Alonso: Euro Success Inspired Me

Xabi Alonso claims victory in Euro 2008 made him and his fellow Spaniards even hungrier for club success.

The 26-year-old was one of four Liverpool players in the squad as Spain won their first trophy since 1964.

Now back on Merseyside, Alonso insists that he, Fernando Torres, Alvaro Arbeloa and Pepe Reina have no intention of resting on their laurels.

The midfielder told the official LFC Magazine: "I have taken a lot of confidence from our success with Spain in the summer. I might not have started the games because the coach had a pre-defined team in his mind and it worked really well.

"But I was an important substitute and I felt I was able to play my own part in that success. I helped close games out and made some contributions.

"Winning becomes a habit. I never understand the idea that winning trophies can somehow make players less hungry.

"I want more. I listen to Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher talking and they have won more things than I have won. They say it makes them hungrier for more and I am the same.

"I came home and put away my medal in the drawer alongside the FA Cup and Champions League ones, then started thinking immediately about winning trophies and medals with Liverpool."

Alonso notched up three substitute appearances during Euro 2008 and captained Spain in their final group game against Greece.

His form since returning to Anfield has had the Kop purring.

He added: "Personally, I am happy with my present form. But I can improve and that's my focus.

"I am a midfielder. I prefer to be thought of not as a defensive midfielder but as a central midfielder. That means I should be trying to get into more scoring positions and influencing the game higher up the pitch when the chance presents itself.

"You can always improve in football. You can never believe that you can't because pretty soon you will find yourself out of the team."

Mark Lawrenson: Robbie Keane Will Prove He’s Not Just A Support Star

IN the summer I must admit I had my doubts about Robbie Keane. When he signed from Spurs for £20million I described him as a streaky scorer – one who will get you 10 in 10 but then might go 10 games without getting a sniff of a goal.

I still think that’s a fair description of Keane, because that’s just the way some players – Wayne Rooney included – are and it’s very difficult for them to break that pattern.

However, I honestly feels that doesn’t matter in this current Liverpool team. As long as Keane gets his fair share over the course of the campaign, his overall contribution will make it look like money well spent.

Of course, as a striker, it’s all about goals and I don’t buy any of this nonsense forwards sometimes come out with about not caring if they score or not, as long as the team wins.

Because no matter how many chances you create for others, how high your work-rate is or how slick your link-up play with your with team-mates might be, scoring goals is your job. And you can’t be happy if you’re not doing it.

While Keane can’t be expected to net as many as Fernando Torres, he is at last starting to show that he can give the Spaniard some competition for his place.

And you can only do that by scoring goals. And even if Keane does continue his habit of getting a load all at once before another lean spell, that kind of form usually bags him 20 goals anyway.

And would be an ideal total for a man who will largely used as a supporting act to the main event, especially as Torres is now back in the fold.

I’m not sure if I would have been saying that with as much conviction had he not bagged those two against the Baggies at the weekend, however.

The fact that Keane hadn’t managed a league goal for Liverpool before Saturday and had struggled to complete a full 90 minutes hardly affected his team’s results.

But it doesn’t alter the fact that, despite what he says, he has been a little bit distracted by the burden of trying to get off the mark. He has been under pressure and sometimes it has shown.

One goal, however, and he becomes a different player. Look at his second – he had a similar chance against Atletico Madrid last week but looked a bit ponderous and hesitant. On Saturday he just swept past Scott Carson and fired it into the net without messing about.

That’s what happens when you have confidence – you do it without thinking.

And that’s the key thing. I know Robbie and he is a great lad to have in the dressing room with great leadership qualities.

And now he has his first league goals under his belt, I’m sure his true character will start to emerge.

Steven Gerrard Given The Freedom Of Knowsley Borough

STEVEN Gerrard was last night given the highest honour his home town could bestow – the Freedom of Knowsley Borough.

Liverpool FC’s superstar captain and England regular, dressed in a grey suit, spoke with pride of his upbringing on Huyton’s Bluebell estate during the ceremony at Knowsley Council’s Huyton Suite.

The 28-year-old is only the fourth person to be granted the title of Honorary Freeman.

Speaking briefly at the ceremony, he said: “This is a very special honour for me and even more so as it is awarded so rarely, so I’d like to thank Knowsley Council.

“I’m very proud of the area that I grew up in and proud of the community I came from. Growing up on the streets of Huyton helped me get to where I am today.

“These are the family and friends who have been with me since I dreamt as a boy of being a professional footballer.”

Gerrard follows in the footsteps of former Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson, who was the first to accept the honour in 1977.

Last night’s honour was the first in 20 years and it came in recognition of “his outstanding contribution to national and international football and his position as a role model to young people”.

Gerrard’s stellar career kicked off at Whiston Juniors, before being spotted by a Liverpool scout at age eight. This season he has notched up his 100th goal for the club and he is set to mark 10 years since his first team debut.

Leader of the Council Cllr Ron Round, said: “Steven is one of the greatest individual success stories to come out of Knowsley in recent years. Knowsley has a long and celebrated history of nurturing footballing talent and long may this continue.”

The high-profile crop of players from Huyton includes Everton legend Peter Reid, Craig Hignett and Tony Hibbert.

Neighbouring Kirkby has produced Phil Thompson, Alan Stubbs, Kevin Nolan and Terry McDermott, but Gerrard is the only player to have been granted such an honour.

At the ceremony, Gerrard and 120 guests were treated to the Knowsley Singers and Street Feet street dance group.

Gerrard made his Oath of Allegiance to Knowsley before signing the Roll of Honour.

At the end of the ceremony the Mayor of Knowsley, Cllr Michael Foulkes, presented the 28-year-old star with an Honorary Freeman Medallion and scroll.

Cllr Round said: “He is an excel-lent ambassador for Knowsley and a great role model. His story is one of talent, commitment and passion which has seen him grow into a world-class player.

“It sends a message out to young people everywhere that with hard work and persistence, they too can realise their dreams.”

He aimed his comments at the young footballers at the ceremony who acted as guard of honour.

Opinion: Rafa Benitez Doesn't Deserve A New Liverpool Contract Yet

Liverpool are joint top of the Premier League but I fear that the opening of new contract talks with manager Rafa Benitez is a big mistake.

Spaniard Benitez, 48, has guided my old team to the summit in a bid to end an 18- year title drought but the Liverpool board should wait until the end of the season to negotiate a new deal.

The club won nothing last season, which was totally unacceptable. And Benitez has yet to prove he can satisfy the club's huge craving for a Premier League crown.

Liverpool have finished fifth, third, third and fourth under Benitez, who has 18 months left on his existing contract.

And with 26 games left this term, the Anfield club could easily end up 11 points off the pace again, just like last season.

Premier League success is the benchmark at Liverpool but it's only now that Benitez seems to be appreciating that fact after being preoccupied with the Champions League for so long.

Anfield fans are usually very loyal to their managers but if the board gives Benitez a new four year deal now, only for Liverpool's challenge to peter out, then what?

As someone who wants to see Liverpool triumph in the Premier League in the near future, all I care about is winning, not who is at the helm.

I'd put Benitez on probation until the end of the campaign - then tell him: "Deal or no deal."

Gap Won't Cause Rafa To Gloat

Rafael Benitez has warned Liverpool fans about gloating too soon over the Anfield side's eight-point lead over champions Manchester United.

For many Anfield fans, such an advantage over their greatest rivals with the season almost a third over, is cause for celebration.

But boss Benitez said: "I don't think I will be celebrating until the gap is 20 points."

The end product of a weekend of frantic action at the top of the Premier League is that Manchester United sit eight points behind leaders Chelsea and second-placed Liverpool - who have a whopping 14-goal difference deficit to make up on the west Londoners.

Both clubs are on 29 points, with United's defeat away to Arsenal leaving them in fourth spot.

Benitez said: "We were aware before we played West Brom on Saturday that Manchester United had lost, but it was not something that we allowed to affect how we played.

"If you spend the whole time with a calculator considering what others are doing, it will drive you crazy.

"You must concentrate on what you are doing. United may be trailing us, but we are not looking at what they are doing, only ourselves."

Liverpool were top after the 3-0 win over West Brom for just 24 hours before Chelsea regained the leadership after a 2-0 win at Blackburn.

Benitez, who welcomed back striker Fernando Torres after a hamstring injury, said: "Manchester United still have a game in hand and the ability to make up points in just two other games is not that difficult for them.

"When the gap is 20 points, then I will relax. But with just this small difference all I can say is we must keep going all the time and not think about what other teams are doing."

He added: "We have confidence and are playing well, so we know we can be up there at the top. We know it is a long race and must keep going.

"It is still too soon to be thinking in those terms about other teams. There are too many games, in league and cups, and many things can happen.

"But things are very positive. We were top before and we wanted to be top again. The win over West Brom put us back up at the top and we must continue to put pressure on our rivals.

"We are playing well, scoring goals, but it could be better even though we are pleased."

Benitez is expected to rest several senior men for Wednesday's Carling Cup trip to face revitalised Spurs at White Hart Lane.

It seems certain that skipper Steven Gerrard, Dirk Kuyt, Javier Mascherano and keeper Jose Reina will be rested.

Diego Cavalieri, Jermaine Pennant, Lucas, Nabil El Zhar, Andrea Dossena, Ryan Babel, David Ngog and Sami Hyypia are expected to figure in north London.

Benitez will make a late decision on whether Torres continues his comeback with a place in the starting line-up against Harry Redknapp's men.

Benitez said: "He needs games, but we will assess the situation only after a couple more training sessions."

But it is clear that Benitez is keen to re-form the partnership between Torres and Robbie Keane, who scored his first league goals for the club in the win over West Brom.

Whether Keane will be involved from the start against his former club is also debatable, with Babel and Ngog likely to figure up front.

But Benitez said: "It was good to see Keane scoring, and then to have Torres back on the pitch.

"The understanding will be good again, and if they both continue to work hard they will be very dangerous for any opponent."

Rafael Benitez Warns Manchester United Are Still A Threat

Rafael Benitez has warned Liverpool supporters not to get carried away by the club's impressive start to the season or their eight point gap over Manchester United.

The Liverpool manager struck a note of caution after their 3-0 victory over West Bromich Albion took them well clear of the champions who lost 2-1 to Arsenal. However, Benitez says United, who have a game in hand, are far from out of the title race.

"When the gap is 20 points, then I will relax," he said. "But with just this small difference all I can say is we must keep going all the time and not think about what other teams are doing.

"We were aware before we played West Brom on Saturday that Manchester United had lost, but it was not something that we allowed to effect how we played.

"If you spend the whole time with a calculator considering what others are doing, it will drive you crazy. You must concentrate on what you are doing. United may be trailing us, but we are not looking at what they are doing, only ourselves."

Benitez, who welcomed back striker Fernando Torres after a hamstring injury, added. "Manchester United still have a game in hand and the ability to make up points in just two other games is not that difficult for them.

"But with just this small difference all I can say is we must keep going all the time and not think about what other teams are doing."

He added: "We have confidence and are playing well, so we know we can be up there at the top. We know it is a long race and must keep going.

"It is still too soon to be thinking in those terms about other teams. There are too many games, in league and cups, and many things can happen. But things are very positive. We were top before and we wanted to be top again. The win over West Brom put us back up at the top and we must continue to put pressure on our rivals.

"We are playing well, scoring goals, but it could be better even though we are pleased."

Benitez is expected to rest several big name players for Wednesday's Carling Cup trip to face revitalised Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane. It seems certain that skipper Steven Gerrard, Dirk Kuyt, Javier Mascherano and keeper Jose Reina will be rested.

Diego Cavalieri, Jermaine Pennant, Lucas, Nabil El Zhar, Andrea Dossena, Ryan Babel, David Ngog and Sami Hyypia are expected to figure in north London.

Benitez will make a late decision on whether Torres continues his comeback with a place in the starting line-up against Harry Redknapp's men.

"He needs games, but we will assess the situation only after a couple more training sessions," Benitez said.

Rafa: A Goal-Scoring Run Beckons For Keane

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez believes that now Robbie Keane has opened his Premier League account, he can go on a goal-scoring run.

Liverpool's 3-0 weekend win over West Bromwich Albion was significant not only because it took the Reds to the top of the table, albeit only for 24 hours, but also because summer signing Robbie Keane opened his Premier League account for his new club.

Keane bagged a first-half brace, and boss Rafa Benitez now feels the floodgates will open for his Republic of Ireland international, enabling him to start justifying his £20 million price tag.

"Robbie was working hard and has been playing well but it is massively important for a striker to score, so it’s both good news for him and for us," Benitez told the Liverpool Daily Post.

"I think you’ll see him get a lot more now. If the team keeps playing well and creating chances there is no reason why he won’t get a lot more. It was just a question of time.

"You could see the difference in Keane as soon as he scored the first goal. It made a massive difference to him," he said.

"I remember talking about Peter Crouch when he first arrived and we were waiting for his first goal. Once he got off the mark, a lot more came and it will be the same with Robbie.

"I spoke to Robbie before the game, he was under pressure to score but I told him that he had to stay calm because he has been playing well for the team.

"He told me that he was fine, that he had no problems, but you know a striker is always thinking about scoring goals and so it was very important for him to get his first in the league for us," he added.

"Hopefully we will see him scoring a lot more every week now. I wanted to reassure him because it has been difficult for him."

A Carling Cup clash against his former club Tottenham Hotspur is next for Keane and Liverpool, before Premier League business resumes on Saturday as the Reds introduce the weekend fixtures with a Saturday lunchtime kick-off against Greater Manchester side Bolton Wanderers.

Aston Villa’s Barry & Liverpool’s Alonso Long-Term Future In Doubt?

Aston Villa’s Gareth Barry and Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso are back in news with regards to their long-term futures.

England international Barry was keen to move to Anfield in the summer, but the Reds did not meet the asking price reported to be around £18m and the midfielder stayed back at Martin O’Neill’s side.

Latest reports claim that the 27-year-old may buy out his contract on the lines of Webster ruling, to fulfil his dream of playing Champions League football with the Reds and Arsenal having showed interest in the summer.

“I really do not know enough about the Webster situation,” said Villa boss O’Neill. “I don’t know where we stand politically in all that. All I do know is that if he doesn’t sign his contract, he has one year definitely left to run by the time we get to next June or July time.”

On Reds midfielder Alonso, who looked set to leave the Merseysiders in close season but boss Rafa Benitez did not get the offer of £16m that he was looking for; reports in Italy claim that Juventus are still interested in the Spain international.

The Serie A giants had been put off by the asking price in the summer, but are said to be hoping that they may get the 26-year-old for a lesser fee.

Gerrard Rested For Spurs Tie

Steven Gerrard will miss Liverpool's Carling Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane tomorrow night after Rafael Benítez confirmed that his captain needs to be spared for the club's pursuit of the title.

The Liverpool midfielder has appeared in every Premier League and Champions League game for his club when fit this season, missing only the goalless draw at Aston Villa due to a groin problem that hindered his pre-season programme, but will head a cast of senior players Benítez is expected to leave out of the fourth-round contest.

"Stevie needs a bit of rest," said the Liverpool manager, who has to decide whether to field Fernando Torres against Spurs following his return from a hamstring injury. "He was injured during the international break and it is important to try and keep players fit all the time."

Benítez has also insisted Liverpool's eight-point advantage over Manchester United with a third of the title race gone is not a cause for premature celebration. The Spaniard said: "I don't think I will be celebrating until the gap is 20 points. If you spend the whole time with a calculator considering what others are doing, it will drive you crazy. You must concentrate on what you are doing. United still have a game in hand and the ability to make up points in just two other games is not that difficult for them."

He added: "We have confidence and are playing well, so we know we can be up there at the top. We know it is a long race and must keep going. It is still too soon to be thinking in those terms about other teams. There are too many games, in league and cups, and many things can happen.

"But things are very positive. We were top before and we wanted to be top again. The win over West Brom put us back up at the top and we must continue to put pressure on our rivals. We are playing well, scoring goals, but it could be better even though we are pleased."

Liverpool Midfielder Mascherano Agrees To Become Maradona's New Captain

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has agreed to captain Argentina under new coach Diego Maradona.

The 24-year-old initially told Maradona he was unsure about taking on the responsibility of leading his country but was persuaded after the Argentina legend visited him last week.

'I've convinced him,' Maradona told Argentinian press after returning from his six-day trip to Europe, during which he visited a number of his top players, including Manchester United's Carlos Tevez and Barcelona's Lionel Messi.

'I explained to him what I thought about him and told him what I thought he could give the team,' the former Napoli and Barcelona star added.

Mascherano's first game as captain will most likely be against Scotland next Wednesday at Hampden Park.

The Liverpool midfielder has always matured earlier than expected on the international stage, making his debut for the national team before he had even played a game at club level.

Rafa Still Sees Improvement

Rafael Benitez has warned Liverpool's Premier League title rivals that his star players will only improve as the season gathers pace.

The Reds are only separated from first-placed Chelsea by goal difference after a 3-0 victory over West Brom on Saturday.

Robbie Keane netted a brace in the Anfield win, his first league goals of the campaign, while star striker Fernando Torres made his return from injury.

And Benitez believes that the best is yet to come from his attacking duo, while the Spaniard also insists captain Steven Gerrard has more to offer.

"Gerrard can improve, Torres will improve with fitness, Daniel Agger and Javier Mascherano can all improve," Benitez said in the Daily Express.

"Keane's goals were important and you will see him score a lot more now."

Robbie Keane: I Never Doubted Myself

The Liverpool striker has revealed he was never worried despite taking 12 games to open his Premier League account for his new club.

The £20 million striker grabbed his first league goals for Liverpool in their 3-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion yesterday.

However, according to football365.com, Keane claims he always knew the goals would come.

“The manager always had confidence in me, and I always knew the goals would come,” said the former Spurs man, “It has taken me longer than I had hoped, but with every game I am getting more confident. The evidence was there for everyone to see.”

Keane was denied a hat-trick after being substituted in the second half but admitted being taken off had not been a problem.

“I was looking for the hat-trick, but it is not about me. I'd got two goals and would always like more, but seeing the board go up with my number was not an issue for me,” said the striker, “People are trying to make a big deal out of it, which is not the case. Things like that do not matter - because this is a team.”

The result propelled Liverpool back to the summit of the Premier League and Keane claims that the win was most important that his goals. He said: “The most important thing was that we keep winning, and that I am part of that winning side.”

Despite scoring two goals yesterday, Keane was quick to pay tribute to his team mates, whom he praised for their excellent service, in particular skipper Steven Gerrard.

“I am getting great service. I have Stevie, Xabi (Alonso) and (Javier) Mascherano behind me - and they can all see a pass for me,” admitted Keane.

He continued, “Stevie's pass was excellent. But over the years he has been fantastic, and it is something I have noticed. Now I am on the end of those passes, which is fantastic for me.”

After netting his first league goals for his new side Keane appears confident the goals will continue to flow. He concluded: “My aim is to keep doing my job, and I know the goals will happen.”

Rafael Benitez Still Ready To Rotate As Robbie Keane Keeps Liverpool The Charge

It is still a strange feeling for those at Anfield to genuinely still be 'in amongst it' even in November but Benitez demonstrated in the victory over West Bromwich Albion that he is unlikely to change his ways despite these heady times.

Firstly Robbie Keane was the player he chose to withdraw when he wanted to bring on Fernando Torres with just under 20 minutes remaining. That Keane, who has now been substituted 13 times and has completed just two games this season, had scored his first two Premier League goals and was enjoying his best display since arriving from Tottenham in a £20.3 million deal in the summer was considered an irrelevance.

The Spaniard bristles at the word "rotation", insisting that when other top managers do what he does, it is simply termed "making changes" but that will not dissuade him from resting Gerrard, who underwent surgery on a groin problem in August, in the coming weeks.

Such stubbornness is likely to serve Benitez well when he opens contract negotiations this week and he said: "I think Gerrard's level will improve with Torres available. It is clear that Stevie is a bit tired at the moment, but with Torres he will have another player that can benefit from the accuracy of his passing.

"I think Gerrard can improve, Torres will improve with fitness, and Fabio Aurelio, Daniel Agger and Javier Mascherano can all improve. We are in a very good position and we have enough quality in the squad to be there for a long time. Stevie needs a bit of rest. He was injured during the international break and it is important to try and keep players fit all the time."

Playing two in attack was seen as the antidote to the issues Liverpool have had at times at Anfield, where they have been held by Stoke and Atletico Madrid and have had to come from behind against Middlesbrough, Manchester United and Wigan this season, but teams rarely come to Anfield in a mood like the positive frame of mind adopted by Tony Mowbray's West Brom.

Actual chances were a rarity but in the opening half an hour they enjoyed long spells of possession in the Liverpool half, with Keane passing up the best early opportunity when he failed to make a decent contact with a shot after Mascherano won the ball on the edge of the area.

But just after the half-hour, Keane put Liverpool in front with a trademark bending run on the 18-yard line. Aurelio found Gerrard, who spotted Keane's clever movement that gave the Irishman a couple of yards of space in front of Jonas Olsson and he lifted over Scott Carson to open the scoring.

Just before half-time, Keane again benefited from a defensive lapse as Olsson played him onside as he chased Aurelio's long ball down the left flank. Keane's first touch took him around Carson and he slipped the ball into an empty net.

West Brom continued to press but their best opportunities were hopeful efforts from Robert Koren before Alvaro Arbeloa's second Liverpool goal, a curling shot in added time, completed the scoring.

With 10 goals and 11 points from West Brom's opening 12 games, Mowbray acknowledges that a failure to make the most of spells of dominance is his team's current downfall, although he concedes that he will not have the kind of money to buy a player that guarantees goals in the new year.

He said: "It's very difficult to find someone with a proven goal-scoring record a club like ours can afford. Come January we will hopefully make additions, but proven goal scorers at this level are not going to be available."

Torres Will Lift Gerrard, Says Rafa

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has hinted that Fernando Torres' return to action will spur Steven Gerrard to new heights of excellence.

With Torres missing three weeks due to a torn hamstring, the pressure was heaped back upon Gerrard to be Liverpool's main man. It is a role he is used, and one he has performed brilliantly throughout his career, but itse physical toll has been evident over the last month.

But 'El Nino' is back in action, having returned as a susbstitute against West Bromwich Albion at the weekend, meaning the skipper has his partner-in-crime by his side - or, more accurately, just ahead of him - once more.

"It is clear to me that Gerrard's level will improve now Torres is available again," Benitez said in the Daily Mail.

"You can see Stevie is a bit tired after putting so much in over the past few weeks but having Torres around will help him.

"Apart from all the things Torres brings to the side on his own he will be another outlet for Stevie, another target who will benefit from the accuracy of his passing."

However, with Robbie Keane hitting form and Xabi Alonso performing so consistently in midfield, there is the possibility that Gerrard could be afforded a recuperative spell on the sidelines.

Benitez added: "Ideally, Stevie could do with a bit of a rest but maybe it will be easier to do that with Fernando back."

Reina - Reds Lack Experience

Jose Reina admits that inexperience in Premier League title chases will work against Liverpool.

The Reds sit level on points with Chelsea at the top of the table after suffering only one defeat this season.

But Reina fears that the Blues, and fellow title rivals Manchester United, will possess greater know-how when the going gets tough.

Liverpool have not won the league since 1990 and Spanish goalkeeper Reina recognises that a title tilt would be a new encounter.

Reina said in the Daily Star Sunday: "We haven't won the league in 18 years and it's going to take the effort of every player to change that.

"United and Chelsea have the experience because they have won the title before - and recently.

"They know what winning the title is all about and that is something which we don't have."

Robbie Keane: Liverpool Can Win The Premier League

Liverpool striker Robbie Keane scored his first league goals for the club - then claimed the Merseysiders have the confidence to go for their first Premier League title.

The Irishman netted twice in today’s 3-0 win over West Brom as Liverpool returned to the top of the Premier League following last week’s defeat at Tottenham.

And, asked if Rafael Benitez’s side can maintain their challenge where they have faltered in previous seasons, Keane told Setanta Sports: “I can’t comment on the past because I haven’t been here but confidence is high.

“Even though we lost at Tottenham last week, we’ve bounced back.”

Keane - who also has two Champions League strikes to his name - was delighted with his double in his 12th league outing for Liverpool.

“It’s been a while coming but I think you’ve seen Robbie Keane back to his best,” he said.

“Each game I feel like I’m getting better and better. Luckily enough for me, I got my goals but it’s not about Robbie Keane, it’s about getting three points.”

Benitez said: “This year we have showed character in a lot of games.”

On Keane, the manager added he had not been worried about the Republic of Ireland international’s struggles to score.

The Spaniard said: “He was playing well, working so hard for the team. Two goals, and there could have been another one, will relax him.”

West Brom manager Tony Mowbray admitted the better team had won but, although his side have to play Chelsea next, he is confident they will avoid an immediate return to the Championship.

He told Setanta Sports: “We’ll win enough football matches to make sure we’re still here next year.”

He added: “We aren’t going to get judged on these games, we try to take the positives.

“We want to come here and play football and try to score a goal, and next week we’ll do the same.

“I thought we gave a good account of ourselves but at this level, if you have a sloppy 10 minutes, you could be out of the game.”

Rafa Benitez: Why I Subbed Two-Goal Robbie Keane

Rafael Benitez believes Robbie Keane can follow the example of Peter Crouch and go on a goal-scoring spree after opening his Barclays Premier League account for Liverpool.

Keane netted twice as the Anfield outfit kept pace with Chelsea at the top of the table with a comfortable 3-0 home win over West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.

Having already scored in the Champions League this season, it had taken the striker 12 games to register in domestic competition after his near £20million move from Tottenham Hotspur during the summer.

Crouch famously suffered a similar barren league run when he arrived from Portsmouth three seasons ago before rediscovering his goal-scoring touch.

And Benitez reckons Keane is capable of now embarking on a profitable run of his own.

“Robbie was working hard and has been playing well but it is massively important for a striker to score so it’s both good news for him and for us,” said the Liverpool manager.

“I think you’ll see him get a lot more now. If the team keeps playing well and creating chances there is no reason why he won’t get a lot more. It was just a question of time.

“You could see the difference in Keane as soon as he scored the first goal. It made a massive difference to him.

“I remember talking about Peter Crouch when he first arrived and we were waiting for his first goal. Once he got off the mark, a lot more came and it will be the same with Robbie.”

Benitez added: “I spoke to Robbie before the game, he was under pressure to score but I told him that he had to stay calm because he has been playing well for the team.

“He told me that he was fine, that he had no problems, but you know a striker is always thinking about scoring goals and so it was very important for him to get his first in the league for us.

“Hopefully we will see him scoring a lot more every week now. I wanted to reassure him because it has been difficult for him.”

Keane was denied the chance of completing a hat-trick when he was replaced 18 minutes from time by Fernando Torres, who was making his comeback after missing the previous six games with a hamstring problem.

It’s the 13th time in 15 starts the Irishman has been substituted this season and Benitez said: “I also spoke to Robbie about the substitutions before the game. I said ‘I know I am changing you a lot but it is only because we need a different kind of player at certain stages of the game’.

“I didn’t want to do it again against West Bromwich because, after his two goals, I was expecting the hat-trick. But we had to win the game, that was the most important thing, and Torres had to play too.

“I’m sure he was thinking ‘Why me? Leave me on the pitch’, but I wanted to use the pace of Torres. They were playing high up the pitch.

“I didn’t get to speak to him after the game, apart from saying ‘congratulations’ when he came off, because he was getting his man-of-the-match award.

“You can have sentiment as a manager sometimes but at 2-0 you have to be careful because one goal for them and it becomes very nervous at the end.”

Keane was partnered by Dirk Kuyt on Saturday with Steven Gerrard reverting to a central midfield role.

And Benitez said: “I had been using Robbie and Stevie up front and he is different type of player to Torres.

“Torres has the pace to run behind defenders and Keane has good movement.

“For Gerrard, it was more difficult to find the pass to Robbie and more difficult for Robbie to find the run behind defenders but, with two strikers, I knew he would have more chances and it would make things easier for him.

“The only thing is you lose some of the balance of the team playing that way but we were better than them.

“Sometimes we’ll play with two strikers and other times we’ll just go with one.

“Going with two strikers helped Robbie in this game but it will be a good problem for me to have Torres fit again, Gerrard and everyone else fit.”

Alvaro Arbeloa scored his second career goal for Liverpool by sealing the victory with a well-taken strike in injury time. However, the Spanish full-back also picked up his fifth league booking of the season and will miss Saturday’s trip to Bolton.

Rafa Benitez: Robbie Keane Is Worth Every Penny Of £20million

Rafael Benitez insisted he had no doubts Robbie Keane would start banging in the goals despite an 11-match barren spell in the Barclays Premier League.

The £20million striker finally got off the mark in the league for Liverpool with two first-half goals that sent West Brom to defeat at Anfield and the Merseysiders back to the top of the table.

Alvaro Arbeloa added a third in the final minute to secure a 3-0 victory.

But it was Keane’s contribution that pleased Benitez. The Reds boss said: “I have always wanted to support Robbie, he has been playing and contributing to our victories.

“I have had no doubts that he would start to score regularly for us. Robbie has told me he has got a monkey off his back, not an expression I had heard before but I understand what he meant.

“Robbie has game intelligence and he is always a threat to defenders. It was only a matter of time before he scored in the league.

“He is quick and can punish any mistakes that defenders make, and that is what he did.”

Keane, a former Wolves player, clearly enjoys games against their Black Country rivals. He has now scored eight in his last six starts against Albion.

Benitez also explained his reasons for not leaving Keane on the pitch in the final stages to try to complete his hat-trick.

He said: “We needed to get Fernando Torres into the game, we needed his pace to complete the victory and maybe get the third.

“Fernando is not match-fit, but we needed to get him into the action. We had some tired players out there, Robbie was trying hard but Fernando was important to us in the final stages.”

It was Torres’ first game after missing six matches with a hamstring injury.

Albion boss Tony Mowbray considered his side had done their best. He said: “We intended to be positive, to ask Liverpool some questions and go for it.

“We intended to be attack-minded and for long spells we held our own. We had a sloppy 10 minutes and we were punished for that.

“But we had some young strikers out there against top-class defenders. They were a little naive at times.

“But games like this will not define our season that will come against clubs around us in the table.

“But if we can stay up, and come back next season with some better players, we will be able to improve.

“There is no lack of belief about us, we have confidence, and I am not worried at this stage about our position. We are still very much in touch with everyone.”

Match Report: LiverpooL 3 - 0 West Brom

Robbie Keane gave Rafael Benitez his 150th victory as Liverpool boss as the Anfield club moved back to the top of the Barclays Premier League.

Keane, who had managed to score only twice previously since his summer move from Tottenham - both in the Champions League - finally broke his league duck when he drove home from a Steven Gerrard pass in the 34th minute.

Keane's second came when he rounded Scott Carson a couple of minutes before the break and Alvaro Arbeloa added the gloss in injury time.

Liverpool have now beaten West Brom in their last 10 meetings and wiped away the memory of losing their unbeaten record at Spurs last weekend.

Fernando Torres made his return after a six-game absence with a hamstring injury, but initially only as far as the bench.

Benitez rested midfielder Xabi Alonso and brought in Yossi Benayoun as the only change from the side that drew with Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday.

West Brom were without James Morrison from the side that drew with Blackburn last time out, Do-heon Kim coming into the team.

West Brom, who have not won at Anfield in 41 years, set out with a positive approach by opting for two strikers, Roman Bednar and Ishmael Miller.

They initially moved forward with confidence, but Liverpool had space down both flanks to exploit and slowly started to pull West Brom's defence apart.

Former Liverpool keeper Carson saved well from Gerrard and Keane, but although Albion were still abrasive up front, a home breakthrough was only a matter of time.

Daniel Agger's tackle halted Borja Valero in the act of shooting, before Jonas Olsson was booked for a foul on Dirk Kuyt after 18 minutes.

At this point West Brom were standing up well to Liverpool's quick passing moves, which frequently broke down around Keane, whose anticipation of balls into space was at times poor.

But Liverpool came close when Gerrard sent in Benayoun on the right. Carson did well to save the winger's shot, but the ball bounced up and onto the arm of Olsson before bouncing away for a corner. Referee Peter Walton ignored pleas for a penalty.

Four minutes later Liverpool did take the lead. This time Keane read Gerrard's run and pass into space to perfection and motored onto it to lift his shot over the diving Carson.

And it was Keane who grabbed another to silence the West Brom fans who had been abusing him because of his association with Wolves many years back.

His second came two minutes from the break when he latched onto a fine through ball from Fabio Aurelio after Liverpool had broken with devastating speed as they cleared an Albion corner.

Keane was in yards of space to round the on-rushing Carson before firing an angled drive into an empty net.

Such a situation would have deflated many sides, but Albion came forward with purpose and spirit in the second period.

Robert Koren saw a long-range shot held by Jose Reina and another drive go wide before Albion opted for two substitutions after 56 minutes.

Luke Moore and Filipe Teixeira came on for Bednar and Do-heon Kim.

Keane got away from Ryan Donk in the box after 60 minutes, but Carson was out quickly to take the ball off the Irishman's toes.

Liverpool sent on Ryan Babel for Albert Riera after 66 minutes, the home side having been too quick to start coasting to victory and West Brom still showing spirit.

Torres' arrival finally came after 71 minutes, in place of the disappointed Keane, who had been striving for a hat-trick.

Torres' was soon into the action, taking a Benayoun pass. A quick change of pace and a fierce low shot, saved by Carson, followed and the Spaniard was back in his stride.

Liverpool had to wait until the final minute for their third, when full-back Arbeloa cut in from the right to fire into the top corner.

Benitez: 'The Monkey On Robbie's Back Has Gone, Whatever That Means.'

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has said that he always had faith in Robbie Keane, after the Republic of Irish international bagged a brace against the Baggies.

Former Tottenham Hotspur striker Robbie Keane is finally off the mark in the Premier League for new club Liverpool as he scored twice against West Bromwich Albion in the early evening kick-off at Anfield.

Alvaro Arbeloa added a third moments before the final whistle, and the resultant three points saw the Reds return to the top of the table.

Manager Rafa Benitez maintained his belief that Keane would always become a regular scorer for the title hopefuls, telling Sky Sports in his post-match interview:

"I have always wanted to support Robbie, he has been playing and contributing to our victories.

"I have had no doubts that he would start to score regularly for us. Robbie has told me he has got a monkey off his back, not an expression I had heard before.

"Robbie has game intelligence and he is always a threat to defenders. It was only a matter of time before he scored in the league," Rafa said.

"He is quick and can punish any mistakes that defenders make, and that is what he did."

Agger: Reds Need More Goals

Liverpool defender Daniel Agger has admitted his side must start converting their chances in front of goal if they are to have any chance of claiming silverware this season.

Rafael Benitez’s Liverpool were made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal last weekend as they slumped to a 2-1 defeat to Tottenham, despite largely dominating the game.

Speaking to the club’s official website, defender Daniel Agger admitted he was at a loss to explain the result at White Hart Lane. He said: “I don't think I can explain the defeat at Tottenham, but the result certainly wasn't good enough.”

The Danish defender confessed that his side had created enough chances to win the game but refused to blame anyone for the loss. Agger explained: “Against Spurs it wasn't just one or two chances, it was seven or eight, and they fell to different players. It was just one of those days.”

The Reds also spurned several opportunities in midweek against Atletico Madrid and Agger insisted Benitez’s men must improve, particularly in the Premier League.

“The League is so tight and there are so many games in a short space of time so you can't keep thinking about mistakes you have made. You have to carry on,” he admitted before adding, “But one thing that we have to remember is that if you don't score enough goals you don't win.”

The defender himself was guilty of missing opportunities against the Spanish side and he acknowledged he could have scored a hat-trick. He said: “To create those chances is obviously a good thing, but on a good day I could have scored three or even four goals."

Agger was also quick to warn his team mates that they must learn from their mistakes and admitted that they can’t afford to keep missing chances.

“We need to learn all the time and if we have lots of chances we need to take as many of them as we can,” he confessed before concluding, “Almost isn't good enough.”

Liverpool Will Not Offer Rafa Benitez The Five-Year Deal He Wants

Rafa Benitez will have to revise his contract demands if he is to secure a new deal from Liverpool's American owners.

The announcement from Tom Hicks and George Gillett that they are now ready to open talks to secure Benitez's future prompted the Spaniard to reveal that he wants a five-year agreement to be secured by the end of the month.

But while the American pair want to pacify both Benitez and the Liverpool fans - who want to see their ownership of the Anfield club come to an end - they will not sanction a contract that will expire in 2013.

Chief executive Rick Parry is expected to begin negotiations with Benitez's advisers this week.

But Liverpool will not be railroaded into bowing to their manager's insistence that a deal should be concluded by the end of November.

An Anfield insider said: "In American sports it is unusual for a coach to be given the kind of long-term contract Benitez is looking for.

"Such deals are normally extended by one or sometimes two more years and Rafa already has 18 months left on his current contract. There is obviously room for negotiation, but these things often take time."

Benitez revealed to Sunday Mirror Sport last week how a contract stand-off at Valencia prompted him to quit the Spanish club for Liverpool in 2004 just weeks after leading them to a La Liga and UEFA Cup double.

That prompted the two Americans to contact Benitez during the week with assurances about a new deal.

Rafa Benitez Gagged

Rafa Benitez will be gagged when he finally signs his new £5million-a-year deal.

Liverpool owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks have at last agreed to begin talks on the manager’s contract extension.

But they intend to add conditions to prevent further fall-outs between Benitez and the board.

Gillett, in particular, will demand a silence clause that bans the Spaniard from talking openly and honestly about the club’s policies.

In the past, Benitez’s frank assessment of Liverpool’s position has angered the Americans and almost led to his dismissal a year ago.

But they have come to realise Benitez is the man who can lead Liverpool to glory and that he deserves a new deal.

The owners’ decision to open talks symbolises a thawing of relations at Anfield.

Yet, with no timescale in place, it is possible that the Yanks will sell the club before Benitez gets a chance to pen terms, leaving him in limbo.

Hicks and Gillett are relaxed about allowing negotiations to continue for the rest of the season.

The Liverpool boss, however, is anxious for a swift resolution, saying he wants everything sorted “very, very quickly”.

He is hoping for a four- year deal worth £20m.

But last season, Hicks said he was looking to give the manager just a one-year extension.

The players cannot wait for their boss to secure his future.

Dirk Kuyt Is Crucial To Liverpool's Campaign

Dutchman Dirk Kuyt might not be your typical Anfield superstar but his presence in the Reds starting line-up may be one of the reasons Liverpool are flying high.

The son of a fisherman is proving to be a great catch for Rafa Benitez who snapped up the striker ahead of Premier League rivals two years ago.

And Liverpool certainly have more fun when the Blond Bombshell is on the pitch.

Hopes were high when the Liverpool striker was brought in from Feyenoord for around £9m in the summer of 2006.

Spaniard Fernando Morientes had been a flop, Peter Crouch was never in favour.

Kuyt bagged 12 Premier League goals in his first season and in doing so became the first player to hit double figures in the top flight under Benitez.

He's already passed his miserly return of three Premier League goals last year by scoring against Man City, Wigan twice and Spurs this season.

But those aren't the only stats that show what an impression Kuyt has made at Anfield - and that's why Rafa now wants to offer him a new contract.

When Kuyt plays, Liverpool are three times as likely to win, about half as likely to concede and on average pick up double the amount of points compared to when he's not there.

Rafa knows that and that's why the Liverpool boss continues to keep the Dutchman in his side, even if it's in the wide right role and not as a conventional front man.

Fernando Torres may have pushed Kuyt out of his natural position but the arrival of another Spaniard, Albert Riera, on the opposite wing, may have given him the space and balance that he and Liverpool need.

Liverpool have an abundance of wide men - Jermaine Pennant, Yossi Benayoun, Ryan Babel and now Kuyt - but out of all of them it's only Kuyt who has been an ever-present in the Premier League this season.

His bustling, energetic style makes him a fans' favourite - they always know he's trying.

That's why Rafa wanted him, and that's why it's better for Liverpool when Rafa plays him.

Atletico Madrid President Calls Steven Gerrard A Diver

Stevie Gerrard is a good enough actor to make it in Hollywood, claims Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo.

The Liverpool skipper enraged the Spaniards by falling dramatically to win a late penalty in their Champions League draw on Tuesday.

And Cerezo, who is also an agent for film actors, said he would happily sign up the England midfielder as a client - especially for a remake of The Fall Guy.

"I would sign Gerrard to do a movie because he is a good actor," said Cerezo.

"It's a shame that we didn't qualify for the Champions League's last 16 as we lost the point we needed because of this penalty.

"We can be upset but that doesn't change anything."

Torres: I'd Return To Atletico

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has not ruled out the possibility of returning to former club Atletico Madrid and complete some unfinished business, but he insists it will not happen any time soon.

Torres earned legendary status at Atletico before moving to Liverpool in 2007.

The 24-year-old Spain international said it was the right time to leave, but he would love to wear the red and white of Atletico again.

"I hope to experience many things still, but for me it is an exceptional club," said Torres.

"I don't know if I will retire there, but I would like to go back and finish some things that are left to do.

"When I was there I couldn't do any more, but I would like to go back."

He added: "Right now I have no plans to leave England. Not to Spain, not to Italy, not to another English club."

Torres has taken the Premier League by storm since leaving his homeland, scoring 33 goals in all competitions during his first season at Anfield.

That has put him in the running to win the Ballon d'Or as the European player of the year, although he does not believe he has much chance of taking that award.

"No. There is a clear favourite. I think there have been very few years when there has been someone who has done so much to deserve the award as Cristiano Ronaldo did last season," Torres added.

U-18s Crash To City Defeat

It was a bad day at the office for Liverpool Under-18s who crashed to a 4-1 defeat at Academy League leaders Manchester City on Saturday afternoon.

Hughie McAuley's second placed side went into the game without last weekend's hat-trick hero Nathan Eccleston who was nursing an injury, and fellow striker James Ellison was also ruled out with a knock.

Joe Kennedy scored a brilliant consolation goal for the Reds but McAuley's team were second best on the day.

"It wasn't a good game for us but we are honest enough to admit they were better than us," McAuley told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"For the first 20 minutes we were the better team. Alex Kacaniklic had a great chance but we couldn't score.

"Overall they were sharper than us. They passed the ball better and took their chances. They deserved to win and they had a better cutting edge in attack than we did.

"Joe scored a late goal three minutes from time with a rasper of a shot from 30-yards out. It was just a pity the goal didn't come earlier in the game.

"City are a good team but we have done well this season. We will bounce back and we will now look forward to the derby with Everton next Saturday."

Liverpool Under-18s team: Martin Hansen, Michael Scott, Christopher Buchtmann (Shane O'Connor 70), Conor Coady, Joe Kennedy, Andre Wisdom, David Amoo, Adam Pepper (Michael Roberts 65), Lauri Dalla Valle, Marvin Pourie, Alex Kacakniklic (Thomas Ince 50). Subs not used: Alex Cooper, Hakan Duyan.

Match Preview: LiverpooL vs. West Brom

West Brom travel to Liverpool on Saturday evening hoping to apply a fitting conclusion to their hosts' shaky week.

Last weekend Rafa Benitez's Reds suffered their first defeat of the season as they were stunned by a White Hart Lane late-show to surrender top spot in the Premier League.

And after dominating in North London only to suffer defeat, Benitez's side almost suffered the same fate in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday as Atletico Madrid very nearly completed a classic smash and grab on Merseyside.

The home side will, therefore, be eager for a polished performance upon their return to domestic action as they bid to revitalise their title credentials, but West Brom and manager Tony Mowbray will have other ideas.

Mowbray will have studied the blueprint of last season's Championship rivals Stoke, who travelled to Anfield in September, frustrated Benitez's men, and made off with a deserved stalemate and point.

The Baggies will also be well aware that they need to address a dip in form which has seen the Hawthorns outfit slip into the relegation zone following four games without a victory.

West Brom's cause will not be helped by the probable return of Liverpool star Fernando Torres, with the Spanish striker likely to make his comeback after a hamstring injury to add a neccesary cutting edge.

Xabi Alonso would be expected to make way, but the midfielder's excellent run of current form suggests Robbie Keane's place in attack could be under threat as the Republic of Ireland international still seeks his first Premier League goal in red.

Centre-half Daniel Agger appeared to dislocate a finger against Atletico but should be fit, while Andrea Dossena could return for Fabio Aurelio as the pair continue to be handed equal opportunities at left-back.

West Brom midfielder Filipe Teixeira has returned to training after knee and calf problems and could be named in Mowbray's squad, while James Morrison is in contention for a starting place despite limping off against Blackburn last weekend.

Former Liverpool goalkeeper Scott Carson will make his return to Anfield after joining the Baggies in July.

However, Leon Barnett (knee) is expected to remain on the sidelines for another two weeks and defensive colleague Abdoulaye Meite (calf) remains on the long-term injury list.


Possible Teams:

Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Agger, Dossena, Kuyt, Gerrard, Mascherano, Reira, Keane, Torres.

West Brom: Carson, Zuiverloon, Donk, Olsson, Robinson, Greening, Koren, Valero, Morrison, Miller, Bednar.

Torres Set For Baggies Return

Rafa Benitez is hopeful Fernando Torres will be able to make his first appearance in more than a month when West Brom visit Anfield.

The Spanish striker has not played for the Reds since the 3-2 win over Manchester City at Eastlands on October 5 after picking up a hamstring injury while on international duty.

In the six games Torres has missed Liverpool have scored eight times, but have only scored more than once on one occasion when Wigan were edged out in a five-goal thriller.

Benitez is optimistic Torres will prove the time has come for him to be unleashed on Premier League defences again by proving his fitness ahead of the visit of West Brom.

"Fernando has more confidence now and he has been training normally with the rest of the squad," said Benitez.

"He looks okay and we will decide whether or not he is ready to play against West Brom after our final training session before the game.

"But we are hopeful because he is much better now than he was earlier in the week."

Meanwhile, fellow injury victim Martin Sktrel has ditched his crutches as he continues his rehabilitation from a knee ligament tear.

The 23-year-old centre-back is happy with the way his recovery programme is progressing but is not yet ready to set a date for his return to action.

Skrtel suffered the injury after falling awkwardly at City.

He said: "I can already walk without crutches but for the next two weeks I have to wear a special orthosis (knee brace).

"The doctor explained some new exercises to me and we have not discussed the date of return yet. Anyway, I cannot nor do I want to rush anything. “

West Brom Goalkeeper Scott Carson Is Bracing Himself For A Testing Return To Liverpool Today

Carson, who moved to the Hawthorns in a £3.25m deal this summer after three frustrating years at Anfield, knows just what to expect from his old team and that his task will be even tougher if Fernando Torres is fit to play.

“Torres is a world-class striker and as a player you want to operate against the best,” said Carson.

“I would like to see him play and hopefully I can play well and prevent him from scoring.

“Tony Mowbray has been working on the shape of our team and hopefully we can click and be stronger at the back after conceding a few goals in our recent games.

“Hopefully I can go there and have a good game. If Torres plays it just means that I have to be even more on my toes.

“If we can go to Anfield and frustrate them for as long as we can who knows what the result will be.

“It would be great to get a point and give us a lot of confidence for the following game against Chelsea.

“I don’t know what kind of reception I will get from the Liverpool fans.

“I have no hard feelings about Liverpool. I never really had a chance to prove what I could do at Anfield, but it was a great learning curve for me.”

Albion’s aim for the season is survival, but Liverpool have far loftier ambitions and Carson expects them to sustain their challenge for the league title.

He said: “Liverpool are now playing really well. Going to Chelsea and winning proves they will be one of the title challengers. The likes of Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher are desperate to have a crack at the title.”

Mascherano Wants Agüero In Premier League

Liverpool's midfield battler Javier Mascherano wants fellow Argentine international Sergio Agüero in the English Premier League.

Agüero appears to be happy with Atlético Madrid, who have promptly slapped a £35 million price-tag on his head after learning of newly-rich Manchester City's interest in their star man.

Kun is highly rated by Atleti, who're currently trying to ease him back to full fitness whilst they gun for the last 16 of the Champions League.

However, Liverpool's recent continental double-header with the Primera Division side has reminded Reds star Mascherano of his highly-rated international team-mate. Now, he's urged the 20-year-old to head for the Premier League.

"I think playing for a big club in England would help him and he is certainly good enough to do it," said Mascherano, who initially moved to West Ham United in a controversial move.

"Lionel Messi is maybe one step ahead of him at the moment but he is still a fantastic player.

"He is strong and a good finisher and he has a very good technique."

The Citizen's are the only ones who've registered a strong interest in Kun, but the English giants will know all about his qualities. Still, it remains to be seen whether City, Liverpool or any other club would be willing to do business for anywhere near £35 million.

Kuyt's King Of The Kop, Says Dalglish

Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish has expressed his delight with Dirk Kuyt's form, insisting that the Dutchman is finally reaping the rewards for all his hard work.

Kuyt's constant inclusion in the Liverpool line-up became something of a running joke last season, as the Oranje forward's shots were more likely to end up in the Mersey than the back of the net.

The 27-year-old amassed a grand total of three goals in 32 Premier League appearances, and Reds fans were at a loss as to why Rafael Benitez chose him regularly ahead of Peter Crouch.

But since the back end of last term, Kuyt has enjoyed a remarkable revival. Since being shifted to the right flank to accommodate the Fernando Torres-Steven Gerrard partnership, he has gradually rediscovered not only his form but also his goalscoring touch.

Crucial strikes against Inter Milan, Arsenal and Chelsea helped Liverpool to within a whisker of reaching their third Champions League final in four years. And, though this season is barely a quarter gone, Kuyt has already bettered last term's league tally.

With Torres injured, the former Feyenoord man has rotated with Robbie Keane in the centre-forward role and has proved a valuable contributor with his strength and non-stop energy.

And Dalglish, the Glaswegian ex-forward widely regarded as Liverpool's greatest ever player, is thrilled to see Kuyt shining at Anfield.

"Dirk has had a really good season so far and it's always pleasing when someone who works so hard gets a reward," he told the club's official website.

"He is a very genuine boy who will always give everything he has and the fans definitely recognise and appreciate the effort he puts in.

"He deserves all the success he gets because he works his socks off for this team."

Keirrison Ready For Europe

Europe's big boys have been put on red alert after Brazilian prodigy Keirrison, and his club, revealed that he is ready to leave his homeland.

"My dream is to play and to triumph in Europe," Keirrison said on the Setanta Sports website. "I am working to achieve this goal every day."

The 19-year-old, who has been touted as one of the most promising young strikers in South America, came to prominence last year when he helped Coritiba win the Serie B title and earn promotion to Brazil's top flight.

'K9', as he is colloquially known, has scored over 50 goals in 100 games since being elevated to the senior squad at the Estadio Couto Pereira, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed across the Atlantic.

Barcelona and Liverpool have both been strongly linked with Keirrison, with Rafael Benitez reported to be particularly keen on the Dourados-born forward.

The Coritiba president, Jair Cirino dos Santos, admitted that there have been several enquiries into the Keirrison's availability and declared that the youngster's days in the Brasileiro are nearing an end.

"There is certainly interest from Europe, but the issue is not yet resolved," Dos Santos said. "Keirrison will not play in Brazil next season and that is for certain."

Most of Keirrison's contract is owned by Mais Sports, a third-party firm similar to the one who brought Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez to West Ham United in 2006.

A spokesperson for the company said: "K9 will be in Europe for the next season, but we need to study the offers to decide what is best," he said.

"The kid is prepared for the jump to Spain, England or Italy. It will not be a problem because he will be Brazil's number nine in two or three years."

Benitez Planning Long-Term Future

Rafael Benitez has made it clear he is anxious for an early resolution to contract negotiations he hopes will secure his long-term future as Liverpool manager.

The Spaniard's next challenge comes against West Brom at Anfield on Saturday - when Fernando Torres will be restored to the Reds front line - but there are matters to be addressed off the pitch too, as Benitez plots Liverpool's bid for the Barclays Premier League title.

Torres' return is timely, after Liverpool lost their unbeaten league record to Tottenham last weekend. But sorting out Benitez's own future will also go a long way to boosting confidence.

"I want the contract done quickly, because the team is playing well," said Benitez.

"I do not want to be talking about this for weeks and months.

"The team is very strong - you can see the progress. There is a new stadium soon, and I want to be part of the future of Liverpool.

"The length of the contract is important to me. We have been improving the squad for five years - so clearly we know that in the future we can be contenders and we can win more trophies."

When a potential five-year contract was suggested, Benitez said: "That would be very good.

"We will have to see, but I would like to be here for a very long time.

"We must do it quickly. Next week there will be meetings, and I hope it can be sorted soon - certainly not too long.

"I do not want to keep talking about my contract. It is not good for the team and it is not good for the club. We are in a good position that could be good for the future.

"I would like to see it signed before the end of the month. The owners have to talk to my agent about the conditions of the deal, but clearly the length of the contract is crucial.

"Stability is the key to winning trophies and being contenders for the title."

Benitez also wants stability in his strike force, aided by Torres' return and a likely pairing again with Robbie Keane - who is still struggling for goals.

Benitez said: "When Torres was playing alongside Robbie before the injury, it was beginning to work well. I would like to see that partnership again.

"Robbie has been working so hard, and maybe the goals have not been coming.

"I talked to him yesterday; I said we were happy with him, and we know he is having to do things that are difficult for him. But it will be easier for him to play alongside Torres.

"If we have Torres fit, we will score a lot of goals - like last season.

"I have a lot of confidence in our strikers - Dirk Kuyt and Keane have been working so hard while Torres has been injured. But I will now have them all back at a very critical time for us."

Rafa - Maradona Talks Positive

Liverpool held constructive talks with Diego Maradona on Friday as the new Argentina boss dropped by to outline his future plans.

The Argentina legend spent almost two hours at the Reds' Melwood HQ talking to boss Rafa Benitez and captain-elect Javier Mascherano.

Maradona wants the midfielder as his captain, a role which Mascherano himself has said he does not want, although Benitez thinks he has the right attributes to do the job.

Benitez said: "We talked about what Maradona wants from us and from Javier. The talks were positive, it was helpful to know what he was thinking.

"I did not discuss Javier becoming captain. But he has all the right credentials if he wants to do the job. He would make a great captain."

Mascherano was the last player to leave the training ground, but refused to discuss details of his meeting with Maradona.

The legendary 1986 World Cup winning captain brought Melwood to a standstill as players lined up to speak to him, with Steven Gerrard, Jamie Carragher and Robbie Keane heading the queue!

"I was having a discussion with Maradona in my office, but it was very difficult. There was a constant stream of our biggest players wanting to meet him. Probably our two most famous were first in the queue," said Benitez, who added: "Maradona was great, he was very patient with all the requests. Even some of Carragher's family turned up.

"Xabi Alonso also wanted to meet him, his father had played alongside Maradona at Barcelona.

"We also had lots of the youngsters here who were just speechless and wanted to meet him."

Maradona's visit came after he had held meetings at Manchester United's training ground earlier in the day.

Liverpool Fan Died Celebrating Steven Gerrard Goal

An elderly Liverpool football fan died after getting over-excited when captain Steven Gerrard scored a dramatic goal in the Champions League, an inquest heard.

Jim Carver, 77, a great-grandfather, was so thrilled when Gerrard scored that he jumped up to celebrate as he watched on television in his lounge.

He then felt light headed, fell to the ground and suffering fatal head injuries at his home in Whiston, Rotherham, the inquest heard.

Mr Carver was watching Liverpool's away game against Marseilles on September 16th. Marseilles had taken the lead but an inspired Gerrard double secured a 2-1 win for Liverpool.

Mr Carver's widow Beryl, 72, said: "Jim loved watching sport and was an armchair fan of Liverpool. I can't stand football so I was upstairs watching my own little TV when it happened.

"He had suffered a few falls in the past and I think he jumped up excited when Liverpool scored a goal.

"After that he decided he didn't feel too good so he was going to go to bed. He had bumped his head but we didn't realise it was serious at first, but then I called the ambulance.

"He was to come home from hospital but unfortunately he had another fall and his condition got worse."

Pathologist Dr Terry Marshall told and inquest in Rotherham that Mr Carver died "from head injuries sustained as a result of his celebrations during the televised Champions League clash."

Mr Carver, a retired steelworker, had five grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Acting Rotherham Coroner Fred Curtis recorded a verdict of accidental death.

Liverpool FC Boss Backs Misfiring Robbie Keane

Rafael Benitez is backing Robbie Keane to rediscover the luck in front of goal that his hard work deserves.

The Liverpool manager could be faced with a selection dilemma tomorrow if Fernando Torres declares himself fit for the Premier League visit of West Brom.

If Benitez welcomes Torres back into the fold following his hamstring injury, a decision to go with two central strikers is likely to see Keane retain his place.

The Irishman has not completed a full 90 minutes for the Reds since the 2-1 win over Manchester United on September 13, but he has featured in all 12 Liverpool games since, either being taken off or used as a substitute.

And his only two goals since his £20m summer move from Spurs have come in Champions League group games as he endures a frustrating wait to open his Premier League account.

However, Benitez feels Keane can’t be judged solely on goals and has no qualms about his contribution to the team.

“Robbie is working really hard,” said the Spaniard despite Keane’s removal for David Ngog 20 minutes from the end of the 1-1 Champions League draw with Atletico Madrid at Anfield on Tuesday.

“With strikers, people talk about goals but sometimes it depends on luck, positioning and good delivery.

“Sometimes you want to change things when you are creating chances, in the hope the other strikers can have a bit more luck.”

Torres’ return is yet to be confirmed as the forward continues to wait until he is fully fit before making his comeback.

The original prognosis of the hamstring injury he sustained playing for Spain last month was four games, but Torres has subsequently missed another two, the midweek meeting with former club Atletico and Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Tottenham.

And captain Steven Gerrard is in no doubt about how urgent the top scorer’s return to the side will be in light of the struggles of the past week.

He said: “Hopefully Fernando will be ready come the weekend, we have missed him. He has been training all week and things look hopeful.

“We need to take three points against West Brom, but last week has been our only defeat this season and we are more than happy with the way the season has gone.”

Meanwhile, Andrea Dossena has admitted that he needs to improve his game in order to pressurise Fabio Aurelio for the Liverpool left-back slot.

Aurelio’s time at Anfield has been plagued by injury but he has edged ahead in the race to be John Arne Riise’s long-term replacement since he came back into the side at the start of the season.

He played a key role in the 1-0 win at Chelsea two weeks ago but Dossena returned to the side last Saturday for the loss to Spurs before giving way to Aurelio again in midweek.

“I am not fully happy with my level,” said the £7m summer signing from Udinese. “With Fabio in my position the manager has the option of a player more in tune with the team right now.

“I am learning all the time. I knew coming to Liverpool and a new league would improve me as player and I knew that John Arne Riise was leaving and I would have the chance to play.

“But I also knew that in Fabio I had excellent competition for my position. It’s not a rivalry as such, it is merely friendly competition. He’s a great guy and a great player and having him here will help me.”

Our Full Backs Are Not Up To Standard

Before Wednesday night’s game there was a real sense that Liverpool would come out wanting to kick the cat after losing to Spurs at the weekend.

But it never really happened for us against Atletico Madrid.

Of course, Steven Gerrard has gone and got us out of jail in the dying seconds and as we all know it’s not for the first time.

Okay, so the penalty was a tad controversial but while the Madrid players protested vigorously, Stevie kept his cool brilliantly and hammered it unerringly into the Kop end. So for me he deserves enormous credit yet again for staying focused when he could so easily have been distracted by the rumpus going on around him.

But there were a couple of things in particular which struck me about the side last night and which are niggling causes for concern, I feel.

Firstly, I remain worried that our full backs are not showing up to the standards we expect to see at Anfield.

First and foremost defenders have got to be able to defend. But for Madrid’s goal Fabio Aurelio found himself caught upfield and he never recovered the ground as Madrid countered quickly.

In fact it was Albert Riera – a left winger – who tracked back to try and block the attack.

Aurelio and Andrea Dossena are clearly vying for the left back slot at Anfield yet it’s clear neither have convinced Rafa Benitez. And I can understand the reasons for that.

I’m afraid I still have doubts too about Alvaro Arbeloa. He’s tidy enough at times but when you think of some of the great right backs we’ve had at Anfield – the names of Chris Lawler and Phil Neal spring to mind – well, let’s just say he’s got a lot to live up to.

Those two were famous not just for being top defenders, but for adding an incredible number of goals too.

The other big concern is that without Torres, we look like we’re struggling to get goals.

Robbie Keane works his socks off but isn’t a target man and will be disappointed he isn’t getting on the score sheet more regularly.

Up front I wonder whether we do, Torres aside, have an out and out striking alternative of the quality we need.

That said, we kept battling away on Wednesday night.

Madrid played with typical European style, sitting deep and taking us on in their own half, which made space difficult to find and chances hard to come by.

Thankfully, when you’ve got the thrust of your captain at hand, there’s always hope.

Credit him and Liverpool for, once again, showing they never know they are beaten. But we can do much better.

Rafa Benitez now has a few clear days to work with the first team squad ahead of another home game and it will be valuable time.

It looks like Torres will be back for the visit of West Brom on Saturday evening and that’s what we all want to see.

There’ll still be a sense of frustration after the Tottenham defeat and the failure to win the Champions League group at Anfield last night.

So while we didn’t quite get it out of the system against Atletico, the visit of the Baggies will give us another chance. This time I expect us to take it.

An emphatic victory and three points safely acquired is what we need right now.

Back to winning ways, please boys!

Supporters Wants George Gillett And Tom Hanks To Sell Them Liverpool

Liverpool co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks have been urged to sell the club to supporters.

The ShareLiverpoolFC Group, who are attempting to recruit 100,000 shareholders to buy the club and take it into the ownership of the fans, has written an open letter to Gillett and Hicks pleading with them to sell their respective stakes to the fans.

Gillett and Hicks continue to deny that they are looking to sell Liverpool but the pair were reported last month to have engaged Merrill Lynch, the investment bank, to find a buyer.

While the latest development does not represent a concrete offer, it is a sign that the group, which is supported by John Aldridge among others, is serious in their intentions.

However, despite their clear ambition it remains unlikely the group could raise the £600million needed to match the Americans' asking price.

The letter, published on The Times website, reads: 'We understand you have decided to relinquish your ownership of Liverpool FC and are actively looking for a buyer. Along with the vast majority of Liverpool fans, we agree with your decision to withdraw.
'We would like to buy the club on behalf of the fans, and invite you to sit down with us to agree a deal.We are confident that if you're willing to sell to us for a fair price, we would have sufficient backing [either from the fans alone, or with a suitable partner].'

It continued: 'We want the club we love run solely in the best interests of a successful team, the fans and the community.

'We believe we represent a real opportunity for both of you to bring to an end a troubled period of ownership; an 'exit strategy' which would lead to admiration and respect from many.
'Doing the honourable thing and selling the club to the fans would return it to the values that made it the most successful football club in England and one of the best supported in the world.

'We'd also like you to be able to leave with dignity. George, in an interview last March, you said, "our goal from the beginning was to add … to the lustre [of Liverpool FC]", at this point you can only achieve this by doing the right thing – and that is to offer the club to the fans.'

Liverpool Must Seek Foreign Cash To Compete

A former Liverpool player said on Thursday the Premier League club should target foreign investors for cash to compete with rivals Manchester United.

"For Liverpool and the supporters it really doesn't matter who the owners are," Hansen told Reuters on the sidelines of a conference in Dubai on Thursday. "They're only interested in financing of new players and how well it (the team) is doing."

"If the Americans haven't got the money then if DIC came in and bought it and guaranteed a new stadium then that would be great," the former defender said in reference to Dubai International Capital, a state agency of the Gulf emirate.

DIC was outbid by Americans George Gillett and Tom Hicks when the Moores family sold the Merseyside club for 219 million pounds ($348.1 million) in 2007.

DIC in September ruled out a fresh bid for Liverpool or other clubs after mounting speculation that Gulf Arab investors would look to emulate an Abu Dhabi-based group that took over Manchester City on Sept. 1 by buying into British teams.

"If you are a Manchester City supporter you're in dream land ... City have been in the doldrums for such a long time ... now with the transfer window in January, you don't know what's going to happen. They might buy the world."

Hansen said the most important focus for Liverpool was funding a new stadium. "You cannot compete with Manchester United if they've got 76,000 (seats) and we've only got 44,000."

Another Dubai state firm, Zabeel Investments, in October called off its proposed takeover of Charlton Athletic, which plays in the English Championship (second division).

In 2007 Zabeel tried to buy Liverpool.

Boss Benitez To Open Talks On New Contract

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is to meet with the club's owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks in the next week to discuss a contract extension.

The Spaniard's relationship with the two Americans has not always been good and has often resulted in him being linked with other clubs in the last couple of years, significantly Real Madrid.

However, they appear to have patched up their differences in recent months and with the club having their best start to a Premier League season, moves are afoot to keep Benitez at Anfield.

'I received a phone call from Tom Hicks on behalf of George Gillett also. They are talking about a meeting with my advisors and a contract extension. This is very positive news,' he told the club's website, liverpoolfc.tv.

'We decided to meet in the next week and now my advisors are in contact with them. We haven't spoken about the length of the contract but we talked and we all want to find a solution as soon as possible.

'For me it's easy. I want to stay here - I am where I want to be. It's very simple.'

Benitez signed a new four-year contract in June 2006 but the club are keen to secure his services on a longer deal - and the manager is equally eager to extend his stay.

'My family and I know how good the fans have been with us. The club is going forward and we have the new stadium project. There are a lot of positive things," he added.

'I want to stay here for a long time. Clearly I would like to be here when the new stadium opens. The other day I was joking that if they offered me a 20-year contract I'd be really pleased.'

Benitez also hopes that by agreeing a new deal he - and everyone else - will be able to concentrate on the team, which is currently second to Chelsea on goal difference in the Barclays Premier League.

'The team is in a very good position, so if I do not have to talk about my contract from now on it will be perfect,' he said.

'The last two or three press conferences I have been asked and asked, so the stability is really important.

'The owners know we are doing well. The atmosphere is really good, we are at the top of the league and our Champions League group. The team is playing well.'

Gillett and Hicks are known to be delighted with the team's form so far this term and a statement on behalf of the pair said: 'Rafa continues to do a great job, we are really pleased with the progress of the team and we look forward to talking to him and his advisors about extending his contract.'

No9! Another Liverpool Player's Home Is Burgled As Lucas Leiva Becomes Latest Victim

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva has become the club's latest in a long line of players to be burgled while on the pitch.

Raiders struck at the Brazil international's home in Woolton while he was playing at Anfield against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

The 21-year-old returned home to find raiders had stolen an Olympic bronze medal he won in the summer as well as a collection of Brazil and Liverpool shirts.

The raid follows burglaries in the last 18 months at the homes of England dynamo Steven Gerrard, Dutch forward Dirk Kuyt, goalkeeper Pepe Reina, defender Daniel Agger and Robbie Keane, who had a watch and jewellery taken from his penthouse in August.

Former players Peter Crouch, Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Jerzy Dudek were also burgled during their spell at Anfield.

A Merseyside Police spokesman said crime scene investigators attended the address and house-to-house inquiries were conducted.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Peter Parry said: 'I would like to empathise to Mr Leiva and his partner for what must have been an upsetting experience.

'As with every burglary victim, we will be carrying out a thorough investigation and offering them crime prevention advice.

'Taken from the address was an amount of jewellery and some very distinctive football and sports memorabilia.

'These items have significant personal importance to Mr. Leiva and they were associated with some very cherished memories. I'd ask members of the public to be on the look out in case they are offered such items for sale either on the street or in pubs or see the items for sale on the internet.'

Dossena Not Happy With His Form

Andrea Dossena isn't happy with his form for Liverpool since his arrival from Udinese. I don't think that he will find many arguments from the fans, as he has been disappointing on the whole since Rafa Benitez brought him to the club for £7m over the summer.

Fabio Aurelio is currently in possession of the left back berth, but the Italian is looking to reclaim this position but concedes that he needs to up his game to be successful at such a club with a rich history and the expectations of him, as he explained:

'I am not fully happy with my level and, with Fabio in my position, the manager has the option of a player more in tune with the tactics of the team right now.

'18 months ago I would not have expected to be playing for one of the most famous clubs in the world.

'I do not have silverware in my collection in my career but signing for Liverpool I have a real chance to win medals in every competition we enter.

'There are new demands on me. At Udinese, my place in the team was more secure than it ever will be at Liverpool, where there is so much ability in the squad.

'I must now get to a high level and maintain that, but first I have to battle to win selection. I am learning all the time. I knew that coming to Liverpool and a new league would improve me as a player.'

There have been some reports that Rafa could be looking to offload him already in an attempt to raise funds in January, if he could, and for the amount we paid (or near the amount) at this point in time I don't think that many would be unhappy. If the 27-year-old wants to prove himself then he needs to work hard, and if given the chance take it, if not he will prove an expensive failure.

In other Reds news Rafa has said that Robbie Keane, struggling himself (for goals at least, his work rate can't be faulted) since his big money move from Spurs, needs some luck to get going. However Rafa feels that when he gets this he will not look back, telling Liverpoolfc.tv:

'Robbie is working really hard. With strikers, people talk about goals but sometimes it depends on luck, positioning and good delivery.

'Sometimes you want to change things when you are creating chances, in the hope the other strikers can have a bit more luck.'

I'm not sure, although I'm sure Spurs fans could tell us, but I don't think that his season really got going goals wise until around this time last season and then he didn't look back, ending the season with twenty-something goals.