Tribute To Bill Shankly, 50 Years After His Arrival At Liverpool FC

With arms aloft, scarf tied tightly round his neck and celebrating with the Kop, the iconic image of Bill Shankly has become what defines Liverpool Football Club.

The benchmark for any future manager, player, member of the backroom or supporter, and what they strive towards, was raised to unprecedented heights as the man from Glenbuck realised his managerial potential to unleash a new era in British and European football.

It was April 1973 when Shankly and Anfield, a pair of footballing souls intertwined, rejoiced together at winning the First Division championship for the third and ultimately final time.

And immortalised in statue form outside Liverpool’s home today, Shankly’s presence is as keenly felt now as it was between 1959 and 1974.

To know of Shankly has becomes almost a right of passage one has to pass when the love of Liverpool is handed from generation to generation.

A man idolised by thousands, but who thought of himself as merely one of the people, Shankly would be talked about like a member of the family – his resignation in July, 1974 was grieved in a similar way.

Today marks the 50th anniversary of Shankly signing for the Anfield club, replacing the departed Phil Taylor, and ushering in a revolution, taking Liverpool from the humble surroundings of the Second Division to where the club stands today – as an outfit with a revered history and one with a now global appeal.

Everything which has already been achieved and that which will be won in the future by Liverpool, will have been done so with the foundations built under the Scotsman’s reign.

There is almost as much myth and legend surrounding the tenure of Shankly as there is truth, but it makes his legacy that more epic, inspirational and glorious to Liverpool supporters.

Anecdotes from former players and fans detailing acts of generosity, an unrivalled competitive streak and quotes of poetic quality all add to the aura Shankly had and still holds to all associated with Liverpool.

Talk of the former Preston North End player and Scottish international never ceases, but with such a poignant anniversary and in times when the current Liverpool are looking for inspiration, it was natural those he encountered began to reminisce.

Kevin Keegan was somewhat of an unknown when Shankly plucked him from Second Division Scunthorpe United but by 1971 but the Liverpool fans had learned to trust in everything their manager did – it came as little surprise Keegan would be one of the most stellar signings the club have ever seen.

“He brought me to the club, he believed in me and he inspired me. That first meeting with him changed my life forever,” said Keegan.

“Apart from my parents, Bill was the most important person in my life.

“Bill’s departure certainly played a part in my decision to leave.

“No disrespect to Bob (Paisley), but when Bill left half the club went for me as well.

“Bill took Liverpool by the scruff of the neck and put down the foundations on which the club’s been built.”

The Second Division title arrived in 1962 with a team comprised of players such as Ron Yeats and Ian St John and signalled a remarkable turnaround in the club’s fortunes as the former Huddersfield Town manager had transformed a club with a run-down stadium, training facilities not to standard and an average playing squad.

“When we won promotion to the First Division I went to a shareholders’ meeting and they were so thrilled about it that they presented us with cigarette boxes,” Shankly said.

“I told them, ‘we got promotion, but you don’t think that is satisfactory, do you? Next time we come back here for presents we will have won the big league, the First Division’.”

The gifts no doubt became grander after a first ever FA Cup triumph followed in 1965, when Leeds United were dispatched 2-1 after extra-time, and then being named the best team in the land the season afterwards, using just 14 players.

It would be seven years until Shankly brought silverware back to Anfield but he did it after building his second all conquering side – out went those including Roger Hunt and Tommy Lawrence and in came Ray Clemence and John Toshack.

Pipping Arsenal to the championship by three points in 1973, Shankly revelled in his ‘finest hour’ hailing the league win.

“This title gave me greater pleasure than the previous two, simply because here we had a rebuilt side, some of them only two or three seasons in first team football and they stayed the course like veterans”, he said.

“I wanted that title more than at any time in my life.”

More glory followed in 1973 as the club’s first European trophy was secured with a 3-2 win on aggregate against Borussia Moenchengladbach in the final of the UEFA Cup – lighting the touch paper for Liverpool to become European trailblazers.

His final trophy arrived 12 months later when Liverpool beat Newcastle 3-0 in the FA Cup final courtesy of Kevin Keegan’s double and one from Steve Heighway.

“These are my kind of people.”

Shankly sensed something special when he became Liverpool manager half a century ago yet few of the club’s supporters would have predicted just how monumental a 15-year love affair it would become.

But as evocative as the recollections of other people are, the words of Shankly himself are those which resonate the loudest.

"Some people believe football is a matter of life and death, I am very disappointed with that attitude. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that,” is the line which crossed the most footballing borders.

Though when uttering, “If Everton were playing at the bottom of the garden, I'd pull the curtains,” he probably spoke loudest to the Liverpool fans.

Yet they were silenced when Shankly announced his shock resignation from the Anfield job – though the irrepressible Ayrshire man did it in his own style by announcing the signing of Ray Kennedy and then his own departure.

“It has been a momentous day, but his signing shows that I am not running away. Maybe it will be said that one of the last things I did at this club was to sign a great new player,” he said.

It is fitting that Shankly would have the final word.

Benitez Admires Shankly Way

Rafael Benitez marked the 50th anniversary of Bill Shankly's appointment as Liverpool manager by insisting the club must always aspire to the levels of pride and passion the great Scot achieved at Anfield.

Tuesday marks the day in December 1959 when Shankly was officially appointed manager of the club.

Benitez, the current incumbent, admits he knew little of Shankly when he took over the hot seat himself four and a half years ago.

But he soon learned exactly how important Shankly was to the history of the club.

And he admits the appointment of playing legend Sammy Lee as assistant manager was partly designed to rediscover the spirit of Shankly.

Benitez said: "When we decided to bring in Sammy we had someone who knew the philosophy and the ideas of the club.

"Everything has changed in football and everything is different in society nowadays.

"Life is different. Everyone has iPods or Wiis and in a hurry to do things. But still we try to have the same ideas as Shankly.

"When people talk about the 'Liverpool Way', it was always to win. We try to do this and that is our priority if possible. We try to do things properly, like Shankly did."

Half a century has passed since then chairman T.V. Williams changed Liverpool forever by making Shankly manager but, as far as Benitez is concerned, the Shankly way will never die and will forever provide motivation for future generations.

He said: "One of the things we did after Sammy came was to change a little bit of decoration at Melwood. We now have a lot of photographs of former players, the legends and the managers and quotes from different people.

"We have been trying to bring this spirit. It is much better now. When people come to training now, they can look around and it is an inspiration to them. It would have been an honour to have met him, 100 per cent.

"Now all we can do is our best to make sure the mentality and the passion is always the same. That is the key to making sure the club stays at a good level, the level Bill Shankly wanted it to be at."

Benitez adds: "I didn't really know much about him before I came but I started reading books about him and made sure that I spoke with a lot of people. I kept reading all those little phrases and sentences.

"But I also listened to an old radio interview he did, over and over again when I was at home or when I was in my car. I struggled at first with the accent but once it all became clear, I was really impressed with his ideas.

"He was so ahead of his time. He was talking about training sessions and if it had been raining and the players were wet, he would tell them to careful and he would look after them, make sure they recovered properly and ate the right food."

Liverpool are still formulating their plans to mark the half-century since Shankly took over.

It is likely they will honour his legacy during the home game with Wigan on December 16, the nearest match to the 50th anniversary of Shankly's first game in control - a 4-0 home defeat by Cardiff on December 19, 1959.

It is expected members of Shankly's family and former players will be invited to the Wigan match, with a ceremony on the pitch before the game.

One of those former players was Ronnie Moran, who figured in that Cardiff defeat before eventually joining Shankly's backroom staff.

His recalls: "When I came to the end of my playing days I was in the reserves and he called me into his office one day at the end of the season. I thought he was going to tell me my days at Liverpool were over.

"But he said 'Sit down son! How would you like a job on my staff working with the youngsters?'

"I was working with the kids for three years and Joe Fagan was in charge of the reserves. He asked me to help him with that. Joe moved onto the first team staff in 1971 and I took the reserve.

"In 1974 I joined the first team set-up when Bill retired to work with Bob and Joe.

"One of the reasons he was so popular with our supporters was because he told the truth all of the time."

Keegan: Shankly Changed My Life Forever

Kevin Keegan was sat on a bin the first time he met Bill Shankly. It was May 1971 and the 20-year-old Yorkshireman had been waiting patiently at Anfield to discuss his impending switch from Scunthorpe to Liverpool.

It's an encounter firmly etched in Keegan's memory bank because life would never be the same again.

"They were doing up the main stand at Anfield so they were using these temporary offices," Keegan said.

"The only place to sit was on a dustbin outside so I sat there talking to my manager at the time, Ron Ashman, while Bill was inside.

"After a while Bill came out, shook my hand and beckoned me over to his Capri to take me for my medical down near the docks.

"From the moment I met Bill I just gelled with him. I was from mining stock and so was he. I think he saw something in me that reminded him of himself.

"He wanted to help me and he did, massively. Apart from my parents, Bill was the most important person in my life.

"He brought me to the club, he believed in me and he inspired me. That first meeting with him changed my life forever."

Keegan cost £35,000 and it proved to be one of the shrewdest pieces of business in English football history.

Signed as a midfielder, Shankly soon spotted Keegan's striking talents and made him believe he belonged at the highest level.

"I had only been at the club a couple of weeks when Bill said to me 'you will play for England son'," Keegan recalled.

"I was a 20-year-old kid who hadn't even played for Liverpool's first team. I thought 'wow' if he thinks I can they maybe I can.

"Bill was a giver. He wanted to make people better.

"He always came in full of life and what I loved about him was that he was always honest. You always knew where you stood with him.

"If you did something wrong he would tell you but he was never negative about anything.

"If he didn't have anything good to say he just wouldn't speak to you."

Keegan went straight into the side for the first game of the 1971/72 season against Nottingham Forest and scored the opener in a 3-1 win at Anfield. It was the start of a successful double act with John Toshack and as Shankly predicted, international honours soon followed.

Keegan made his England debut against Wales in 1972 and went on to win 63 caps.

"I didn't expect to get in Liverpool's first team so quickly," the 58-year-old admitted.

"I came in at the end of the season and went on tour when a lot of the players were away with England.

"I got games, did well and forced my way into contention. It meant I never actually played a reserve team game for the club.

"That was one of the things about Bill. He wasn't scared to put someone in. If he thought you were good enough that was it.

"I was a 20-year-old kid who went straight from Scunthorpe in the Fourth Division to playing in front of 51,000 at Anfield against Forest."

When Keegan signed the Reds had won nothing since 1966 and Shankly was in the process of building his second great side.

"It was a period of transition for the club," Keegan said.

"When I signed there were great players there like Tommy Lawrence, Ron Yeats, Ian St John, Peter Thompson, Chris Lawler, Tommy Smith and Ian Callaghan.

"There was signings like Alun Evans, who had cost £100,000 from Wolves, John McLaughlin and Ian Ross.

"And new kids on the block like Emlyn Hughes from Blackpool and Ray Clemence who replaced Tommy Lawrence. Steve Heighway was a rising star and Brian Hall was coming through.

"There was a good mix of the old and the new, and Bill got the perfect balance."

A seven-year trophy drought was ended in style with the championship and the UEFA Cup in 1973. Keegan scored twice in the first leg of the final as the Reds overcame Borussia Monchengladbach 3-2 on aggregate.

He repeated the trick a year later with another brace in the FA Cup final as Newcastle were brushed aside 3-0.

However, two months later Keegan was stunned when Shankly resigned.

"I don't know anyone who saw it coming," he said.

"I remember someone called me and said 'have you heard about Shanks?' My first thought was 'he's been involved in an accident'.

"When I was told he had resigned I didn't believe it. There was talk after every season about Bill threatening to quit and the board talking him out of it.

"But when I spoke to Bill he said 'no, I'm finished this time'. It was a massive shock."

Keegan went on to play a key role under Bob Paisley as the Reds landed the championship and the UEFA Cup again in 1976. He scored in both legs of the final against FC Bruges and was crowned Football Writers Player of the Year.

However, the departure of Shankly had hit Keegan hard and midway through the following season he announced his intention to leave in the summer to play abroad.

Keegan signed off in style, winning his third league title and helping the Reds clinch their first European Cup with a 3-1 victory over Borussia Monchengladbach in Rome.

After 323 appearances and 100 goals, he made a £500,000 switch to Hamburg in the summer of 1977.

"Bill's departure certainly played a part in my decision to leave," Keegan said.

"No disrespect to Bob, but when Bill left half the club went for me as well.

"Don't get my wrong, I enjoyed playing for Bob. We had some great times and won the European Cup.

"But it wasn't the same after Bill left. I just didn't enjoy going into the club as much when he wasn't there. Nobody could replace Bill."

The fact that Shankly wasn't offered another role at Liverpool after he stood down in 1974 still grates with Keegan to this day.

"I was really saddened by the way he was treated by the club," he said.

"I appreciate it was a difficult situation for everyone. Bill was such a big personality but it could have been handled a lot better.

"It should have been a case of someone asking him 'what job do you want?' They should have done something for him whether it was a place on the board or whatever.

"I know it would have been difficult for Bob to have him around the place but I'm sure something could have been sorted out.

"Bill should never have been allowed to walk away and I'm sure if you could ask those people involved they would admit they regret the way they went about things.

"The sad fact is that Bill spent more time at Everton's training ground than ours."

After leaving Liverpool, Keegan won the Bundesliga title with Hamburg and was twice crowned European Footballer of the Year.

Spells with Southampton and Newcastle followed before he moved into management.

The former England boss believes both Liverpool and himself personally owe Shankly a massive debt of gratitude.

"Bill took Liverpool by the scruff of the neck and put down the foundations on which the club's been built," he said.

"Bob achieved more than Bill in terms of honours but Bob was the first to admit that Bill put in the ground work.

"Bill gave everyone connected with the club great belief and principles. Everyone counted for something whether you were the kitman or you cut the grass.

"I played under a lot of good managers but none were in the same county, let along the same street, as Bill.

"His way was right for me and I learned so much from him. I took a lot from what Bill taught me into my own management career.

"Things like if you treat people the right way and give them the chance to flourish then you will get the best out of them.

"Bill was unique and the man meant everything to me."

Roma Lead Race For Reds Target

Roman Pavlyuchenko's agent is trying to engineer a move to Roma for his player despite reported interest from Liverpool.

The Russian is desperate to leave White Hart Lane in the summer and Italian outfit Roma have emerged as favourites to wrap up a deal as soon as the transfer window opens.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has been linked with a move for the striker as he tries to find a partner for Fernando Torres up front and Birmingham and Spartak Moscow have also been linked but the striker's agent Oliver Wendt is hoping to fix up a move with Roma this week.

"We're meeting Roma today or tomorrow for Roman," Wendt told Romagiallorossa.com. "Roman wants to leave London and he wants to go to Roma. If Tottenham allow him to go, Roman could be a Roma player.

"Everything depends on the meeting we will have today or tomorrow with Roma. I had contact with the Roma directors last week too and they showed they were interested."

Liverpool Star Fernando Torres Aiming To Return Against Blackburn As Boss Rafa Benitez Aims To Rebuild Troubled Season

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres could be back to face Blackburn this weekend, as the Merseysiders look to rebuild their season.

Rafa Benitez saw his team ride their luck in winning the Merseyside derby at Everton, and with his star striker aiming to return on Saturday, Liverpool's fortunes could finally be on the up.

Benitez said: 'Fernando is close, but he still has some pain. We now have a week to work with him and for the physios to try to get him fit to play.

'We will monitor this every day and then decide. But we do not want to take any risks with him now, he needed three weeks of treatment and that is not fully completed yet.

'There is no deadline. We will have to decide after we have watched him working this week.'

Liverpool were a long way from their best at Goodison Park, but after edging a victory that moves them up to fifth supporters will be hopeful of a decent run over the crucial festive period.

Steven Gerrard certainly wasn't at his best, but still lacks match fitness and Benitez admitted: 'Gerrard has found it hard. He has played three difficult games in a row without training for three weeks prior, and that is tough.

'People have to understand that some players are trying very hard to help the team when they are not really fit. But they want to play, and their attitude is very positive.

'Now we have a week of training, and that I hope will see a lot more of them much fitter for the next game.'

Benitez praised the players fighting to recover from injuries, who are forcing themselves through matches.

Yossi Benayoun, Glen Johnson, Albert Riera, Daniel Agger, Fabio Aurelio and Gerrard are all still at various stages of recovery.

Benitez said: 'There are several players who maybe should not be out there at the moment. They are not fully fit, they are not training and they have injuries.

'But we are working so hard together. We are seeing players involved when they should really be on the treatment table.

'But they all wanted to play, to do a job for the team and to work to get us going again as a team.'

Reflecting on the crucial win over Everton, Benitez said: 'It was a big result for us, any derby win is important. But to win when we knew that Aston Villa, Spurs and Manchester City had all drawn at the weekend was very important.

'We knew that if we won then we would be much higher in the table and that will give us more confidence.

'We feel we deserved that bit of luck for the first goal, a deflection. Because a lot of bad luck has come our way over the recent weeks, and that has gone some way to evening things for us.'

Rafa Explains Aquilani Absences

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez insists he will not bow to critics who want Alberto Aquilani to be rushed into the first team.

The Reds boss' tactics have been questioned as his £20million summer signing has remained on the substitute’s bench over recent weeks and only earned a strange 30-second outing in the UEFA Champions League win at Debrecen.

Fans have been desperate to see Aquilani start a match amidst the club's struggling form, but Benitez does not want to rush the 25-year-old's recovery from ankle surgery, which took place prior to his move from Roma, and a virus.

The Spaniard decided to keep the Italy midfielder absent from Sunday's win over Everton, resisting the urge of exposure in the fierce atmosphere of a Merseyside derby, and will continue to err on the side of caution.

"It's simpler than people think," said Benitez in the Liverpool Echo. "He has been out for longer than we expected and, because he has been injured during the summer, he couldn't train properly.

"Now it is much better and it is a case of improving his match fitness. We want to play him and we thought we might have been able to do that with the reserves at Wigan.

"That was called off (last week) but we had some games at Melwood and he played 45 minutes against our reserves last week. We are trying to improve him as quick as we can.

"But when you have a player who is not fit, he is always going to need time to settle in to a game; if the game is tight and he makes mistakes, then you have a problem.

"We want to protect the player but, at the same time, we want to keep winning games; he understands that he needs to be a little bit fitter before he can play."

Benitez is eager to select Aquilani, who produced an encouraging 14 minutes in October's Carling Cup defeat at Arsenal, and has no doubts regarding his ability, but will still not rush.

"It has not been easy (to not play him) but we are giving him more encouragement in training sessions and he is getting much, much better," added the Reds boss on a player who has a reputation in Italy for being prone to injury.

"We know he is a top-class player and we want to do the best for him and the team; but the best for the player and the team sometimes means he cannot play.

"Think about this example. We were winning 1-0 (against Debrecen) the other day and me and (assistant manager) Sammy (Lee) were talking about playing him.

"But if we played him for the last 20 minutes, when they were attacking a little bit more and he is not settled, maybe it will be the situation will become worse. It is not easy finding the balance but he is getting better all the time."

Johnson: 'Liverpool FC Deserved Some Good Fortune'

Glen Johnson is adamant Liverpool earned their derby day luck – but accepts they now have to make the most of it.

Despite being outplayed for much of the game, Rafael Benitez’s side earned a 2-0 victory in the 212th Merseyside derby at Goodison on Sunday.

It was the Anfield outfit’s first Premier League triumph in more than a month and moved them up to fifth place, two points off the Champions League qualification places.

What had been a run of two wins in 12 has now become a five-game unbeaten run ahead of another demanding away game at Blackburn Rovers this coming Saturday.

And while admitting their fortune was in with Javier Mascherano’s deflected opener at Goodison, Johnson acknowledges it will count for nothing if Liverpool fails to capitalise on a morale-boosting victory.

“The derby win might end up being the turning point of our season, I don’t see why not,” said Johnson.

“We have a platform to build upon.

“You maybe can’t read all that much into just one goal, but with the first goal against Everton, it’s the first time we’ve had a little bit of luck in a while.

“The lads are working as hard as they can all week, so maybe they deserve that luck. Now it’s up to us to make the most of it.”

Johnson was part of a defence that kept a successive clean sheet for the first time this season, with Liverpool having won 1-0 against Debrecen in the Champions League last week.

And he said: “We’ve got two clean sheets in a row so hopefully we can push on now.

“We know that we haven’t been picking up the results that people associated with this club expect but there is no better place to start picking up points than Goodison.

“We want to get on a good run now. The next game is all that we can worry about but we want to be pushing up the table and hopefully this will be the start.”

Johnson also hailed goalkeeper Pepe Reina’s remarkable double stop to deny Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini could prove a turning point in Liverpool’s season.

“That save was amazing,” said the England international.

“With it being 1-0 at the time, if either Cahill or Fellaini had scored, it could have been a different story.

“Pepe is one of the best in the business, there’s no disputing that. He’s a Spanish international on merit and deserves (recognition) every time that he plays.

“He’s certainly one of the best that I have ever played with. He’s got so much to his game, he’s really good with his feet and you can see him in training.

“That’s what the modern goalkeeper needs.

“He’s quick and agile and makes great saves like that; it was a turning point in the game and it could be a turning point in the season.”

Liverpool FC To Be Hit By Another Huge Financial Blow?

English soccer club Liverpool, hit by the financial blow of failure to qualify for the knock-out stages of the Champions League, are playing for more than the revenues qualification to the competition would bring next season.

According to a study produced by Italian sports business consultancy StageUp, Liverpool have received US$195 million from participation in the competition over the last six years - the fifth-highest of any club in Europe. That amount has allowed the signing of players such as Fernando Torres, the Spanish striker who has quickly become an iconic figure on Merseyside.

Failure to finish in the top four of the Premier League for next season would not just rob Liverpool of that lucrative revenue stream. According to press reports, it would also see the club's record shirt sponsorship agreement cut.

'The debt-laden Merseyside club and banking giant Standard Chartered agreed a £20 million-a-year, four-year sponsorship deal, which will start in July 2010,' reported England's Sunday Express newspaper. 'However, under the terms of the deal Liverpool needs to secure a finish in the top four to get the full amount.

'It is understood that if Liverpool finish outside the top four, they will receive a reduced fee,' the newspaper claims.

Youngsters Gain Wolves Revenge

Liverpool Under-18s are through to the FA Youth Cup fourth round after beating Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 at Anfield on Monday night.

Tom Ince fired the hosts into a deserved 35th minute lead when the winger collected Andre Wisdom's fine pass and dispatched an effort into the back of the net.

Liverpool made sure of their passage into the next round thanks to Krisztian Adorjan netting a Kop end goal in the opening exchanges of the second half.

The Reds kicked-off hoping to secure a victory on the first step of their quest to reach a fourth FA Youth Cup final in five years.

Last season's final heartbreak to Arsenal had only served to increase the Academy youngsters' desire to reclaim the trophy for a fourth time in the club's history.

Wolves had proven difficult opponents just over two weeks previous when they beat Rodolfo Borrell's men with a last-gasp goal in a league meeting in the Midlands.

However, Liverpool made an encouraging start to a bitterly cold evening inside Anfield, and Ince could have given the home side a third-minute lead when he burst into the box, only to drag his shot wide of the far post.

It was certainly a feisty opening to proceedings, with both teams snapping into challenges on the immaculate surface.

With Kop luminaries such as Kenny Dalglish and Jamie Carragher watching on from the directors' box, the young Reds had every reason to want to make an impression.

Back came Wolves, and Wisdom had to be alert to block James Spray's dangerous low cross into the six-yard box.

Play was zipping crisply from one end to the other in what was proving to be an absorbing encounter.

Adorjan stung the palms of visiting goalkeeper Daniel East before Nathaniel Mendez-Laing skipped beyond Jack Robinson at the other end and teed up Spray, who saw his shot on the turn tipped behind by Deale Chamberlain at full-stretch.

Such has been Mendez-Laing's progression at youth level, the forward has already appeared for Wolves' senior side this season and was named man-of-the-match for his performance in a Carling Cup tie with Swindon.

Liverpool should have broken the deadlock in the 22nd minute. Chris Buchtmann's pin-point ball over the top released Ince through on goal, but the winger delayed his shot prior to skewing wide of the far post.

Then, John Flanagan was sent bearing down on East's goal by an imaginative back-heel from Michael Ngoo, but the Reds defender was thwarted by the Wolves custodian. Conor Coady headed over the resulting corner.

However, East could do little as Ince finally found the back of the net in the 35th minute.

Wisdom's defence-splitting pass sent the Reds No.11 through on goal, and this time he made no mistake with a coolly-taken left foot finish across the 'keeper and into the bottom corner.

Liverpool had begun to assume control of the game, and within 60 seconds of the start of the second half, had two opportunities to extend their lead.

First, Ngoo scooped wide when well positioned before Adorjan struck into the Kop from the edge of the area.

A deserved second did eventually arrive on 56 minutes, though, when the Hungarian forward jinked his way into the box and slotted a low effort beyond an unsighted East from the left hand side of the area.

Despite the hosts holding a two goal advantage, the game remained fiercely contested with strong tackles being made all over the park.

It was a stern challenge that presented Adorjan with a shooting opportunity from a free-kick on the edge of the area, but he was unable to test East with his 20 yard effort.

Wolves should have reduced the arrears when substitute Andre Landell hooked an effort over the bar after being picked out by Mendez-Laing's run and cross.

Landell had another chance in the dying moments, but was frustrated by a goalline block by Flanagan.

The impressive Robinson could have capped the night in fine fashion for the Reds when a well worked moved carved open a shooting chance for the defender in injury-time, but East did well to repel the strike around the post.

Nevertheless, Liverpool had already done enough to deservedly secure a place in the fourth round draw and gain some revenge for the harsh league defeat they had suffered at the hands of Wolves earlier this month.

Benitez Hails Walking Wounded

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez hailed his walking wounded after a spirited display in the Merseyside derby.

Steven Gerrard played a full 90 minutes in the 2-0 victory despite being still way short of match fitness.

And Yossi Benayoun, Glen Johnson, Albert Riera, Daniel Agger, Fabio Aurelio and Gerrard are all still at various stages of recovery but featured in some part of the game.

Benitez said: "Gerrard has found it hard. He has played three difficult games in a row without training for three weeks prior, and that is tough.

"People have to understand that some players are trying very hard to help the team when they are not really fit. But they want to play, and their attitude is very positive.

"Now we have a week of training, and that I hope will see a lot more of them much fitter for the next game."

He added: "There are several players who maybe should not be out there at the moment. They are not fully fit, they are not training and they have injuries.

"But we are working so hard together. We are seeing players involved when they should really be on the treatment table.

"But they all wanted to play, to do a job for the team and to work to get us going again as a team."

Fernando Torres failed a fitness test with his groin problem and did not even make the bench at Goodison, but Benitez hopes the striker will be fit for Saturday's trip to Blackburn.

He added: "Fernando is close, but he still has some pain. We now have a week to work with him and for the physios to try to get him fit to play.

"We will monitor this every day and then decide. But we do not want to take any risks with him now, he needed three weeks of treatment and that is not fully completed yet.

"There is no deadline. We will have to decide after we have watched him working this week."

Benitez also believes Sunday's victory can act as a springboard for the rest of the season.

He said: "We deserved more in recent games against Manchester City and Birmingham, we should have won them both. But we only managed draws so it was important to start winning matches again.

"We have now managed consecutive clean sheets, including a win against Debrecen, and that is something to build on for the rest of the season.

"Before the game we talked about how we could take advantage of the draws amongst the other sides at the top of the table. We won and we have found more confidence, and with players coming back from injury.

"It will give us confidence now for the rest of the season. We have played well in games and not managed wins, but this time we had to fight against a direct style and we got the victory."

Dirk Kuyt: Mersey Derby Win Can Be Catalyst For Liverpool’s FC Premier League Campaign

Dirk Kuyt believes derby day success was the perfect way to banish Liverpool’s Champions League misery – and can be the catalyst for another assault on the top four.

The Holland international is no stranger to scoring crucial goals against Everton and he repeated his trick of two years ago, when he bundled in from close range to give the Reds a priceless 2-0 victory.

Liverpool have climbed up to fifth in the table now and are just three points behind third-placed Tottenham Hotspur but, as Kuyt accepted, three points were not secured with a performance to please the purists.

That, though, was no concern to the Dutchman, who feels winning one of the most significant games they will play in the Premier League calendar will give him and his teammates the belief to emerge from their dreadful autumn with a bang.

“We’re really happy with the result,” said Kuyt, who netted for the first time September 19.

“It’s one of the most important games of our season and to beat Everton always gives you a special feeling. I’m really happy for the team and the supporters.

“It’s a good result and hopefully we can take the confidence from this into our next couple of games. It’s been a while since I scored, but for me that’s not the most important thing.

“We needed to win, and that’s what matters most. This win has come at the right moment for us. Everybody knows that we have struggled in the Premier League this season and haven’t done well in the Champions League. But we have to move on.

“When you play in a derby match, they aren’t often the greatest games to watch but I think we showed a lot of character to win, and that’s what it was all about.

“A derby is more important than almost every other game, and to win this means a lot for us.

“The result is more important than the performance in a derby. You know it’s going to be hard to play football and you need to show character. We beat Debrecen with a clean sheet and we did the same here, so hopefully we bring some of our confidence back.”

Liverpool took the lead when Javier Mascherano’s long-range effort deflected off Joseph Yobo past Tim Howard but for much of the game they were subjected to a barrage of Everton pressure.

That the Blues did not find a way through was down to Pepe Reina’s enduring brilliance and Kuyt was quick to pay tribute to the Spaniard, particularly after his double save midway through the second-half from Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini.

“Everton put us under a lot of pressure with the long balls because they have quality players in the air like Fellaini and Cahill,” said Kuyt. “They caused us a few problems but I thought the defence and Pepe Reina were superb.

“Pepe made a great double save, and for me he is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. He definitely showed that with the save today. We work hard to get results and we’ve all come to Liverpool to win trophies.

“When things don’t go your way it’s disappointing. It has been a very hard period for us but, like the manager says, we have to move on now and look forward. This was a good win, especially as it gets us back in the top five.

“Liverpool have had a great history in the Champions League, including the three years I have been here. We have had some special nights and we want them again.”

Reina Improving Everyday - Benitez

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez hailed Jose Reina as "one of the best goalkeepers in the world" after a singular piece of brilliance helped the side to a 2-0 victory in the 212th Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

Leading through Joseph Yobo's 12th-minute own goal from a deflected Javier Mascherano shot, the Reds were coming under increasing pressure in the second half.

With 20 minutes remaining Reina pulled off one of the saves of the season when he dived low to his left to keep out Tim Cahill's header and then sprung to his feet to block Marouane Fellaini's follow-up.

Both Benitez and Everton boss David Moyes agreed it was a turning point as, with 10 minutes to go, Dirk Kuyt made the game safe by scoring from close range after substitute Albert Riera's shot was half-saved by Tim Howard.

"When we signed him we knew he was a good keeper and he is improving here," said Benitez of Reina.

"Xavi Valero, our goalkeeping coach, is doing a really good job with him and you can see him improving every day.

"For me he is one of the best goalkeepers in the world and (yesterday) he showed why.

"It was a great save. In this situation he was amazing."

Benitez was also pleased with the defensive performance after a second successive clean sheet made it five matches without defeat.

"The team defending was very good and that is another positive thing for the future," said the Spaniard, who felt vice-captain Jamie Carragher was returning to form after a shaky start to the season.

"Daniel Agger and Carragher were doing a good job but Mascherano and Lucas Leiva were working so hard in the midfield, helping the defence.

"Carra is the one who can organise them. He showed character again because, after the beginning of the season, he is doing well again."

The victory moved Liverpool up to fifth in the Barclays Premier League, just two points behind Arsenal, but Benitez issued a note of caution to his players.

"Always it is important to win and winning games in a row is the key if you want to stay high and in the top four," he said.

"We have to go one game at a time. We have done our job and we have some days to go before Blackburn (next Saturday) so we have to enjoy it and then prepare the team for the next week and hopefully a victory."

Benitez is hopeful of having Fernando Torres back for that game after the striker sat out his fourth successive match because of a groin problem.

"We were testing Fernando on Saturday. He told me he still had a little bit of pain, but he is improving," said the Liverpool boss.

"He is progressing and next week hopefully we can test him again."

Everton are just three points above the relegation zone but Moyes was happy with the performance.

"I don't feel we came off the pitch losers. The players worked extremely hard and I felt they deserved more than what they got," he said.

"The deflected goal took the sting out of us but I thought the players reacted great.

"They kept going and I thought in the main we kept Liverpool quiet.

"It is disappointing you don't get anything from that but overall I thought the players did a good job.

"I've got encouragement from that but it doesn't change our position."

Nemeth Considers AEK Move

Krisztian Nemeth admits that he would seriously think about making his loan move to AEK Athens permanent.

The Liverpool forward is on a season-long loan and after two seasons at Anfield without any first-team opportunities is considering his options.

Despite injury disrupting his time on Merseyside the 20-year-old is seemingly enjoying a change of fortune in Greece having scored three goals in seven league games.

AEK have endured an inconsistent start to the season and currently sit sixth in the Greek Super League, 14 points off leaders Panathinaikos.

"The fans keep telling me that AEK is a great club," he said.

"They're really impressive and certainly more enthusiastic than Liverpool's. What I experienced at the derby with Olympiakos (in which Nemeth scored) was something that I've never felt before.

"I really wondered what the fans would be able to do if we performed better in the league. I think that if Liverpool and AEK work something out, I'd be extremely thoughtful about staying in Athens permanently."

Nemeth added that just because AEK were struggling in the league would not put him off signing permanently.

"It never crossed my mind to ask terminating my loan deal due to AEK's bad performance," he stated.

"Certainly, we should be better. I'm sure that we'll get better and along with the team, I'll improve myself too. I've fallen in love with Greece and AEK's fans."

Manchester City Plot £50m Swoop For Liverpool Striker Fernando Torres

Manchester City are planning an audacious January swoop for Liverpool striker Fernando Torres, according to a report by The Daily Mail.

The Manchester club plans to use their immense wealth to further unsettle the troubled Reds, who they believe would find it hard to turn down an offer of around £50million for the world-class Spaniard.

However, Torres would surely want some guarantee of Champions League football next season – a guarantee which City can't give in January.

Still, the pressure is very much on City boss Mark Hughes to engineer a top-four finish this season. The Welshman's position has come under further scrutiny after Saturday's draw with Hull City - it was the Sky Blues' seventh successive draw.

Former Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink has been reported as a likely successor should Hughes lose his job.

Bayern Deny Ryan Babel Link

Bayern Munich have dismissed reports they are lining up a bid for Ryan Babel.

The Liverpool forward is far from happy with life at Anfield and has made his feelings known to boss Rafa Benitez.

Babel's time on Merseyside looks to be coming to end and a number of clubs have been linked with a move for him in January.

Bayern were one of the clubs said to be keen on the Dutchman, but their director of sport Christian Nerlinger has denied any interest.

"I do know anything about it," he told Liga Total.

"If I do not know anything, you can easily assume there is no truth in this link."

Liverpool And Everton Should Forget Their Differences And Cohabit At Stanley Park

The councillors in Kirkby may have done Liverpool as well as Everton a favour in finding fault with the Toffees’ grand designs.

A Liverpool flagship in Stanley Park remains an empty promise, holed by the collapse of the financial model of the club’s American ownership.

David Moyes is hemmed in at Everton by empty pockets in the boardroom. The club cannot afford to buy a centre-forward let alone finance a new home alone.

The time has come to rise above ancient rituals and old thinking and contemplate a ground share. Do Internazionale and AC suffer identity loss as a consequence of both calling the San Siro – one of the world’s great footballing temples – home?

Individuality is accommodated by the colonisation of separated ends. The supporters of Liverpool and Everton could draw lots then set about hanging their banners behind their respective goals.

It is no argument to point to the policy at Arsenal and Tottenham, clubs who pursued their own mad ambition with the development of new homes on adjacent sites.

As beautiful as the Emirates is and Tottenham’s emporium will be, they are absurdities in a city that has a £750 million new pin lying idle at Wembley.

Merseyside deserves a world-class facility. Stanley Park is the only place for it to go.

Bill Shankly 'Invented' Liverpool Football Club - Wales Boss John Toshack

Wales manager John Toshack believes that Bill Shankly is the reason that Liverpool established themselves as a footballing giant, and that the values instilled into Anfield by the Scot will persist for years to come.

"I suppose he invented Liverpool as the club they are now. You only have to go there now and you see the foundations he laid down 50 years ago are still evident," Toshack said, according to Press Association Sport.

"Shanks used to say, and it is poignant now because it is 50 years since he was appointed, that 'the most important things in football were important 50 years ago and they will be important 50 years from now'.

"Shankly is the most important thing in the history of Liverpool and he will still be important 50 years from now.

"Everything he did, the style, the system, the way Liverpool played, is still in place. Still as relevant now as it was all those years ago.

"He gave Liverpool that mystique, that aura of greatness. Without a shadow of a doubt."

Toshack was a target man who formed a deadly strike partnership with Kevin Keegan during the 1970s at Anfield. Throughout that time, Shankly's secret was to keep things simple.

"He didn't really coach, I don't recall anyone telling me what to do. But they watched us all closely before they signed us and then pieced us all together into a team," the Welshman explained.
"The training was simple. Control, pass, move. We worked with the ball every day, they had the training routines and set-ups always the same. But it was always enjoyable.

"Shankly always had a story to get his point over. You might not always have had a good day or feel right, but by the time you went out to play for him you knew how important Liverpool was.

"He almost invented Liverpool as a great club, the magic, the mystique.

"He created one great side that won the cup, and then he created another one equally as good. But he only used, I think, 14 players one season in 60 games.

"He would not have understood rotation. When you asked him what the team was, he said, 'the same as last season'.

"Shanks almost changed the way fans perceived managers. He was Mr. Liverpool, unique."

Financial Woes Put An End To Possibility Of Liverpool FC Takeover

The financial troubles that have beset Dubai have put an end to any potential takeover of English soccer club Liverpool from within the emirate.

Dubai investment Capital (DIC) has long been interested in taking over the club, which is owned by American businessmen Tom Hicks and George Gillett. As long ago as 2006 the club and DIC held talks on a potential takeover, and the eventual sale of the club to Hicks and Gillett did nothing to dampen DIC's interest. Last year, DIC announced it was within three or four weeks of completing a takeover, though that was subsequently blocked by Hicks.

DIC's interest in owning a Premier League club has only increased in the 15 months that Manchester City, another English side, has been owned by the ruling family of Abu Dhabi. Liverpool and Manchester City are just one point apart in the Premier League table.

The current time would be the ideal point for DIC to complete the takeover. Liverpool have struggled in recent weeks, and failed to reach the commercially lucrative Champions League knock-out stages. However, Liverpool's current financial travails are nothing to the problems Dubai faces, and sources close to DIC say that any possibility of a takeover has now been extinguished.

Earlier this month, the emirate asked for a six month delay on payments on US$59 billion of debt, raising the possibility of the largest government default since the Argentine debt restructuring in 2001.

The United Arab Emirates central bank has now issued emergency credit facilities to banks in the region.

Match Report: Everton 0 - 2 LiverpooL

Liverpool claimed a smash and grab Merseyside derby victory to claim fifth place in the Premier League on a day of raw tension at Goodison Park.

But they will have sighed with relief after being pounded for almost all of this very local showdown, but somehow emerged with the points.

An own goal from Joseph Yobo, deflecting a Javier Mascherano effort past Tim Howard saw Liverpool ahead at the break despite being almost permanently on the back foot as Everton poured forward.

But their eighth win in their last 10 visits to Goodison Park was secured with 10 minutes to go when Dirk Kuyt scored from close range after another Yobo error.

Everton were the dominant force, but could not turn their pressure into goals, with Liverpool now having lost just two of their last 20 league games against the old enemy.

Rarely can a Merseyside derby have been played out with both rival managers - David Moyes and Rafael Benitez - having had to handle questions over their longevity in their jobs.

The 212th clash between these bitterest of rivals certainly held the immediate futures of both seriously under-achieving clubs. Everton, fighting to get away from the relegation zone and Liverpool desperate to put their distressing season back on track.

Everton made four changes from the side that lost so poorly at Hull in midweek, Tony Hibbert, Jo, Marouane Fellaini and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov all returning with youngster Jack Rodwell the most notable omission with a groin injury.

Liverpool fielded the side that had won in Hungary against Debrecen, but could not save the Reds' Champions League lives.

And again there was no Fernando Torres in the squad, leaving young striker David Ngog to continue his Premier League education in the unforgiving glare of a derby battlefield.

With so much at stake, the opening exchanges were even more ferocious than usual. Mascherano and Tim Cahill traded kicks and warnings from referee Alan Wiley, with Cahill finding himself dumped on the track by the Argentina captain.

But it was Mascherano who was soon celebrating, having had a major part in Liverpool's 12th-minute lead.

Everton criminally allowed the midfielder to advance towards their box, where he lashed in a 20 yarder that deflected off Yobo and into the opposite corner than had been intended with Howard hopelessly wrongfooted.

It was the lead Liverpool had craved, but one that ignited a fierce and sustained response from Everton.

Twice they had the ball in the net before the break, but two efforts by Jo were ruled out for offside, the second when Fellaini blocked Jose Reina right on the line.

But there were other chances for Everton, with Bilyaletdinov managing to shoot wide from six yards when it would have been easier to score.

Reina saved from Russian winger, while the excellent Steven Pienaar was twice close as Everton surged forward in search of an equaliser they fully deserved.

Liverpool were barely noticeable up front, although Kuyt fired over and Howard made a fine save from Emiliano Insua's close-range header.

But they were rare excursions into enemy territory for Liverpool in a one-sided first-half.

Everton came out after the break intent on more of the same. They hurled themselves at Liverpool's creaking defence in which Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger were working overtime to keep the blue waves at bay.

Liverpool were hanging on under the most searching of examinations. Saha replaced Jo after 66 minutes, still Everton rolling relentlessly forward.

Yobo managed to deflect an Ngog effort wide, but that was a rare venture out by Liverpool.

Reina produced a stunning double-save from Cahill and then Fellaini, Liverpool penned back and defending with increasing desperation.

In all of this, Steven Gerrard was a peripheral figure. Clearly short of pace and movement he was unable to influence what was going on all around him, until taking a hand in the critical second goal.

Ngog was finally withdrawn with 15 minutes to go, Yossi Benayoun arriving to play on the right with Kuyt taking the central attacking role. Albert Riera was next into the fray, in place of Fabio Aurelio, somehow Liverpool still ahead.

But with 10 minutes left, all Everton's brave efforts came to nothing as Liverpool dealt them a sickening blow.

Reina's long clearance was headed down by Kuyt with Yobo slashing wildly at the ball. It fell to Gerrard who set up Riera for a shot that Howard pushed into the path of Kuyt, who stabbed home the second.

Ayegbeni Yakubu came off for Cahill, and Lucas Neill for a crestfallen Yobo. But it was all over for Everton, who will never know how they lost this one.

Javier Mascherano: Liverpool Would Be Crazy To Get Rid Of Rafa Benitez

Javier Mascherano has claimed it would be madness for Liverpool to part company with Rafa Benitez.

Mascherano has been linked to a New Year move to long-time admirers Barcelona – but he insists the players and fans are right behind Benitez in his hour of need.

Mascherano said: “You can’t talk about changing the manager, that would be crazy. The fans are right behind Rafa Benitez – and I know the players definitely are.

“We know you can’t just take recent results into account. Liverpool have improved a lot over the last five years – and that is all down to Rafa. Remember, the club didn’t qualify for the Champions League every year before he came to the club.

“The fact that people think it is normal for us to be in the Champions League and challenging for trophies is down to one man – the manager.

“There is a big disappointment that we suffered in Europe, but now we must start winning games in the league.

“Rafa signed a new contract only a few months ago. I think the players, the fans, the owners all believe in him.”

Mascherano says it is crucial that Liverpool produce the form that will enable them to claim a place in the top four once again. The Argentina captain insists he still hasn’t given up on the title – but knows that a victory at Goodison is vital.

Mascherano said: “It is still not impossible to win the league, but our first job is to get back into the top four and qualify for the Champions League. When you see Chelsea winning all the time you have to accept that getting to the top will be very difficult for us, but our first job is to start winning games regularly and see what the future brings.

“It sounds stupid to talk about winning the League, but if Chelsea start to lose some games then maybe we will be given a chance to get back into it. At the moment, though, the aim must be the top four and it is down to the players to show we are the right players for Liverpool.”

He added: “Liverpool expect to win every game because we are a top club. We cannot think of going to Everton to just draw. That would not be a good result for us in our position.

“We have to go there and win. We can’t think about injuries or off-the-field distractions.

“We want to win for the fans and for Rafa Benitez. We know how special it is to beat Everton.”

Jurgen Klinsmann's After Kop Offer No.2

Jurgen Klinsmann will tell Liverpool's American co-owners: I wouldn't turn you down again.

The ex-Germany striker rejected the chance to replace Rafa Benitez at Anfield two years ago after holding secret talks with Tom Hicks and George Gillett, preferring instead to take over at Bayern Munich.

But he is back in the job market after being sacked in the summer and desperately wants to take over on Merseyside when Benitez's reign ends.

Klinsmann, 44, is no longer the first choice of Hicks and Gillett as the Spaniard's replacement.

That man is Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill, as People Sport revealed last month.

But the former Tottenham star would jump at the chance to take over if O'Neill rejected any approach from the Americans.

With Benitez's future on a knife-edge, that opportunity could come sooner rather than later.

The pressure is mounting on Benitez, whose side are out of the Champions League and whose hopes of winning the Premier League are effectively over.

The cost of sacking Benitez and his backroom staff - around £15million - is one obstacle for the cash-strapped owners.

But plans are afoot for a financial injection in January.

One option available is a shares-selling exercise which could release around £100million.

Liverpool Will Never Agree To Everton Ground-share Proposal

Liverpool have rejected the chance to share a super-stadium with Everton.

Sunday Mirror Sport can reveal that Liverpool owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett will not accept a proposal from Blues chief executive Robert Elstone that the Merseyside rivals should ground share.

A senior Anfield source said: “There is absolutely no chance that Liverpool will be sharing a stadium with Everton. It will never happen.”

Elstone called on Liverpool to go to the negotiating table after the government refused to grant permission for Everton to build a £400million new stadium and retail park in Kirkby.

Liverpool have had plans rubber-stamped for a 60,000-capacity stadium at Stanley Park.

But the project had to be shelved when the economic downturn made it impossible for them to finance the development.

However, the club’s American owners are confident that they will secure the £350m they need for the stadium once the pressure on the financial markets has eased.

And they expect to raise about £150m of the cash through stadium naming rights.

The gap in capacity between the Mersey giants and the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal has led to a gulf in revenue that shows no sign of changing.

And stadium ownership is one of the main assets football clubs can use on their balance sheet.

Rafa Benitez Ready To Bring Diego Forlan Back To Premier League

Rafa Benitez wants to bring Diego Forlan back to the Premier League - but must sell before he can buy the former Manchester United hitman.

Liverpool boss Benitez has also asked about another ex-United striker, Ruud van Nistelrooy.

But Atletico Madrid raider Forlan, 30, is his first choice for a January swoop, although Benitez would have to stump up around £15million.

Forlan is desperate to leave his club, who are struggling near the foot of La Liga and also out of the Champions League.

The Uruguay international was not a resounding success during two years at Old Trafford but since going to Spain has been prolific for Villarreal and Atletico, shooting both clubs into the Champions League.

Forlan joined Atletico when Fernando Torres left them for Liverpool in 2007, but he could end up partnering the Spain international at Anfield. Benitez has also shown interest in Van Nistelrooy. But he will only want the Dutchman on a free if he fails to snap up Forlan.

Babel Heads For Exit To Bayern

Liverpool are ready to offload motormouth Ryan Babel to Bayern Munich.

Boss Rafa Benitez lost patience after the Holland star complained about his lack of starts for the club in midweek.

He will be loaned to Louis van Gaal's side with a view to a £9million move in the summer.

A source said: "Rafa has totally blanked Babel since his outburst. He understands some of his concerns but has made it clear to the player more than once he will only play who he believes to be his strongest XI and won't budge.

"Rafa cannot give Babel the assurances he needs with the World Cup coming up so he will let him go if he's not happy.

"The manager's only concern with this is that he won't be getting any money to improve the squad from the move."

Former Ajax star Babel has only made 24 Premier League starts since arriving at Anfield for £11.5m in the summer of 2007.

Holland boss Bert van Marwijk has told Babel he will only go to the World Cup if he plays regularly.

But Babel's representatives are already working to secure a perfect escape route.

Van Gaal has known Babel since he was a child and is confident the 22-year-old can make his mark at Bayern and the club have no problem taking on his £40,000-per-week wages.

The Dutch coach's ongoing feud with Italian striker Luca Toni is also likely to give Babel an opportunity to play up front with either Mario Gomez or Miroslav Klose.

Benitez Wants Aurelio To Be Realistic

Brazilian Fabio Aurelio, 30, has been offered an appearance-related deal to seal his Liverpool future after this season.

Boss Rafa Benitez wants a 'realistic' agreement because of the full-back's injury record.

Aurelio, who was in the most recent Brazil squad for the friendly against England, is available on a Bosman next summer.

Benitez said: "Fabio has been really unlucky. When we spoke to him about an extension he had an injury and he has had a lot of injuries in the past.

"We made him an offer and the agent said not at the moment.

"We will talk to him again in the future because he is a good person and great professional.

"Maybe the situation needs to be looked at in a different way. He has to be realistic. I know he's pleased here and the important thing is I have a good relationship with him."

Benitez Lost Young Stars

Rafa Bennitez is on a mission to plug the Anfield fame drain which has seen stars like Jack Rodwell, Aaron Ramsey and Darren Fletcher slip through the net.

Rodwell played against Liverpool on Sunday in the Merseyside derby – a constant, painful reminder to Kop boss Benitez of the calibre of teenage starlets he has been denied – with Merseyside neighbours Everton beating them to his signature.

It’s understood Ramsey was also close to becoming a Liverpool player before they lost out to Arsenal because of behind-the-scenes dithering.

Fletcher escaped the Anfield clutches, too, and ended up in the grateful arms of bitter rivals Manchester United.

But Benitez is now hell-bent on securing such obvious talent in the future and has definitely adopted a more hands-on approach to the club’s academy since the departure of old Kop idol Steve Heighway.

The arrival of Kenny Dalglish has taken the academy to another level in terms of status and Benitez believes that promising kids will be attracted by such a famous figurehead.

It’s Benitez’s new ‘baby’ which he hopes will produce stars of the future over the next fi ve years of his contract, when his Liverpool dynasty will be a giant step closer to completion.

Benitez knows he can’t compete cash-wise with the likes of United and Chelsea, so discovering a golden nugget or two is the way ahead for him and Liverpool.

He said: “When I was discussing my new contract, people were saying it was about money. It wasn’t. I had better offers in terms of money.

“It wasn’t power either. I didn’t need more power. Before Rick Parry left I could do more or less what I wanted, although I couldn’t sign more players because sometimes it was the lack of money or we were too slow.

“I have the same control as I had before. But the difference now is the academy. I have an influence and people in the academy I can trust. The philosophy of the club is now the same. We are working together.

“I’m not stupid. If we have more Jamie Carraghers, more Steven Gerrards, it will be better and easier because the motivation and the commitment will be there.

“The message now is that we have Kenny Dalglish and his team and we are trying to do something which makes sense. It’s common sense. We couldn’t change things for five years and now we can.”

It’s the arrival of Dalglish which has certainly put a spring in Benitez’s step and given him more hope than ever before that his squad will be strengthened from within without gambling on foreign imports.

Benitez added: “This is the beginning for me. We are thinking about Kenny Dalglish as someone who can bring a lot of people into the club.

“They will think that if Kenny’s there – and he’s a legend – then something is right. We brought him in because with his experience he can certainly help.

“He has been with us around Europe and we have had a lot of conversations. He has had some contact, some meetings with people and young players who want to come. To see Kenny there is amazing.

“But afterwards we have to give them something more and we are doing that. We have improved the equipment and the coaching 100 per cent. And we are now at the beginning of something which can be really good for the team.

“If we can produce three, four, five players from our system that means a massive difference in terms of money.

“When you commit to your club for five years and you know you don’t have the same money available as some of the top sides in England, you know if you are to compete you have to produce local players.

“It’s something very simple to say but it’s not very easy to do. These players don’t grow on trees but I’m clear that we will be even better in the future.”

Match Preview: Everton vs. LiverpooL

Everton will be aiming to make amends for Wednesday’s horror-show at Hull City when they play host to an equally out-of-sorts Liverpool in the latest edition of the Merseyside derby this weekend.

The Toffees came out on the wrong end of a five-goal thriller at the KC Stadium, where they allowed their relegation-threatened hosts to go three goals clear within the first half-hour before fighting back in the second period to make it 3-2.

That result, hot on the heels of last Saturday’s 3-0 loss to Manchester United, leaves David Moyes’ men languishing in the bottom half of the table. But while news of their faltering relocation plans has taken the focus off Everton's on-field form, their struggling arch-rivals have had nowhere to hide.

The Reds’ stuttering campaign took a turn for the worse on Tuesday despite their win at Debrecen, as Fiorentina’s victory over Olympique Lyonnais saw the Anfield giants bundled out of the Champions League in the group phase.

It is the first time in Rafael Benitez’s reign that Liverpool have failed to reach the last 16 on Europe’s elite stage. They will now have to settle for a run in the Europa League, where they may find themselves from the off next term if their domestic form doesn’t pick up soon.

Last weekend’s draw with Manchester City made it three Premier League games on the bounce without a win, leaving them seventh in the standings – some 13 points behind leaders Chelsea, and five behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.

And yet, from all outward appearances, morale remains high at Melwood, and Sunday’s short trip to Goodison Park provides an ideal opportunity to jump straight back on the horse – or at least get a foot in the stirrups.


FORM GUIDE

Everton

Nov 25 Hull City 3-2 Everton
Nov 21 Manchester United 3-0 Everton
Nov 8 West Ham United 1-2 Liverpool
Nov 5 Everton 0-2 Benfica (Europa League)
Oct 31 Everton 1-1 Aston Villa

Liverpool

Nov 24 Debrecen 0-1 Liverpool (Champions League)
Nov 21 Liverpool 2-2 Manchester City
Nov 9 Liverpool 2-2 Birmingham City
Nov 4 Olympique Lyonnais 1-1 Liverpool (Champions League)
Oct 31 Fulham 3-1 Liverpool


TEAM NEWS

Everton

The home side will be boosted by the return of both Marouane Fellaini and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov from suspension – a big relief for the manager, given how many of his stars currently reside in the treatment room.

Leon Osman, Phil Neville and Mikel Arteta all remain sidelined, as do Phil Jagielka and the forward duo of Victor Anichebe and James Vaughan.

Young gun Jack Rodwell is the latest concern, after the England Under-21 star hobbled off in the second half against Hull.

Last starting XI (vs. Hull City): Howard, Neill, Yobo, Distin, Baines, Cahill, Rodwell, Heitinga, Pienaar, Saha, Yakubu.

Liverpool

Star striker Fernando Torres missed the midweek trip to Hungary and faces a race against time to get up to speed by Sunday, meaning the ever-improving David Ngog remains on standby.

Yossi Benayoun may be available to start as he nears full fitness after a hamstring problem, while Albert Riera is still out of action.

Alberto Aquilani has an outside chance of making his first Premier League start, but boss Benitez’s cautious handling of the Italian thus far suggests that another cameo from the bench is the best that can be hoped for.

Last starting XI (vs. Debrecen): Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Insua, Mascherano, Lucas, Kuyt, Gerrard, Aurelio, Ngog.


PLAYERS TO WATCH

Everton – Louis Saha

The Frenchman has put his fitness problems behind him and is reminding everyone why Manchester United spent nearly £13 million on him back in 2004. A tally of eight goals in 12 outings puts the 31-year-old among the Premier League’s form forwards, and he would surely love to knock in another against an old enemy.

Liverpool – Steven Gerrard

It is in games like these that the Kop look to their ‘Captain Fantastic’ to shine. The lifelong Red has yet to recapture his usual verve since returning from injury, but what better time to step up than now?

Liverpool Boss Rafael Benitez Taking Extra Caution With Alberto Aquilani

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is waiting patiently for the right moment until he gives summer signing Alberto Aquilani his full debut in Liverpool colours.

"The player is fit," declared Benitez to the Liverpool Daily Post.

"He is training. Match fitness is something you can improve by playing games, so why have I not been playing him? Because the games are so close that if you put a player on the pitch who is not physically ready [then] maybe he cannot settle down in time.

Benitez has limited Aquilani's contributions, even from the bench given the nature of Liverpool's recent encounters whereby the team has rarely enjoyed a comfortable winning margin.

"If it is 1-0 like it was the other day and they are attacking a bit more and you changed Lucas, Gerrard or Mascherano to play him, maybe you are making a mistake because you will lose the control.

"If we were winning 3-0 in the first half of every game he would be playing because it would be easier for him to settle down.

The ever-defiant Benitez maintains he would still sign the Italian even if he knew the player would take three months to fully recover from injury.

He added: "I’d still have signed him if I’d known that. We were bringing in a player with quality for five years. If he had been fully fit maybe he could have cost £25-30m.

Aquilani is available for selection for this week's Merseyside derby, but the Spanish tactician is insistent on wrapping his player in cotton wool; he isn't keen on the fragile Italian taking part in the tenacious Everton-Liverpool encounter just yet.

He continued: "The derby game is a physical one and everyone knows that when you are not fully fit they can be difficult to manage so you have to think about what’s best for the player and the best for the team.

"I was talking with Alberto and he understands. He is clever and he knows that he hasn’t played for months so he has to be ready and fully fit if he is to be able to play at the level that he can play in England. He knows that it is a matter of time."

Given Aquilani's rather slow start to life at Anfield, Rafa still feels the need to remind Kopites of his summer acquisition's qualities, and that he is the perfect player to fill Xabi Alonso's boots.

"He has quality, he is very clever, his touch is very good, he has mobility, he is dynamic and the final pass is very good," he said.

"We were looking for someone with these qualities.

He concluded: "He is a different kind of player to the ones that we have now because he can pass and move, pass and move, support and he can give the final pass."

Rafa Benitez: I'll Finish The Job At Liverpool FC

Rafa Benitez has come out fighting ahead of tomorrow’s Merseyside derby as he vowed to stay at Liverpool FC and help prove their doubters wrong.

And the Spaniard remains “100% convinced” the Anfield outfit will finish in the top four and regain their place among Europe’s elite.

Benitez made the impassioned speech ahead of the 212th Merseyside derby at Everton with Liverpool still coming to terms with their Champions League exit in midweek.

It increased the pressure on the beleaguered Anfield manager, with his team already out of the Carling Cup and a lowly seventh in the Premier League table, a massive 13 points behind leaders Chelsea.

With Steven Gerrard calling for unity, both Fernando Torres and Pepe Reina have since publicly backed their manager.

And Benitez has underlined his determination to continue in the role by revealing he turned down significant offers from other clubs – clearly intimating one was Real Madrid – before signing a five-year deal at Anfield earlier this year.

“When I decided to stay here, I knew that we could be facing a difficult season,” he said. “I was aware that a lot of things could happen and the competition stronger. But I decided to stay because I wanted to.

“When Real Madrid played Liverpool in the 1981 European Cup Final, I was a Real Madrid player, a fan. I decided to stay here after years of receiving offers, listening to big clubs, top sides, offering me more money, and I decided to stay here because I want the best for this club.

“I signed a five-year contract because of my commitment to the fans and the club, the staff and the players. I will keep working hard and I will keep winning games for this club and hopefully in five years’ time we can be talking about an extension to my contract.

“I understand the fans. I understand if some of them are disappointed because we want to win. I had massive offers from different clubs, but I decided to stay. I will fight and I will try to do my best every single game.

“When I signed my new contract I had offers from other clubs for more money, and a lot more money to spend in the transfer market. But I decided to stay because I felt we had a very good team. We will prove this during the rest of the season.”

Fernando Torres will have a fitness test today on his groin problem, with only Ryan Babel (ankle) definitely ruled out tomorrow.

And as the injury list starts to finally clear, Benitez believes his team can kick-start their campaign with a third successive league victory at Everton.

“We will win two or three games in a row and everything will be different,” said the Spaniard. “And I am 100% convinced that we will finish in the top four.

“We have plenty of room for improvement. Why? Because we are not playing with Gerrard, Torres, (Albert) Riera or Yossi (Benayoun).”

Peter Beardsley Knows Value Of Merseyside Derby Victory Having Played For Liverpool And Everton

Peter Beardsley is a rarity in Merseyside derby history.

As one of just two players alongside David Johnson to score the winner for Liverpool and Everton against the other, he is also one of a very select few still to be held in high esteem by both sets of fans.

If Beardsley was to be presented on the pitch at half-time on Sunday he would probably get a warm reception from all four corners of Goodison Park.

“I’m not sure about that,” he says. “I appreciate the thought but it would more likely be a minute’s silence!”

His four years with Liverpool compared to just two at Everton means he will be leaning toward a Red victory tomorrow.

“Simply because I won trophies with Liverpool,” he explains.

“But that’s not to take anything from Everton. Howard Kendall was one of the best managers I ever worked with.

“Although by the time I arrived Everton weren’t the team that they’d been under Howard in the mid-80s, he and Colin Harvey were absolutely sensational. Their knowledge of the game was second to none. When I left Liverpool people said it would be all downhill but Everton proved otherwise. The club and the fans were absolutely top class with me.”

They say form goes out the window in the derby. Fans of both a Red and Blue persuasion will be hoping that’s the case on Sunday.

Liverpool’s record of two wins from 11 games is marginally better than Everton’s one win in 10, while both teams have accrued just five league points each from the last possible 18.

Beardsley agrees there is more than just local bragging rights at stake this weekend.

“Both teams have struggled to find any form or consistency this season, but I still believe there are a good few teams that would swap places with Everton in the table right now.

“They’ve become much stronger under David Moyes.

“I also fully expect Liverpool to be in the top four come the end of the season. Alberto Aquilani is a top player. He showed flashes of what he is capable of in the Carling Cup against Arsenal. Once he’s match fit I think he will make a difference.

“Then there’s Fernando Torres. He can win games on his own and could be key to Liverpool’s chances on Sunday if he’s available.”

Injuries have been a major factor for both clubs this season.

While Rafael Benitez will hand a late fitness test to Torres ahead of the short trip to Goodison, Moyes has greater concerns.

Steven Pienaar returned for the 3-2 defeat at Hull in midweek but the Blues are still without key men Mikel Arteta, Phil Neville and Phil Jagielka, plus Louis Saha and Jack Rodwell could also be the subject of late fitness tests.

“It’s been a massive problem for both manager’s this season,” says Beardsley.

“When you lose players like that, or in Liverpool’s case Gerrard and Torres, you’re not going to be the same team.

“If Manchester United were to suddenly lose Wayne Rooney I doubt very much if they’d be the same side.

“A win for either will provide great confidence moving forward. Everton have lost too many games of late whereas Liverpool seem to take one step forward and two steps back. They appear to have broken the hoodoo of struggling against the smaller clubs though. Even the games they’ve lost have come against some good sides.

“They both need a win though and there is no better game than a derby to do that.”

With a Premier League record of 17 red cards in this fixture, the Merseyside derby is littered with villains.

It often throws up heroes too, a feeling Beardsley has experienced on both sides of Stanley Park.

“I managed to score the winner for both Liverpool and then later Everton at Goodison,” recalls Beardsley, who figured in 14 derbies for Liverpool, facing Everton more times for the Reds than any other club. “When I scored against Liverpool in a 2-1 win there (in 1992) it was at the same end where I’d got past Martin Keown to score two for Liverpool in a 3-2 win a few years earlier. It’s a great feeling to score in a derby. Looking back it’s those moments in your career that are so special.”

Javier Mascherano Is Desperate To Beat The Blues At Goodison

It’s often been said that the fizz and fervour of the Merseyside derby has been diluted in recent years due to the influx of so many foreign players.

The suggestion is that because they were brought up in places where the first question visitors get asked is not ‘are you Red or Blue?’ they will never fully appreciate what it means to win or lose one of these local squabbles.

Put that theory to Javier Mascherano, though, and it’s clear to see from the way he bristles that the opposite is true; he may be from Argentina but his desire for Liverpool to beat Everton tomorrow is as strong as those Reds who will congregate in the Bullens Road.

Smarting after an inglorious exit from the Champions League on Tuesday, Mascherano and his colleagues are in need of a boost, having lurched from one low to another during a ruinous autumn.

So what better way to beat the blues is there than beating the Blues?

“This is the perfect game for us to try and catch a bit more confidence,” said Liverpool’s midfield tiger, a player destined to thrive in the hurly-burly of contest.

“We know how important it is for us in terms of our position in the league and for our supporters.”

David Moyes and his players may revel in their role as the neighbours from hell, and they will be just as determined to put their own recent misery behind them with a repeat of the display that enabled them to knock Liverpool out of the FA Cup in February.

Mascherano, however, does not expect that game, which was settled by a solitary Dan Gosling goal in extra time, to have any bearing on the outcome of the latest instalment of a fixture that neither side can afford to lose.

He might have cut a dejected figure the last time he slipped out the Goodison Park exit door, but Mascherano has no intention of being on the receiving end of a similar scoreline this weekend.

Aware that Liverpool cannot afford to squander many more points if they are to keep tabs on the sides who are jostling for a Champions League spot, Mascherano – whose form has been outstanding in the last month – is ready to carry the fight to Everton.

Three points, of course, are only on offer to the winners, but the suspicion remains that whichever side is victorious will get the kind of boost money cannot buy, while the vanquished will be subjected to intense scrutiny. Given they have had every move dissected during a run of two wins in 11 games, Mascherano is tired of having to bat off questions about the state of Liverpool’s health and is determined to get people talking about Rafa Benitez’s men for the right reasons.

“If we could go to Goodison and win, it would give everyone such a massive lift,” said Mascherano.

“It’s so disappointing to have gone out of the Champions League, but there is still a lot to play for.

“We have the FA Cup, and we want to try and win the Europa League.

“We want to make sure we get back into the Champions League again, too.

“The last time we went to Goodison, was very disappointing, one of our worst games of last season. But this is a completely different story. We are absolutely desperate to win for our supporters.

“We only have to remember what we did to Everton when we played them in the league (and Fernando Torres scored twice).

“The FA Cup defeat is just a statistic now, it will have no bearing. We know how special it would be to win at Goodison Park.

“We all want that feeling again. We need to win to get three points and get back towards the top of the table again, where we expect to be.

“We know we haven’t played well so far. This is one of the most special games you can be involved in as a Liverpool player.

“Games against Everton and Manchester United are the ones you want to win most for the fans, you only have to see the way they celebrate. And we have to play with same passion and intensity.

“If we can play like we did against Manchester United, with the same control and same determination, I think it will be a very good afternoon for the supporters. We will be doing everything we can to win for them.”

There have been occasions in the past – notably at Old Trafford in March 2008 – when Mascherano’s emotions have got the better of him such has been his determination to impress, and Benitez has made a point of telling his squad to keep cool.

Bone-shuddering tackles are inevitable in the same way the opening pass of play is likely to resemble a pinball board, but Benitez is hoping a serene, composed approach – if that is possible – will enable his players and supporters to enjoy a “sunny Monday”.

“These games are similar every year,” the manager pointed out. “A lot of passion in the stands and also on the pitch. You have to play a physical game and you have to play well. It will be a high tempo with direct play and you will need to win second balls.

“Hopefully it’ll be good for the fans, especially our fans.

“It’s an important game for everyone in the city but, at the end of the day, it’s three points in a crucial time for everyone. We need this passion but we also need to do the right things.”

Lucas Faces Up To Detractors

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva believes he will never win over all of his detractors as he prepares himself for another daunting challenge in the 212th Merseyside derby.

Last season the Brazilian was sent off at Everton in an FA Cup replay defeat, a run of three league and cup games in 17 days between the two clubs in which Liverpool failed to achieve a victory.

It was not the best of times for the 22-year-old as he suffered abuse and criticism from all quarters.

But manager Rafael Benitez has stood by him, and in a season that has seen Liverpool lurch from one crisis to another, Lucas has established himself in the side and started to win grudging praise from his critics.

Lucas says: "I am trying to improve all the time and I am feeling good on the pitch. I have improved a lot since last season and hopefully I will keep going.

"But things might always be more difficult for me at Liverpool, to be honest, but I am trying to prove I can do well for myself and my team-mates. The real supporters of Liverpool know this and support me a lot."

Lucas has been linked with a possible move away from Anfield in the next transfer window, but Benitez has constantly praised the youngster's attitude and effort and intends to persevere with a player who is expected to be in Brazil's squad for the summer World Cup finals in South Africa.

That is a measure of his improvement, and the player adds: "When I came to Liverpool I came with a challenge of winning titles and making history for the club. Hopefully I can still do that.

"I am playing almost every game now. I have a good link with Javier Mascherano. I understand the way he plays and he helps me a lot. I think it's good for the team that we can keep the balance."

Liverpool find themselves facing their local rivals after plunging out of the Champions League despite the scrappy 1-0 group E victory in Hungary against Debrecen.

That leaves Lucas and co facing life - with Everton - in the Europa League.

He went on: "We have to move on. We did not do enough to get to the next stage of the Champions League, and so now we have to concentrate on the Europa League and getting into a better position domestically. "We will try to win the Europa League because it is still an important competition. Some good teams play in it but we will be trying to get a title for ourselves."

But first Liverpool need to re-assert themselves in the Premier League as the pressure to oust them from the big four grows.

Benitez said: "We know that three points is crucial for everyone considering the position both clubs find themselves in.

"I will try to send the players out with the right message, to be calm, to do our jobs properly and not to be overcome just by passion, we have to do the right things regardless of the opponents.

"But this derby will not be any more aggressive than before, it does not matter where the two teams are or what their form is, the derby is always played the same way.

"It is good for the city. Everyone has to defend and support their own team, but afterwards we all have great respect for our rivals.

"The game has more passion and more emotion than others in the Premier League. But that never changes."

He added: "But it is not just about winning the derby, our players want to prove they are good enough. To prove we can be in the top four.

"We have to start winning, then we will see a massive difference. Being in the top four is the main objective now.

"It will be high tempo, more physical with a lot of direct play. We know this and hopefully it will be good for the fans to experience, especially our fans."

Benitez Empathises With Res Fans

Rafael Benitez insists he understands the distress of Liverpool's fans at the club's current plight, while re-affirming his commitment to the club.

The Anfield manager faces a Merseyside derby at Everton on Sunday with the club's Champions League campaign over and their place in the Premier League top four under threat.

Benitez may have Fernando Torres fit for the Goodison Park showdown, with his top scorer facing a fitness test after training on Saturday.

With or without the £20million striker, Benitez knows Liverpool must change their fortunes quickly with Tottenham, Aston Villa and Manchester City threatening their place in the top four.

He said: "You cannot be a fan and be happy when your team is not winning. There are reasons why, but I will not be making any excuses, we will improve.

"Everyone at this club is disappointed we are not winning. The only way to change things is to work hard.

"I had some contact with the (American) owners last week, and they were reassuring. This week we have not needed to speak, only that Christian Purslow (managing director) supportive and we speak every day."

And Benitez has made it clear he has no intention of leaving, despite big offers.

The Spaniard: "This situation for me is not new. After winning the league in Spain, then the UEFA Cup and then here winning the Champions League and the FA Cup, it meant I have had a lot of offers.

"Last season the offer was for massive money, but I signed for Liverpool and I have not had any regrets.

"I had given my word to the staff and the players. I love this city and I love the club and the fans.

"When I signed my new contract I had offers from other clubs for more money and a lot more money to spend in the transfer market. But I decided to stay because I felt we had a very good team.

"We will prove this during the rest of the season. We know we are not playing at the level we can but we will improve, we will be back in Europe."

Benitez signed a new five-year deal last season, and said: "When I decided to stay here, I knew that we could be facing a difficult season. I was aware that a lot of things could happen and the competition stronger. But I decided to stay because I wanted to.

"Look, I was a Real Madrid fan. I knew off by heart the names of the Real Madrid team that played Liverpool in the European Cup final of 1981.

"I was a fan, and also a Madrid player at that time. Now, considering that, I decided to stay in Liverpool because I liked the city, I liked the fans, I liked the life here and the passion in the Premier League.

"Why am I telling you this? Because when I decided to stay here, I wanted to fight for this club.

"We now need to win at Everton to get closer to the top four. if we win two or three more games we will be back amongst the clubs at the top of the table."