Liverpool Youngster Set For Latics Switch

Liverpool under 18`s captain Joe Kennedy is currently training with Wigan Athletic giving Latics boss Steve Bruce the opportunity to cast his eye over the 17 year old centre back with a view to a permanent switch to the JJB.

Kennedy is in his 2nd year with Liverpool and highly regarded by youth manager Hugh McAuley who says:

'Joe is a local lad and the captain. He came a long way in his first year with us last season. His game improved tremendously and he is very quick for his size.

'Joe works hard in training and there is a real honesty about his game. He always tries hard and gives 100 per cent. He is an example to the young players here both in terms of attitude and behaviour on and off the field.'

Dubai Retain Liverpool Interest Despite Charlton Talks

Liverpool could still end up in the hands of Dubai's ruling family regardless of their proposed takeover of Charlton.

The Championship club last week announced the receipt on an indicative offer from Zabeel Investments. The involvement of Sheikh Hamdan Al-Maktoum, son of Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed, has been interpreted as the termination of the long standing pursuit of Liverpool.

Dubai, however, remains intent on buying Liverpool whenever the club's current owners are prepared to sell. Tom Hicks and George Gillett rejected an offer in the region of £500m earlier this year, but remain under pressure to fund the debt with which they purchased the club and to obtain finance for a new stadium.

'Nothing has changed,' said a source. 'The Maktoums still intend to takeover Liverpool and the possible purchase of Charlton certainly has no bearing on it."

Liverpool Eye Cavenaghi

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is reportedly set to test Bordeaux’s resolve with a £13 million bid for Fernando Cavenaghi, though the French-club remain committed to retaining the striker’s services.

The Argentina international has been a huge hit at the club since his move in January 2007 following a disappointing spell in Russia with Spartak Moscow, netting 22 goals in 35 matches last term and, famously, 10 times in 9 games during a purple patch.

And while Reds manager Benitez has a number of options at his disposal in the striking department, the former Valencia boss is reportedly keen to offload Dirk Kuyt to make way for a more prolific goalscorer to ease the pressure on Fernando Torres.

How much money Benitez has at his disposal when the transfer window re-opens on 1st January remains to be seen, though Cavenaghi’s price could rocket should other clubs become embroiled in a tug-of-war.

The 25-year old is thought to be keen on a move to England, joining compatriots such as Carlos Tevez and Liverpool’s Javier Mascherano in the Premier League.

Tom Hicks & George Gillett Told: Put Real Money Into Liverpool FC

THE fans group which wants to buy Liverpool today challenged the club’s American owners to put ‘some real money’ into Anfield and fend off potentially devastating debts over coming years.

The ShareLiverpoolFC group, which has announced ambitious plans for a Barcelona-style buyout at Anfield with supporters – or organised groups of them – each owning a stake in the club, has conducted its own analysis of Anfield’s finances.

The study comes in the wake of the recent credit crunch – blamed by Tom Hicks and George Gillett for their halting of plans to build a new stadium – and the global banking crisis.

It also follows calls this week by UEFA president Sepp Blatter for controls on the foreign ownership of football clubs, and comments by the FA chairman Lord Triesman and UEFA’s general secretary David Taylor, regarding the excessive debts held by Premier League clubs.

Share Liverpool’s founder Rogan Taylor, a lifelong Liverpool fan, says the probe has raised serious questions about the Reds financial stability, given its dependency on borrowed cash – and the need to find over £20m a year plus to service interest payments on loans lumped onto the books by the owners.

ShareLiverpoolFC is supported by Anfield legends including Phil Thompson, John Barnes and John Aldridge and also has established close working links with the fans union the Spirit of Shankly.

In a statement released today, it said: “Even if the current RBS loan is extended beyond Jan ‘09, under the current arrangement it will only be until July, 2009.

“With both American owners unable to raise money for the stadium, in today’s financial climate, can they raise more ‘real’, unleveraged money to restructure the loan and keep the club afloat?

“If the football bubble bursts, could the loans secured against LFC become sub prime and put the club at risk?

“Kop Football Ltd has to find £20m plus to service the debt of £245m.

“How will the debt be serviced?

“Can the owners assure us that Kop Football’s indebtedness is not to be serviced by the club? If it is, how can the club pay it?”

Said Dr Taylor: “This is not a comfortable position to be in at a time when the game’s regulators are calling for a reduction in debt and foreign ownership – not to mention the effects of the global credit crunch.

SLFC board member, Barrie Baxter, added: “ShareLiverpoolFC already represents thousands of fans prepared to invest real money into the club.

“Raising the required funds won’t be the issue once we have a deal in prospect.

“We’re confident we’ll be able to succeed. We are prepared to consider a partnership with any incoming buyer with the right attitude to the development of LFC going forward.

“After the experience with the current owners, it will be important for any new owner to ensure that they have the confidence of Liverpool fans.

“We call on the current owners to inject cash as capital to reduce the club’s debt.

“If they are unwilling or unable to do this, then they should move over and let others that can better serve the club take control.”

ShareLiverpoolFC’s long term objective is to gain control of the club. However, in the medium term, its strategy is to work with suitable new investors to help achieve a change of ownership, stabilise the club’s finances and represent the fans interests by acquiring a stake in the club.

ShareLiverpoolFC believes its participation in the future will assist with this.

It says its message to potential new owners of “their” club is: “Come and talk to us; you need the fans behind you and this is no ordinary club.

“We understand it and have the experience to help”.

The group is still urging supporters who wish to get involved in taking a stake in its planned fans buyout to contact them via their website - www.shareliverpoolfc.co.uk.

JOHN ALDRIDGE COLUMN: Why I'm Amazed By Liverpool's Grit

IT’S amazing that four times already this season Liverpool have fought back from behind to win - and on each occasion the opposition began with the letter M!

For me it highlights the guts and determination Rafa Benitez has instilled in his players.

At half-time against Manchester City I didn’t think there was any way back. We had been really poor in the first half and City deserved their two-goal lead.

But once Fernando Torres pulled one back, the momentum was with us and the shocking challenge on Xabi Alonso which saw City's Pablo Zabaleta sent off provided another boost.

In the end Torres and Dirk Kuyt ensured it was a memorable day and to come back from 2-0 to win was tremendous.

The comeback wins against Middlesbrough, Manchester United, Marseille and Man City were all impressive in their own way but I would still say the pick of the lot was the United game.

The fact we conceded so early and were all over the shop but then fought back without Gerrard or Torres to beat our big rivals was a massive feat.

I guess after seeing what the lads did in Istanbul three years ago we shouldn’t be surprised at anything, especially when you’ve got players of the quality of Gerrard and Torres in your side.

But the City game did highlight for me one weakness in the team.

In the first half our left hand side was a problem and Fabio Aurelio really struggled at left back.

We’ve also got Andrea Dossena who can play there but I don’t believe he has got to grips with the Premier League yet.

Albert Riera has done well going forward on the left flank. He was our best player in the first half against City but defensively we are vulnerable down that side.

I’ve heard some talk about the right hand side also being a problem but I don’t see it like that.

Okay, Alvaro Arbeloa made a mistake for City’s first and should have been stronger in the tackle but in general he does a decent job defensively. He’s got a good engine and got forward well to put a great cross in for Torres’ first.

The spine of the team looks so strong and with Riera’s tricks on one flank and Kuyt working his socks off on the other it gives us good balance. I just hope all the players away for the internationals come back fit and ready to face Wigan.

MARTIN SKRTEL will be a big loss over the next few months but I guess if there was one area where we could afford to lose someone it’s centre-back.

We’re looking very strong in that department and with Skrtel out there’s the chance for Daniel Agger and Sami Hyypia to force their way back in.

I’ve been really impressed by Skrtel this season. He’s Carra-like in many ways - very determined and not much gets past him.

Agger is very comfortable in possession but when it comes to defending I’d say Skrtel is better.

But he must learn from Sunday as he contributed towards his own injury.

Defenders are told from a very young age not to let the ball bounce - you have to meet it on the full and get rid of it.

But he got himself into all sorts of trouble and had to produce a fantastic tackle to avert the danger.

It was a rare mistake from Skrtel and I’m sure he’ll come back from this injury stronger than ever.

Agger has had to be patient this season but now he’ll get the chance to prove he deserves a place in the side.

Steven Gerrard Will Be Let Off Leash Against Kazakhstan

Steven Gerrard will finally be let off the leash at Wembley today and given a chance to prove he is England's Mr Fantastic.

England boss Fabio Capello yesterday spelt out a clear message that he is determined to get the best out of Liverpool captain Gerrard - and prove that he can play alongside Frank Lampard.

Capello says he can solve the conundrum which has bamboozled previous bosses Steve McClaren and Sven Goran Eriksson, who both refused to give up on the Gerrard-Lampard midfield axis, despite mixed results.

Chelsea midfielder Lampard admitted earlier this week that his partnership with Gerrard has not worked regularly for England and was partly to blame for them not reaching Euro 2008.

Gerrard has also been left frustrated, claiming that he has only played in his favourite position just five times in 68 games for England.

Gerrard has - despite Capello saying otherwise - started four times under the Italian and has played all over midfield. That has certainly helped restrict Gerrard, who has consistently struggled to reach the heights for England despite becoming irreplaceable for Liverpool while establishing a reputation as one of the best midfielders in the world.

Gerrard may even count himself lucky that injury to Joe Cole meant that Capello was unable to keep the winning team which thrashed Croatia in Zagreb last month, when the Liverpool midfielder was out injured.

But Gerrard's return has once again left Capello facing the old dilemma as to whether Gerrard and Lampard can play together.

And despite all their failings in the past, Capello insists that he is the man to make it work.

Furthermore, Capello also says that he will play Gerrard in his best position against Kazakhstan - even though he would not say exactly what that is.

Capello says today's World Cup qualifier at Wembley is a new beginning for Gerrard.

And the coach has almost made it his personal challenge to ensure that England get the best out of arguably their most naturally-gifted player. Capello said last night: "I think Steven Gerrard is a fantastic player.

"He has played with me in three games so far and, tomorrow, I think you will see the position Gerrard plays because it'll be a very important position on the field.

"Yes, it is his long-term position. It depends on the games, always. And the opponents. Sometimes he can play in one position, sometimes in another.

"But I think I know the best position for Gerrard. You will see (tomorrow).

"For me he can play in two or three positions. But, it depends on the game which one he plays in.

I didn't read his comments and I don't know how many games he's played exactly.

"But he's only played three times with me. I hope that three of these five games were with me!

"He played where I think it's better for him, always. I try, throughout my career, my style is to put the players in the best position for them to play better and at 100 per cent in the team."

The Gerrard and Lampard axis has not worked in the past and has become a tired old problem for England. But Capello insists he is the man to make it work and says Gerrard and the in-form Chelsea man are good enough to play together, although that seems a rather familiar argument.

Capello added: "I hope so. But, also, I'm sure that fantastic players have to play together, in my opinion. I don't know why they haven't worked before.

"I think, with me, they've played only three or two games together. The past is not my problem. I think about the future.

"He has to play like when he plays with Liverpool, the same. He's one of the 11 players on the pitch.

"We win and we lose together, always. He's an important player, for sure, but he's only one of the 11."

Fabio Capello: ‘Steven Gerrard Is Hub Of England Team’

FABIO CAPELLO has vowed to build his England revolution around Steven Gerrard – starting against Kazakhstan this afternoon.

Gerrard is expected to play an integral role as the Italian’s team aim to continue their 100% start to their World Cup qualifying group six at Wembley.

The Liverpool midfielder missed the 4-1 victory in Croatia last month through injury, prompting talk of the 28-year-old being left on the bench with Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry having impressed in central midfield in Zagreb.

But Capello has revealed Gerrard will step straight back into the team for his 69th cap in a role the England coach envisions as the player’s long-term position.

“I think Steven Gerrard is a fantastic player,” said Capello yesterday. “For tomorrow, I think you will see Gerrard in a very important position on the field, his long-term position.

“Of course, it depends on the games and the opponents, and he can play in two or three positions. But I think I know the best position for Gerrard and you will see tomorrow.”

Gerrard will today once again be asked to work in tandem with Lampard, leaving Barry taking responsibility for defensive duties in midfield.

And Capello thinks he has found a way to solve the puzzle of why two world-class talents have seemed so ill-at-ease together.

“Yes, I hope so,” said the Italian. “But, also, I’m sure that fantastic players have to play together, in my opinion. I don’t know why they haven’t worked before.

“I think, with me, they’ve played only three or two games together. The past is not my problem. I think about the future. I’ve experienced things like this in the past a lot of times. At Milan, Juventus and sometimes in Madrid. It was always with the forwards, not with the midfielders.

“But it’s not a problem for me. I prefer good players. I prefer to have good players. I prefer to have players of this quality.”

Gerrard has been employed by club manager Rafael Benitez either in an attacking role behind Fernando Torres or in his preferred role of orthodox central midfielder.

Last month, the player estimated that he has only been used in his favoured position on five occasions while with his country.

But Capello said: “I didn’t read about him talking about not playing in his favourite position, but he’s always played for me as a midfielder. I hope that three of these five games were with me!

“I always play him where I think it’s better for him.

“Throughout my career, my style is to put the players in the best position for them to play better and at 100% in the team.

“He has to play like when he plays with Liverpool.”

Youngsters Aiming For Sixth Straight Win

Liverpool's academy side will be looking for their sixth straight league victory when they travel to take on Blackburn Rovers later today.

The under-18s men have already taken maximum points off Nottingham Forest, Newcastle, Sheffield Wednesday, Crewe and Wolves in an impressive five match winning streak - but coach Hughie McAuley is expecting nothing less than a stern test in Lancashire.

"Games against Blackburn are always similar," he told Liverpoolfc.tv. "They are a hard, physical side who will be encouraged to pass the ball now that Paul Ince is involved with the club.

"From our point of view we need to get the ball down and play composed football. If we do that then we know we can be a match for anyone.

"We've had a good run of late but we are aware we have been starting games slowly. Without wanting to make the boys over anxious about it, we'll be stressing to them before the game - just as we do during the week - about the importance of making a good start."

The match will doubtless be an extra special occasion for Liverpool youngster Thomas Ince, whose father - himself a former Anfield midfielder - is now in charge at Ewood Park.

"I am sure Thomas is looking forward to it because of the family ties," added McAuley. "But when the game kicks off I am sure he will be professional and have no other thought apart from trying to influence the game as best he can."

Juve To Launch Sensational January Bid For Liverpool Captain Gerrard?

Both Juventus and Tottenham Hotspur have moved to dismiss reports on Thursday that La Vecchia Signora are planning to make a move for Spurs midfielder Luka Modric, with the latest reports coming from Italy suggesting that Juve will instead make a sensational bid for England International Steven Gerrard at Liverpool.

The Juve fans have voiced their discontent recently at the Serie A sides mediocre start to the Scudetto, with news that the Italian giants were chasing Modric making the Bianconeri faithful even more disgruntled.

Juventus know that a star signing is needed to appease the fans and are reportedly ready to go all out in January in their attempts to sign the Reds captain.

However, while Juventus know that any bid for 28-year-old Gerrard will be instantly rejected out of hand, but are aware of the financial issues surrounding the Merseyside club in light of the credit crunch and are hoping that Liverpool’s American owners will be tempted to cash in if a huge offer is on the table for their talisman.

Even if the board did accept an offer for Gerrard from Juve, it is highly unlikely that the midfielder would choose to swap Anfield for Turin, with the Reds homegrown star happy to stay at Rafa Benitez’s side.

Abalimba Praised As Liverpool Continue To Assess The Trialist

Liverpool are checking out Medi Abalimba in different positions as the Southend United teenager continues his extended trials with the English giants.

The Congolese midfielder, who turns 17 next week, has found the reserve team outings more physical, but he has been excited training with the Reds stars, winger Jermaine Pennant and defender Sami Hyypia, and also that he has been getting a positive feedback.

Abalimba told the Essex Echo: “I played on the right wing against Manchester City and I did OK even though it isn’t my preferred position.

“Most of the players playing were 23 or 24-years-old so it was a lot more physical than I am used to.

“That was my first game at that level but the reserve team manager said he was proud of how I played.”

“I trained with Jermaine Pennant and Sami Hyypia the other day,” he added. “I did some work with Jamie Carragher too but there aren’t many of the first team players about at the moment because of the international break.”

Dubai Set To Drop Liverpool Interest After Bid For Charlton

Charlton Athletic were last night the subject of a takeover bid by the Maktoum family in a deal that would seem to end Dubai's interest in Liverpool.

The Valley club's efforts to play down the deal last night by insisting there is "no certainty" that the "indicative" bid will become a formal offer will not restrain unbridled excitement in south-east London. The involvement of Sheikh Hamdan Al-Maktoum, son of Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed, through his Zabeel Investments vehicle would make the ascendancy of a club that dropped out of the Premier League with only 34 points in 2007 almost a certainty.

The Maktoum family had been involved in fruitless negotiations with the Anfield club's owners, George Gillett and Tom Hicks, and also turned down the opportunity to purchase Newcastle United. Hicks recently travelled to Dubai with a view to offloading his 50% stake in the club but the talks were inconclusive. Then Mike Ashley and Dennis Wise also paid a visit in an attempt to generate interest in Newcastle but according to sources familiar with the discussions the sums the pair demanded were considered unrealistic.

Their attention then turned to Charlton. Superficially there would seem to be few motives for taking over a club who lie only 14th in the Championship today. But there was an influential link with Liverpool in that Rothschilds, the investment bank, had represented the five-times European champions and also worked for Charlton.

The Valley club have been scouring the market for fresh investment in recent months but few could have considered that the Dubai ruling caste would be interested in a Championship club. One close observer of Dubai's football negotiations expressed surprise at the deal, saying: "They usually go for the front of the grid."

However another explained that as Gulf potentates go, Dubai is the junior partner to Abu Dhabi and the investment by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Manchester City has shifted Premier League politics. The Charlton purchase may have been motivated by a desire not to be seen to "outdo" Abu Dhabi United Group by taking over England's most decorated club.

Any notion that Liverpool might still fall into Dubai's hands appears misguided since there would also be the further complication of Premier League and Football Association ownership rules. A single owner may not purchase two clubs in the same competition and the prospect of promotion as well as the chance of them being drawn against each other in a cup competition has complicated the issue. "Everything in Dubai goes back to the royal family," as one insider with knowledge of the deal stated.

A statement from Charlton's board said: "In spite of being approached by various English football clubs as well as a number of well-known clubs in Europe and South America, Zabeel Investments believes Charlton is the right club for them."

Amid a fire-sale of Premier League clubs Charlton have undoubtedly benefited from the effects of their good husbandry in recent years. With their Premier League parachute payments expiring at the end of last season, the board kept a tight rein on spending.

The directors even loaned the club almost £4m in interim funding in an effort to stabilise its finances in straitened times. In contrast to the £100m-plus borrowings of many top-flight clubs, Charlton's debts are believed to have been restricted to seven figures with the sales of players such as the £16m striker, Darren Bent, to Tottenham.

"We feel now is the right time to make a strategic, long-term investment in Charlton and get CAFC back to the English Premier League where they belong," said Zabeel Investments' executive chairman Mohammed Al-Hashimi.

"The passion of the fans at Charlton, the heritage of the club and the unique status it enjoys in the community make it an exciting proposition for us."

Neal Has Hopes For Defender Agger

Former Liverpool defender Phil Neal says Daniel Agger needs time to develop partnership with Jamie Carragher in the Reds defence in the coming weeks.

Agger now looks likely to be given his chance Rafa Benitez's side after Martin Skrtel's knee injury.

"It's up to Daniel Agger now to form a partnership if he gets the chance with maybe Jamie Carragher," Neal told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"He needs to give Rafa a selection problem for when Skrtel is available."

The 57-year-old former full-back also believes that the Reds' recent 3-2 victory over Manchester City was a defining moment in their season.

He recalls when he and his teammates had to to similar things when the picked up silverware.

"It’s a massive thing," Neal continued.

"We had to do that on several occasions but not too many thank goodness. I think that gives you strength in the dressing room.

But the man who helped Liverpool to three European cups in his time at the club warns it will need the efforts of the whole squad if they are to be successful.

"It's the people waiting in the wings that matter.

"If they are equally determined, when they get their half chance from Rafa, they'll want a share of the success.

"They'll want a bit of the action now having seen us make a fantastic start in Europe too."

Torres Warns: I'm Getting Close To Top Form

Liverpool’s Spain striker, Fernando Torres, has issued a warning to the rest of the Premier League that he is getting back to his best form.

Fernando Torres, who scored 33 goals in all competitions in his first campaign as a Liverpool player, began the current season fairly quietly by comparison with one goal in the Reds’ first five Premier League games.

But the 24-year-old former Atletico Madrid star has followed that with two goals in each of his last games - at Everton and Manchester City.

That showed he was resuming normal service, and he says there is more to come.

Torres feels that there was a reaction to playing for his country at Euro 2008, which he helped Spain win by scoring the only goal in the final against Germany.

"Me and the other players from the Euros started back in pre-season later than everyone else, and as a result weren't in the best physical shape," said Torres.

"Last year was very long for me. I played nearly 50 games with Liverpool and then went straight to the Euros. But I'm getting better each day and I'll soon be 100 per cent again."

And he is determined to build on the triumph he shared with Spain by helping Liverpool to win a trophy or two this season.

Torres explained: "It [the European Championship] was a great experience and the first big honour I've won. Now I know how it feels to win something like that, it makes me even hungrier to win trophies with Liverpool.

"I came here for that reason and hope this season will be better than last year.

"I believe we can win the Premier League or the Champions League. If we did that, it would be fantastic. We have started well, so there is optimism.

"But I'd be happy with just 20 goals if we won the Premier League or Champions League."

Carra: Skrtel Loss Is A 'Massive Blow'

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes that the club has suffered a huge blow with the loss of Martin Skrtel until Christmas, but thinks that the Reds can cope due to the strength in depth of the squad.

The Slovakian international has been ruled out for at least 10 weeks after suffering posterior ligament damage in his right knee. The 23 year-old was injured during the course of the Reds' 3-2 win over Manchester City last Sunday.

Skrtel's injury looked at first to have been a disaster for Rafa Benitez's side, with initial prognoses ruling the defender out of action until the end of this season.

However, a re-check confirmed that Skrtel will not require surgery and will be fit for a first-team return around the end of December.

Skrtel and Jamie Carragher had just begun to build up a strong partnership in the centre of the Liverpool backline following the former's arrival from Zenit St Petersburg in January of this year.

Carragher acknowledges the gravity of Skrtel's injury for the club, but nevertheless believes that Liverpool can cope with the loss of one of their key-performers, with the likes of Daniel Agger and Sami Hyypia ready to deputise.

He told the official Liverpool website: "It's a massive blow – Martin has been a great player for us since he arrived at the club.

"We didn't know much about him when he first came to the club, but he's done very well. He has cemented himself in the Liverpool team quite quickly - which is a very tough thing to do.

"It's just unfortunate for him that it's such a bad injury but obviously it gives someone else a chance to get a run in the team.

"That's why you need a big squad in a long season and credit to the manager as well, he's seen that we didn't have enough players in that area of the pitch at times last season and we have Hyypia and Agger who can come in now."

The Liverpool stalwart admits to fearing the worst when Skrtel hit the turf on Sunday. The 30 year-old suffered a leg-break in 2003 and stated that he was relieved for Skrtel when the results were revealed.

He continued: "We saw Martin on the pitch and realised it wasn't good, and you don't really know about these injuries until a day or two afterwards with all the scans.

"He walked onto the coach after the game so we thought it wasn't too bad then, but it's still not nice to look at when you see it on the TV.

"He doesn't need an operation and it's not as bad as we feared - so hopefully he'll be back for the games at Christmas."

Lucas Accepts He Needs To Up His Game

Liverpool's Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva has admitted that if he is to establish himself in the current Liverpool midfield then he will need to considerably up his game.

Pundits in his homeland had long talked up the potential of a Lucas Leiva and Denilson midfield partnership. However, Denilson's form and ability regressed last season due to the energetic displays of Mathieu Flamini, but he is now excelling in his absence and even outshining Cesc Fabregas in Arsenal's midfield.

Lucas Leiva on the other hand will have to work hard to witness the amount of playing time that Denilson is currently enjoying. Not only will he have to oust Xabi Alonso, but also the impeccable Javier Mascherano, and the Brazilian admits he will need to up his game if this is to happen.

"We did not win any trophies last season and we were all disappointed about that," Lucas told the Liverpool Echo. "That is something we want to change this season and the squad is now stronger than it was so hopefully that will help us."

"If you look at last season we drew some games that we would have expected to win but we have started this season well and are picking up wins so that is positive," he said.

"The squad is now much better which is good for the club because it means we all have to work really hard if we want to be in the team."

"For me, it is tough because we have so many good players in my position but hopefully I will get my chance and when I do I have to be ready," the 21-year old concluded.

Liverpool Fans On The Stunning Fightback Against Manchester City

ANTHONY DUNN, Wavertree

THE way we overcame City on Sunday was as significant as the result. The belief running through the team was brilliant to watch.

We kept the ball moving and a red shirt was always available. When we didn’t have the ball we worked hard to get it back.

It is still too soon to talk about chasing titles, but if we can approach each game as we have been and keep up the commitment and determination, we shouldn’t be far off.

There can be no doubting Liverpool boast the best midfielder and centre forward in Europe. They are frightening at the moment. The skipper is the benchmark for how football should be played, and in this form, Torres will finish the season as leading scorer in the division.

But we are much more than these two players, and credit must go to Benitez. Few are shirking responsibility at the club and this consistent group of players is giving 100%.


JOHN CRUCES, Kirkby

IT feels like the International break has come at a bad time for us considering recent results. Sunday’s game at City shows the level of confidence running through the side at the moment, in that it always felt like we would get back into the game after going behind.

Previous years may have seen panic set in and desperation to ‘hoof’ the ball forward which would have been bread and butter for Dunne and Richards, whereas here we continued to play the ball with pace and more purposeful intention.

Torres has returned to form with a bang and it was nice to see Kuyt get a league goal following up from his European effort.

Obviously the Skrtel injury was a blow, hopefully the early indications that he will not need surgery are true as that will mean he is be back sooner rather than later. In the meantime I am sure Agger will step in and prove to be a more than capable replacement. In the meantime I guess we have to keep our fingers crossed for all our lads out on International duty and hope they come back injury free.


PAUL O’LEARY, Allerton

EVEN the most pessimistic Liverpool fans will agree there isn’t much to grumble about at the minute.

We have key players coming into excellent form, Torres is back in the goals and his partnership with Keane is starting to show real promise. However, what is more impressive is Keane’s enthusiastic character which appears to be having an infectious effect on our team.

Riera has slotted in nicely. Finally we have a winger who isn’t afraid to go at a full back, much is expected from the Spaniard, but what we have seen is encouraging.

Generally speaking, there is a more confident feeling among the players this season; certainly this is the perception among many fans.

Of course we are still in the first quarter of the season, we shouldn’t starting start self congratulating just yet.

There is nothing wrong with feeling good about making a strong start, but let’s not go overboard, it is just a ‘good start’.


MICHAEL THOMPSON, West Kirkby

THE Reds showed great character in the fightback at Manchester City but our first half performance was still a major concern.

Our weakness is in the full-back positions and City were able to exploit that to go two goals up.

Fabio Aurelio had a shocker on the left and Alvaro Arbeloa was also very poor down the right.

Unless we improve in those areas then it’s going to be tough for us to maintain a title challenge.

On the plus side it’s clear Fernando Torres is getting back to his best and it was great to see Dirk Kuyt end that long wait for a league goal.

Sunday also showed we now have quality players on the bench who are able to come on and change a game if things aren’t going well. Yossi Benayoun and Robbie Keane both made vital contributions.

After the buzz of a win like that it’s just a real shame we have to wait until a week on Saturday for our next game.

Manchester City Reject Reports Of Fernando Torres Bid

Manchester City have rejected claims they recently held discussions with representatives of Fernando Torres about the possibility of signing the Liverpool striker.

According to reports in Spain, members of City's owners, the Abu Dhabi United Group, met with Torres' advisors within the past fortnight, hoping to complete a move when the January transfer window opens.

Spanish daily Marca claims City have offered to double Torres' current wages in an effort to prise the highly-rated striker away from Anfield.

Such a deal would certainly eclipse the £32.5 million British transfer record that brought Robinho to Eastlands from Real Madrid.

For the time being, though, Torres has insisted he is happy to stay at Anfield, with five years left to run on his contract.

The 24-year-old is aware of City's interest, but has instructed his agents to immediately rebuff any bid from a rival Premier League club.

And City officials have dismissed suggestions that they are planning a swoop for Torres.

Sulaiman al-Fahim, the Abu Dhabi billionaire who orchestrated Sheik mansour's £210m takeover of City last month, has confessed he is a big fan of the Spain international, but a club spokesman said: "At no time has any Manchester City offical, or anybody representing the club, contacted Fernando Torres, his representatives or Liverpool Football Club."

Last weekend, Torres scored two goals to help Liverpool retain their position at the top of the Premier League, level on points with Chelsea.

Rafa Benitez's men came back from two goals down to defeat 10-man City 3-2 at Eastlands, maintaining the club's fantastic start to the season and underlining Torres' status as one of the best strikers in the world.

Skrtel: I Thought I Was Finished

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel initially thought that his career was over after his knee buckled during the game at Manchester City on Sunday.

Martin Skrtel felt his knee collapse underneath him during the 3-2 comeback win and knew something "terrible" had happened. The Reds were concerned at that point as they'd already used their three substitutions and were left with the task of completing their amazing comeback with just ten men.

At the time, though, the stopper admits that he thought his career was over.

Fortunately for Skrtel and Liverpool, the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee didn't tear completely, meaning that the 23-year-old Slovak international could be back as soon as Christmas.

It's a massive boost for the player, who initially feared he could be out for the rest of the season, if not for the rest of his prospective career.

"The pain was unbearable," he told the Daily Mail. "I can’t remember a lot about the moment – but it was terrible. I thought that was the end for me.

"I have never suffered anything like that before, but I remained conscious and they gave me oxygen to help with the pain."

The Reds' No.37 underwent a scan on Monday morning, before a specialist gave him the good news in midweek. The shellshocked player continued: "I almost ripped the ligament fully. If I had done that, I would have been out for eight months.

"But now it will be more like eight weeks if I’m lucky, when I should be able to start training again."

Skrtel has done well to force his way into Rafael Benitez's first team plans since his January move from Zenit St. Petersburg and will hope to pick up where he left off over the festive period.

Liverpool Rock Carragher Is Sorely Missed As Capello Rues The Lost Generation Of English Centre Halves

Even if Jamie Carragher would prefer to miss a penalty for England rather than Liverpool, Fabio Capello must now be wishing a player who has put club before country had not retired from international football.

The days when England boasted top-class centre halves in abundance appear to be over.

John Terry's absence from tomorrow's encounter with Kazakhstan has forced Capello to turn to players he would probably prefer to avoid for a World Cup qualifier.

Matthew Upson has never proved himself at the very highest level and Joleon Lescott, strangely off-form this season, reported for duty after another difficult weekend for Everton.

Wes Brown is a third option but will probably remain at right back even though he seems to have been demoted to third choice at Manchester United.

It was not so long ago that competition for places was so intense that players like Brown, not to mention more proven internationals, could not even be sure of a place in the squad.

It was not so long ago that one England centre half found two other England centre halves ahead of him in the Arsenal side. For Tony Adams, Martin Keown and Steve Bould there was no room for error at Highbury.

Keown and Gareth Southgate spent the entire 2002 World Cup watching Rio Ferdinand and Sol Campbell from the bench and Carragher often had more chance of securing a place at right back. Never mind that he rarely enjoyed playing there.

If that was all that was going, he would take it. Sven Goran Eriksson had been spoiled for choice. He favoured Campbell and Ferdinand for much of his tenure but also had Terry, Ledley King, Carragher and Jonathan Woodgate to call on, not to mention Southgate and Keown. He even considered Anthony Gardner and Upson.

Liverpool Move Helps Riera With Spain Career As Benitez Hails Winger’s Impact

Manager Rafa Benitez has hailed the performance of Albert Riera for Liverpool and justified his recall to the Spain national squad.

The 26-year-old winger joined the Reds in the summer from Espanyol, and has made an instant impact with Benitez’s side scoring vital victories against Manchester United, Everton and Manchester City.

Such has been Riera’s displays that he is now in with a chance to resurrect his international career after being overlooked for La Furia Roja’s successful campaign at the Euro 2008 finals in Austria and Switzerland, but is now in the squad for World Cup 2010 qualifiers following injury to Diego Capel.

Benitez believes that Riera can turn himself into a key player for Spain if he continues to give his best and improves with the Premiership club.

"People maybe don't realise the situation and how well he's playing," Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"I could tell you he's doing really well and leave it at that, but you also have to remember that since he's been here the games have been United, Everton and Man City away. That makes how he's doing even more impressive.

"Spain has a very good group of players, so it's not easy – but he can be there. If he keeps playing well here, it will be easy for him.

"I think playing in the Premier League and Champions League can also make a massive difference to the progression of a player."

Torres Reveals United Dream

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres hopes to fulfil one of his career ambitions in May by scoring against Manchester United in the Champions League final.

But the Spanish superstar is not especially fussy as to when he breaks his duck against the 10-time Premier League champions.

Torres has faced United twice, but he is yet to open his account against Sir Alex Ferguson's despite tallying some 38 goals in 57 appearances since joining Liverpool last year.

The former Atletico Madrid captain did feature against the Red Devils last month - a fact which, combined with Steven Gerrard only appearing as a late substitute, made the Merseysiders' 2-1 victory all the more impressive.

And after witnessing that display from the sidelines at Anfield, Torres is eager to get in on the action himself - whether that be in front of the Kop, the Stretford End or Stadio Olimpico's Curva Nord.

The 24-year-old told the press: “We all want to score against our big rivals. I’ll have another chance at Old Trafford this season ... or maybe in the Champions League final.”

Torres has netted four times in his last two league games, claiming match-winning braces against Everton and Manchester City. He will hope to carry that form onto the international stage when Spain meet Estonia in World Cup qualifying on Saturday.

Sammy Lee - 'Pool Must Mount Title Challenge

Liverpool No.2 Sammy Lee has hailed the character of Rafa Benitez's resurgent Reds, opining that if the Anfield men don't challenge for the title this season, there would be "something wrong".

Sammy Lee appears to be enjoying life as Rafael Benitez's assistant following his surprise appointment. The former Reds midfielder, who had an unsuccessful stint as Bolton boss, succeeded the departed Alex Miller in May.

Liverpool go into the international break as joint Premier League leaders, alongside Chelsea, and Lee insists that all the credit must go to the players for the team's sparkling start to the season.

He told the club's official website: "People should know the strength of Liverpool – they know what we're about. We're not worrying what people think about us.

"We always have faith in our ability here. That's not arrogance - we just know what we're about."

On the current squad, he enthused: "Everyone at this football club is working very hard to make sure this improvement is obvious to everybody. The character in the group is great - there are a lot of good characters in the dressing room, and that hopefully manifests itself on the pitch.

Singling out Dirk Kuyt and, somewhat surprisingly, Robbie Keane for praise, he continued: "You've got players like Robbie Keane putting a lot of work in and you could say he deserves another goal.

"Everyone works very hard to get the best for this football club. Dirk is another example of what we're about at this football club: hard work and a good level of quality.

"The players should get the credit, because this game is all about the players. We all stand or fall by what they do."

Liverpool have enjoyed great continental success under Benitez, but many think this could be the season that the Reds finally usurp Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal, thus bagging the Premier League title.

Lee, though, refuses to get carried away by the waves of external and internal optimism. He said: "At the end of the day, I don't know anything that's ever been won in October. At the moment we have nothing.

"I'm always confident we'll be challenging in May because if we're not, then there's something wrong. We have aspirations and expectations and we have to make sure we try to fulfil them.

"Everyone knows what's expected of them. Hopefully we'll take the plaudits at the end of the season, because only then will it matter."

Teenage Defender Extends Trial At Liverpool

LIVERPOOL will continue to run the rule over Congolese defender Medi Abalimba after Southend United allowed him to remain on trial until the end of the week.

The 16-year-old will play in a training game tomorrow following his appearance in the 1-0 reserve defeat to Manchester City on Tuesday.

“Even if nothing comes of all this it has been a good experience,” Abalimba said.

“To now know the actual standard I am aiming for will be a big help if I want to play at the top level.

“I played on the right wing against Manchester City and I did okay even though it isn’t my preferred position.

“Most of the players playing were 23 or 24 so it was a lot more physical than I am used to. That was my first game at that level but the reserve team manager said he was proud of how I played.”

Liverpool FC's Jamie Carragher Back In The Classroom

LIVERPOOL FC’s Jamie Carragher paid a visit to a primary school to promote positive family relationships.

The Bootle-born defender joined children from Hope Valley Primary, in Walton Breck Road, for a classroom session yesterday.

He is backing the Liverpool Football Club initiative, Tactics 4 Families, which aims to support families in Anfield and Breckfield.

It is hoped the five-week programme, which encourages a positive and practical approach to amily relationships, will be rolled out to schools across Merseyside.

Dad-of-two Jamie said: “I really enjoyed it, we had a good laugh. Families are a major part of life and everyone has their own private life away from school.

“I think Tactics 4 Families is a very good idea. I have two children of my own so I know how important this is.”

Mark Chester, LFC family officer, said: “Since February LFC has delivered a school programme working with Year 5 and 6 pupils to deliver the key seven messages from Tactics 4 Families.

“The sessions look at football teams and family teams to teach the children that families are made up of very different people who all play their own part in contributing to family life.”

Fernando Torres: No More Goal Droughts At Liverpool FC

FERNANDO TORRES is determined his recent barren spell in front of goal will be his last in a Liverpool shirt.

The Spaniard has suddenly shot to the top of the Premier League goal charts with two in each of the his last two league games, having not previously scored since the opening day winner at Sunderland.

That run of six games without a goal was double the length of his previous longest drought since he left Atletico Madrid for Anfield in the summer of 2007.

But after his double strikes inspired victories against Everton and Manchester City to keep Liverpool joint top of the league with Chelsea, the striker is confident he is close to being back to his best.

And he reckons that a gruelling Euro 2008 campaign, which ended with his winning goal for Spain in the final against Germany, and an early-season hamstring strain, are now well out of his system.

“I hope that was my worst run without scoring for Liverpool,” said Torres. “I don’t want to go that long again.

“I don’t know exactly what my longest run is without a goal, but it’s definitely longer than six games. At Madrid it was sometimes difficult for me. During my first year we finished mid-table and it was tough to score so I went a long time without doing so.

“Here it is different because this is a really big club. We are challenging at the top of the table and competing for trophies, so six games is too many.

“Me and the other players from the Euros started back in pre-season later than everyone else and as a result we weren’t in the best physical shape.”

Torres’s injury, which he sustained in the 0-0 draw at Aston Villa, kept him out of the 2-1 victory over Manchester United at Anfield last month.

“The most important thing from that game was the fact we could win without me or Stevie (Gerrard),” added Torres.” That proves how strong the squad is now.

“It’s not just about two, three or four players. It’s a real team and we proved that by beating United. We know we can do it against any opponent.”

Indeed, Torres is not focused on personal targets such as bettering the 33-goal haul of his debut season in England.

He would be happy with 20 if it meant Liverpool could win a major trophy, something they have failed to do in the past two seasons.

“It was a great experience and the first big honour I’ve won,” Torres said of Spain’s Euro 2008 triumph. “Now I know how it feels to win something like that, it makes me even hungrier to win trophies with Liverpool.

“I came here for that and hope this season will be better than last year. I believe we can win the Premier League or the Champions League and if we did that, it’d be fantastic.”

Meanwhile, Liverpool winger Albert Riera has earned a Spain recall for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Estonia and Belgium.

Riera’s last appearance came during the March 26 friendly win over Italy but Vicente Del Bosque has selected him in place of injured Diego Capel.

Phil Thompson - Liverpool FC Are Title Chasers

PHIL THOMPSON believes Liverpool are finally exorcising the ghosts that have stopped them launching a serious title challenge in previous years.

The former Anfield captain tipped Manchester United for a third successive championship at the start of the season – but also had a feeling this would be the year Liverpool finally ended their long wait to add to their record haul of 18 titles.

And manager Rafael Benitez’s first win over United in September, coupled with the thrilling fightback against the other team from Manchester on Sunday, has convinced Thompson that his former club is finally ready to shake off the limitations that have hindered their ambitions in the past.

The 3-2 victory at City, secured after a fightback from 2-0 down, kept Liverpool level on points at the top of the league with Chelsea going into the international break and still unbeaten after seven games.

Thompson, in his role as one of Sky’s live match summarisers, couldn’t hide his delight when Kuyt hit the injury-time winner at Eastlands – even though he was covering the Tottenham v Hull game at the time.

Thompson said: “In my job I have to give who I tipped to win the title and I tipped United – but I did say I had a sneaking feeling this could be our year.

“I didn’t know why that was really, but now I think it’s because we are cracking some of the myths.

“Rafa’s had his win over United, that was one hoodoo buried, and although we’ve beaten Everton before, it was how we beat Everton this time.

“Away at Goodison Park, comfortably at 2-0 – that sets down a massive marker and the reaction was as if we had won a knife-edge game.

“Another telling sign of what champions are made of is coming back from a deficit. It’s always possible with the crowd at Anfield, but this was away from home (at City) against a team who are making people sit up and take notice.

“And what impressed me was how we did it. We didn’t just lump balls in and panic, it was a constructive performance of precision passing to cut Manchester City up.

“It was 2-1 when their man was sent off but it was already in motion then, the momentum was there and we’d have won the game anyway.

“So those three things are the signs that things are sprouting and it will give the players the belief that they will do it.”

Thompson, however, believes that maintaining this start and turning it into a genuine tilt for honours rests on Benitez being able to keep his best players fresh for the league – even at the expense of chasing European glory.

And the former assistant manager hopes lessons will have been learned from the way last season’s promising start disintegrated during the winter.

“It was December before we lost our unbeaten record at Reading last year,” said Thompson.

“Steven Gerrard was taken off when we were 2-1 down to preserve him for a Champions League game, but you have to say that game should never have been given up – we scored three in three minutes in Istanbul.

“That was throwing the towel in to prepare for the Champions League. This time the management has to say that they will play the best team, or at least the core, in the league.

“Because I honestly believe Rafa can bring us the Holy Grail – as long as his best players stay fit and play every week.

“And I would sacrifice the Champions League. The glory of 2005 is still quite close but the league? It’s been 19 years if we don’t do it this year and that’s too long.”

Another reason Thompson hopes his initial prediction won’t come true is because Manchester United will then share with Liverpool the record of 18 English titles if they complete a hat-trick of Premier League wins.

“I don’t even want to talk about that aspect of it,” says Thompson. “I start to feel queasy about it. Their haul since we last won it has been quite astonishing.”

Carra Supports Wage Cap

Jamie Carragher believes a salary cap would be good for football if it helped ease financial worries.

Football Association chairman Lord Triesman warned on Wednesday that desperate measures may need to be taken in order to prevent spiralling costs in English football.

The proposal has received mixed reactions, with some believing less money in the Premier League would only succeed is pushing talent elsewhere.

Salary caps in football were abolished after a player revolt in the 1960s, leading to the astronomical wages paid out in the modern game.

As one of the Premier League's top performers Jamie Carragher falls into the bracket of players at the top end of the salary spectrum.

However, the Liverpool defender admits that ensuring the long-term future of the game is more important than money.

"I hope he (Triesman) brings it in when I've just finished!" Carragher joked while speaking on Sky Sports News.

"If bringing a wage cap in is going to stop teams going bust, then I'm sure it's got to happen.

"The most important thing is the football club."

Riera Tips Torres For Solo Trophies

With the injury to Sevilla's wingman Diego Capel Spain's head coach Vincente Del Bosque called up Liverpool's summer signing Albert Riera.

Riera revelled in his role in the 3-2 comeback over Manchester City at the weekend and will be keen to translate that form to the international scene should he be picked against Estonia, or Belgium.

Riera though believes club and country team-mate Fernando Torres is deserving of all the plaudits, and believes he is a candidate for the Ballon d'Or.

Regarding his call up to the Spain camp, Riera told journalists at a press conference: "They called me yesterday (Tuesday) and I arrived as quickly as possible because a call-up fills you with joy and makes you believe."

"Even though I was upset not to be part of the European Championships squad, I was convinced I would have played my part," he said. "But regretting and thinking of the past is useless, you have to be focused on what’s to come."

"I am doing good things alongside Fernando Torres, who is a partner and a good friend. To me he should win the Ballon d'Or."

He added: "La Liga and The Premier League are different because the rhythm of the games is quicker in England, you are more focused on the ball."

Liverpool’s Benitez: We Must Keep Going Until The End To Win Title

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has urged his side not to get carried away with the recent success and keep focus on maintaining their consistency.

The Anfield side are on a 12-match unbeaten streak in all competitions this season, with vital wins against Manchester United, Manchester City and their Merseyside rivals Everton seeing The Reds placed joint top of the table with Chelsea.

Liverpool are behind Chelsea only on goal difference in the Premiership, but Benitez is not reading too much into the title talk as of now as he is keen to see that there are no distractions.

"It's important to send the right messages," the Spaniard told the club's official website.

"We have a long, long way to go. We have to do things properly both now, in one month's time and in three months' time.

"We can have a lot of confidence in ourselves but we must keep our feet on the ground.

"We (the squad) were talking about this before, although we can enjoy being at the top of the table.

"But the players know we must keep going until the end. You can't win a title now - you can only win it at the end of the season."

Benitez Eager For New Long-Term Deal

Rafa Benitez has stated that he would like to be handed a new long-term contract in order to stabilise the future of the club.

Rafa Benitez has long glanced an envious eye over proceedings at Arsenal, and to a lesser extent Manchester United.

The Spanish boss has declared in the past that he is a fervent admirer of Arsene Wenger's youth policy and believes that clubs cannot throw countless sums away every summer on high-profile names, and to ensure the long term financial stability of the club, a profitable youth academy is a necessity.

Benitez also believes that stability starts at management. If the head coach has the faith of the board to achieve a long term goal, and they provide him with adequate time for those targets, then eventually they will bear fruit.

With this in mind he feels that the length of his new contract should reflect all of the above, and told the Daily Mail:

"The problem in England now is that everyone wants to be successful too soon. It is a part of the game I don't like and I would prefer to have a long-term contract so I can have a long-term plan."

Rafa Tips Skrtel To Bounce Back

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez believes that Martin Skrtel will make a full recovery from his knee ligament injury and will be back to his best by Christmas.

The 23 year-old Slovakian damaged posterior ligaments in his right knee during the course of Liverpool's 3-2 win over Manchester City on Sunday.

The initial prognosis for the defender was not positive; The ex-Zenit St Petersburg man was feared to be out of action until the end of the season.

However, further examinations revealed that Skrtel would not require surgery and would be available for selection in around 10 weeks time.

Rafa Benitez was loathe to lose the 6'3 centre-back, as he had just begun to form a strong bond with Jamie Carragher in the Liverpool rear-guard.

However, he is optimistic that Skrtel will return as strong as ever.

Benitez told the Liverpool Echo: “It is a big loss for us because Martin has done very well for us since joining from Zenit St Petersburg.

“He was playing very well and we were very pleased with him so it is a real pity that he has got injured now.

“But we also know that it could have been worse and the fact that he could be back for our games towards the end of the year is positive for us.

“Martin has a very strong character and he trains hard so I am sure that when he does come back he will be the same player as before he got injured.”

Rafa Keeps His Feet On The Ground

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has reiterated the need for his side to keep their feet on the ground following short-term success.

The Reds, who received their perennial pre-season tip as Premier League title contenders, came in for criticism at the start of the campaign following a sluggish opening.

However, Benitez's side remain unbeaten in 12 games in all competitions and - prior to last weekend's two-goal comeback at Manchester City - have already recorded victories over Manchester United and Merseyside derby rivals Everton.

The Anfield outfit are currently sat level on points with Chelsea at the top of the table, but Benitez insists his squad must remain grounded.

"It's important to send the right messages," Benitez told the club's official website.

"We have a long, long way to go. We have to do things properly both now, in one month's time and in three months' time.

"We can have a lot of confidence in ourselves but we must keep our feet on the ground.

"We (the squad) were talking about this before, although we can enjoy being at the top of the table.

"But the players know we must keep going until the end. You can't win a title now - you can only win it at the end of the season."

Benitez has also backed Martin Skrtel to make a full recovery from the knee ligament injury the centre-back suffered at Eastlands.

"It is a big loss for us because Martin has done very well for us since joining from Zenit St Petersburg," added Benitez.

"He was playing very well and we were very pleased with him so it is a real pity that he has got injured now.

"But we also know that it could have been worse and the fact that he could be back for our games towards the end of the year is positive for us.

"Martin has a very strong character and he trains hard so I am sure that when he does come back he will be the same player as before he got injured."

Americans Eye Exit, While Juventus Eye Benitez

Liverpool’s American co-owner’s Tom Hicks and George Gillett have given no indication that they are to offer manager Rafa Benitez a new deal at Anfield. With the calm coming from the Red half of Merseyside after a summer of washing their dirty linen in public possibly a clear indication that the Americans have their eye firmly on an exit strategy from the Premier League.

Hicks and Gillett have already suspended work on the new Stanley Park Stadium indefinitely, since apparently patching up a reported “unworkable” partnership. With the Americans expected to sell the Reds in the coming months, with the Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed said to be joined by another prospective investor to have shown interest in the Premiership club.

Benitez has less than two years to run on his current contract at Anfield, with the absence of a new deal on the table firmly pointing to the Americans eying the exit door. Given that Liverpool have had their best start ever to a Premier League campaign and are joint-top with Chelsea it is not unreasonable to think that Benitez should be offered one. Hicks had claimed during the fallout with Gillett that he was to offer Benitez a new contract at Liverpool, but this did not materialise due to being unable to buy Gillett out of his stake of Anfield.

This situation has alerted clubs in the Spaniard’s homeland in La Liga, along with interest from Serie A, with Juventus putting the former Valencia boss on the top of their list to replace Claudio Ranieri at La Vecchia Signora. According to Tuttosport on Monday, Benitez has clashed with the Anfield board on more than one occasion over transfer policy in the past.

With the refusal of the Americans to back his bid for Gareth Barry at Aston Villa in the summer the latest, but despite this and no offer or even mention of talks on the horizon, Benitez insists that he is not concerned by his contract situation at the Reds and hopes to remain at Liverpool for many years.

“I'm not worried about the situation at the moment,” he said.

“I am trying to be pragmatic about it and am just concentrating on the things I can improve. It doesn't make it more difficult for me to plan for the future.

“I can only control things on the pitch and try to improve the squad. If I can do that, then things will be easier in the future.

“I'm really pleased and I have two more years [in fact a little over 18 months] left on my contract, so right now I'm just trying to do my job the best I can. I have always said I want to stay here for many years and I have the same idea now.”

However, if Liverpool are sold as expected there is no guarantee that the new regime will want to keep the Spaniard at the helm. So Benitez might have to carefully consider his future on Merseyside with an impending sale looming, which could pave the way for Juve to make their move.

Aurelio Ready For Title Fight

Liverpool defender Fabio Aurelio has set his sights on Premier League glory, insisting Sunday's comeback win against Manchester City highlights his side's newfound grit.

The Reds were trailing 2-0 at half-time against the Citizens, but a second-half brace from Fernando Torres and a late winner from Dirk Kuyt saw them claim a memorable victory at Eastlands.

The win kept the Merseysiders' unbeaten record intact, and only goal difference separates Rafael Benitez's men from league leaders Chelsea.

The season may be less than two months old, but Anfield is buzzing amid its tenants' impressive start and thoughts are already turning toward the possibility of silverware come May.

Aurelio has added his name to the list of players talking up Liverpool's title chances, as he insisted the fighting spirit they displayed against City is indicative of a club ready to end their 18-year drought.

"The win shows how strong Liverpool are now," the Brazilian left-back told the press. "The form we showed to win was unbelievable but we believed in ourselves right until the end.

"It's not easy to play against Man City, especially when you go 2-0 down. But we came back and I think it shows we're stronger than before. It was a great, great result.

"It was really important to win this game. If we want to win the title, these kind of points are really important."

Rafa: I Was Right To Drop Keane

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has defended his decision to omit Robbie Keane from the starting XI in Sunday's thriller against Manchester City.

Eyebrows were raised when Keane was benched against City after scoring his first goal for the Reds in their midweek Champions League win over PSV Eindhoven.

The Irish forward, who initially struggled after his summer switch from Tottenham Hotspur, seemed to have finally found his touch with a match-winning display against Everton the previous weekend, and his absence was noticeable at Eastlands as the Merseysiders fell two goals behind in the first half.

Liverpool ran out 3-2 winners thanks to Fernando Torres and Dirk Kuyt, but some pundits have nonetheless taken Benitez to task over his decision to drop Keane.

The Spanish tactician responded via the club's official website: "City have players with pace and a lot of skill so we were trying to control this in the middle of the park and give freedom to (Steven) Gerrard.

"It wasn't bad but we made some mistakes. In the second half the attitude changed and everything was different.

"Against good teams it's always important to do the right things and we know we can beat anyone. They are a good team with a lot of good players and a good manager, so the belief of our players was the key."

Liverpool's second-half display would seem to at least partially justify Benitez's tactics, as the likes of Gerrard and Xabi Alonso exerted their considerable influence on the game.

The Reds' dominance after the break was highlighted when City defender Pablo Zabaleta was sent off for raising his studs in a desperate bid to win the ball from Alonso.

"Xabi is okay," added Rafa. "It was a clear red card, no doubt about this and very clear.

"At this point we were controlling the game and were on top of them. We were creating chances and we were better than them."

The win means Liverpool maintain their unbeaten record this season. They currently sit second in the Premier League standings, trailing Chelsea on goal difference.

Agger Ready To Fill Skrtel Void

As Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel prepares to learn the extent of his knee injury, Daniel Agger is readying himself for a long-awaited return to the first team.

It is Skrtel's fine form which has kept Agger rooted to the sidelines for most of the season so far, and yet it was a defensive error which could cause the Slovakian to miss the rest of the season.

The former Zenit St. Petersburg star misjudged a hopeful long-ball during Liverpool's miraculous win against Manchester City on Sunday, resulting in a nasty collision with Ched Evans that forced the Reds, who had already used all their substitutes, to play out the game with 10 men.

Television replays showed the 23-year-old's knee flex awkwardly in the challenge, and it has been confirmed that he will be out of action until at least January.

However, it is feared the damage could be even more severe, and Skrtel will see a specialist later today to learn whether he could in fact sit out the rest of the term.

In any case, there is now a vacancy in Rafael Benitez's back-line which desperately needs filling - and while Agger is disappointed for his team-mate, he is determined to grab his opportunity with both hands.

"Of course, I was hoping for some playing time but this is not exactly the way I wished to get it," the Danish defender told the Daily Mail. "I know Martin very well because I share a room with him when we travel.

"I hope to get my chance now and then I will prove that it is my place. At the same time it could be (Jamie) Carragher’s place we are talking about because I don’t know why people only say it is me and Skrtel fighting each other for a starting position."

Agger was a first-team fixture by the end on the 2006-07 campaign, but a recurring metatarsal injury saw him spend the vast majority of the following season on the treatment table.

Thus, with only Sami Hyypia in reserve, Skrtel was recruited in January to plug the gap - a job he performed with such aplomb that Benitez was forced to retain him in the starting XI even after Agger returned to fitness.

The former Brondby star, also 23, has made only two starts so far this season: the first coming against Standard Liege in Champions League qualifying in August, the second in the Carling Cup against Crewe Alexandra.

"I have had to be patient and wait for this opportunity but I’m not complaining. I know how things are," Agger said.

"The team have been playing really well and the results have been great so I couldn’t really expect the manager to make too many changes.

"The only thing I could do was get my head down and concentrate on getting as fit as possible so I would be ready when my chance came."

Speculation has sprung up over the past few weeks concerning Agger's future at Anfield, with several sources suggesting he is bored of sitting on the bench and may seek a move in January.

The strongest link comes from Real Madrid, who recently revealed their admiration for the Dane and confessed that they had initially planned to swoop for him in the summer.

But Agger dismissed rumours that he is unhappy at Liverpool, saying: "There have been a few stories about me recently but I couldn’t be happier. I’m really glad to be a Liverpool player and all I want is to play a part in maintaining our good start to the season."

The Reds are undefeated so far this season. They sit second in both the Premier League and their Champions League group, with only goal difference separating them from Chelsea and Atletico Madrid respectively.

Dirk Kuyt Optimistic Liverpool Are On Course

As he reflected on an uplifting start to the Barclays Premier League campaign for his Liverpool team, Rafael Benítez was eager to make clear that the real hard work lies ahead. That perception will only be enhanced by the grim confirmation yesterday that Martin Skrtel could be absent for six months with cruciate knee ligament damage, but not even that news could wipe the smile off Liverpudlian faces as they wondered whether maybe, just maybe, this could be their year.

It feels too early in the season to be pinpointing results that define a campaign, but Liverpool have had enough of them in recent weeks to suggest that they have summoned the spirit and resolve that is required of champions. Whether they have the necessary quality in all departments is to be determined, but, as they left the City of Manchester Stadium on Sunday evening after recovering from a 2-0 deficit to beat Manchester City 3-2, Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard and the rest looked as if they felt that they had just proved something to each other as well as to Chelsea, Manchester United et al.

The misfortune for Liverpool is that the injury to Skrtel, one of their most impressive performers, threatens to take some of the wind out of their sails, with doubts over whether the Slovakia defender will play again this season after he damaged the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee shortly before Dirk Kuyt's stoppage-time winning goal against City. He will have a further assessment today.

In Skrtel's absence, Benítez must decide whether to opt for Daniel Agger, who has not played in the Premier League since suffering a fractured foot 13 months ago, or Sami Hyypia, who was deemed surplus to requirements when the manager submitted his squad for the Champions League at the end of August.

Hyypia, who turns 35 today, will have a part to play - not least because of his ineligibility for the Champions League, which came about as Benítez grasped for a way around Uefa's quota system on homegrown players - but, if Liverpool are to sustain their title challenge, it is essential that Agger returns to the form he had begun to show before injury brought his last season to a premature end. The Denmark defender has been troubled by concerns over the injury since returning to fitness over the summer, but Benítez will need him at his best for the tests ahead, most notably the encounter with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on October 26.

Either way, the majority of Liverpool's players departed for international duty in high spirits. “It was great for us to take all three points after what happened with Martin,” Kuyt, the Holland forward, said.

“Sunday was a really important win for us. I think the first half was our worst 45 minutes of the season, but we were a completely different side in the second half. It was great to win a game like that because it gives us even more belief, but we know it is still very early in what will be a long season. The most important thing now is to keep taking it one game at a time.”

Indeed, Benítez was eager to reinforce the “one game at a time” message, pointing out that there are matches at home to Wigan Athletic and away to Atlético Madrid, the latter in the Champions League, before the trip to Stamford Bridge.

Wigan were one of seven visiting teams to escape defeat at Anfield last season, but with victories at home to United and away to City, Liverpool have illustrated their determination to succeed where they failed last season - one game at a time.

Liverpool Boss Rafa Benitez Not Looking Beyond Wigan To Chelsea Clash

With some vital victories, Liverpool seem to be on the right track for the Premier League title challenge and manager Rafa Benitez has revealed a simple yet effective secret to it.

The Reds' impressive 3-2 win against Manchester City at the City of Manchester Stadium where they were down by two goals at half time, shows their calibre and determination to mount a sustained title challenge.

The victory has also kept Benitez’s side on a 12 match unbeaten run in all competitions and the Reds will look to maintain it when they face Wigan Athletic at Anfield after returning from the international break, before the big clash against Chelsea on October 26.

"We have a clear idea of what we have to do," Benitez said.

"We have to go one game at a time. This was another great win and three points.”

"The main thing from my point of view is the belief of the players."

Rafa: Nando Is A Good Boy!

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has once again hailed the impact of Fernando Torres.

Torres fired his 28th and 29th Premier League goals for Liverpool yesterday, a tally that takes him beyond Patrik Berger as the Reds' all-time foreign goalscorer in that competition.

The ex-Atletico man followed his brace in the Merseyside derby with another two-goal salvo at Manchester City in the weekend's 3-2 win and his manager could not be happier.

Torres set Rafa Benitez back over £20million, but the Liverpool boss has been more than repaid in terms of goalscoring output.

Today, he took the opportunity to talk up the European champion’s credentials.

He told the press: "We know how important Torres is for us. He is always a threat to the defenders and can score goals. He also gives space to his team-mates and Torres is a fantastic boy with a good mentality. He was unlucky not to get his hat-trick."

Martin Skrtel's Knee Injury Confirmed By Liverpool FC Medics

MARTIN SKRTEL is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after a scan revealed he suffered a cruciate ligament injury in Liverpool’s win over Manchester City.

The Slovakian defender was carried off in agony after falling awkwardly in the latter stages of the Reds 3-2 win yesterday.

Skrtel was also given oxygen on the pitch and Liverpool’s worst fears were today realised when the results of the scan showed that he sustained an injury to his posterior cruciate ligament.

He will see a specialist tomorrow, at which point it will be determined how long he is likely to be out of action.

Club spokesman Ian Cotton said: “Martin underwent a scan this morning which showed damage to the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

“He will see a specialist tomorrow to assess the extent of the injury and will then have an accurate idea of the time scales involved before he is back playing again.”

Meanwhile, Dirk Kuyt today dedicated his winning goal in yesterday’s clash to his stricken team-mate and admitted the sight of Skrtel being carried off made Liverpool even more determined to secure victory.

“Martin’s injury looked very ugly but hopefully it will not be too serious,” said the Dutchman.

“He is due to have a scan and with a bit of luck it will turn out to be not so bad but we will have to wait and see.

“It was great for us to take all three points after what happened to Martin and I think we all wanted to win it for him.”

It is feared Skrtel has suffered a knee ligament injury but nothing will be confirmed until the results of the scan are known.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez said: “Martin has twisted his knee and we will have to wait for the scan but we think it could be serious.

“That's the bad news for us from yesterday. When a player like Martin is on the ground you know it’s serious so we will keep our fingers crossed that it won’t be too bad.”

After going 2-0 down to City before half-time, Liverpool staged a remarkable second half comeback which saw them win the game thanks to a brace from Fernando Torres and Kuyt’s last gasp strike from close range.

Kuyt was delighted to score his first league goal since last November but he insists he is even more pleased that the Reds managed to take all three points after an opening 45 minutes which he readily admits was Liverpool’s worst of the season so far.

He said: “It was a really important win for us. I think the first half was our worst 45 minutes of the season but we were a completely different side in the second half.

“At half-time the manager told us that we had to go back out there and play our own game and that we would be back in the game if we scored a goal.

“That’s exactly what we did. We worked really hard and with Fernando getting the first goal early on in the half it gave us the belief that we could go on and win the game.

“The most important thing is to keep taking it one game at a time.

“It was great to win a game like this one because it gives us even more belief and confidence but we know it is still very early in what will be a long season and we have to keep focusing on getting results.

“I hadn’t been thinking of the fact it had been so long since I scored a goal in the league but it was great to score such an important one at the very end of a game and I am even more delighted because it gave us the three points we wanted so badly.”

“Now hopefully we can keep it going.”

Liverpool Boss Benitez Top Of Juventus List To Replace Ranieri?

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is on the top of the list to replace Claudio Ranieri at Serie A giants Juventus, according to Tuttosport.

Ranieri's future at La Vecchia Signora is clouded with uncertainty, despite the former Chelsea manager gaining promotion for the Turin club from Serie B the season before last and taking them to 3rd place in the Scudetto last season and qualifying for the Champions League.

However, the Bianconeri are struggling in 11th place in Serie A and had to come back to earn a draw with BATE Borisov in Europe last week after going 2-0 down. This has led to the board at Juve bringing Ranieri’s future into question and drawing up a list of people to replace the Italian.

Anfield chief Benitez is understood to top the list, with Zenit St Petersbug’s Dick Advocaat also on the list along with AS Roma coach Luciano Spalletti.

Benitez joined the Reds from La Liga side Valencia amidst reports of differences in transfer policy with the board at the Mestalla. Something Benitez has clashed with the American co-owners of Liverpool on more than one occasion, but a move to Italy would seem unlikely at the moment, with Liverpool making their best ever start to a Premier League season.

Liverpool Comeback Shows They Might Just Be The Real Deal

A win is a win is a win but, as Morrissey almost said, some wins are bigger than others.

To see Liverpool's delirious celebration of Dirk Kuyt's winning goal at Eastlands today, after they had been 2-0 down at the end of a thoroughly miserable first half, was to see a side with an increasingly powerful belief that destiny is with them, and that it has decided their run without a league title will end at 19 years.

Liverpool did not play particularly well until Pablo Zabaleta was given a straight red for an appalling challenge on Xabi Alonso, after which they picked City apart at will, but that only adds to the worthiness of their victory. There is an inclination to talk of such victories as displaying the "mark of champions", when a team have played badly but willed or lucked their way to a win.

Yet what is just as important as the perception that a lucky victory is the preserve of the bona fide title contenders is the extent to which the confidence and sense of fate that can be drawn from such victories permeates through future contests. Liverpool will glean an immeasurable psychological boost from the manner of their win.

There are still issues with the team, not least at full-back, but this will only reinforce the growing belief on the Kop that this could be Liverpool's year. Late wins, comeback wins, lucky wins: Liverpool are ticking a lot of the boxes of the potential champion. The force is strong in these ones.

Every title-winner recalls one symbolic victory: recent examples include Manchester United's heist at Anfield in March 2007, Chelsea's show of bare-chested cheek after withstanding a physical battering at Blackburn in February 2005, and Thierry Henry's 4-2 victory over Liverpool in April 2004. Usually, by their very nature, they come in the second half of the season. But if Liverpool win the league this year, this might be the one.

Comeback wins (Liverpool have already come from behind three times to win this season) and in particular late goals offer a window into a very healthy soul – remember how many Manchester United's treble winners scored – and this is the third time in seven league games that Liverpool have won with a goal in the final 10 minutes, two of them in injury time. Ryan Babel's winner against United also came late, with 13 minutes to go.

Liverpool are gathering force through each game and, as a consequence, gathering an even stronger force for the long-game of the title race.

Frustrated Liverpool defender Agger Set For A Move To Real Madrid In New Year

Unsettled Liverpool defender Daniel Agger could be set for a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid in the January transfer window.

The Danish centre-back has fallen behind Martin Skrtel as Jamie Carragher's first choice partner, and the Sun have reported he has become unhappy with the lack of games.

Real vice-president Jose Angel Sanchez has admitted they would already have moved for Agger had they not spent the summer trying to resolve Robinho's future.

Sanchez said: 'We already had plans about buying Agger this summer, along with some other players.

'But the Robinho situation took so much attention and demanded so many resources from the club that we had to drop the plans for putting in a bid for him and the others we had in mind.

'Agger’s a player we have been looking at for a long time and it’s likely we will bid for him in January.

'He’s a world-class player and would fit into our system without a doubt. We need a defender and a striker - and Agger tops our list.'

Kuyt: Liverpool Can Aim For Title After Victory Over Manchester City

Liverpool's Dutch forward Dirk Kuyt, who scored the winner in his team's Saturday 3-2 victory over Manchester City, believes that that win proves that Rafael Benitez's team have the credentials to go on and win the Premier League this season. The stoppage time goal was Kuyt's first in the Premier League in 28 games.

Liverpool had been trailing 2-0 at the break, but two Fernando Torres goals brought them back in to the game. Going in to the international break, Benitez's team are top of the Premier League, four points ahead of Arsenal and six clear of champions Manchester United.

The 28-year-old said: "We try to make a statement every week. Every three games we have a big game. We had Everton and PSV last week, and our target is just to win every game and try to be there by the end of the season. But it was vital to keep pace with Chelsea before the internationals. We can leave with a good feeling.

"We've already had one international break and we came back in our first game after it and beat Man Utd, so I wouldn't say it comes at a bad time.

"Anyway, we don't need any excuses. We'll just keep on going and see how we do against Wigan in our next game."

Kuyt added: "We had a feeling at half-time that we could get back in the game if we scored a goal. We got that and were back in the game, and I think we deserved to win.

"All of the players worked really hard - even the substitutes. It shows what a good squad of players we have here.

"Fernando had a difficult time in the first half but that was the same for all of us. He just needed a little chance to score and it's great for a team if you have someone like that up front. He always seems to score when he gets his chances."

Skrtel - Worst Pain Ever

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel has revealed his injury against Manchester City left him in the worst pain he has ever experienced.

The Slovakia international was stretched off late on at the City of Manchester Stadium on Sunday after falling awkwardly while shielding the ball from Ched Evans.

Skrtel's agony was obvious as he was given oxygen on the pitch and he has now informed Slovakia's team doctor that he went through a new level of pain after twisting his knee.

The Reds ace is set to go for an MRI scan on the injury on Monday where Liverpool will be hoping to ascertain how long he might be facing on the sidelines.

"I have already spoken with Martin and he told me he had never experienced such pain before," Peter Malinovsky told SITA.

"Martin will have an MRI scan on Monday and I don't really want to think about how long he might be on the sidelines.

"It might only be a week, but it could be a lot longer and I don't want to believe what the consequences of this injury could really be."