Rafa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reds Winger Set For New Loan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ablett Seeing Shades Of Kenny

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reds Set To Be Number One In Europe

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kuyt And Babel Going To Euro 2008

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

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

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

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

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

Xabi Alonso Set For Move To Juventus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We'll decide after the European Championships.”

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

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

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

Liverpool Fail In £5m Ramsey Offer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Degen Still Pinching Himself Over Liverpool Move

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gareth Barry's Mentor Urges Villa Star To Join Liverpool

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dossena Keen To Join 'Famous' Reds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rick Parry Issues Rafael Benitez Title Warning

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bentley Drops Liverpool Hint

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Torres Is Staying At Anfield, Insist Liverpool

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

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

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

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

Liverpool Boss Benitez Plays Down His Side's Title Chances

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Certainly not as a matter of urgency anyway.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Liverpool In Shock Defender Move

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Liverpool City Council Plans Joint Stadium For Liverpool And Everton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fans have strongly opposed any joint stadium proposals.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rafa: We Need A Winning Mentality

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parry: Prem Is Priority

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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