Liverpool Glad To See The Back Of Ronaldo

Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa admits he is happy to see Cristiano Ronaldo leave their arch rivals and believes he can achieve bigger things playing for Real Madrid.

Manchester United have agreed a world record £80m fee with Real Madrid for the Portuguese winger.

Arbeloa knows Ronaldo's departure will strengthen Liverpool's chances of closing the gap on United next season as they look to win the title for the first time since 1990.

The Spanish defender started his career at Real Madrid and feels Ronaldo can become an even bigger global star following his move to the Bernabeu.

Arbeloa said: "I don't know his personal reasons for leaving, but I have played for Real Madrid and the challenge to achieve more things at such a large club on a worldwide basis is a key decision for any player.

"It is important for the Spanish League to have players such as Kaka and Ronaldo because it will raise the level of the Spanish game.

"Ronaldo is a great footballer and gave everything when he was playing for Manchester United."

Dossena Open To Reds Stay

Andrea Dossena would be happy to remain at Liverpool, according to the full-back's agent.

Dossena signed at Anfield from Udinese last summer but struggled to make an impact during his debut campaign in the Premier League.

Juventus have been linked with a move for the Italian defender, and Dossena has confirmed he would like to play for the Serie A giants.

However, Dossena's representative, Roberto La Florio, has stated that Liverpool are keen to retain his services.

"We have spoken with Liverpool and with Benitez and we received confirmation that the club are keen on holding onto Dossena," La Florio told Sportal.it.

"However, we all know what the market is like and when a certain offer comes along then negotiations open up.

"So far neither us nor Liverpool have been presented with an offer but we did have contact with Juve last year.

"Dossena is fine in England. He would be happy to return, but under certain conditions. Juve are making their own evaluations and they will contact us if they are interested. We will wait."

Real Madrid Offer Liverpool Heinze And Robben For Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid have been active in the transfer market this past month, and things are not likely to change any time soon, should the latest reports be believed.

According to British tabloid The Sun, Los Blancos president Florentino Perez has offered Arjen Robben to Liverpool in a direct swap for Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso.

Perez, who is known to be a big fan of Alonso, has already offered £18 million for the holding midfielder, but Liverpool manager, Rafael Benitez, turned down the bid. The report states that Liverpool want £27 million for Alonso, but Perez is not keen to splash out more money after spending £142 million on Kaka and Ronaldo earlier this week.

Dutchman Robben is also valued at £27 million, and Perez is confident that Benitez will accept a direct swap for the wing-wizard, without the inclusion of cash in the deal.

The stumbling block of the deal could be Robben's injury record, as the Netherlands international has been struggling with fitness ever since he moved to the Bernabeu two years ago.

The Sun also states that, should Liverpool decline such an offer, then Perez will be willing to offer Gabriel Heinze plus £18 million for Alonso instead. This deal is more realistic, since Benitez tried to capture the Argentinean stopper two years ago while he was playing at Manchester United.

The cold relations between Alonso and Benitez could be an important factor in the deal, with the two clashing heads earlier last summer. Also, Benitez is known to be a scavenging the market for an experienced left-back, and with his experience in the Premier League, Heinze fits the profile perfectly.

Both Arjen Robben and Gabriel Heinze have declared their wish to remain at Madrid, but the final decision may not be up to them.

Liverpool Co-Owner George Gillett Keen To Offload Montreal Canadiens To Refinance Deal

At least two consortiums are preparing bids for the Montreal Canadiens, the ice hockey franchise put up for sale last week by Liverpool co-owner George Gillett.

The American is attempting to raise the funds to refinance the £350 million loan with banks RBS and Wachovia used to buy the Premier League club.

Media conglomerate Quebecor and the Molson family have both admitted an interest in buying the profitable franchise, as well as its Bell Arena home, for a price that could rise as high as £300million, allowing Gillett to secure both his position at Liverpool and the club's immediate financial future.

Both Gillett and his business partner, Tom Hicks, have admitted in recent weeks they are looking for "minority" investors in their sporting empires and it is believed both are prepared to countenance selling their sport assets in the United States to maintain control of Liverpool.

Despite the club's holding company, Kop Football Ltd, posting a £42.6million loss in the year to July 2008, as revealed by accounts published last week, Hicks and Gillett are thought to be close to securing a six-month extension on the £350 million loan taken out last January.

It is believed any such deal would likely be dependent on both owners putting more of their own capital into the club.

The Liverpool manager, Rafael Benitez, is not likely to be handed a significant boost in the transfer market should Gillett sell the Canadiens, but the Spaniard is adamant he has "enough" money for the "one or two" signings he believes he needs without coming under any pressure to sell his squad's stars.

Cash-Strapped Liverpool Land Potentially Lucrative Deal

Liverpool, whose American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett are desperately trying to arrange a US$500 million refinancing, have signed a potentially lucrative deal in India.

The club will partner with the Abhijeet Kadam Memorial Foundation to establish the Abhijit Kadam Football Development Centre. It will be based at Bharati Vidyapeeth University, and will offer youngsters the chance to combine studies with coaching from Liverpool’s coaches.

Courses taught at the club-sponsored school will include coaching, refereeing and Sports Science. Though the partnership itself offers no immediate financial reward for Liverpool, such schools are increasingly seen as a massively effective way to maximize a club’s brand in any given country. Should Liverpool become the soccer club to successfully make an impact in India, a country of more than a billion people, then potential revenues could be huge.

The opening of the school is just the first step in Liverpool’s ambitions in India. The club’s commercial director Ian Ayre said, “This project brings football with first class education and an ambition to feed the Indian game. It’s certainly an exciting start and one of a variety of key projects that Liverpool will unveil in the Indian market over the coming months. “

Ryan Babel: Give Me One Last Chance At Liverpool FC

Ryan Babel wants another chance to prove he can become more than just an Anfield supersub next season.

The Dutch youngster has struggled for consistency since his £11 million move from Ajax two years ago and looked likely to be made available this summer.

But after ending his season with a substitute appearance for Holland last night, he insisted he wants to stay at Anfield and fight for his future.

The Dutchman could fetch around £10m in the transfer market, but his agent Winnie Haatrecht said: “Ryan is very happy at Liverpool and clearly doesn't want to leave.

"He still has a three-year contract.”

Babel's impact since he arrived at Anfield has been largely as a goalscoring substitute.

His goal at West Ham in May was his ninth from the subs' bench, halfway to David Fairclough's incredible club record of 18 supersub strikes. But boss Rafa Benitez made it clear he would be happy if Babel failed to match Fairclough’s achievement after challenging the player to establish himself as a permanent fixture in his starting line-up.

“Ryan has done well as an impact player, which is not easy when you are young, but we think he can do more than that,” Benitez said.

“Our view of Ryan is a player who starts games and has an impact from the beginning. But first of all he has to improve tactically.”

Babel started only 13 times last season, and was left out of the squad altogether twice in the final month of the campaign.

But when Benitez spoke recently about young players who he hoped could make an impact next season, he pointedly included the Dutch youngster.

“I'm positive because we were talking recently about how Fernando [Torres] and Steven Gerrard didn't play together for a long time,” he said.

“Hopefully, they will manage that more next season – and we also have good young players like David Ngog, Nabil El Zhar, Ryan Babel and Emiliano Insua coming through.

“We have a very good squad but we can still improve a little bit. How much – enough to win the title? I'm sure it will be enough to compete.”

Babel reprised a familiar role last night, coming on as a substitute as Holland celebrated their qualification for the World Cup finals with a 2-0 win over Norway.

Lucas Bulking Up For Next Liverpool FC Title Challenge

Brazilian midfielder Lucas believes next season can be the best of his Liverpool career – because he's won a gruelling weighting game.

The international midfielder admits he was a lightweight when he made his £6m switch from Gremio in the summer of 2007.

But after piling on the pounds he now feels equipped to handle the rigours of the English Premier League.

“I have gained some weight this season and that has helped me be more prepared to play with the demands you face in England,” he explained.

“I have gained four kilos since I arrived and that's a lot. In my first season, being very honest, I had a problem with physical games. Last season, with the extra weight I feel I can challenge anyone physically and can go from one box to the other like I did in Brazil.

“Maybe it has taken me 18 months to get my body physically into the shape that it needed to be in to play to my best in England, but I feel that it is coming now for me and I am excited about my future prospects at Liverpool.”

Lucas also believed that being able to complete a full pre-season programme at Anfield for the first time would give him an added edge.

“I missed a lot of the pre-season first time with Liverpool because I was away at the Olympics with Brazil,” he explained.

“That meant that I started the pre-season, then I went away, and when I came back to the club it was hard to catch up. I had missed a lot of the important work that the boys all did together.

“Next season I will be here for the whole of the pre-season programme and I believe that will help me play to the very best of my ability when we start again in August.

“I will enjoy the rest in the summer, but already I am looking at coming back and being a better player next season.”

Lucas has never lost the support of his manager, Rafael Benitez, while he also received numerous plaudits from influential players at Anfield last season.

But there were times when he bore the brunt of fans' frustration – but he believes the experience has helped mould him into a better, stronger player.

“As an individual player I feel that I have become a better player this season, definitely,” he added.

“Everyone has bad days at the office when they feel that maybe they haven't played to 100 per cent of what they are capable of.

“I have had those days, too. Of course I have because we all have them.

“I think this has been the season which has taught me the most about myself. I have had bad moments over the last year with the crowd.

“It was hard at times, but it will all be helpful for me in the long term.

“Mentally I'm a better player. I've had the tough times and I've coped well with it and come through the other side.

“I wasn't worried about silencing people. In football you will always have your critics but you have to just keep going and hopefully when they see that you are playing well, trying hard and always doing your best, they will come onto your side.

“From my point of view, next season will be my best for Liverpool. I feel better physically and mentally at this moment than I have felt before at Liverpool.”

Barcelona Make Enquiry To Liverpool About Yossi Benayoun

It appears that Barcelona have grown tired of watching bitter enemies Real Madrid hog all the limelight in the transfer market this past week.

The Blaugrana are set to make their first formal approach in the summer trade period after reportedly submitting an enquiry to Liverpool regarding the availability of winger Yossi Benayoun.

According to FourFourTwo.com, sources close to the Israeli international have revealed that Barca officials have also contacted the Reds to request an asking price. It is believed that the Catalans have pin-pointed the 29-year-old as a replacement for squad players Alexander Hleb and Eidur Gudjohnsen, and a possible fall-back plan in case they fail to acquire Franck Ribery.

Benayoun enjoyed a fine season at Anfield last term and he is already being tracked by other clubs such as Atletico Madrid, Villarreal and Manchester City. Although his exact valuation is unknown, it is reported to be around the region of €8 million (₤6.8m).

Lavezzi Agent Insistent On Reds Bid

Ezequiel Lavezzi's agent insists Serie A club Napoli have received an offer from Liverpool for the Argentina striker.

Napoli general director Pierpaolo Marino said on Thursday his club had not received any bids for Lavezzi while Reds boss Rafael Benitez has also denied any interest in the South American star.

However, Lavezzi's agent Alejandro Mazzoni said: "Pierpaolo Marino continues to lie.

"I reiterate that a FIFA agent presented Napoli with an offer from Liverpool for Lavezzi.

"This was a formal procedure as the player cannot be contacted directly (by the interested club) because he is under contract with Napoli."

Lavezzi has been linked with a move away from Napoli this month following a dispute with his club over a contract extension.

The 24-year-old, who joined the Naples-based outfit in the summer of 2007, scored seven league goals this season.

Lavezzi is under contract with Napoli until June 2012.

Negredo Open To Reds Move

Alvaro Negredo has revealed that if he is forced to leave Real Madrid then Liverpool or Valencia would be great destinations, but his first choice is stay at the Bernabeu.

The 23-year-old striker has been bought back by Los Merengues after two years with Almeria and there is some confusion about whether he will stay or be sold as part of another deal.

Reports have linked Negredo with an immediate move away from the Spanish capital, but the player himself wants to show that he could be the forward that Madrid need if he is given the chance.

"I am delighted that they are going exercise it because my dream is to triumph in Madrid," he told AS.

"I still do not know what will happen, but the fact they have decided to buy me back is testament to my work over the last two seasons that I feel has been good.

"Now I want to stay with Madrid.

"He [Florentino Perez] called me to tell me of the intention to exercise the buy-back clause. He told me to rest and that when I returned we would see what happens.

"My first option is to stay, but we will have to see how many forwards there are at Madrid. For a player like me, who comes from the youth team, it is difficult to win a place.

"What I need is to play games and I want to be able to do that with Madrid."

Valencia are reported to want Negredo as part of a deal that could see David Villa head to Real Madrid and the young striker would not object if the Mestalla was his new home.

"If I do have to go then Valencia would a great option. They are a big club and they have Unai Emery as coach, who I had a great relationship with at Almeria," he continued.

"Whatever happens, if Madrid do not want me I will not see myself as a bargaining chip for them to use.

"Technically they may think that, but I would not see myself like that because I will go where I think is best for my career.

"It would hurt a bit. The club has spoken about having more Spanish players and for the time being they are showing me respect and that means a lot.

"But if they decide to sell me then I will not leave with any problems."

Liverpool have also been linked with a move for Negredo and while he has not hidden the fact he would like to play with Fernando Torres, he is not pushing for a move to Anfield.

"I have already said that I think that is a great club and it would be incredible to play alongside Torres. But I prefer not to talk about that, because for now I am a Madrid player," he added.

Hope For Benitez As Winger’s Bayern Deal Falls To Pieces

Liverpool coach Rafael Benitez may still have a chance of signing Heerenveen’s Danijel Pranjic after claims in the Dutch media hinted that the Croat’s move to Bayern Munich was on the verge of collapse following a breakdown over negotiations.

Reports earlier in the week made clear that a deal between the respective parties was already sealed and this was further backed up by comments from Pranjic himself who spoke in the aftermath of a successful medical claiming his pride at moving to the Allianz Arena.

Nevetheless, Voetbal International now suggests that the €8m price-tag set by Heerenveen exceeds the €6m budgeted by the Bavarians for the deal. With neither party apparently willing to back down Pranjic’s dream move could be destroyed, leaving him desperately seeking a new club.

Benitez Admits Valencia Sorrow

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has expressed his sadness at the financial downfall of his former club Valencia.

The Spaniard won two Primera Division titles during his spell in charge at Estadio Mestalla but has slammed the handling of the club since his departure.

Valencia finished sixth this season but look set for a player exodus as the club battle against financial meltdown.

The expected big-money sales of star players David Villa and David Silva could help balance the books and Benitez believes their new president can turn things around.

"From my exit of Valencia the club have committed many errors and the new president Manuel Llorente is the correct person for the solution of the crisis," Benitez told Spanish newspaper Superdeporte.

"I have problems with Llorente but that is the past and now is forgotten.

"All clubs need to move with much intelligence in the market during this summer of crisis."

Benitez was sharp to dismiss links of a move for Silva and insists that although he would one day welcome a return to Valencia, he is currently very committed to his job at Liverpool.

"I do not speak about Silva for to avoid more confusion in these times of rumours," he said.

"In Liverpool I am happy because I am working with a group very committed in its objectives."

Liverpool finished runners-up in this season's campaign and although finishing the season trophyless, the club accumulated their highest ever Premier League points tally.

Benitez added: "Liverpool have developed in a very good season. We have used a different style in comparison with Man Utd or Chelsea.

"For me it is clear that today it is more difficult and complicated to win the Premier League than La Liga.

"The arrival of the millionaires to the Premier League changes the schemes. Manchester City and Portsmouth could generate many problems to the habitual title candidates."

Liverpool FC Are ‘Out Of My Mind’, Says Man City's Gareth Barry

Gareth Barry claimed last night he had no worries about swapping title-chasing Liverpool for mid-table Manchester City – and that he believes he can turn Mark Hughes’s side into title contenders.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez thought he had agreed a deal for Barry to join his Premier League runners-up from Aston Villa this summer.

But Barry produced a remarkable U-turn and completed a £12million switch to Eastlands instead.

He insists, however, he is not thinking about what might have been.

“It’s completely out of my mind, worrying about Liverpool and what could have been. That’s all in the past,” he said.

“This season it’s a different situation. Manchester City have had a bid accepted for me and they made me feel wanted.”

Barry believes he can turn City from mid-table inconsistents into a team capable of rivalling Liverpool for a title challenge next season.

He added: “You have seen the type of players Manchester City are able to attract, like Robinho.

“I think this club has got everything in place to achieve big things and challenge right at the top, to go from a mid-table team to a team challenging right at the top.”

Barry claimed it was the club’s ambition that persuaded him to move to Eastlands.

He added at a press conference yesterday: “The club put a price on me and Manchester City have come in and paid the money really early on.

“I spoke to the manager (Mark Hughes). I spent a bit of time thinking, spoke to friends and I am confident I have made the right decision.

“I felt very wanted here. The ambition was the main thing for me.”

Barry issued a letter to Villa fans through a local newspaper after the move explaining his decision to leave Villa Park.

He added: “People made out I was sort of apologising for it. I don’t feel a need to apologise for leaving Aston Villa. I just stated my reasons. I had spent 12 years at the club and wanted to state my reasons.”

Liverpool Target Gabriel Heinze Set For Real Madrid Exit

Long-term Liverpool target Gabriel Heinze is set to be one of the first casualties as Real Madrid seek to trim their squad.

The Spanish giants are preparing a cull of up to 10 players after kicking off their summer spending spree with the £56million purchase of Kaka and the impending £80m arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United.

Madrid see the Argentine as expendable, putting the Reds on alert as well as his former club Paris Saint-Germain.

The 31-year-old has a year left on the contract he signed when joining from Manchester United in 2007. Reports in France yesterday said his return to PSG is 'almost fact', but they would not be able to come close to his current £100,000 a week deal.

Reports in Spanish newspaper Sport say Anfield boss Rafa Benitez maintains an interest and is ready to pounce if the price is right.

Now It’s Savi For Xabi

Javier Saviola is the latest player Real Madrid are using as bait to land Xabi Alonso.

Free-spending Bernabeu supremo Florentino Perez is desperate to add the 27-year-old Liverpool midfielder to his all-star cast - despite Kop protests that the Spanish star is not for sale.

But with money no object - and Kop boss Rafa Benitez working on a restricted budget - Real hope throwing 27-year-old Saviola into the mix will tempt them to do a deal.

Benitez was linked with the Argentine striker in January and has admitted he will have to look at cut-price transfers in the wake of Liverpool's current financial plight.

Saviola is rated at around £5million but Real are keen to get him off their books.

Liverpool Will Not Sell Mascherano - Rafa Benitez

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has moved quickly to dismiss speculation linking Javier Mascherano with a move to Barcelona, insisting his player is not available at any price.

Comments from Mascherano's representative Walter Tamer, reported by UK newspaper The Sun yesterday, suggested the midfielder would welcome an approach from the Champions League and Primera Liga champions.

But Benitez was quick to quash any talk of the Argentine leaving Anfield this summer.

"Mascherano has no price," Benitez told the club's official website.

"Barcelona could not afford to match his value to Liverpool Football Club.

"I have spoken to Javier two or three times this summer – the last time was only last week – and he was very happy, very positive."

Benitez went on to declare his surprise in seeing the story emerge yesterday.

"Walter (Tamer) told me that two clubs with big, big names were asking after Mascherano – and I told him to forget it, that Javier was happy in Liverpool and he was not for sale.

"So I was surprised to see the agent's comments today.

"He has a long contract and any club can forget about bidding for him. They can offer £40m or even £50m, we don’t want to sell."

Mascherano first arrived in England with West Ham United, along with fellow countryman Carlos Tevez.

After an unhappy spell at Upton Park though, the Argentine international was snapped up by Liverpool and has become vital to the Premier League runners-up.

Shankly Group Promise Probe Over Munich Songs

A Liverpool FC fans group today vowed to investigate after Reds supporters apparently mocked the Munich disaster at an end-of-season party.

Footage has emerged from the Olympia venue of a room full of supporters singing derogatory references about the 1958 air crash which killed 23 people – many of them Busby Babes.

The clip, now posted on the internet, shows fans at the Spirit of Shankly (SOS) union party repeatedly shouting Munich in the chorus to a song called Horse With No Name.

The crowd appeared to be egged on by a singer performing on stage.

Today Spirit of Shankly condemned the behaviour and stressed the singer was not authorised to appear on the night.

The night had included singers and bands like The Troubadours, The Maybes and former Cast frontman John Power. Also on the bill was Rafa and Steven Gerrard impersonator Darren Farley who became an internet hit and appeared on TV sports shows.

The party was held on the evening of the final league game at Anfield against Spurs.

But Spirit of Shankly said the singer who instigated the Munich references was an unauthorised performer and was not part of the running order.

The union has vowed to tighten procedures and take strict steps to prevent a repeat incident happening at future social SOS events.

A spokesman for the Spirit of Shankly said: “We are aware that video footage has been posted on the internet from the SOS End of season party on 24th May 2009.

“ This footage shows an unscheduled performance which the SOS Events Committee had no prior knowledge of.

“The Events Committee will endeavour to increase back-stage security for future events to ensure impromptu performances like this do not happen again. We are sincerely sorry for anybody who has been offended by this footage, and we do not condone such behaviour.”

Earlier in the evening Liverpool legends Jamie Carragher and Sami Hyypia appeared at the SOS gathering to honour the Finn’s departure from the club.

The union has become more prominent in recent years and members have been particularly vocal about the Anfield regime of US owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

A Horse With No Name was written by the band America and became their most successful single.

Insults have often been traded between Liverpool fans and their rivals with Reds claiming their opponents bait them with songs mocking the 96 who died at Hillsborough.

10,000 Set For London To Attend Hillsborough Justice March

Final preparations are being put in place for a mass march to Parliament demanding justice for those who died at Hillsborough.

More than 25,000 signatures have been gathered on a petition to be handed into for the Prime Minister on June 20.

Around 10,000 people are expected to join the march that will lead campaigners through the streets of London.

Fans from clubs across the country have promised to join Liverpool FC fans calling for someone to be held accountable for the tragedy which claimed 96 lives.

In recent weeks, the families of Kevin Williams, 15, and Graham Roberts, 24, have taken to the streets of Liverpool campaigning for even more signatures.

On June 20, people are asked to meet at Temple Place East at 1pm for a 2pm start which takes in Victoria Embankment, Horse Guard Avenue before six people are allowed into No 10 Downing Street to hand over the petition.

At the end of the march, a mini rally will be held when relatives of those who died may address the crowd.

Organisers are arranging cheap transport to London and banners are being made by marchers.

Today, campaigners said they hoped the recent Cabinet resignations or reshuffles involving Andy Burnham and Jacqui Smith would not derail the government’s vow to release the hidden Hillsborough files.

Mr. Burnham, who was heckled at the recent memorial service at Anfield, was instrumental behind Westminster’s promise to disclose the secret documents.

That message was echoed by the now departed Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, but with both politicians in new jobs, Hillsborough families are anxious that the determination to find answers for the 96 still remains.

Reds fan and march organiser Barry Thompson, said: “The people in these jobs will have different aims and goals.

“Alan Johnson is the new Home Secretary and we want these promises to be honoured.

“It’s about time that somebody put their hand up and took responsibility.

Benitez - I Have Enough Cash

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has revealed he was fully aware of the club's financial problems before he signed his new five-year contract in March.

And a defiant Benitez insists he is happy with his transfer budget and still aims to bring in "one or two" top signings ahead of next season.

The Liverpool boss was speaking in the wake of the release of the club's worrying financial figures last week, underlining the need for prudence in the transfer market.

The damaging financial reality hit home when accounts, for the season 2007-08, showed Kop Holdings lost £42.6million on the year.

Kop Holdings is the company set up by under-fire American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett to run Liverpool.

Although the football club made a £10million profit, that money was swallowed up in paying the interest on the loans taken out by the Americans to buy the club.

Benitez reveals he was working last season to tie key players to new contracts, fully aware of the financial straits at the club that would be exposed this summer.

He said: "We spent some money to solve that situation, to guarantee the extension of those contracts. Now we need to improve a little bit because we are in a very good position.

"Yes, we knew it would be difficult, especially as there is a (financial) crisis all around the world.

"But when I decided to sign a five-year extension to my contract, I knew in my own mind that Liverpool is more than just a club, it is the heart of the city. It is our life.

"It means so much to a lot of people. We had to sign, we have to fight, we have to do it because we wanted to do it. The people in Liverpool are always fighters; they have done that all their lives.

"We know that. We also knew that the (financial) situation was not fantastic. But we still have a lot of confidence in our squad and we want to fight (for the title) again next season."

Benitez, who has also dismissed claims he wants Napoli's Argentinian striker Ezequiel Lavezzi, continued: "Every single year, every single week, every single day you can always talk to fans who say they are supporting you, supporting the team.

"You can see the passion is so strong and that makes a massive difference. This city has great passion, Everton fans have similar passion for their club and that is really good and our fans are amazing.

"When I talk with people in Spain (they are aware of it). Now we will go to the Far East in the summer and we will see the same thing, so many people talking about us and the club.

"It shows to me that this place is more than just a football club. It is clear that it is life to so many people."

Martinez Not Keen On England

Javi Martinez has distanced himself from speculation linking him with a move to the Premier League.

The Spain U21 international is said to have impressed a number of English clubs last season, with Liverpool and Manchester City reported to be leading the race for his signature.

However, the 20-year-old insists he has happy at Athletic Bilbao and has no desire to move on.

"The truth is I am not interested in this. I am focused on my club and not interested in rumours," Martinez said.

"Still, I have many years left on my contract.

"I am very happy in Bilbao and want to continue. The truth is that I don't want to move."

Martinez admits he is flattered to be in the thoughts of some of Europe's biggest clubs, but claims the possibility of a move to Anfield or Eastlands holds no appeal.

"It's like if they told you that you are on the right track. It's a pleasure, but that's all," he added.

"It makes me proud that such teams (are interested), but at the end of the day you never know what is real and what isn't.

"That's why I am not fazed by it, even if it is an honour."

Alonso Move On As Benitez Eyes Madrid Starlets As Makeweight

Real Madrid’s alleged pursuit of Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso took yet another twist this morning after reports in Spain suggested the deal is far from over.

Yesterday’s speculation intimated that the former Real Sociedad star wanted to leave Anfield, but Liverpool boss Rafa Beintez would definitely not sanction a move unless the Spanish giants offered ‘ludicrous’ money for the player.

The protracted transfer saga began this time last year after Liverpool tried desperately to bring Aston Villa, now Manchester City’s Gareth Barry to the club. Benitez was subsequently listening to offers for the Spaniard, most notably from Juventus, however they failed to meet the club’s asking price.

Reports in Spain today suggest Benitez would be willing to sell the want-a-away Spanish international if Real Madrid include two of their brightest young players in the deal plus an additional cash payment.

Spanish publication AS, report Benitez wants the Spanish giants to include striker Alvaro Negredo and Alberto Bueno in the deal for Alonso.

Negredo is a 23 year old striker who has spent the last two years at Almeria following a move form the Bernabeu in 2007. The player finished fifth in the Pichichi scoring nineteen league goals. Under his current deal Real Madrid own 50% of any possible deal for the player and they also have a buy back option.

The tall Spaniard recently told Sky Sports: “My future depends on Real Madrid, but I believe that this summer but it is logical that I am interested in playing in the Premier League and especially Liverpool.”

“I believe that playing in England would be a great chance for me as this league is a sensational place for forwards.”

In addition to Negredo, Benitez has earmarked Madrid’s young striker Alberto Bueno as a star of the future. The 21 year old was the tournament’s top scorer in the 2006 Under 19 European Championship, and prior to making his first team debut in the Spanish Cup this season, he had scored 37 goals in 37 games for Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s youth team.

The Spanish reports suggest Benitez is willing to negotiate on the deal, although he is extremely unlikely to accept anything below £30 million.

Publicly Benitez has stated a desire to keep the Anfield favourite, however reports intimate that a player plus cash offer would give the ex-Valencia coach room to bolster his squad particularly as he is unlikely to receive major financial backing in this summer's transfer window.

Florentino Perez has made no secret of his desire to sign Alonso, and although he yesterday admitted such a move would be difficult, it did not stop the wily operator from naming him in his dream Real Madrid XI.

Agger Vows He’ll Fight For His Place

Liverpool’s Daniel Agger has revealed that he committed his future to the club despite not being given any guarantees about first-team football.

The Danish defender finally penned a five-year deal at Anfield last month but with Jamie Carragher and Martin Skrtel providing fierce competition for places and Rafael Benitez linked with a move for another centre-back this summer, the 24-year-old did not receive any promises from the manager.

Agger said: “In football you can’t get any promises from the manager about when you are going to play, and especially not at a club like Liverpool where we have so many talented players all competing for places.

“I believe I am good enough to play regularly in this team and that’s what I want to do.”

Agger, who made 26 appearances last season, explained why he was happy to agree a new Liverpool contract even though he will have to fight for his place.

He said: “First of all, I believe this team, with the players we have, will be able to challenge for many honours and trophies over the next few years.

“Secondly, I think I have a chance to play in this team, otherwise I would not be staying at the club.

“Thirdly, I really like this city, and I like the people who live here. It’s not the same as my home town, Copenhagen, but I actually really like where I live. That’s important.

“I believe if you have a happy, settled and comfortable life outside the pitch then you’re going to be a much better player on it.

“Of course, if you have a manager who tells you that he is confident in your ability and he believes in you and what you can bring to the team, then that is also important. The manager has done this by coming to me and offering me the contract.

Agger arrived at Anfield in January 2006, just a few months before the FA Cup triumph over West Ham.

However, the Dane played no part in the run to Cardiff and is still waiting for what he would regard as his “first” medal with the club.

It’s a situation Agger is desperate to address.

“Everybody wants medals, they want trophies and they want success,” he said.

“That is what a club like Liverpool should be all about.

“I won both the league and cup in my first season at Brondby. I haven’t won anything at Liverpool so far and that is something I really want to change.

“We won the FA Cup in my first season at the club but I didn’t play a game in the competition that season. So although I have a medal for that victory I don’t count it as my having won it.”

However, Agger is confident there is a piece of silverware on the horizon next season.

“I think you can see on the pitch this season, and especially in the last few games, what playing for this club means for the team,” he said.

“We have showed that we have a winning character now throughout the team.

“We have developed this season a mentality which says that you can’t beat us. Even when we are in a difficult position we have a belief in our ability to change the result.”

Tight Transfer Budget Sees Liverpool Boss Benitez Promote From Within

The financial difficulties of Liverpool's parent company Kop Holdings Ltd, and the knock-on effect this will have on the club's transfer dealings have been well documented, and club boss Rafael Benitez could be preparing for summer of thrift as he has already asked his squad players and younger members to step their game up next season.

Benitez has called on David Ngog, Nabil El Zhar, Ryan Babel, and Emiliano Insua, to show marked improvements next term. He is quoted by The Guardian as saying, "I'm positive because we were talking recently about how Fernando [Torres] and Steven Gerrard didn't play together for a long time.

"Hopefully, they will manage that more next season - and we also have good young players like David Ngog, Nabil El Zhar, Ryan Babel and Emiliano Insua coming through.

"We have a very good squad but we can still improve a little bit. How much - enough to win the title? I'm sure it will be enough to compete."

He continued, "We knew the situation in the world would be difficult this summer. Some clubs were asking for our players so the priority was to extend the contracts of our key ones.

"We spent some money to guarantee this and now we just have to improve a little bit, because we are in a very good position."

Liverpool Football Club Is A Way Of Life - Rafa Benitez

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has acknowledged that his team must show more fighting spirit next season if they are to end the club's long wait for a league title, and has asserted that it his aim to inculcate that mentality as soon as possible.

The coach also drew parallels between the club's situation and the way in which the city of Liverpool has always been known as a place where people do not take a backward step, where they face adversity together and beat it.

"When I decided to sign a new contract I did it because Liverpool Football Club is more than a club," he told The Liverpool Echo.
“It is the heart of the city. It is our life and for the people here it means so much. I thought I had to sign. We have to fight. We have to do it.

"The people in this city are always fighting and have been fighting all their lives. We want to do the same.

"We know the situation is not fantastic but I have a lot of confidence in our squad and we want to fight like we did this year."

Liverpool are beset by financial problems at the moment, largely as a result of the ownership of American businessmen Tom Hicks and George Gillett, whose holding company made significant losses and whose decision to buy the club has left it saddled with huge debts.

And the Spaniard also affirmed that he felt the supporters had every reason to feel optimistic about the season ahead, despite the club's limited capability to compete in the transfer market.

"We have a very good squad but we can still improve a little bit," he added.
"How much can we improve? Enough to the win the title? I’m sure it will be enough to compete. Like this year we will try to compete on all fronts until the end."

Liverpool FC Boss Rafa Benitez Happy With Summer Transfer Kitty

Rafa Benitez today insisted he has got enough cash to splash to turn Liverpool into Premier League champions.

The Reds’ summer spending is expected to be dwarfed by a number of their rivals but the Spaniard is in fighting mood – and confident he will land his main transfer targets.

“We knew it could be difficult because there is a crisis all around the world,” he said.

“Clearly we don’t have too much to spend but I think we have enough money to add the one or two players that we need.

“I’m very happy with the squad we’ve got.

“This season has been really good and we’ve competed on all fronts.

“If we can sign one or two players then I’m really positive that we can improve.”

Benitez, who signed a new five-year contract back in March, will celebrate five years as Liverpool manager next week.

He admits he is relishing the challenge of taking the club to the next level.

“When I decided to sign a new contract I did it because Liverpool Football Club is more than a club,” he said.

“It is the heart of the city. It is our life and for the people here it means so much.

“I thought I had to sign. We have to fight. We have to do it.”

Tom Hicks And George Gillett Set To Refinance Liverpool Loan

Liverpool's beleaguered co-owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, look set to ­refinance their £350m loan with the Royal Bank of Scotland and Wachovia from next month's deadline, the ­Guardian has learned. The extension could cost up to £3.5m for the arrangement fee, with ­interest payments – approximately 4% above the banking rate – similar to the terms on their current facility.

It was announced last week that Hicks' and Gillett's parent company, Kop ­Football (Holdings) Limited, suffered a £42.6m loss for the year ending July 2008 despite a record turnover of £164.2m. A Liverpool supporters group, Spirit of Shankly, has launched a protest campaign to dissuade RBS from extending the loan beyond the 24 July deadline.

However, the two banks are willing to extend their loan, given rising income at a club who finished second in the Premier League last season, qualifying for the lucrative Champions League for a ­seventh season in a row. "Banks won't want to jeopardise growth through ­taking control," a source close to the situation said.

Facing multi-billion pound losses, banks are pushing unprofitable companies into insolvency or demanding ­control through a debt-for-equity swap. In Spain the local savings bank Bancaja has ­practically taken control of Valencia, who have about £500m of debt. However, the source added: "It doesn't make sense to take control of a business that's performing well; this approach could be applicable to Liverpool."

The refinancing deal will buy Hicks and Gillett time as they attempt to avoid having to sell Liverpool, although their prospects of borrowing a further £400m to build a new stadium on Stanley Park have receded. Last week's accounts included a warning from the accountants, KPMG, that there would be "significant doubt on the group's and parent company's ability to continue as a going concern" without an extension to the £350m loan. A source close to Hicks responded that the Texan was "very relaxed" and "confident".

Real Madrid Give Up Chase For Liverpool Star Xabi Alonso

Hot on the tail of securing the services of Brazilian star Kaka for an impressive six years, newly appointed Real Madrid president Florentino Perez spoke to Telemadrid about the players that he has been linked with of late.

Perez admitted that Los Blancos are looking to bring in an estimated six new players, but the 62-year-old conceded that attempts to sign Liverpool midfielder and Spain international Xabi Alonso could be entirely in vain.

"He [Xabi Alonso] is a great player but he also plays in a big team and I haven't heard any news that they plan to sell him," he said.

"It's obvious that [Liverpool manager Rafael] Benitez is counting on keeping him. That's normal, he's a good player and it wouldn't be easy to replace him."

Since taking over, Perez has openly laid his cards on the table when it comes to his intentions in the Spanish capital. The honcho stated that at least nine players are regarded as dead weight, and will be let go as he looks to continue rebuilding the club in a glamourous fashion.

"The squad has 28 players. We can bring in six new and only register 25," he concluded.

Rafa Benitez To Fine Liverpool’s Javier Mascherano After Agent’s Barcelona Transfer Claims

Rafa Benitez is ready to fine Javier Mascherano after his agent claimed the player was desperate for a move to Barcelona.

The new European Cup winners started tracking Mascherano earlier in the season when he was struggling to tie down a regular midfield spot at Liverpool.

Agent Walter Tamer said yesterday: “I believe that a transfer would be feasible.

“If Barca really want him, he will sign for them.

“If a club like Barcelona want to bring you into their ranks after having completed such a brilliant season and having won everything, obviously as a player you are going to say, ‘Yes, I want to play there’.

“It is an honour for Javier that a club like Barca pay such close attention to him, especially after the incredible season they had.

“He would have a very easy job at Barca. Sometimes we talk and joke that the only thing he has to do is run, rob the ball and pass it on to all the superstars in front of him.”

Benitez insists Mascherano has three years left on his contract and will not be allowed to leave.

But the Anfield gaffer has some work to do to persuade another midfielder, Xabi Alonso, that he is still wanted on Merseyside.

Alonso has grown disillusioned after Benitez tried to sell him, and now wants a move to Real Madrid, who will make a firm offer for the Spanish international within the next week.

Benitez can do without outside interference affecting plans he has been working on since being told his budget earlier in the year.

When Benitez agreed his new contract in March, he was told he would have a minimum of £20million to spend this summer plus any cash he generates himself in the market.

He is bullish about bringing in the two big-name stars he believes will enable Liverpool to wrest the Premier League title from Manchester United.

“I’m positive we have a squad to compete because we were close even though Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard didn’t play together for a long time this season,” said Benitez.

“We have a very good squad and we can still improve a little bit. I’m sure we can improve enough to compete.

“Some clubs were asking for our players, so our priority was to extend the contracts of our key players – those players who are the spine of the team.

“We spent some money to guarantee this and now we are in a very good position.”

With the likes of Ryan Babel, Andrea Dossena, Andriy Voronin and Sebastian Leto all up for sale, Benitez could raise another £20m for his kitty.

And that will allow him to bid for Valencia winger David Silva, plus a top-class defender such as Portsmouth’s England international Glen Johnson or Spain centre-back Raul Albiol.

Benitez is also looking to bring in back-up players and Middlesbrough striker Tuncay has appeared on his radar.

Liverpool FC Legends To Finally Receive World Cup Winners Medals

Liverpool football legends Ian Callaghan and Gerry Byrne will finally receive their World Cup winner’s medals today – more than 40 years late.

They are among the “back-up boys of ‘66” who will be honoured by Gordon Brown at Downing Street after a long campaign to recognise the squad players who missed out on the Wembley final.

Callaghan, a Toxteth-born winger, played in one of the early games of the 1966 tournament, but fell victim to a change of tactics that saw England become the “wingless wonders”.

Left-back Byrne – who, like Callaghan, spent his entire playing career at Anfield – unfortunately never made it onto the pitch throughout the tournament.

A medal will also be awarded to Manchester United winger John Connelly, who began his career at his home-town club of St Helens, in the Lancashire Combination League.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Mr Brown told the Daily Post: “I am absolutely delighted to welcome Gerry Byrne, Ian Callaghan and the other players to Downing Street.

“It is absolutely right we recognise their role in England’s 1966 World Cup success – one of our finest sporting moments.

“They are real football heroes and have made this country proud.”

Striker Jimmy Greaves, defender Jimmy Armfield and goalkeeper Peter Bonetti will also be honoured.

FIFA, football’s governing body, agreed to mint special replica medals for the players who missed out on the 1966 final, plus England’s coaching staff.

Between 1930 and 1970, only the 11 victorious players who played in the final received a winner’s medal.

It meant only the players who beat West Germany 4-2 on that famous day at Wembley were honoured, including Roger Hunt, another Liverpool player.

Now the new policy will also hand a record third medal to Pele, who triumphed in 1958 and 1970, but was injured for Brazil’s 1962 final win.

Callaghan, who made a record 640 appearances for Liverpool between 1960 and 1978, helped England beat France 2-0 in one of the group games, but lost his place to future Everton star Alan Ball.

He went to win only four England caps, while Byrne – who famously played through the pain of a broken collarbone to help Liverpool win the 1965 FA Cup Final – represented his country only twice.

Tranmere's John Acherberg Lands ‘Dream Move’ To Liverpool FC

Tranmere stalwart John Achterberg has spoken of his joy at landing a ‘dream job’ at Liverpool as he departs Prenton Park after 11 years.

The Dutchman, who turns 38 next month, will move to the Anfield outfit as a goalkeeping coach, working primarily with the reserves and youth teams under Xavi Valero’s stewardship.

Achterberg, who made more than 300 appearances for Rovers since arriving in England from FC Eindhoven in 1998, was player-goalkeeping coach at Tranmere, acting as understudy in the first team to Danny Coyne.

He becomes the latest big name to depart the Wirral club this summer following the exits of captain Antony Kay, assistant manager Peter Shirtliff plus manager Ronnie Moore – who was sacked on Friday despite taking Tranmere to the brink of the play-offs on a reduced budget from the previous season.

Achterberg said: “This is a dream chance – I need to take it with both hands.

“It’s a massive wrench for me to leave Tranmere after so many years, the fans there have always been so great to me and hopefully they always will be.

“I’d like to think that the Tranmere fans will understand my move however as I’m joining one of the best clubs in the world.”

The Utrecht-born keeper was the longest-serving player at Prenton Park having been signed to replace the Everton-bound Steve Simonsen but had lost his regular number one spot in recent seasons with his role at the club being more focused on his increasing coaching commitments.

With numerous changes in personnel both on and off the pitch at Tranmere in recent weeks, Achterberg had faced an uncertain future with the League One outfit and needed no convincing when Liverpool came calling.

He said: “A chance like this doesn’t come along too often.

“Coaching is the future for myself, I’d been doing more and more of it at Tranmere in recent years and that’s where I needed to progress.

“In the same way you want to play at the best club possible as a player you want to do the same as a coach.

“When you hear a whisper that Liverpool might want you there’s not much thinking needed in your decision – you need to do what is best for yourself.”

Achterberg, who was awarded a testimonial game at Prenton Park against an Everton XI last season, will be reunited at Melwood with former Tranmere colleague John McMahon who has left his job as assistant manager at Shrewsbury Town to replace Gary Ablett as Liverpool’s reserve team manager.

He said: “It will be nice to work with John.

“I’ve always got on really well with him and have a very positive work relationship.

“I can’t wait to start. I’ve already met Rafa (Benitez) twice and I’ll be speaking to Xavi (Valero) soon to discuss our plans for training.”

Anfield Anquish

Ursula Errington from Sky NewsBusiness believes that the current plight surrounding Liverpool isn't as bad as it may appear.

Liverpool fans are fearing the worst following the announcement that despite a record turnover, the Anfield club's net debt has nearly doubled to £86million.

Auditors have warned George Gillett and Tom Hicks that failure to refinance a £350million loan - due on July 24 - "may cast significant doubt upon the group's ability to continue as a going concern".

However, speaking to Sky Sports News Errington pointed out that both Gillett and Hicks money tied up in a number of other companies in the US, and this could help refinance the loan repayment.

"I think we also need to be aware that Gillett and Hicks have other assets in the US that they could liquidate if necessary and use the money to appease the bankers in the UK and extend that debt financing," she explained.

"When you've got an awful lot of debt in this current economic climate, many of us recognise this is not the best of times to try and negotiate with the banks. But at the same time there is room for manoeuvre there and these guys are very able and adept. They have teams that will help them renegotiate with the banks and sort out these refinancing situations."

Sky Sports News also caught up with Professor Tom Cannon, who believes Liverpool owners Hicks and Gillett must sell off some of their other assets if they are to ease the club's financial woes.

Professor Cannon said: "Accountants like KPMG don't use the kind of language they've used here lightly. They've talked about material concerns, they've warned about their ability to continue under the present basis. I don't think I've ever heard accountants talk about a top football club in this way before.

"Fans should be very concerned. In some senses the fans have delivered what they've been expected to do. Turnover and trading profit have both gone up, but I'm afraid the cost of debt and management fees has produced a deficit which is frankly very worrying given the turnover. You're talking about a loss of almost £40million on a turnover of £200million. That is very worrying."

The Reds currently have a deficit which is roughly a third of the company in terms of trading, which is a massive difference from Premier League rivals Manchester United, whose figures are in the range of £300million and have a trading deficit of around £20million.

Professor Cannon, who is professor of strategic development at Liverpool University's school of management, cites the interest charges as the most worrying element of Liverpool's plight.

"They've got big debts but they're paying about £35million in interest," he explained. "We all know how interest rates have declined in the past year but Liverpool seem to be paying a rate that is over 10 per cent. This is at a rate where people are borrowing money at rates of around two and three per cent. It just goes to show how hard it has been to renegotiate the extension of their funding. In July they will be under pressure to renegotiate a much better deal.

"I think the pressure on Hicks and Gillett to bring in another investor is too hard to resist. Whether another investor will come in under the type of conditions Hicks and Gillett seem to be asking I don't know. It's more likely Hicks will sell some of his interest in the Texas Rangers or the Montreal Canadians. They desperately need new finance, not least to take the burden of this debt and the related interest. They can't seriously think in terms of another six-month extension this July; they need long term secure financing."

Liverpool are already counting the cost of their off-the-field troubles. This week they missed out on Gareth Barry, a player who last season publicly stated he wished to move to Anfield but has now instead gone to moneybags Manchester City. They have been heavily linked with a move for Portsmouth's £2million-rated defender Silvin Distin but Professor Cannon believes that unless finances improve, they will miss out on big-name players this summer.

He said: "We now understand why they didn't compete even more vigorously for Gareth Barry. They were talking of paying £18million for him last summer; the difference now is something that has been clearly shaped by these figures. I think Rafa Benitez is in a very powerful position; he has a lot to offer players who might want to come in, but he will clearly be operating under very strict trading conditions in terms of anybody he wants to sign.

"This is certainly going to hit Benitez's budget significantly. Most people around Merseyside thought he would sign Barry, which would have produced a phenomenal midfield with Gerrard and Mascherano. Unless they can sell Alonso or do more in the buying and selling then they're clearly going to be operating under straightened conditions."

New Liverpool FC Academy Director Frank McParland Outlines Future

Liverpool’s new Academy director Frank McParland has outlined plans for the overhaul of the club’s youth set-up.

Manager Rafael Benitez appointed McParland to conduct a review of the Academy earlier this year and the changes required continue apace.

As reported in the Daily Post yesterday John McMahon has taken over from Gary Ablett as reserve team coach, while several other changes to the coaching staff are expected over the coming weeks.

As many as 16 academy employees – including coaches, physiotherapists and sports scientists – have left the club in recent weeks.

And McParland is heading up a new set-up with new technical director Jose Segura, who has worked in Barcelona’s youth set-up, also on board.

McParland said: “Work continues to identify the best possible people to get the academy working properly again and producing players that can progress through to the first team.

“I hope to be able to confirm other additions to our team within the next month.

“We will examine every part of the academy’s operation and will be looking to make improvements not just in the coaching set-up, but also in areas such as medical, physio and fitness work.

“One new initiative will see the appointment of a head of sports science, who will tailor specific programmes for individual age groups to help them progress more quickly.”

MARK LAWRENSON: American Dream Liverpool FC Fans Can’t Wait To Wake Up From

I had a fear that when the full extent of Liverpool’s financial meltdown was made public it would look like we were back to square one.

But that’s not the case – I now think we’re worse off than that.

Just when we have our best season for years.

Just when it looks like we can finally build a team to challenge Manchester United for the title, all that hope and optimism is out on hold by this almighty mess.

It’s worrying enough that Rafael Benitez has to face another summer of trying to get in early on his transfer targets and stressing over who he wants to bring in to strengthen his side.

But the difference this year is that his main rivals could leave him lagging so far behind that he can’t catch up.

Chelsea look like they will spend big again, Manchester United will want to strengthen, Arsenal have already started buying.

And Manchester City have to be taken seriously now. After all, they’ve just completed the signing of the man who was Benitez’s top target last year.

And whether the manager or the fans wanted Gareth Barry this summer or not is immaterial.

Last season when he was top of the list, the money wasn’t there for him but as soon as City wave the chequebook at him he’s up the M6 quicker than you can say “fulfilling my ambition to play Champions League football”.

It all indicates just how hard it will be for Benitez this year.

He has hinted he will have to sell to buy but what will this entail?

If Xabi Alonso wants to go then they should get good money for him. But he was one of the top players at Anfield last season and will be difficult to replace. You’re looking at getting two players in to make up for him.

And I don’t know what Dossena and Babel will fetch in but it won’t be megabucks.

All of which leaves one hope that the club can be sold as quickly as possible.

The only good thing about the release of those figures last week was that it brought home just how much the club has suffered since Tom Hicks and George Gillett took over.

The debt has got bigger and the chances of refinancing with the banks in a few weeks have to be very slim. But that might not be a bad thing.

Because I, like thousands of other Liverpool supporters, hope this will finally be the wake-up call the Americans need to convince them to get out as quickly as they can.

And if there is someone waiting in the wings to relieve them of this situation they have created, then happy days!

Liverpool Pay US Owners Millions In Expenses

Liverpool are being made to pay almost £2m to cover the travel, legal and other personal expenses of the club's owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett. The accounts published for the owners' holding company, Kop Football, for the year to 31 July 2008, show that Hicks charged £192,000 for "third party consulting, travel and other expenses," while Gillett charged £129,000 for "reimbursable travel, legal, personnel and other expenses".

The two men charged significant amounts of money for the same expenses, incurred by themselves personally "and affiliated companies", during the previous seven-month accounting period, which ran from 18 December 2006 to 31 July 2007, too. Hicks charged Kop £198,000, while Gillett charged £375,000.

The pair also claimed almost £1m for what are described in the accounts as "transaction-related expenses". Hicks and affiliated companies charged Kop £133,000 in this category, while Gillett's figure was much higher: £823,000. The total charged to Kop in expenses, for the owners and their affiliated companies, in 18 months from their takeover in early February 2007 to the accounts' end date of 31 July 2008, was £1.85m.

The accounts do not explain in further detail what "consulting, travel, legal, personnel and other expenses" were, or which were regarded as "reimbursable", and Hicks and Gillett were not available to respond with details yesterday. Nor was there any explanation of what constituted "transaction-related expenses". However, the only substantial transaction from December 2006 to July 2007 was the pair's takeover of the club itself. They borrowed £185m from the Royal Bank of Scotland to buy Liverpool in February 2007, and the club has been made responsible for paying the interest on that loan. Now it seems the club has also been made to pay for the pair's costs of doing the deal.

The accounts, published last week, showed that Kop owed a total of £313m to the Royal Bank of Scotland and Wachovia in January this year, and that £36.8m was payable in interest last year. Kop's only asset is Liverpool Football Club so the interest, and the reimbursement of expenses, have to come from the club's income, made from television, supporters paying to watch matches, and other commercial earnings. Hicks and Gillett did loan Kop £58.2m from their holding company in the Cayman Islands last year.

Not all the expenses claimed had been paid by July 2008. The accounts state that of the £523,000 charged by Hicks and his affiliates, £188,000 was still owed, which meant he had been paid £335,000 by Liverpool. Of the £1.327m Gillett claimed for his expenses, £255,000 was outstanding, so Liverpool had paid him £1.072m.

The revelation about the expenses has further incensed supporters' groups who have campaigned for Hicks and Gillett to sell up and leave. The groups accuse the pair of breaking their promise not to make the club pay for their own borrowings to take it over, as the Glazer family did at Manchester United. Liverpool was sold because the previous chairman, David Moores, and chief executive, Rick Parry, believed the club needed wealthy backers to build the long-planned new stadium on Stanley Park, yet the North American pair have not found the finance.

James McKenna, spokesman for the Spirit of Shankly fans' group, said: "Hicks and Gillett were the multimillionaires who promised not to do a Glazer and that work would start on the new stadium within 60 days. Yet now we find, as fans, not only are we paying for their takeover, but we are also paying for their costs of having done it, and, for coming over to visit the football club. They were supposed to bring investment to take the club forward, but it turns out we're even paying their travel costs."

Rafa Benitez: Liverpool Are Not Interested In Ezequiel Lavezzi

Liverpool have reportedly been chasing the signature of Napoli star Ezequiel Lavezzi, but Rafa Benitez has quashed the speculation, stating that the Premier League side do not want to add the ex-San Lorenzo star to their squad.

"We never contacted Lavezzi and we have no intention of doing so. We want to put a stop to these rumours," the Spanish tactician claimed to the English press, according to tuttomercatoweb.

One of Lavezzi's representatives, Eduardo Rossetto, had recently made statements to the contrary, indicating the the Reds were extremely interested in signing the Partenopei forward.

The Argentine international has been an influential figure and fan favourite at the Stadio San Paolo for the last two seasons, but has become unsettled after what he claims is "a lack of respect" from the Serie A outfit.

Press reports from the peninsula suggest that AC Milan, Juventus, and Manchester City are also in the running for the 24-year-old.

Liverpool Did Approach Napoli About Ezequiel Lavezzi - Agent

While Napoli striker Ezequiel Lavezzi has shown signs of discontent in the last few months of the season, his future remains very much uncertain. Recent rumours linked him with a move to Liverpool, but this was quickly denied by Reds coach Rafael Benitez.

Nevertheless, today his agent Alejandro Mazzoni claimed that the English club have spoken with Napoli director Pierpaolo Marino about the player, and he also said Lavezzi now wants to stay at the club.

"Lavezzi wants to stay at Napoli, but Marino has to maintain his promises," Mazzoni said to Sky Sport 24.

"I've read Benitez's words, but I'm sure that the English club spoke with Marino in the past few days. In football it's not necessary to make offers official. In any case, nothing has changed, the key issue is that Marino promised Lavezzi an improved contract over the last few months.

"Lavezzi has said several times that his desire is to stay in Naples."

Javier Mascherano Wants A 'Better Balanced' Liverpool

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has revealed that he felt the club did not beat enough of the sides beneath them in the domestic table, as their bid to end a 19-year drought of league titles failed, despite some excellent victories over the teams at the top of the Premier League standings.

"It has been a very good experience," he told LFC Magazine. "Of course, it would have been much better for us to win the title, but it is good for us to know what it takes to try and win the league.

"We have drawn a lot of games at home against some of the clubs outside the top four, and we know this is an area we must improve next season.

"This season has been a bit strange. We have done really well against all the top teams but have sometimes struggled to beat the others.

"You win the league when you beat all the teams, the bigger ones and the smaller ones.

"But this season we went to Stamford Bridge, the Bernabeu and Old Trafford and won. This is very positive for the future."

Although the side has proved that it can win in some of the most challenging venues in world football, it now needs to increase its capacity to grind out results, the midfielder feels.

"This team is now showing we can win anywhere, but we need to get the balance right for next season," he concluded.

Javier Mascherano Would Leave Liverpool For Barcelona

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has become one of Barcelona’s prime transfer targets this summer and it appears that the Blaugrana could get their man should they step up their pursuit.

The Argentine captain’s agent, Walter Tamer, has revealed that his client would not hesitate in accepting an offer to join the Catalans should one be officially made.

“If a club like Barcelona want to bring you into their ranks after having completed such a brilliant season and having won everything, obviously as a player, you are going to say, ‘Yes, I want to play there,’” he told RAC-1 programme ‘Tu Diras’.

“It is an honour for Javier that a club like Barca pay such close attention to him, especially after the incredible season they had. I believe that a transfer would be feasible. If Barca really want him, he will sign for them.”

Tamer also believes that ‘Masche’ would have no problems fitting into Pep Guardiola’s setup at the Camp Nou.

“He would have a very easy job at Barca,” claimed the agent.

“Sometimes we talk and joke that the only thing he has to do is run, rob the ball, and pass it on to all the superstars in front of him.”

Tamer, however, is aware that a Mascherano switch to Catalunya is not as easy as it seems, especially since Liverpool have to be willing to sell first.

“I have spoken with [Barca technical director] Txiki Begiristain before, but we have not been in contact for a while now,” the representative asserted.

“To have something concrete, we have to talk to Liverpool first to know what their options are for Javier to leave, and then talk to Barcelona to find out their level of interest.

“What if Xabi Alonso also leaves? Surely, [Liverpool manager] Rafael Benitez would not want to have both his central midfielders go. It will be difficult, although Xabi’s future does not depend on Mascherano and vice-versa.

“The transaction would certainly happen, but the first to leave will have more options.”

Rafa Benitez Believes Liverpool's 'Spine' Will Bring Success

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is sure that the 'spine' of his side represents a seam of true quality that starts with his goalkeeper Pepe Reina, goes through his central defence and midfield, and ends up with the sparkling boots of striker Fernando Torres.

"We are working very hard to keep the spine of the team - that was always the idea," Benitez told LFC Magazine.

"We have Pepe Reina as the number one goalkeeper, with Diego Cavalieri behind him, another good goalkeeper. Then we have Skrtel, Carragher and Agger - three good centre-backs.

"Then you go to the midfield with Alonso, Mascherano, Lucas and Gerrard, with Torres up front and Ngog, who is a very good prospect. We have a good squad, which is still young, so hopefully we can improve further.

"We know we still need to improve in some specific areas. We will be working very hard to do that over the summer."

With talismanic centre-back Sami Hyypia departing for Bayer Leverkusen after an emotional Anfield farewell on the last day of the season, there are only two players, Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard, remaining from when Benitez first took over at the club five years ago this month.

The Spaniard feels that that is a sign of the development that has taken place in the squad, but he also acknowledges that perhaps the Reds have less leeway in the transfer market than some of their big spending rivals.

"Coming to a club that needs a lot of work is a massive difference to arriving at a club without too many changes to make. From my time here, Chelsea and United already had big squads with top-class players. They have both spent big money since and improved a lot.

"We could not spend that kind of money, but look at the level of the squad now compared to five years ago. We have had to work hard rebuilding the whole squad," he added.

"It's not just a case of saying, 'Oh, Liverpool should win because they are spending.' The other clubs are spending too but had better squads from the beginning. That is why, if we are to reduce the gap, we have to do things almost perfectly.

"We have learned together what it means to stay close to the top of the table, from the beginning to the end. I am sure that will help us in the future."

Benitez made retaining current stars his priority, once he had signed a new contract himself in the spring, with Dirk Kuyt, Daniel Agger, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres all inking new deals in recent weeks.

Any transfer targets for the summer are still unclear, but Benitez's plans might well have been compromised by the financial problems faced by the club's owners that have been revealed in the last week.

Harris Eases Supporters' Fears

Investment banker Keith Harris believes that Liverpool fans should not be too concerned by reports the club could go out of business.

Owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett lost £42million last year, mainly through interest payments on the £350million loans taken out when they bought the club.

With a July 24 deadline looming to refinance those loans, Liverpool's accountants this week warned there is "significant doubt" about the parent company's ability to remain as a going concern.

"That is statement is one that is issued as a warning to the shareholders, and I would have thought in this case that the two shareholders are perfectly well aware of the situation at the club. It's serious but it's a warning to the shareholders," said Harris.

Rather than go out of business, Harris said Hicks and Gillett are realistically facing three owners: to sell up; find additional funds by selling other assets; or sell players to make up the shortfall.

Harris admitted the last would be "the most dire" as far as fans are concerned, and added: "I think that whatever happens, Rafa Benitez's manoeuvres in the transfer market will be restricted."

Gerrard Eyes One More Win

Steven Gerrard believes a win against Andorra on Wednesday would all but see England qualify for the World Cup in South Africa next summer.

The Liverpool midfielder was instrumental in the first two goals against Kazakhstan on Saturday as Fabio Capello's men ran out comfortable 4-0 winners to make it six wins out of six in Group Six.

Despite taking time to adapt to their surroundings on what was an extremely bobbly pitch the Three Lions took command when Gerrard crossed for Gareth Barry to nod home before playing a part in the second for Emile Heskey.

Further goals from Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard mean England need six points from their final four games to seal a place in South Africa but Gerrard believes qualification can be ensured as soon as Wednesday.

"I think if we win against Andorra we are in the box seat to qualify," he told the Sunday Mirror. "I think we are one win away from virtually sealing it.

"But it is important for us not to get carried away, be professional and get the job done and then we can go into the more difficult games with greater confidence."

Despite opting on the side of caution the 29-year-old believes the pain of not qualifying for the European Championships last year will ensure they don't slip up this time round.

"What we are all conscious about is qualifying for the World Cup," he added.

"Missing out on the European Championship was a massive blow and it took the players a long time to get over it.

"What we need to do is pay the fans back and qualify for the World Cup."

Torres: We Can Better Barca

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres is backing his team-mates to overtake Barcelona as Europe's top side.

The Reds ended the season empty-handed, but kept up the heat on champions Manchester United until the penultimate weekend of the season, while also reaching the Champions League quarter-finals.

"Our aim has to be the best. If we have no desire to be the best in England and in Europe then there is no point even turning up for work," Torres said.

"I don't say it lightly, but we must think we can be as good or even better than (Champions League winners) Barcelona.

"It's the belief of everybody at this club that we can become the best and I think we have really moved forward in the last two seasons.

"Liverpool are just as famous as Barcelona as a football club and even more famous trophy-wise. But we want to make Liverpool as successful in this era as they were in the '70s and '80s."

Torres signed a contract extension to 2014 last month and maintains that he has no desire to go elsewhere.

"There is nowhere else in Europe I want to be," he said.

"I believe we are on the verge of something special here and I am delighted to commit my future to this club."

Torres added: "You would not get top players signing new contracts if they did not think there were good times ahead. I expect many trophies for Liverpool in the years to come."

Liverpool Determined To Keep Hold Of Xabi Alonso

Liverpool are determined to hold on to Xabi Alonso despite the midfield player’s desire to move to Real Madrid. Sources at Anfield indicated that it would take a “mind-blowing” offer by the Spanish giants to prise the 27-year-old away from the club.

Florentino Pérez, the Real president, told The Times yesterday of his interest in Alonso. “Xabi is a magnificent Spanish player, so of course we’d love to have him,” Pérez said. “But everything would involve reaching an agreement with Rafael Benítez. It will need to be an agreement that is in the best interests of both clubs.”

Liverpool made it clear yesterday that they have no intention of selling the Spain player, who has three years left on his contract. Alonso, however, has made it equally clear that he wants to move on. After the 3-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on the final day of the season last month, Alonso met Benítez, the Liverpool manager, to try to force the issue.

The Spaniard has been unsettled for some time, despite having a superb season. Before the Champions League qualifying match against Standard Liège in August, he was reluctant to play to avoid being cup-tied in Europe with any potential new club. However, Liverpool are adamant that they will resist any move for Alonso — Manchester City and Arsenal have also been linked with the player. Suggestions that £25 million would tempt Benítez to sell were laughed off as being “nowhere near” Liverpool’s valuation.

Benítez will be active in the transfer market despite Liverpool’s accounts revealing that the club’s profits failed to cover interest payments on debt last year. Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr., the club’s American owners, are almost certain to get an extension on their £350 million loan deal with Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and Wachovia, due for repayment on July 24. RBS, which owns 75 per cent of the debt, is unconcerned by the reported loss of £43 million since most of it was due to “non-cash” write-downs in the value of players.

It is understood that the bank’s only reservation about the performance of the owners is their inability to finance a new stadium. The banks are encouraging Hicks and Gillett to look for new investment to push through the new ground.

RBS was reassured when Benítez and Fernando Torres signed extensions to their contracts in the closing weeks of the season. The Spanish pair’s commitment to the club was a significant factor in giving the Americans financial breathing space.

Man City Rival Liverpool For Lavezzi

Italian newspapers claim Liverpool aren’t the only Premier League team in talks for Ezequiel Lavezzi, as Manchester City are close to a deal.

The Napoli striker is hurt by the failure to increase his wages as promised, so is considering a move to England.

Up until now all the talk has been about Liverpool and a supposed £15m offer, an interest that was confirmed by his representative.

"There is a very real offer from a team who are playing in the Champions League and where he would earn much more than here,” said agent Alejandro Mazzoni this week.

However, today it has emerged that Manchester City are also tracking ‘Pocho’ and could propose over £3m per season to join the Eastlands side.

At present, Lavezzi only earns £1m per season at the Stadio San Paolo.

Napoli have so far refused to consider any offers for Lavezzi, but could change their mind after bringing in Fabio Quagliarella from Udinese.

They would also use the cash raised from his sale to tempt Sampdoria’s Antonio Cassano to the club.

Barcelona Coach Pep Guardiola Has Initiated Contact With Javier Mascherano

Reports in Spain and England last week suggested that Barcelona were already preparing various offers, including a €22.8 million bid, to tempt Liverpool into selling midfielder Javier Mascherano.

Now, the Argentine newspaper, Clarin, has claimed that Blaugrana coach Pep Guardiola has already had a conversation with the Albiceleste captain while the Catalan club have made a follow-up by initiating formal talks.

“Barcelona have already began contact with Mascherano after coach Guardiola had a chat with the Liverpool player,” the paper said.

Guardiola had requested to the Barca board to sign three or four top-class players to further strengthen the team, and Mascherano has long been one of those at the top of the shopping list.

It is believed, however, that a move for the Reds midfielder is highly dependent on Toure Yaya’s future, but the Argentine’s arrival at the Camp Nou could now be hastened after the Ivory Coast man reportedly turned down Barca’s latest contract offer.

Liverpool are also under threat of losing Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid.

Liverpool’s Arbeloa Ready To Step In For Sergio Ramos In Spain Team

Liverpool full-back Alvaro Arbeloa could be given a rare chance to start for Spain in Tuesday’s international friendly against Azerbaijan, should Sergio Ramos fail to regain full fitness.

The versatile Real Madrid defender suffered a hip injury just before the club’s final game of the Primera Division season against Osasuna. He is still struggling to shrug off the problem despite a full week of rest.

“If Sergio fails to recover and the coach hands me a start, it will fill me with great pride,” Arbeloa told EFE.

“It would be my sixth game with La Seleccion and I will try to take advantage of the opportunity as best I can.”

Despite an equally long season with Liverpool, Arbeloa assured that he was physically ready for the Spanish challenge.

“I am feeling good at the moment. I finished the season well with Liverpool and I would’ve had plenty of rest before going to the Confederations Cup,” he detailed.

“The coach knows that I am here to help the team and I’m ready to play in any position necessary. That I can play at either right- or left-back will increase my chances of seeing more game time and helping the national side. That is my main desire.

“We all want to repeat our Euro 2008 success by winning the Confederations Cup.”

Coach Vicente del Bosque could indeed be forced to field a makeshift back line altogether for Tuesday’s test against Azerbaijan.

With Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique joining Sergio Ramos on the sidelines, the Spanish press expect Arbeloa and Joan Capdevila to line up as the full-backs while Valencia duo Raul Albiol and Carlos Marchena anchor the heart of defence.

It is also predicted that Del Bosque will deploy the 'double X' in central midfield, Xavi and Xabi Alonso, while relative newcomers Juan Mata and Pablo Hernandez could occupy the flanks due to injuries to Andres Iniesta, David Silva and Santi Cazorla.

Bar Iniesta, the rest are expected to recover in time before the start of the Confederations Cup on June 14.