Liverpool Fury After Howard Webb Turns Down Last-Gasp Handball Appeals

Liverpool have reacted with collective fury after Howard Webb, England’s World Cup referee, failed to award a last-minute penalty following a Cesc Fabregas handball.

With only seconds of the match remaining, Steven Gerrard attempted to bend a free kick around Arsenal’s wall, only for Fabregas to use his left arm to parry the ball to safety as Arsenal held out for a 1-0 win.

Led by Gerrard, the Liverpool players protested to Webb, but the appeals were waved away to add to the sense of injustice at Anfield following a string of controversial refereeing decisions this season.

“I’m really disappointed with the handball decision,” said Rafael Benítez, the Liverpool manager. “It is a handball and has to be a penalty. I don’t know [why he didn’t give it]. The referee was there. We’ve had some decisions this year which we’re not happy about.”

Fabregas had previously also been booked, meaning he could have been sent off if Webb had penalised the handball. Replays, however, indicated that the infringement had taken place just outside the penalty area.

Arsène Wenger, the Arsenal manager, thought the initial free kick should not have been given, although it appeared that Webb had made the decision for a tackle by Fabregas on Dirk Kuyt rather than Abou Diaby’s challenge on Steven Gerrard.

“It was a controversial situation,” said Wenger. “I believe first that it was no free kick. First Steven Gerrard went for a free kick and got one, but it was a bit harsh. Then Cesc touched the ball with his hand.”

Fabregas admitted there may have been contact with his arm. “I maybe touched it a little bit with my hand, but I would have touched it with my head anyway,” he said. “There have been so many incidents that he [Webb] got wrong, that maybe one more isn’t anything more. I think we deserved the win – this was a test of character.”

Fabregas also denied claims by a Spanish radio station that he has reached a verbal agreement to join Barcelona at the end of the season. Barcelona issued a statement yesterday saying there had been no negotiations with Fabregas and the Arsenal captain added: “They denied it, I’ve denied it. I just want to focus on Arsenal – Arsenal FC is above every single player in their history.”

Arsenal’s win closes the gap on Chelsea to just six points and, crucially, they have also now played Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea twice.

“It was a massive result,” said Wenger. “It is a fantastic night for the club. Nobody realises how hard it is to play United, Chelsea and Liverpool on the trot, physically and mentally. We showed great strength and solidarity.

“I believe we will fight until the last second of the season. We believe in our chances. Chelsea again lost, United dropped points so it is open for everybody. I don’t see any mathematical reason why we shouldn’t believe.”

Andrei Arshavin, meanwhile, will have a scan today to determine the severity of a hamstring injury.

Liverpool Analysis: Lack Of Fire-Power Costs Rafael Benitez

It was Arsenal versus Liverpool alright, but not as we know it.

These two great institutions of English football have produced some memorable moments down the years - think back to the FA Cup Finals of 1971 and 2001, the last-day drama of 1989, or the 4-4 draw last April - but on Wednesday night they served up an instantly-forgettable encounter in front of a nervous Emirates crowd.

Rafael Benitez would have been pretty pleased had his side managed to hold firm for 19 more minutes, but Abou Diaby's header condemned the Reds to a first defeat in eight games, and gave vital resuscitation to an Arsenal title bid that was on a life-support machine prior to kick-off.

Wenger's side are under pressure following hefty defeats to Manchester United and Chelsea in recent weeks, and it showed from the first whistle. Liverpool were far from fluent, but they were in the home side's faces and dragging the game down to a tactical battle rather than a free-flowing spectacle. Benitez has never won at the Emirates, and knows that this Liverpool side were unlikely to do so with a gung-ho approach.

The reason for this is simple - the Reds have a lack of genuine attacking threat in games such as this. Benitez was correct to keep faith in young Frenchman David Ngog as his lone-front man, but the 20-year-old was a boy lost in a man's game against the immaculate William Gallas and Thomas Vermaelen.

His one chance came at the start of the second half, as he raced onto Steven Gerrard's inviting through-ball. He was astute to get himself across Vermaelen, but in doing so delayed his shot long enough for Gallas to nip in with a superbly-timed challenge. It may be a moot point, but one imagines that the injured Fernando Torres would have been wheeling away in celebration had he been presented with the same opening.

Behind him, it was a night to forget for both Maxi Rodriguez and the in-form Dirk Kuyt. Wenger sprung a surprise by naming Emmanuel Eboue ahead of Bacary Sagna at right-back, but the Ivorian handled Maxi with ease, and Kuyt looked distinctly off-colour despite his usual endeavour.

Which meant, predictably, that the creative spotlight fell once again on Gerrard. The Reds' captain is not enjoying a vintage season by his own high standards, and as such cannot be expected to shoulder the entire attacking burden for his side. Gerrard huffed and puffed here - and in truth looked the likeliest in Liverpool colours to create something - but if anything the visitors' threat waned as the game wore on.

Substitute Ryan Babel - impressive again after a promising half-hour in Saturday's win over Everton - did draw one fine save from the Spaniard, who tipped the Dutchman's 25-yarder onto the bar, but Manuel Almunia will reflect on a pretty quiet evening all told.

Not that Arsenal were much better. Wenger threw Nicklas Bendtner into the action from the start for the first time since November, but the Gunners still lacked the punch which so illuminated their early-season form. The manner in which Tomas Rosicky dallied when presented with a golden chance by Andrey Arshavin's slide-rule pass summed up the sense of nervousness around the stadium.

In fairness, Liverpool's defence - like Arsenal's - enjoyed a pretty solid evening, with both Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel excelling, and it was always likely to require a moment of artistry from either side to win the game. Rosicky's cross and Diaby's flying header did the trick.

For Wenger it brings an end to the storm-clouds which have gathered around North London of late, and eliminates the points dropped in defeat to Chelsea on Sunday. To do so, just like Liverpool previously, it required a performance of guts and desire, as opposed to flair and fluidity. The Frenchman can be satisfied on both counts.

For Benitez - who was left angry after referee Howard Webb refused to award a last-minute penalty for handball by Cesc Fabregas - it is the end of a run which has gone a long way to restoring the confidence shattered by the club's awful winter run, the disappointment etched on the Spaniard's face after the final whistle is testament to the Reds' improvement since a mind-numbing defeat to Portsmouth just before Christmas.

They were as good here as they have been in their past seven unbeaten games since then, the difference being that they were up against a team that can punish a lack of attacking conviction.

Next Sunday's trip to Manchester City now assumes even more importance in the race for a top-four finish - if that were possible.

Liverpool FC Deny Latest Takeover Rumours But Billionaire ‘Is Seriously Considering Bid’

Despite denials from Liverpool FC that Indian businessmen Mukesh Ambani and Subrata Roy are amongst the potential investors in negotiations with the club, sources in India insist that Roy is seriously considering a bid for the Anfield giants, which could emerge within the next ten days.

Roy, chairman of the Sahara Group conglomerate, has consistently supported Indian cricket and distanced himself from a move to buy a Premier League soccer club, but rumours linking him with a move to Liverpool have not gone away, and an increasing number of sources close to Sahara claim that Roy is seriously considering the move.

'It is believed Roy is examining the viability of buying a stake, which would dilute the shareholding of Liverpool's co-owners, George Gillett and Tom Hicks,' notes the Daily Telegraph newspaper. 'Liverpool remains confident of completing an equity infusion, a stated "requirement" of their banks, RBS and Wachovia, if Hicks and Gillett are to refinance their £237 million loan this summer before the end of the season.'

Earlier this week Rafa Benitez, Liverpool's manager, added his voice to those calling for Hicks and Gillett, to sell a stake in the club to fresh investors.

"Everyone knows we need a new stadium and investors if we want to go forward so it would be good for the club," Benitez told ESPN. "Over the last two years everyone is talking about new investors and the new stadium and so all the fans are waiting for this good news - and me too."

Match Report: Arsenal 1 - 0 Liverpool

Arsenal breathed new life into their diminishing Barclays Premier League title hopes with a narrow win over Liverpool at Emirates Stadium.

Abou Diaby finally got the breakthrough on 72 minutes, when he headed in Tomas Rosicky's cross as the Gunners bounced back from successive defeats to Manchester United and Chelsea.

Liverpool, who are just ahead of Manchester City in fourth place, almost grabbed a late equaliser when substitute Ryan Babel saw his shot tipped onto the bar.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger made changes from the side beaten by Chelsea at the weekend, which left them some nine points off the leaders, However, the Blues' subsequent defeat by Everton means that deficit was quickly reduced.

Theo Walcott dropped to the bench, as Nicklas Bendtner, who had been out following groin surgery, made a welcome first start since October.

While Arsenal had been faltering, Liverpool slowly moved themselves back up into the top four.

The Gunners' frailty at the back was exposed again on five minutes when a free-kick bobbled alarmingly around the six-yard box before Manuel Almunia gathered.

At the other end, William Gallas - yet to confirm whether he will be staying with Arsenal - headed over.

Liverpool remained patient, although David Ngog snatched at his shot after working some space at the edge of the Arsenal area.

Much like at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, the Gunners had plenty of possession, but without looking dangerous in the final third.

Samir Nasri's low ball in from the right was cut out by Martin Skrtel, as Bendtner arrived behind him through the six-yard box.

The Dane was then played in by Andrey Arshavin, but shot over.

Arsenal were finally having a decent spell, with Nasri's shot charged down by Emiliano Insua.

The Argentina defender then saw his goalbound effort deflect off Thomas Vermaelen.

On 34 minutes, Nasri, who earlier appeared to take a blow to the side of his face, was replaced by Rosicky.

Neither side were able to make the most of some promising build-up play as the first half drew to a close.

Arsenal, though, had more urgency following the restart, as Arshavin drilled the ball into the side-netting.

At the other end, Lucas Leiva drilled his angled shot over after being played into the right side of the Arsenal penalty area by Dirk Kuyt.

Steven Gerrard's determination released Ngog down the middle, but Gallas recovered to make a brilliant saving tackle just inside the 18-yard box.

Rosicky's touch was then too heavy after the Czech Republic winger was put clear down the left channel by Arshavin.

Arsenal were in the ascendancy now.

Bendtner's deft chip almost crept over the line after Jose Reina could only make a partial save, but Daniel Agger cleared.

However, on 63 minutes, referee Howard Webb showed Bendtner a yellow card for diving under a challenge by Agger, although replays suggested there may have been minimum contact.

Arshavin missed his kick when arriving at pace in the penalty area to meet Gael Clichy's cross, with Rosicky blasting the loose ball over.

Arsenal made the breakthrough after 72 minutes, when Diaby arrived on cue at the far post to head in Rosicky's right-wing cross.

Liverpool felt they had a strong penalty claim when Gerrard went down under a mass of red shirts, appearing to be blocked by Diaby, but the referee waved play on.

The visitors almost snatched an equaliser with four minutes left, but Almunia tipped a dipping drive from substitute Babel onto the crossbar.

In stoppage time, there was more controversy when a dubious free-kick from Gerrard appeared to strike Cesc Fabregas on the hand, but referee Webb was not interested.

Roy Steps Up Liverpool Takeover Bid

Subrata Roy is ready to increase the pace of his bid for Liverpool. A spokesman for Sahara, the Indian tycoon’s company, declined to comment on the takeover attempt yesterday, but sources in India confirmed the interest while saying that discussions were at an early stage.

Roy’s bid was revealed in these pages yesterday, along with a rival offer from Mukesh Ambani. Reliance Industries, Ambani’s company, issued a denial yesterday, but The Times understands that India’s wealthiest man remains in the background as a potential investor. Both bids offered to take on Liverpool’s £237 million debt in exchange for 51 per cent of the club.

Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr are unlikely to accept such terms, although pressure on the co-owners from Royal Bank of Scotland to pay off £100 million of the debt by July is growing. The bank has become increasingly frustrated by the failure of the Americans to bring new investment to Anfield.

Merrill Lynch and Rothschild have been charged with finding an injection of fresh cash, but the Americans have approached other merchant banks over the past month as they cast their net ever wider in search of investment.

Christian Purslow was enlisted at Anfield last summer with a brief to bring in new investment. Purslow’s background is in private equity, but so far the managing director has been unsuccessful in his efforts, despite repeated assurances that the arrival of funds is imminent.

Sources inside the club have claimed that up to £125 million is about to be pumped into Anfield, but few potential investors have found the prospect of taking a minority share to prop up the dysfunctional reign of Gillett and Hicks palatable.

Roy is the son of a sugar mill worker. He founded Sahara in 1978 with £5 and a scooter used to zip between clients in the poor northern state of Uttar Pradesh. It is now one of India’s largest savings groups and forms the bedrock of a sprawling conglomerate worth more than £5 billion.

The entrepreneur styles himself “chairman and Managing Worker” and Sahara sponsors the India cricket team. It also backs the national hockey side and has made an “emotional commitment towards betterment of sports in India”, in the run-up to the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in October. The group was rumoured to be looking at replacing AIG as Manchester United’s shirt sponsor.

A consummate networker, Roy’s ties to senior politicians, businessmen and celebrities are legendary. His business, which spans real estate, satellite television and film, remains based on an army of door-to-door agents who collect deposits from their customers and reinvest them on their behalf.

He has not been immune to criticism, most strikingly that Sahara resembles a cult more than a business. Its 700,000 workers are told that they are members of a “family” and greet each other by putting their right arm across their chest and saying “Sahara pranam” (greetings Sahara).

As head of the family, Roy likes to play his cards close to his chest. Sahara is privately owned and its accounts are not fully accessible, traits that critics say has made it overly opaque. He seldom grants interviews.

Jovanovic To Join Liverpool In Summer

Standard Liege forward Milan Jovanovic will join Liverpool on a free transfer in the summer, the Belgian club have confirmed to BBC Sport.

The 28-year-old had been linked with AC Milan, Juventus and Valencia.

But he told Belgian newspaper Sporza: "We have reached an agreement for three years, with the option to extend with another season."

"I opted to sign for Liverpool because they're one of the biggest teams in Europe - definitely in the top 10."

Jovanovic joined Standard in 2006 and helped them win back-to-back titles in 2007-08 and 2008-09, while he has scored 12 goals in 23 games to date this season.

The striker, who rejected a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid last year fearing he would not be a regular first-team choice, added: "I'm absolutely delighted that the deal is completed.

"From now on, I can focus on Standard Liege again. I want to leave the club in a good way."

Jovanovic, who has also played for Shakhtar Donetsk and Lokomotiv Moscow, made his international debut for Serbia in a 2-0 win over Finland in June 2007.

Milan Jovanovic Over The Moon With Liverpool Move

Serbian international Milan Jovanovic initially appeared to be on his way to Serie A giants Milan, then Valencia seemed to be his next destination, but the Standard Liege forward has now agreed terms with Liverpool instead.

The player's agent Zoran Stojadinovic revealed on Monday that the Merseysiders have beaten a number of clubs to seal a deal for Jovanovic, who will join in the summer on a free transfer, and the forward has now confirmed the move.

"We have reached an agreement for three years, with the option to extend with another season. I have yet to undergo a medical exam, but that shouldn't be a problem," said Jovanovic to Sporza.

"I don't have any physical problems and I'm feeling perfectly fit. I opted to sign for Liverpool because they're one of the biggest teams around in Europe. They're definitely among the 10 biggest sides.

"I'm absolutely delighted that the deal is completed. From now on, I can focus on Standard Liege again. I want to leave the club in a good way."

Second Italian Club Eye Benitez Capture

According to reports in the Italian press AC Milan are ready to sack manager Leonardo at the end of the season and will challenge Juventus for the signing of Rafael Benitez from Liverpool.

The Spanish coach has not seen his reputation harmed on the continent this season, despite the Anfield side’s troubles, and appears to be an early favourite to take over the tactical duties at the San Siro.

It is believed that former Tottenham Hotspur boss Juande Ramos is another possible candidate to take over, should Benitez commit his long-term future to Liverpool.

The Rossoneri have improved recently under Leonardo’s stewardship pushing up to third place in Serie A, but with a ten point gap on leaders Inter and having lost twice to their neighbours the pressure is building on vice-president Adriano Galliani to wield the axe.

Milan face Manchester United in the last 16 of the Champions League in the coming weeks with voices off the pitch hinting that defeat could spell a premature end for the current coaching regime.

Benitez famously engineered the Liverpool win against AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League final when his side fought back from a 3-0 half-time deficit to steal victory on penalties.

Benitez Focuses On Football

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez would welcome any new investors into the club but remains to be convinced of their impending arrival.

Reports suggest two tycoons from the sub-continent are competing for bids to buy a significant stake in the club.

However, representatives of Mukesh Ambani, head of Reliance Industries and the wealthiest man in India and seventh richest in the world, denied claims he was interested in doing business with Liverpool's co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

And it is understood there has been no bid submitted from Subrata Roy, chairman of the Sahara Group in India.

There has been plenty of speculation surrounding a number of potential investors and Benitez has heard it all before.

"We can see a lot of rumours in the press but we have to concentrate on football," he said.

"Everyone knows we need a new stadium and investors if we want to go forward so it would be good for the club.

"Over the last two years everyone is talking about new investors and the new stadium and so all the fans are waiting for this good news and me too.

"I'll be really pleased if we can bring [in] people who can help to bring the new stadium closer.

"If I signed a new (five-year) contract last year it was because they (Hicks and Gillett) told me they would be going forward.

"I am waiting for a while. The only thing I can do now is just concentrate on football and do our best on the pitch."

Liverpool's co-owners are in talks with a number of parties about investing in the club and will consider any possible offer on its own merits rather than setting out a definitive investment package.

However, chief executive Christian Purslow is currently working on securing £100million of outside investment which will significantly reduce the club's £237million debt by the end of the season.

Liverpool And Manchester United Must Come Together For The Greater Good

On Sunday, March 21, a year and a week after Liverpool’s supporters crowed long and loud over Rafael Benitez’s side’s storming of Old Trafford, Sir Alex Ferguson will have his chance for vengeance in front of a baying Stretford End. No doubt it will be a clash cast in the long tradition of this fixture: a pitched battle played out in an atmosphere brimming with poison.

Few rivalries in the world are as intense as Manchester United and Liverpool. The derbies in Buenos Aires, Istanbul, Athens, Rome, Glasgow and Belgrade, as well as Real Madrid and Barcelona, but to separate them is to rank gradations of spite. Manchester United and Liverpool hate each other. Both take almost as much pleasure in seeing the other lose as they do in watching their team win.

Perhaps it is so intense because the two sides have so much in common. They are the two most successful teams in English football, with the richest histories and the most fans. And now both find themselves ridden with doubts over what the future may hold. English football’s two greatest, grandest instituions are laden with debt, the property of owners whose primary concern is the balance sheet, not the trophy cabinet.

There is little point outlining the issues facing the Liverpool of Tom Hicks and George Gillett and United under the Glazer family. Both sets of supporters are all too well aware of the precarious financial situation they find themselves in, thanks in no small part to the unstinting work of their respective fans’ groups. Liverpool have Spirit of Shankly, of course, planners of countless marches and demonstrations and United IMUSA and MUST, initiators of the green-and-gold protests which grow in fervour by the week. Their methods are not flawless, but their intentions are honourable. Both aim to perpetuate the idea that football is not business. It is more than that.

And yet, in isolation, they find themselves on the fringes. SoS leaflets and flyers are binned by disinterested fans, IMUSA’s banners removed by over-zealous stewards. It is here where both may find strength in unity. By putting aside their mutual loathing at Old Trafford in six weeks’ time, both sets of fans could highlight just how worrying the plight of their clubs is.

The very idea of working with their eternal rivals has been laughed off by all concerned. Such narrow-mindedness is a shame. A joint march is clearly a bad idea. But shared chants, or mutually turning their backs on the game, or the swapping of banners less so. It would not detract from their support for their team, or their joy in seeing their on-pitch rivals beaten, but it would serve as a powerful depiction of the battle both are waging against a common enemy: the corporatisation of football, the mortgaging of institutions which are more heart and soul than profit and loss. Such things should supercede local hostility.

Liverpool FC's Selfless Striker Is Kuyt From A Different Cloth

For some it would have been the cue to self-indulge, a chance to play to the gallery and remind the world of their achievement.

Dirk Kuyt, though, is cut from a very different cloth. No matter that his header had settled the 213th Merseyside derby or brought up a half century of Liverpool goals, here was a man with no intention of milking the moment.

With a game to be won and a season to be saved, Kuyt was simply happy to join a huddle of celebrating team-mates and acknowledge the crowd with a pump of his fist before getting back down to the business of keeping an old foe quiet.

“It’s great to have scored 50 goals for the club and it’s even nicer that I managed to do it in such a special game,” said Kuyt.

“It means a lot that I have managed to do it but the main thing was for us to beat Everton.”

The irony, however, is that Kuyt is a player who deserves his place on centre stage; a model professional blessed with the happy knack of finding the net in crucial games, the Dutchman’s return to form could not have been more timely.

Having confessed to not being able to sleep after his diving header at Stoke City thudded against a post in the dying seconds last month, his insomnia stemming from the idea he had let Liverpool down, Kuyt has responded in fine style.

First came a double in the win over Tottenham Hotspur, then there was an opportunist strike as Bolton Wanderers were swatted aside before that crowning moment against Everton provided further evidence he is flourishing once more.

Yet, predictably, Kuyt has no desire to talk about why he has emerged from a pre-Christmas lull to prove himself an able deputy for Fernando Torres – what excites him more is the fact Liverpool’s revival suddenly has great momentum.

That revival will, of course, be sternly tested at the Emirates Stadium tomorrow night when Arsenal – smarting from back-to-back defeats against Manchester United and Chelsea – look to haul themselves off the canvas.

But similar sentiments apply to Liverpool and after becoming a derby hero for the third time – think back to clashes at Goodison Park in October 2007 and last November – Kuyt is anxious for their winning groove to continue.

“We (him, Tim Howard and Phil Neville) had a couple of fights while we were waiting for corners during the game,” reflected a man who left Anfield on Saturday clutching several bottles of champagne. “They tried to hold me and sometimes I had to give them a little push back.

“But then Stevie (Gerrard) put in such a great delivery.

“It was the perfect cross and all I had to do then was touch it a little bit to send it on its way into the goal. I’m just really happy I was in the position to do so.

“We showed again we have confidence. When we went down to 10 men, we had to believe that we could win the game. It was very difficult but we did well and it’s so encouraging that we have got 17 points from the last seven games.

“In that time we have kept six clean sheets and I think everyone can see we are playing better but we have to keep it going.

“The focus is now on Arsenal, another massive game. We enjoyed the three points on Saturday but since then it has been all about Arsenal.

“We have got a couple of very important games coming up and this will be the time when we really need to show everyone that we are capable of pushing for the top four. We need to keep the confidence going.”

Should they continue to show such fight and determination, there is reason for thinking that Liverpool might just have too much power for an Arsenal side that, for all its footballing qualities, is not known for its mental strength.

Rafa Benitez’s side have proven themselves well capable of winning wars of attrition since the turn of the year and never was that more evident than against Everton, particularly after Sotirios Kyrgiakos had been sent-off.

With two red cards and six bookings to go alongside any number of hefty tackles, some have since made the derby out to be nothing more than a glorified scrap but Kuyt, for one, is quick to point out it was anything but.

True, there were a few poor challenges but, in the main, it was an engrossing spectacle and for Liverpool to emerge from it with three points is just what Kuyt says was required ahead of further battles down the line.

“It was a mixture of relief and happiness to win,” said Kuyt.

“It is always hard when you have to play with 10 men, as we did for almost 60 minutes, but we stuck together and put a lot of effort into the game and, at the end, we deserved it.

“There were a couple of big challenges but that is what a derby game is all about.

“I’m happy to have the scars but tackles like that will always happen – that’s why they are derbies.

“Everyone was so committed but, at the end of the game, you shake hands and move on.”

Tommy Smith: Glen Johnson May Face Fight To Get His Place Back

The derby win was a heck of a boost for players and fans.

It might not have been pretty out there but who cares? It’s nothing new. And I for one loved it!

What mattered was that we never really allowed Everton to get close and threaten, even with 10 men.

So that’s 17 points out of 21. Everyone is lifted and some of Rafa Benitez’s over the top critics are heading back into their boxes.

But there’s one man at Anfield who might be getting a bit concerned. And that’s Glen Johnson.

Since he’s been injured we’ve had to re-jig at the back and we’ve started keeping clean sheets.

No disrespect to Johnson – he’s great going forward and I think his best position may be right midfield.

I know Jamie Carragher wouldn’t choose to play right-back but we’ve looked really solid with him there and Kyrgiakos in the middle. Ok, the Greek lad is out now for three games but I’d expect Rafa might keep Jamie at right-back and bring in Skrtel.

A word too for the terrific Javier Mascherano. He was my man of the match on Saturday and slotted into defence brilliantly.

Johnson may just have a fight on his hands winning his shirt back at right back. And competition for places is never a bad thing.

Match Preview: Arsenal vs. LiverpooL

Arsenal lost to title rivals Chelsea at the weekend to cap a miserable fortnight for the Gunners. Arsene Wenger’s team have not won any of their last four matches in all competitions as they’ve slumped to FA Cup defeat at Stoke, been held at Villa and been beaten by their two title rivals. Next up they face a resurgent Liverpool team which has been grinding out some excellent results and will be extremely hard to beat at the Emirates.

The Gunners title hopes lie in the balance and a defeat to Liverpool would all but end their chances with nine points currently separating them and leaders Chelsea. However, both teams above them face very tough midweek fixtures themselves so this could be a chance to close the gap. Arsenal have already beaten Liverpool twice this season in league and Carling Cup so will fancy their chances. The Gunners haven’t lost a Premier League match against the Reds in eight matches (four wins) and boast a good home record against Rafa Benitez’ team.

It’s been ten years since Liverpool last won an away league clash at Arsenal (five defeats & four draws), although they have drawn on the last two visits, both finishing 1-1. Expect a similar result this week as Liverpool will look to smother the Gunners creative talents just as Chelsea and Manchester United did to great effect. Both Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher played in that last away win in February 2000 when Oasis were number one in the charts with ‘Go Let it Out’. Whether the current team can repeat that feat is questionable with their lack of away goals in recent weeks.

The Reds are not playing the most fluent football but they are now showing both strength and doggedness in grinding out results. They are now defensively resolute and winning by one or two-goal margins unlike the end of last season when Benitez’ team was playing the opposition off the park and scoring plenty of goals. Basically, Rafa has made them first and foremost hard to beat, which Liverpool weren’t earlier in the season.

Liverpool are unbeaten in their last seven league matches (won five) and have conceded just one goal in this run. Rather than looking over their shoulders at the likes of Tottenham, Aston Villa and Manchester City, Benitez’ team can target the Gunners themselves who will be just two points ahead of them if they can pick up an away win at the Emirates. This may be a good time to face Arsenal with confidence knocked from their back-to-back defeats and once again showing physical weakness against their rivals. Liverpool have shown a real aggression, great work-rate and a will to win in recent weeks which suggests they will get right in the Gunners faces from the off.

Just like Chelsea and United did against Arsenal, Liverpool will pack the centre of the park, force the Gunners wide and make them resort to crossing. This will be food and drink to the Reds defenders who will look to smother Arsenal’s creative talents at every opportunity. I expect Arsene to go with Nicklas Bendtner up front for this one. Although Andrey Arshavin had chances in both matches against Chelsea and United; for me, the little Russian didn’t do enough to command a lone striker’s role. At least Bendtner will offer physicality to the Arsenal attack which won’t allow Liverpool to clear their lines so comfortably. The Liverpool defence may prefer not to be facing Arshavin as he has banged in a total of five goals from a mere six shots against them.

Agger Demands Determination

Daniel Agger is aware that UEFA Champions League-chasing Liverpool will need to display the correct mentality if they are to record a rare win at Arsenal on Wednesday.

The Reds' last Premier League victory at the home of the Gunners came six years before the defender's 2006 arrival in England and he is keen to address that statistic as his club bid to hold on to a place in the top four.

Agger produced arguably his best performance of another injury-plagued season in Saturday lunchtime's Merseyside derby win as 10-man Liverpool battled to three points against Everton after Sotirios Kyrgiakos was sent off in the first half.

The classy Dane is again expected to start at Emirates Stadium, his first back-to-back appearances since the end of December, and he knows that a repeat of the weekend's determination will be required against Arsenal.

Agger, who should be a member of Rafa Benitez's first XI due to Kyrgiakos' suspension, said: "We just have to go for the three points in each game.

"We need to have a good result against Arsenal, which is the most important game right now.

"Arsenal are a good team but every game in this league is tough so we need to go in with the same attitude as against Everton.

"Everyone in the team knows we have the right attitude."

Steven Gerrard Calls On Team To Beat 'Wounded' Arsenal In Top Three Chase

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says a result against a ‘wounded’ Arsenal on Wednesday night would help drive Liverpool to a top three finish and that the Merseyside club are treating every match as if it were a ‘cup final.’

Speaking to former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore and Mark Saggers on Talksport radio station, Gerrard was asked if a win against third place Arsenal on Wednesday night could spur Liverpool on to a top three finish.

“I’m sure Arsenal will be a bit of a wounded animal on Wednesday night,” said Gerrard. “But we’ve certainly got to do what Manchester United and Chelsea have done to them, which is try and give them very little space and hit them on the counter attack. Everyone knows that if you give Arsenal time and space they will absolutely crucify you.

"It’s a massive game for us and the target on Wednesday night is to try and get a result where we can push on and try and get third place. We’re just taking each game as it comes.

"Obviously at the end of the season our target is a top four finish, but if Arsenal gives us any sniff of catching them, then we want to grab it and hopefully that will be on Wednesday night.”

Asked by former Anfield striker Collymore what the confidence was like in the Liverpool dressing room, Gerrard said: “I wouldn’t say confidence is sky-high in the dressing room, but it’s certainly on the way up. It’s certainly improving; we’re on a good run.

"But we’re not playing terrifically well to be honest. The last few performances have been more about being solid defensively and nicking important goals. We can certainly play better.”

Asked by Saggers if Liverpool had lacked ‘fight’ in earlier matches this season, Gerrard said: “There have been games this season where we have been beaten and not shown enough fight, enough good attitude and commitment and that’s why we’ve not gotten the result we’ve wanted. But I don’t think anyone can criticise us over the last six games for the level of commitment because every single player in the squad has rolled his sleeves up and everyone is fighting for the same thing.”

Collymore then suggested that Liverpool’s experience in the Champions League and previous Premier League seasons would help the nerves as they approach the ‘sharp end’ of the season. “I’d like to think so,” said Gerrard. “Having the Champions League [win] experience and also finishing in the top four for the past few years will hold us in good stead when the big games come up.

"But we’re treating every game like a cup final at the moment because we’re desperate for this top four [position]. We certainly understand the pressure coming from Manchester City, Tottenham and Aston Villa, and also teams behind them. Because the top four is so important financially to everyone and because every player in the league wants to experience Champions League football, there’s a lot of teams fighting for it.”

Gerrard added: “I don’t think you can call it a ‘top four’ anymore. A lot of teams are putting in a lot of money and squads are improving all the time. We’ve certainly noticed it this year, that sides in the middle of the table and below are an awfully lot harder to beat. A couple of years ago, when you played teams lower down the league, you would expect to win games comfortably. But I don’t think you can say that this season. The lower [placed] teams are taking points off the top sides.”

Following the news that he was to be made England vice-captain; Gerrard was asked if he had spoken to England manager Fabio Capello. “No, he hasn’t been in touch,” said Gerrard. “In the statement he made at the weekend he made it quite clear that Rio would be captain and I would step-up to vice-captain. But no, he certainly hasn’t spoken to me, but I’m sure he’ll do that at the next get-together at the end of February.”

On whether the England squad would be ‘together’ following recent revelations about Chelsea defender John Terry’s private life, Gerrard said: “The qualifying campaign showed how much we are all together, the team spirit has been fantastic and we qualified quite comfortably, playing really well.

"So we want to carry on in that vein of form. We’ve got very few games before the World Cup. We’ve [games against] Egypt and Mexico where we’ll be looking for a couple of wins so we can go into the World Cup full of confidence. But to be successful in the summer we have to be all as one.”

Liverpool Must Now Target Arsenal - Alan Hansen

Liverpool legend Alan Hansen feels that this week could be the perfect time for Rafa Benitez's side to face Arsenal.

The Reds head to the Emirates on Wednesday having put together a seven-match unbeaten run. They have also kept clean sheets in six of those seven games.

Arsenal, in contrast, has endured a diffcult last few weeks, and has just suffered consecutive defeats to Chelsea and Manchester United.

Hansen feels that that can only have had a negative effect on the Gunners' confidence.

"Liverpool are unbeaten in their last seven league matches and have conceded just one goal in this run," Hansen told the Reds' official website.

"This may be a good time to face Arsenal with confidence knocked from their back-to-back defeats and once again showing physical weakness against their rivals.

"Liverpool have shown a real aggression, great work-rate and a will to win in recent weeks which suggests they will get right in the Gunners' faces from the off.

"Just like Chelsea and United did against Arsenal, Liverpool will pack the centre of the park, force the Gunners wide and make them resort to crossing.

"This will be food and drink to the Reds' defenders who will look to smother Arsenal's creative talents at every opportunity."

Liverpool recorded a hard-earned victory over neighbours Everton at the weekend and Hansen believes that the time is ripe to start targeting Arsenal rather than worrying about sides behind them.

He added: "Rather than looking over their shoulders at the likes of Tottenham, Aston Villa and Manchester City, Benitez's team can target the Gunners themselves who will be just two points ahead of them if Liverpool can pick up an away win at the Emirates."

Jan Molby Tells Liverpool: 'Beat Arsenal And Third Place Is Yours'

Jan Molby believes a Liverpool win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium this week would put the Reds into the driving seat for third place, and at the same time hand a severe blow to the Gunners' own ambitions.

The Danish midfielder, who won a clutch of trophies with Liverpool in the 1980's, said Rafa Benitez's men head to North London on Wednesday confident of extending their unbeaten Premier League run to eight games, and can record their first away victory over the Gunners since a Titi Camara-inspired success in 2000.

Molby, 46, said: "I think they can go to Arsenal full of confidence. The results Liverpool have had mean they can feel they have a good chance against any team, but I think it is a good time to play Arsenal. I think Arsenal are doubting themselves at the moment after their own recent run."

The Gunners are without a win in three Premier League games, and have suffered heavy defeats to both Manchester United and Chelsea in recent weeks. From being billed as potential title challengers just a month ago, Arsenal now sit nine points below leaders Chelsea, having scored just once in their past three fixtures.

A win for Liverpool at the Emirates on Wednesday night would reduce the gap between the two clubs to just two points, and Molby believes the psychological impact that a Reds victory would have could prove crucial.

"To win at Arsenal is always a big ask," he said, "But if Liverpool were to win then the gap is only two points, and it would be interesting to see how Arsenal would respond if that were to happen. Could they react? Would they crumble?"

Molby has been impressed by Liverpool's recent revival, which continued with a gutsy, ten-man victory over Merseyside rivals Everton at Anfield on Saturday, and attributes their run of seven games without loss to two things - fighting spirit and defensive solidity.

"Liverpool are clawing their way back into form," he added, "The football is not sensational - even against Everton - but they have found some heart and some fight, and that was perhaps lacking previously."

"The defensive side is back to what it used to be - which is spot on - and that really helps. If you are not conceding goals then you are always in with a chance, and Liverpool are not conceding goals at the moment."

Molby also reserved special praise for Dirk Kuyt, whose match-winning goal against Everton was his 50th for the club.

"I've always been a fan of Dirk," he said, "He's had a bit of a bad time, but now he is doing what he does best.

"He is all about energy and getting into the box, producing the goods and scoring goals, and Liverpool are all the better for it."

Benitez And Mancini Favourites To Land Cole

SKY BET have named Liverpool and Manchester City the favourites to land Chelsea winger Joe Cole this summer. The 28-year-old is currently discussing a new contract at Chelsea, but the England international is free to sign a pre-contract with another club as his current Stamford Bridge deal runs out in the summer.

Tottenham Hotspur manager was heavily linked with a move for Joe Cole, should talks with Chelsea with breakdown following Redknapp’s tutoring of the winger when he was an up and coming starlet at West Ham. However Tottenham Hotpsur have been price out of the running by SKY BET at 25/1.

SKY BET now make Rafa Benitez’s Liverpool and Roberto Mancini’s Manchester City the favourite’s to land the West London star, with both clubs priced at 10/1. The financial restraints at Liverpool would make the free transfer signing of Joe Cole, value for money, as well as the added impetus of signing a rival’s fan favourite.

Manchester City have already raided Chelsea for left back Wayne Bridge and right winger Shaun Wright Phillips, and according SKY BET the Citizens could be set to try and lure another Chelsea star to the Eastlands.

Rafa Benitez Doesn't Expect To Sign Marouane Chamakh

Liverpool FC manager Rafa Benitez has conceded defeat in his attempts to sign Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh in the summer.

The Morocco international is available on a free transfer and the Liverpool FC boss was initially hopeful of bringing him to Anfield.

Only last month Liverpool FC appeared to lead the race for his signature but the player has since expressed interest in joining Arsenal, and Benitez believes any chance of securing the player is now dead.

The 26-year-old has reportedly hit out at Liverpool FC for being "fussy" over contract negotiations but Benitez is angry at the breakdown of the deal.

"I think that we will not sign him - but I will not say (any more)," said the Spaniard.

Liverpool FC Youth Crash Out Of FA Youth Cup Against Watford At Anfield

A debatable penalty and a disappointing first-half display cost Liverpool dear as they went out of the FA Youth Cup last night.

Piero Mingoia’s spot-kick was enough to help Watford score a 1-0 fifth-round victory at Anfield and land them a home quarter-final clash with Chelsea.

Liverpool coach Rodolfo Borrell was disappointed with his side in the first half, but refused to use the harsh penalty decision for his side’s exit.

Referee Matthew Bristow felt Reds’ centre-back Stephan Sama had fouled Watford skipper Eddie Oshodi in a collision in the box for the penalty. But that came in the 18th minute and despite an improvement after the break Liverpool’s youngsters failed to grab an equaliser.

Substitute Kristjan Emilsson headed agonisingly wide from Tom Ince’s cross.

And fellow sub Krisztian Adorjan found the back of the net in injury time from another Ince centre but the goal was disallowed for a marginal offside.

That was a near as Liverpool came and coach Borrell said: “It was very disappointing. The first-half display was unacceptable.

“In the second half we deserved a bit more. We played a bit better. We tried to get the ball forward more. We were more dynamic and better with the ball. The chances were not absolutely clear, because they were good defending.

“We came from a fantastic performance (in the last round) against Leicester, we beat Wolverhampton here and went to Manchester United and won in the league.

“But in the first half was too lightweight. That is not good if you want to win.”

Mukesh Ambani And Subrata Roy 'Preparing Liverpool Takeover Bid'

Two Indian business tycoons were reported last night to be lining up attempts to take control of Liverpool. Mukesh Ambani and Subrata Roy were said to be willing to pay off the club's £237m debt in return for a 51% stake in the club, according to The Times.

Ambani is India's wealthiest person with a fortune valued at about $20bn. He is the chairman of India's Reliance Industries and owns the Mumbai Indians cricket team. Roy, chairman of the Sahara Group, which sponsors the India cricket team, is also a billionaire.

Liverpool's co-owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, have been searching for fresh investment for some time but they are not thought to want to sell more than 50% of the club's shares.

They have been seeking investment of £100m for a minority stake in the club. The Americans have been ordered by the Royal Bank of Scotland to reduce Anfield's debt by £100m before July.

The Times claim that Roy's interest appeared to be the more serious. It reported that Liverpool's chief executive, Christian Purslow, had denied knowledge of a bid but the paper said the pair had made approaches in November and that discussions had been held. However, this morning a spokesman for Ambani denied he is interested in any taking over the Merseyside club. "There is no truth to the report. We deny it completely," said Sudeep Purkayastha, from Reliance.

There is also said to be interest from the United States and from a Saudi Arabian consortium.

Hicks and Gillett are under pressure from supporters to sell. They took over in February 2007 but have not so far delivered on a project designed to deliver a new stadium and have provided the manager, Rafael Benítez, with little in the way of transfer funds for this season. Maxi Rodríguez was the only January signing.

Liverpool Must Continue Winning Run, Starting At Arsenal - Steven Gerrard

Since the goal-less draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers, Liverpool have beaten Bolton Wanderers and Everton and captain Steven Gerrard has called on his Reds to extend that form on the road, as the club take on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday evening.

And the spirit shown in the 1-0 derby win over Everton on Saturday had Gerrard smiling.

He told the Liverpool Echo: "You always enjoy beating your local rivals but it was the way we did it that was really satisfying, particularly after losing a man after half an hour.

"I thought we showed fantastic character, a great attitude and I also thought we played some decent stuff at times. I thought it was a fully deserved win.

"You could see what it meant to everyone on the pitch at the end and it was the same again in the dressing room afterwards; everybody is still on a high.

"Now we have got to take that high into the next game," the Englishman said.

"It's a tough one, Arsenal away always is. But we have used beating Everton as a platform in the past and we've got to do it again. We want to extend our run and go on to better things."

The successful shut-out against Everton ensured that Pepe Reina has kept his sheet clean since Robert Huth's last gasp equalising goal for Stoke City in mid-January.

Gerrard, while urging for a win against a deflated Arsenal side who suffered a second successive loss at the weekend to Chelsea, warned his own side against complacency, indicating that their top four finish is not yet complete.

"We know there is a long way to go and we want to make sure we are in the top four at the end of the season," he added.

"It's performances like this that will get you in there. We have got to try and keep this run going, as we can't afford any slip-ups.

"There is pressure coming from Tottenham, Manchester City and Aston Villa

"There are a couple of very tough games coming up but if we can show what we have done in the last six games, I don't see why we can't maintain it."

Marouane Chamakh Set To Snub Liverpool FC For Arsenal Switch

Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh has revealed that he wants to join Arsenal when his contract expires this summer - effectively ending Liverpool's interest in him.

The Reds were one of the frontrunners for the Morocco international's signature but a move to North London with the Gunners appears to be too strong to resist for the 26-year-old, who admitted that he favoured a switch to the capital with Gunners' manager Arsene Wenger believed to be a keen admirer of his abilities.

He said: "I have no reason to be under pressure but, every day passing by, I am a little less a Bordeaux player.

"My choice is to join a Premier League club and, if I could choose, I will go to Arsenal. Bordeaux have brought me so much.

"I will soon clearly state things so the club can prepare to find my replacement peacefully.'

Despite his impending departure from the Stade Chaban Delmas Chamakh, who has scored 69 goals during his eight-year spell with les Girondins, was full of praise for manager Laurent Blanc after the World Cup-winning defender instilled a winning mentality in the Ligue 1 outfit.

He added: "Laurent Blanc has brought us a winning state of mind, he has taught us how to hate defeat.

"Both on mental and physical levels, I am at my best. Three years ago, I was still a little crazy. Now I can manage my efforts, which allows me to be more clear-sighted at the end of the match.

"I have improved, but I can still improve. I am not only happy to play anymore. I have become someone who wants to win.

"I am more a scorer, but not enough yet. There are too many situations where I still do a pass for a player in a better position."

Liverpool, meanwhile, are still hoping to secure Milan Jovanovic's services this summer on a Bosman transfer after he declined the opportunity to extend his time with Standard Liege.

The Serbian hitman has attracted significant interest with several of the continent's most illustrious clubs expressing interest. The Reds are expected to face a battle with Italian giants AC Milan and Juventus to bring the 29-year-old to Merseyside.

Standard Liege's vice-president Luciano D'Onofrio paid tribute to the departing striker and revealed: "Jovanovic has always given everything for our club.

"Milan, Juventus and Liverpool want him. The choice is his. I have no role in this decision "

Speaking on Friday, Rafael Benitez insisted that there had been no progress in luring Jovanovic to Anfield but that the club were monitoring developments surrounding player.

He said: "He is a player that is finishing his contract and we are monitoring the situation."

Everton FC Were Too Easy, Says Rafa Benitez

Rafa Benitez admitted Everton FC made it easy for Liverpool FC to win the 213th Merseyside derby.

Dirk Kuyt’s 55th minute header was the difference between the two teams, but Benitez believes Everton failed to take advantage of Sotirios Kyrgiakos’ first half sending off.

The Greek defender received a straight red card for a two-footed tackle on Marouane Fellaini, who was stretchered off before being carried down the tunnel and taken to hospital for an x-ray.

Despite the introduction of the ball-playing Mikel Arteta, however, the visitors resorted to hitting long balls forward instead of trying to play through Liverpool.

That, says Benitez, played into the Reds’ hands, making for a more comfortable win than he expected.

“I was surprised,” said the Spaniard.

“I was expecting more penetrating passes and also for them to try and play on the floor.

“They had Arteta on but they played direct. That made it easier for us. It was easier to control and we continued to do our job in defence.

“When you are losing with 11 players against 10, but you have to win, sometimes you are a little bit more nervous and play more direct. That made it easier for us to control the situation.

“It suited us.”

Benitez was clearly unhappy with the decision to send off Kyrgiakos, particularly as Fellaini went unpunished in an incident that presented a case for both players being reprimanded.

Having impressed in recent weeks, the centre-half will now miss Liverpool’s next three games against Arsenal, Manchester City and Blackburn.

Referee Martin Atkinson struggled to control a typically physical encounter between the fierce Mersey rivals, but Benitez stopped short of publicly criticising the official.

“There are too many tackles that we can analyse carefully but we won’t all agree,” he said.

“I prefer not to say anything about it rather than comment on the referee.

“But, yes, everybody was surprised with the sending off.”

Kuyt grabbed his 50th goal for Liverpool to hand the Anfield club maximum points and move them up to fourth in the table, a point ahead of Tottenham who drew with Aston Villa on Saturday.

“I think everyone knows now what Kuyt can do for us,” said Benitez.

“He’s not a player that is very skilful; not in the way we would normally understand of a skilful player with that kind of ability.

“Fifty goals for any player is a good achievement, especially in the Premier League. He has played as a right and left winger, striker and second striker. He is very important.”

The typically composed Benitez turned towards the Main Stand to celebrate at the final whistle.

He refuted claims he was making a gesture to the director’s box, however.

“To play with 10 players in a derby like this one, that was so emotional, you have to say thank you to the fans,” he added.

“My celebration was spontaneous. It was to the fans, nothing more. For me the fans were pushing and helping the team.

“That is the way, to get behind us, and help us win games.”

Javier Mascherano: Liverpool FC And Everton FC Made Life Difficult For The Ref During The Derby

Javier Mascherano believes both Liverpool and Everton players made life tough for derby referee Martin Atkinson.

The official was kept busy at Anfield on Saturday as the most volatile fixture in Premier League history produced two more red cards.

The dismissals of Sotirios Kyrgiakos and Steven Pienaar means there have now been 19 red cards in 36 Premier League derby showdowns.

"It was a very hard job for the referee because the players did not help him," he said.

"It was a hard game with a lot of tackles but this is the way it is in derby matches, they don’t want to lose and we don’t want to lose. Sometimes you can see some hard tackles because of this.

"Soto (Kyrgiakos) said to us that he went for the ball, maybe he went in the wrong way but he went for the ball."

The red card for Kyrgiakos saw Mascherano pressed into service as a makeshift right-back.

And the Argentine said: "Last season I played right-back against Sunderland. This time, it would have been difficult for the manager to make a sub at that time so maybe he preferred to move me into right-back and I tried to do my best.

"The way that we won made it even better. To be a man down for so long and to have to play with 10 men for almost 60 minutes was really difficult but the result shows how hard we worked.

"The most important thing is that the team continued to work hard and because of this we were able to win with 10 players.

"Maybe it wasn’t our best performance but the only thing that mattered was the win. Now we have to keep going."

Dirk Kuyt's Big-Match Mentality Makes Him Just As Important As Fernando Torres For Rafa Benitez

To the casual football observer, Dirk Kuyt can appear something of a mystery. He might be a seasoned professional, with more than 50 caps for the Netherlands, and have 200 career goals to his name, but the most famous son from the tiny Dutch fishing village of Katwijk aan Zee is not your average modern-day footballer.

On the pitch, the 29-year-old can appear sluggish, ungainly even. His first touch can have supporters apoplectic with rage, and his lack of genuine pace - on and off the ball - can make his right-wing position seem absurd.

But, as already noted, Kuyt is not your typical footballer. Just ask the Nepalese and Brazilian children helped out by the incredibly selfless charity foundation he runs with his wife, Gertrude. Failing that, just ask Rafa Benitez and the Liverpool supporters.

Saturday's 1-0 victory over Merseyside rivals Everton saw Benitez's Liverpool side stretch their unbeaten league run to seven matches, leapfrogging Tottenham Hotspur into the coveted fourth Champions League spot in the process. But lost amid the passion and aggression of a powderkeg Anfield atmosphere was a rather significant landmark for their Dutch destroyer.

Kuyt's winning goal was his 50th for Liverpool. And whilst a half-century scored in 177 games may not set the pulses racing, it is worth remembering that Kuyt has spent the bulk of his time at Anfield as a wide midfielder, and it is testament to his big-game mentality (and scoring record) that there is plenty of debate as to whether Saturday's strike was his most important.

The Dutchman is not the first Liverpool player to reach a milestone at Anfield this season, of course. Fernando Torres tore up the record books when he reached his 50th Premier League goal in just 72 games, and whilst Kuyt lacks the X-Factor and the marketability of his Spanish counterpart, there can be little doubting either man's importance to the Reds' cause.

Ironically, Torres' signing in 2007 could well have spelt the end of Kuyt's stay on Merseyside. The Dutchman had been brought in from Eredivisie giants Feyenoord a year previously for a healthy £10 million fee, and had the then-Spurs-manager Martin Jol declaring that Liverpool's new signing was a "20-20" player (20 goals and 20 assists a season).

It didn't quite work out like that in truth; Kuyt netted 14 times in his debut season in England, but Liverpool finished in a distant third place, and Benitez identified Torres as a more dynamic, prolific solution for the Reds' attack.

Lesser players - lesser characters - may have withered following the arrival of a new darling to Anfield. Not Kuyt. Benitez's decision to redeploy the former FC Utrecht man on the right of midfield raised more than a few eyebrows - pace is perhaps Kuyt's greatest weakness, after all - but the Spaniard sees through the aesthetic shortcomings, past the sensational headlines, and sees a man devoted to Liverpool.

In truth his second season at Anfield was easily his worst to date. He laboured through autumn and winter, dazzled in the glare of Torres, who was en route to a phenomenal debut-season total of 33 goals in all competitions.

But the knock-out stages of the Champions League brought Kuyt to life. Whilst even the best players are often accused of shirking their big-game duties, with Kuyt there is never an issue.

The opening goal against Inter at Anfield in the last-16, a critical equaliser at Arsenal in the quarter-finals, and the opener against Chelsea in the semis all followed. Kuyt's diligence in defence ensured his right-back was rarely exposed, his striker's instinct enabled him to pop up in the right place at the right time, just when Liverpool needed him.

There are still those who need convincing. Every summer Liverpool supporters implore Benitez to add some flair, some craft to the Reds' flanks. Kuyt's functional nature is all well and good, they say, but what about some guile, some mesmeric dribbling? They see Torres, the embodiement of the perfect modern-day centre forward - tall, strong, quick, prolific - and want that replicated all over the pitch.

Yet whilst every team would love a Torres (or 10 of them), the argument can be made that every team needs a Kuyt or two. Someone who gives you everything, every single week. Someone who leads by example, no matter the circumstances. It is no surprise that when Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher were absent this season, Benitez handed the captaincy to Kuyt.

Of course this season has not been the best - for Liverpool or for Kuyt. The disappointment of a title-challenge which ended in October has hurt the club, as has their ludicrously-early exit from the Champions League. Injuries to key players has only exacerbated the sense of crisis which has - perhaps prematurely - gathered around Anfield.

Yet out of the ashes has risen a seven-game unbeaten run. And at the forefront of it has been guess who? Kuyt netted twice against Tottenham when the Reds were seemingly at rock-bottom, having been ushered out of the FA Cup by Reading; he grabbed the nerve-settling opener against Bolton; and on Saturday he continued his impressive goalscoring record against Everton with another critical strike. He now has four goals against the enemy - only Gerrard and Robbie Fowler have more in the Premier League era.

If Benitez were to listen to those demanding a new winger, he would have 50 clubs knocking on his door for his no. 18. The Kop may adore Torres for his goals and his grace, but they are well aware that in Kuyt they possess another very special footballer.

Not that the down-to-earth Dutchman would ever admit it, of course.

Glen Johnson Will Not Face Action Over Allegation Of Assault Outside A London Nightclub

Liverpool FC footballer Glen Johnson will face no action following an allegation of assault outside a London nightclub.

The defender was accused of attacking a man in the West End near the Movida club at around 4am on a December night out after the Reds' defeat to Portsmouth.

The victim claimed he was punched and suffered minor arm, chest and facial injuries.

The Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: "No further action will be taken in this case."

Detectives are understood not to have spoken to Johnson about the incident.

Merseyside MPs Call For Tough Regulation On Premier Football Clubs’ Finances

Merseyside MPs have appealed to the government to take greed out of the beautiful game.

They want better regulation of Liverpool and other premier football clubs so that they are no longer at the mercy of millionaire takeover barons.

And regulation should include a cap on players’ wages, better management of debts run up by struggling clubs, improved fair trading rules and a better deal for fans.

Their move followed a series of complaints and demonstrations by Reds fans and the recent Green and Gold campaign at Manchester United.

Liverpool-city region MPs have now sponsored a Commons motion tabled by Manchester MP Tony Lloyd, chairman of the committee of all Labour backbench MPs.

The motion “recognises that professional football has become a major part of the modern way of life for millions.

“The state of the premier league and the professional game is causing concern, but self-regulation by the football authorities has often meant no regulation.”

The motion called on ministers to work with the football authorities to “create a binding framework which will regulate club debt, guarantee the protection of the consumer with rules for fair trading and protect the wider public interest by putting the supporter at the heart of the national game.”

Motion sponsor George Howarth, MP for Knowsley North and Sefton East, said: “Most supporters are horrified at the way the game is financed, particularly the way in which rich investors are able to dominate football across the country.

“It is high time we looked at other financing methods, beef up regulation and put the fans first. That may mean a cap on wages and greater financial involvement by supporters.”

He stressed that they were not singling out Liverpool – or Everton – but felt that all top-class clubs need to be overhauled.

Halton MP Derek Twigg said: “There is widespread concern amongst supporters, financial commentators and football journalists that the controlling interests in the clubs do not obviously demonstrate long-term commitment to the clubs involved and to the health of football in general.”

And Peter Kilfoyle, whose Walton constituency includes both city clubs, said: “The time has come for football fans to be given a tangible stake in the clubs they have helped to build and still support.”

Two Jailed Over Hand Grenade Plot

Two men were jailed on Monday over a planned arson attack in which a military hand grenade was left outside football hero Kenny Dalglish's home.

The army bomb squad had to be called to the former Liverpool and Blackburn manager's house last July when undercover police scotched an attack on one of his neighbours.

Dalglish, 58, now Liverpool FC's academy director, and his wife Marina, 55, who runs a cancer charity, were not at the property in Birkdale, near Southport, at the time.

A gang of thugs were planning to launch the British military grenade - which explodes into 1,800 lethal fragments - through the living room window of businessman John Ball.

Mr Ball was at home with his children aged nine and 17 months at the time.

The attack, which was abandoned when a security guard reported the men, would have been one of many intimidatory attacks on Mr. Ball's properties and businesses.

On Monday, Liverpool Crown Court heard Mr. Ball and his business partner Terry Riley were the victims of more than 20 attacks because of a venture involving a Liverpool garage.

Three men were said to have arranged the intended bombing of Mr. Ball's home on 26 July in a bid to pressure him away from giving evidence in an impending court case against them.

The trio allegedly used Mark Johnston, 21, to orchestrate the planned bombing from his Liverpool jail cell - where he was serving a nine-year sentence for robbery.

Johnston, of MacQueen Street, Liverpool, texted convicted drug dealer Carl Higgins, 29, to find another man to throw the grenade for "a monkey" - £500.

When police traced the texts back to Johnston and searched his cell they discovered the mobile phone hidden up his bottom.

Messages from Johnston to Higgins included: "Fits in ur hand", "Lad, he's gota smash window an throw into house otherwise they wont pay gota be done rite lad", "gota pull pin lad", and "Make sure window smashed first an throw gota do the job as they want it doin lad".

Higgins, who the court heard has a very low IQ after being attacked in April 2008 by a gang wielding an axe and sword, recruited unemployed criminal Simon Ignacio, 28.

When Ignacio and Higgins were rumbled outside their intended victim's house they fled but Ignacio - who has convictions for battery and harassment - left the grenade in a shrubbery outside Mr. Dalglish's home.

His barrister, Nigel Power, said he had no idea he was carrying a British military grenade and thought he was only carrying "an onion bomb" made from fireworks.

He also said Ignacio, of Lee Park Avenue, Liverpool, was only involved in the conspiracy for half an hour before the police were called and would not have thrown it if people were inside the house.

Higgins, of Helston Green, Huyton, Liverpool, was jailed for five years and Ignacio sentenced to four-and-a-half years.

Both men admitted conspiring to cause damage and being reckless to whether life would be endangered.

The judge, Mr. Justice Edwards-Stuart, said: "It was a real Army grenade which is absolutely a lethal weapon.

"Had there been anyone in the room and the grenade landed and exploded death would have been immediate. The explosion would have caused massive damage to the house."

"It was an utterly reckless act," he added.

Johnston will be sentenced on February 26.

Carra's Arsenal Mission

Jamie Carragher believes normal service has been resumed in Liverpool's defensive ranks - but warned the Reds will face a tough task in keeping Arsenal at bay on Wednesday evening.

Saturday's 1-0 victory over Everton moved Rafael Benitez's side into fourth place in the table and means they have now kept six clean sheets in their last seven Barclays Premier League outings.

Carragher admits the derby triumph has increased the 'feelgood factor' within the camp, and the vice-captain is eager for Liverpool to continue their defensive defiance at the Emirates.

"It is not just three points, it has a massive impact and everyone is buzzing," he said.

"But that can change if the result doesn't go our way at Arsenal.

"We beat Manchester United (in the league) and then played Arsenal in the Carling Cup and lost.

"It is important we keep that feelgood factor after the Arsenal game and that will be by making sure we get a good result.

"We are going into the game in a great frame of mind but Arsenal away is always difficult.

"We have been to the Emirates for a couple of years now and I don't think we've won there yet so it is something we are going to have to do sooner or later and hopefully Wednesday will be the time.

"For the last four or five years we have been good defensively under Rafa and we are just getting back to our normal selves.

"If you keep clean sheets you are going to win games."

Mourinho Reveals Exit Options

Inter Milan manager Jose Mourinho has revealed the details in his contract which allow him a premature exit from the San Siro. The self-styled ‘Special One’ who has garnered success in each of his coaching positions at Porto, Chelsea and Inter has regularly hinted that he could return to the Premier League in the near future with Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City all tipped as possible destinations.

With Rafael Benitez heavily linked with an exit from Liverpool, it is the Merseyside giants that appear to be leading the chase for Mourinho’s signature although such is the profile of the Portuguese tactician that competition is sure to be fierce to snap him up.

Speaking to the Portuguese press about his future, Mourinho revealed:

"The club [Inter] and I signed a very objective contract until 2012, because we want to work together.

"But there is a cancellation clause that Inter will pay me if they want my departure and another that I will pay Inter if I want to leave.

"It's all simple and very objective. There will never be a never-ending story with us as has happened in the past with other people. We are honest people with honest contracts and objectivity."

Movement between Italy and England has become an increasingly regular phenomenon in recent seasons with Claudio Ranieri leaving Chelsea for his homeland, Carlo Ancelotti quitting AC Milan for the Blues, Roberto Mancini taking up the reigns at Manchester City, Gianfranco Zola returning to London with West Ham United and the aforementioned Mourinho making his switch to Inter.

It is yet to be seen whether Rafael Benitez will be the next boss to move to Serie A, although with the Spaniard happily revealing contact from Juventus it appears that the Reds are at risk of losing their under-fire, but talented coach.

Liverpool Manager Rafael Benitez Confident Of Bringing Standard Liege's Milan Jovanovic To Anfield

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez insists that he is certain Standard Liege striker Milan Jovanovic will be headed in the direction of Merseyside.

There was some talk of the Serbia international having signed a pre-contract agreement with the Reds, but a source recently told Goal.com UK that the 28-year-old was still unsure of a move to Anfield due to the speculation surrounding Benitez's future.

However, the former Valencia coach is certain that the two parties will come to an agreement in due course.

"Nothing is sorted yet, but I’m confident it will be," said Benitez, according to the Daily Mail.

Jovanovic will be available on a free transfer from Liege in the summer, with Fiorentina, Milan and Valencia also believed to be interested in securing the player's signature.

Manchester United, Liverpool And Tottenham Hotspur Ready As Manchester City Look To Sell Stephen Ireland

The Daily Mail claims that Roberto Mancini, the Manchester City manager, is planning to sell Stephen Ireland this summer as he sets about revamping his midfield.

Questions over the Irish playmaker's future at Eastlands have arisen following the Sky Blues' January pursuit of Parma star McDonald Mariga, who ended up joining Inter instead.

And with Real Madrid schemer Fernando Gago still on Mancini's radar, a number of big clubs are said to be queueing up in anticipation of Ireland being made available at season's end.

Manchester United head a group of long-term admirers that also includes Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur, with Sir Alex Ferguson a particularly big fan of the 23-year-old.

Ireland's value has skyrocketed since last season, when he shook off a series of prior controversies to establish himself as City's main man with 13 goals in all competitions.

Juventus Plan Summer Swoop For Liverpool Defender Martin Skrtel

Juventus have singled out Liverpool centre-back Martin Skrtel as the man to shore up their defence next season, according to the News of the World.

The struggling Serie A giants are looking to freshen up their rearguard, with Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro now in his autumn years and star stopper Giorgio Chiellini tipped for a big-money transfer.

And with her eyes still lingering on Anfield after her pursuit of Reds manager Rafael Benitez, it is claimed that the Old Lady will put up £8 million for Skrtel in the summer.

The Slovakian defender's stocks have fallen somewhat this season, as Daniel Agger and even Sotirios Kyrgiakos have pushed ahead of him in the pecking order.

However, Juve reportedly see the former Zenit St. Petersburg hardman as exactly the type of player they need to add some much-needed grunt and grit to their back line.

Skrtel has made 74 appearances in all competitions during his three seasons at Liverpool, netting one goal.

Liverpool, Everton And Spurs To Battle It Out For Hull Starlet

Hull are facing a fight to hang on to wonder kid Tom Cairney.

The teenage sensation is already being tracked by Premier League big guns - after just five senior starts for the Tigers.

Tottenham, Liverpool and Everton are monitoring Cairney’s progress and are ready to slug it out for his signature in the summer.

City boss Phil Brown is determined to hang on to the 19-year-old midfielder but the financially fragile Humberside outfit may have no option but to cash in on their top young talent if they are relegated.

Brown gave Nottingham-born Cairney his first-team chance in cup ties this season and he made his Premier League debut at home to Wolves eight days ago.

He was so impressive that he kept his place for Tuesday’s draw with Chelsea, when he put in another accomplished performance.

Winger Reveals Reds Targets

Nabil El Zhar admits injuries have scuppered the targets he set himself in pre-season - but the fit-again winger is now determined to make up for lost time.

The Moroccan sustained a knee ligament injury during Liverpool's Far East tour in July, meaning he spent the opening four months of 2009-10 on the sidelines.

El Zhar's return to action as a substitute against Blackburn Rovers in December proved to be a brief one as an ankle problem reunited the 23-year-old with Melwood's treatment table once more.

However, the former Saint Etienne forward recently resumed full-training and is now eager to re-establish himself in the plans of Rafael Benitez after making 19 senior appearances last term.

He told LFC Weekly: "I know some fans still see my name on the programme and think, 'Nabil El Zhar - he's one of our younger players.' That's not true. If I was 18 or 19, they would have been right.

"But I'm 23 and approaching an important stage of my career.

"I have two main hopes when each season starts. The first is to play more games than the season before, The second is to improve as a player and a person.

"Last season was a good one for me. I played a reasonable number of games and felt a big improvement in my overall game.

"So far this year, injuries have meant that I haven't been able to even begin to reach those basic targets."

He added: "The Blackburn game was tough but it felt really good to be back playing again. I tried my best to give the team some width and pace and was content with my performance.

"I was looking forward to playing some part in the squad but then I suffered another setback. It has been one of the most frustrating periods of my career.

"I still have a lot to achieve. There is still time for me to become a regular first-team player - although I need to have a period of time without being injured to do that."