Fernando Torres Crowned ECHO Sports Personality Of The Year For Second Year Running

Fernando Torres last night joined a select band of sportsmen as he retained the Liverpool Echo Sports Personality of the Year award.

At a glittering awards ceremony, held at the Crowne Plaza, Torres beat off competition from team-mate Steven Gerrard, Everton pair Louis Saha and Tim Howard, World Champion gymnast Beth Tweddle, St Helens prop forward James Graham and talented local youngsters Francesca Halsall and Katarina Thompson to lift the gong.

Torres, who took the prize last year after scoring Spain’s winning goal at Euro 2008, became the first man since Kenny Dalglish in 1979 and 1980 to become a double winner.

He was recognised by a panel of judges after becoming the quickest Liverpool player to reach 50 league goals – it took him just 72 games and smashed a record that had stood for more than 60 years.

“I’m really, really proud,” said Torres. “This award means a lot to me. It’s the second year I have won it and I have to say ‘thank you’ for giving me the opportunity.

“To get to 50 goals was a very proud moment. Liverpool is a team with one of the most successful histories in the world. It is not the same to break records at other clubs.

“In the past, Liverpool have had fantastic strikers so, for me, it is really important that I have beaten them.”

Injuries proved a source of frustration for Torres during 2009 but he still managed to score 24 times during the calendar year and he nominated his spectacular strike in a 4-0 drubbing on Blackburn Rovers on April 11 as his personal highlight.

However, his record-breaking goal – at Villa Park on December 29 – also held a special place in his affections, given the importance of the game, as did the one he fired past Real Madrid keeper Iker Casillas in the Champions League.

“I received a lot of texts from Liverpool players, my team-mates, people in Spain who were aware of the record,” said Torres. “It was really important but it was more important because we beat Aston Villa.

“The goal against Blackburn was very good, especially as it was a few days before the Hillsborough Anniversary. The goal was for the victims and the families. It was an important moment.

“I enjoyed the goal against Real Madrid, too but maybe the best one was Blackburn.”

International commitments prevented Torres collecting the award in person but, via a video link, he once again revealed how happy he is on Merseyside – and how determined he is to help Liverpool qualify for the Champions League.

“The people have been kind here to me since the first day. I feel here like I do at home. I can go to any part of the city and receive kind words.

“I get on well with Evertonians, too. It's strange for me, as in Madrid football is the most important thing in the city and Real Madrid fans were not the best with me.

“So it was a big surprise that I can talk with Everton fans about everything. They respect me and I respect them.

“I’ve only played 20 games and I’m desperate to help the team. I hope to score as many goals as possible until the end of the season.”

Lucas: Gerrard Has Edge Over Kaka

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva believes captain Steven Gerrard is a more complete player than Brazil superstar Kaka.

Gerrard, who will captain England against Egypt at Wembley on Wednesday, has been well short of his best form this season.

His goal against Blackburn on Sunday was only his eighth for the club this season, having scored 24 in the previous campaign when Liverpool ran Manchester United a very close second for the Premier League title.

But even taking that into account, Lucas insists Gerrard has the all-round game to make him one of the world's greatest.

"There are similarities with Kaka and Stevie but Stevie makes more of a contribution all over the pitch," said the 23-year-old, an international team-mate of Real Madrid forward Kaka.

"Stevie is more complete in that sense because he can attack but also defend just as well.

"This is probably because Stevie has experience playing in a number of positions earlier in his career."

Lucas added in LFC Weekly: "Even now, he is so good, he could probably play anywhere."

The Brazilian midfielder is by no means a fans' favourite and regularly comes in for criticism for not being of the standard to warrant a regular first-team place.

However, manager Rafael Benitez sees him as a key member and, along with Dirk Kuyt and goalkeeper Jose Reina, has played him in every Premier League match this season.

Lucas has freely admitted his Liverpool career, which began with a move from Brazilian side Gremio in July 2007, had inauspicious beginnings but he now feels he is contributing more to the side.

"Since I have been at Liverpool there have been quite a few knocks," he said.

"This season I have played more games and that has pleased me. But it isn't about me, it's about the club doing well.

"Winning the league isn't possible so we need to finish in the top four.

"That is more important than any personal statistics or achievements I have made.

"This year has been really difficult for the team but we have improved a lot in the last 10 games, especially defensively.

"It is clear we have not scored enough but we have become difficult to beat again.

"Over the next month we have quite a lot of home games against teams from the bottom half of the league, while our rivals for fourth have more difficult fixtures on paper.

"Maybe this will help us out."

Reina has been Liverpool's best player this term and his form has been key to their recent defensive improvement.

The Spain international jointly leads the race for the Premier League Golden Glove - which he has won four out of the last five seasons - with injured Chelsea keeper Petr Cech as both have 12 clean sheets.

"There is nothing easy in the Premier League and we have to carry on with the same shape," he said.

"I think we are a stronger defensive unit and we can do better things now.

"It's a long race but there are a few games to play and nothing will be decided until the last fixture."

Reina also welcomed the return to fitness of compatriot Fernando Torres, who marked his first start since January 13 with the winning goal against Blackburn on Sunday.

Torres' partnership with Gerrard is, according to Reina, crucial to Liverpool's fortunes.

"That is the difference between us and any other side," he added.

"We have them and they are world-class players. As long as we have them it will be absolutely brilliant.

"It's very important to have Fernando back. It's not just his goals. His presence worries the opposition and this allows space for Stevie, Yossi Benayoun and, as you saw against Blackburn, Maxi Rodriguez (who set up Torres' goal)."

Luis Suarez: Liverpool vs Manchester United For Ajax South American Scoring Star

Rafa Benitez’ chances of bringing Ajax star Luis Suarez to Liverpool this summer are decreasing with the news that Manchester United and Barcelona are stepping up their interest. The Uruguayan international has been in superb form in Holland with reports from the Dutch press suggesting that he will have his pick of three of the biggest clubs in European football at the end of the season.

Suarez tops the Dutch scoring charts with 26 goals in 25 league appearances (all starts), so it’s unsurprising he is attracting so much attention. Liverpool will need to offload Ryan Babel to raise funds which could be their downfall with Barcelona and Manchester United ready to pounce for the creative South American.

Suarez has been playing in Holland for the past four seasons and has consistently scored goals whether playing on the flanks or just behind the main striker. This campaign has been his most prolific already scoring 4 more league goals than his previous highest tally. This doesn’t include a sensational 6-goal haul in Ajax’ 14-1 domestic cup win over WHC in December. Last season he scored 22 goals in 31 league appearances (30 starts) as Suarez finished joint 2nd in the Dutch scoring charts. Despite the Uruguayan’s best efforts, Ajax finished 12 points behind champions AZ and one point behind 2nd placed FC Twente meaning they failed to qualify for the Champions League. This season Martin Jol’s team sit 3rd, seven points behind leaders PSV.

Ajax’s failure to qualify for the Champions League last season led Suarez to urge the club to bring in new recruits. He told Sportsweek in the summer, “It would definitely be useful for Ajax to sign some quality players. It’s up to the coach to decide on which position we need to strengthen the squad. However, we could use some physically strong players in my opinion.”

“I’m extremely disappointed that we failed to qualify for the Champions League once again. I need to play at top level in order to keep improving as a player.

“Nevertheless, missing out on Champions League football is not just bad for me, but also disastrous for the club. Ajax have to wait yet another year to play at the highest level.”

Ajax may miss out again so Liverpool, Manchester United and Barcelona may be the teams to provide the Uruguayan with the ‘highest level’ of football required although Rafa Benitez’ team are facing a battle to clinch 4th spot. The player’s versatility is of interest to Sir Alex Ferguson and Josep Guardiola as he can fill a number of positions. He would provide competition on the flanks for the likes of Nani, Antonio Valencia and Ryan Giggs or could partner or compete with Wayne Rooney up front.

Ajax may be 3rd in the Dutch top division, but there’s no disputing who is top of the scoring charts. Suarez has scored 26 league goals, nine goals more than his nearest competitor. Only six of those strikes have arrived via the penalty spot. Not only has Suarez been his sensational form domestically but also in Europe and for his country. The Uruguayan has scored 6 goals in the Europa League with 4 coming in one match v Slovan Bratislava. He has also scored three goals in his last seven international appearances.

The 23-year-old began his career in his homeland with club Nacional where he won a Uruguayan title before moving to Groningen in the summer of 2006 for €800,000. In his only season for the club he scored 10 goals in 29 league appearances (26 starts) before Ajax made their move for a fee of €9.5M. He has been monitored by Rafa Benitez and Sir Alex Ferguson for a number of seasons but he has really caught their attention since he moved to Amsterdam. The fact Ajax were dumped out of the Europa League by Juventus has only increased speculation he will be leaving in the summer for either Anfield, Old Trafford or the Camp Nou.

Suarez has been a big hit since his move to Amsterdam after scoring 65 goals in just 89 league appearances (84 starts). His present contract expires in 2012 but with Liverpool, Manchester United and Barcelona stepping up their interest, this may well be his last season in Holland.

The Uruguayan with 9 goals in 28 appearances for his country does have a reputation for ill-discipline which is perfectly illustrated by the 25 yellow cards he has received in 4 seasons in Holland. He was also sent-off on his international debut against Colombia in February 2007. However, for what he lacks in discipline, he certainly makes up for in talent. Not only does he score goals but he is also very creative. Liverpool or Manchester United fans will certainly enjoy his talents if he does finally join one of them. Ajax have opened the door to a move with comments made in the press during the last transfer window.

“It’s up to the technical staff to decide whether Luis will be allowed to leave the club. Nevertheless, we’re ready to talk about a transfer if an extremely good offer comes in,” club director Rik van den Boog was quoted as saying in Algemeen Dagblad.

“We still expect Luis to stay in Amsterdam until the end of the running season, but we are ready to listen to other clubs if a transfer is in the club’s or the player’s best interest.”

Ryan Babel has failed to make a big impression on Merseyside but is still highly regarded in Amsterdam and his homeland which suggests he may well be a make-weight in any deal struck with Liverpool. However, Manchester United will be strengthening their squad this summer with Suarez high on Sir Alex’s hit-list.

Everton And Liverpool Meet For Stadium Talks

Liverpool FC and Everton FC were sitting down for a top-level stadium summit with city council leaders on Monday.

Representatives from Liverpool University and the North West Development Agency (NWDA) were also expected to attend.

LFC chief executive Christian Purslow and his Everton counterpart Robert Elstone are trying to find a solution to their outdated grounds. Both were due at the meeting.

It is understood the clubs will be urged to let the university carry out a feasibility study into options.

NWDA chief executive Steve Broomhead said: "We welcome the meeting. People are beginning to look at the opportunities again. Both clubs need solutions, either singly or jointly."

Both Everton and Liverpool declined to comment on the meeting.

One option that may be examined during the meeting is the "football quarter" put forward by fans' group Keep Everton in Our City (KEIOC).

The KEIOC idea would see Goodison Park rebuilt - with a hotel and other developments around Stanley Park helping pay for it.

In a separate development Liverpool Labour leader Joe Anderson is writing to EFC and LFC to suggest they enter into a feasibility study with the council about the possibility of a shared stadium. He said the option needed ruling in or out once and for all, and that above all clarity was needed.

City council leader Warren Bradley has said he thinks the idea of a football quarter based around Stanley Park is a "cracking idea".

In the past any talk of a shared stadium has always been ruled out by Liverpool FC.

The club maintains it remains committed to building a new £400m, 60,000 seater ground in Stanley Park. It is understood the club is looking for £100m to get work started - but has so far struggled to raise the cash.

Building a new stadium is Purslow's number one priority. The lack of progress is a prime source of discontent among fans fed up with US owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

Everton fans are equally desperate for a new home.

The club was forced back to the drawing board after the government rejected the £400m Tesco/Kirkby project.

It is understood the club is now studying the possibility of re-developing Goodison - although this has always been ruled out as unaffordable.

The club is also understood to be carrying out a new search for sites with the city council. But in the past none of the sites identified by the council proved affordable because of the need for "enabling" development to help off-set the cost of the stadium.

Fernando Torres Wants As Much Playing Time As Possible For Spain

Fernando Torres is keen for as much international playing time as possible despite the Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez's concerns over the striker, who has recently returned from a lengthy lay-off after knee surgery. Benítez will hope Torres returns from Spain without picking up any new knocks in the European champions' friendly against France on Wednesday.

Spain's coach Vicente del Bosque has denied falling out with the Liverpool manager after naming Torres in his squad, and insists he will monitor the amount of time the forward is on the pitch.

But Torres claims Benítez's worries are of little concern to him. "Rafa has enough to deal with what he's got," he told reporters as he arrived at Spain's training camp. "It's normal that he's thinking about his interests but he knows that all the players want to go to the national team. For us it is an honour to be here, to play as much as possible and to return as fit as possible to our teams.

"Luckily, I recovered in time. To be in the national squad is a prize for me. I have the good fortune that the coach called me up after playing just two games since I recovered [from the knee surgery].

"I'm tired after playing nearly 90 minutes after two months of not doing so, but I'm ready for as much as the coach thinks is right. These games are always special for Spain. We can't wait to play against [France], especially after they knocked us out of the last World Cup. We always have it in for them."

Carragher Reveals Torres Fears

Liverpool vice-captain Jamie Carragher is desperate for Fernando Torres to come back from international duty unscathed.

Torres, in the Spain squad to face France in a midweek friendly, marked his first start since January 13 with the winning goal in the bruising 2-1 victory over Blackburn at Anfield.

The striker has now scored 13 goals in 17 Barclays Premier League appearances and despite having missed nearly six weeks after a knee operation he is still the club's top scorer.

Liverpool remain sixth, a point behind fourth-placed Tottenham, but Carragher believes a fit Torres will give them an extra dimension in their final 10 Barclays Premier League matches.

"Fernando has come back in and it goes without saying how much we have missed him," said the defender.

"He is still our top scorer, the kind of special player who will make a difference.

"He's a big, powerful lad, who is right up for the fight, and he's ideally suited to English football. That's why he's done so well.

"It would be wrong to rely on just one man. After all, you never know, he could come back injured off international duty.

"Please God, that doesn't happen, but he makes a big difference and you can see we are a much better team when he is with us."

Just when it seemed Liverpool's injury problems were over they have had three defenders injured in the last four days.

Martin Skrtel has been ruled out for several weeks after breaking a metatarsal in his right foot against Unirea Urziceni on Thursday while Fabio Aurelio limped off with a thigh injury against Blackburn and Daniel Agger's knee problem meant he left Anfield on crutches yesterday.

The good news is that right-back Glen Johnson's recovery from a knee injury could see him make his first appearance since December 29 at Wigan this weekend.

"Glen will be back soon, maybe in time for Wigan, and things are looking a bit rosier," Carragher told the Liverpool Echo.

"You talk about having a squad but we've got our big players back."

Liverpool Land Wonderkid With Stunning £300,000 Contract Offer

Liverpool are giving 15-year-old sensation Raheem Sterling a stunning contract worth £300,000 to join them from QPR.

The Kop outfit have pushed out the boat for the England youth star who is already rated the 'next big thing' after his appearances for club and country.

Attacking midfielder Sterling chose to go to Anfield for football reasons, but his financial package is a stunner for a player of his age.

As a schoolboy Sterling will only be able to earn the basic low wage, but part of the Kop contract includes a three-year 'pro' contract when he turns 17.

And Sterling's 'camp' will be given a giant signing on fee, worth around £200,000 and spread over the length of his deal at Liverpool until 2014. He is going into their academy in a major coup.

Liverpool are paying QPR a guaranteed £500,000 with further installments based on the time Sterling spends with them - and his eventual breakthrough to the first team.

The deal is potentially the biggest for a player of his age and was decided without going to a tribunal. Sterling told Rangers he wanted to leave and would not sign any long contract with them.

Sterling's decision left both Manchester cubs, Arsenal and Fulham upset. All of them had tried to do a deal but found it hard to agree fees and terms with all of the parties involved.

City are fuming at the result. Their offer of £1 million was higher than any rival bidder but the youngster fancied Liverpool instead.

Steven Gerrard Must Assume Centre Stage For Remainder Of The Season

There was a familiar feel to Liverpool's victory over Blackburn Rovers at Anfield on Sunday.

Not the final minute nerves, which have become almost as common as anti-American banners and 'You'll Never Walk Alone' this season, nor the post-match verbal sparring between Rafael Benitez and Sam Allardyce, two peas from distinctly different pods, who share a common dislike - each other.

The familiarity came from a quick glance at Liverpool's team. Pepe Reina, Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres have played precious few games together at the spine of Benitez's side this season, but yesterday the quartets were in tandem for the first time since December, and the benefits were clear for all to see.

In truth, Carragher would probably have started the game at full-back were it not for Martin Skrtel's metatarsal injury, and that would have meant Javier Mascherano, not Gerrard, would have partnered the ever-improving Lucas Leiva in the centre of the Liverpool midfield. So, as ever, circumstances played their part.

But as it was, Mascherano performed admirably as an auxiliary right-back, and Gerrard's display in the position in which he made his name will give Benitez plenty to ponder as he plots his assault on the Premier League's top four.

Liverpool's skipper has been some way below his very best form this term, having struggled with a niggling groin strain and suffered from the club's general poor form. But against Blackburn he was back in familiar territory, and produced a familiar performance.

His first burst forward from deep brought the opening goal - his eighth of the season, and second in as many games - and the 29-year-old was at the heart of just about everything good about Liverpool's first-half performance. Just as against Unirea Urziceni in the Europa League last Thursday, Gerrard was the dominant figure in a testing midfield battle.

It should come as little surprise. This is, after all, where Gerrard matured from a shy, skinny teenager to the awe-inspiring powerhouse he has become. He thrives when at the centre of the action, bossing the game and influencing proceedings.

Liverpool fans have noted tell-tale signs of discontent in their captain's body language at times this season, with some even suggesting a lack of faith in his struggling team-mates. But there was nothing negative about the way he hunted down Keith Andrews with relish early on, clipped his side ahead on 20 minutes, or waded eagerly into a verbal bout with the ever-loveable El-Hadji Diouf shortly after.

And with Fernando Torres marking his return to the starting line-up with his 13th goal of a stop-start campaign, Gerrard should now have the perfect ally as he bids to steer his team to the top-four finish that was guaranteed by his manager earlier this year. Both players were together on the scoresheet for the first time since September, and their mutual appreciation is as plainly obvious as Benitez's disdain for Allardyce's tactics.

Torres and Gerrard are a match made in heaven, but despite the pair striking up a phenomenal understanding as a virtual two-man strike-force, Liverpool could be best served using Gerrard in a deeper role, utilising the likes of Dirk Kuyt or Ryan Babel as a partner for the Spaniard.

Such a move would of course mean that one of Lucas or Mascherano would need to make way, and in truth Benitez would be harsh to drop either from his starting line-up. But Liverpool can ill afford to be held back by sentiment at a time like this, as Champions League football next season is imperative. The sight of Alberto Aquilani - £17 million-worth of midfielder - sitting out yet another game on the bench on Sunday is proof of that particular fact.

The Italian has started just one of the Reds' last six league games, and whilst it is unfair and premature to say the former Roma man is out of favour at Anfield, the fact remains that Benitez has some big decisions to make as he seeks to guide his side to a position that most would have considered failure at the season's outset. Aquilani's style - classy yet perhaps a touch flaky - needs a more fluent side in which to shine at the moment.

Lucas and Mascherano have their many merits - and both have been in very good form of late - but with Liverpool's fixture list dominated by opponents whom it is likely to require plenty of craft and patience to break down, the time may come where one needs to be sacrificed in favour of Gerrard's dynamism and sheer quality from midfield.

And with the captain approaching his 30th birthday, and seemingly taking longer to recover from muscular strains and tears, it may be a long-term idea to utilise his long-range passing and inspirational qualities in a more conventional role than the 'trequartista' position in which he has spent most of the past three years.

Benitez is not one to be swayed by public opinion - demoting Ryan Babel to the bench yesterday following a trio of impressive displays is testament to that - but knows as well as anyone that his side are at their best when Gerrard and Torres are fit and firing.

And having seen Gerrard produce arguably his best form of the season in the past few days, the time may well have come for Liverpool's captain to assume centre stage once again.

Benitez Hopes For Torres Edge

Rafa Benitez hopes that Fernando Torres' return from injury will fire Liverpool into next season's UEFA Champions League.

The star striker started against Blackburn on Sunday and marked his return to the first XI after knee surgery with the winning goal in a 2-1 Premier League victory.

Benitez admits that Torres is not at full fitness, but he hopes that the Spain international will provide an edge over Manchester City, Tottenham and Aston Villa in the race for fourth spot.

"It was really important for us and really important for him as he will have more confidence," said the Liverpool manager of his forward's goal.

"It was clear he was not fully fit and his match fitness is not the best but he can make the difference and he scored an important goal.

"If he can improve his fitness he will be a very good addition for us and he can be a threat for all the defenders.

"He can create space for Steven Gerrard and the other players and, if you are under pressure, he can score goals on his own."

Benitez added: "The main thing now is to manage him properly and keep him fit and he can make the difference.

"We have Yossi Benayoun coming back, now Fernando and maybe next week Glen Johnson will be fit and available so it will be good news."

Torres has joined the Spain squad for this week's World Cup warm-up against France and there have been suggestions that Liverpool are far from happy with the 25-year-old's call-up.

Benitez has spoken to the Spanish coaching staff about his striker's current physical condition, but just has to hope that there is no injury setback.

"I was talking with the Spanish staff and we know they will take care of him," he added.

"He is an important player for us and hopefully he can keep scoring goals now and help us end the season with a winning run."

Pepe Reina Believes Fernando Torres Can Fire Liverpool To Fourth Place In Premier League

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina believes that Fernando Torres can fire the Reds to a top-four Premier League finish now that he's fit again.

The striker netted his 13th goal of the season at Anfield on Sunday to clinch a 2-1 win over Blackburn Rovers, and Reina was delighted to see his compatriot in action again after a season blighted yet again by injury.

"It was great to see Fernando score because he is a key player for us," the keeper told the Reds' official website.

"We have 10 league games left now and it can make a big difference with him back in the team. He is an important player for us and hopefully he can keep scoring goals now and help us end the season with a winning run."

Sunday's clash at Anfield was an ill-tempered affair marked by Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez's acerbic criticism of Blackburn's style and the behaviour of their manager Sam Allardyce.

Reina acknowledges that sealing a crucial three points was no easy task.

"It was an important game and really tough," he added.

"They put us under pressure in the final moments but we held on for a huge win. It's a great victory against a tough opponent, especially after City and Spurs won.

"It was important that we kept our good run going and we will now look to build on that in our next match."

Agger Undergoes Scan

Daniel Agger underwent a scan on an injured knee today after leaving Anfield on crutches following the 2-1 win over Blackburn.

Doctors discovered severe bruising to the Dane's right knee, and he will now undergo treatment at Melwood.

A club spokesman said: "Daniel underwent a scan this morning which has shown severe bruising to the bone in his right knee. The knee is still very swollen and he will continue to receive treatment at Melwood this week."

Agger was one of several Liverpool players to pick up knocks during a physical encounter.

Fabio Aurelio suffered a strain in his quadriceps, while Maxi Rodriguez was left with stud marks just below his chest.

Rafael Benitez Mocks Blackburn's Style

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez sarcastically compared Blackburn's style to European champions Barcelona after his team beat Rovers on Sunday.

Benitez saw his team win a physical encounter and then stoked up his feud with Rovers boss Sam Allardyce.

"I think it is a model for all the managers around the world, their style of football, his behaviour," he said of Rovers tactics and their manager.

"The style of football, I think, Barcelona are thinking of copying."

Benitez suffered his first defeat in the Premier League in a match against a Bolton side managed by Allardyce in 2004.

Former Reds defender Sami Hyppia suffered a broken nose early in that contest and the relationship between the two managers has been fractious ever since.

Allardyce accused Benitez of showing a lack of respect after a gesture during Liverpool's 4-0 win against Rovers last season.

And the Blackburn boss said in the build-up to Sunday's game that Liverpool had been reduced to a team scrapping for points as the battle to finish fourth in the Premier League hots up.

Asked about Allardyce's comments, Benitez added: "It doesn't matter - we won.

"We try to do our talking on the pitch. If they are pleased with the way they play under this manager it is their decision.

"They have a style and they are a team that plays this way under this manager.

"Some people have to talk before the press conference or after because it is more difficult for them to do a football job."

Benitez was unhappy with the physical approach of Blackburn on Sunday.

Steven Nzonzi was yellow carded after pushing Lucas in the face at Anfield and Benitez clearly thought the Blackburn player should have been sent off.

"See the replay of the incident, it was very clear," added the Reds boss.

"We have had four of five players with problems, bleeding, and Maxi with stud (marks) in his abdomen. Interesting - but we won."

Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres scored as Liverpool won for the first time in three attempts in the Premier League.

But it was a match that occasionally threatened to boil over, with Gerrard and El-Hadji Diouf exchanging angry words before half-time and the duo had to be separated as they walked off at the interval.

"It is an unfortunate reflection on our performance that we had about 25 fouls and five cards against us," added Allardyce.

"But unfortunately when we come to places like this they are very good at swaying things their way."

And Allardyce mounted a stern defence of his pre-match comments about Liverpool.

"It was only because Liverpool have a go at me and because I am entitled to respond when I get criticised by Rafa Benitez," said the Rovers boss.

"If you don't understand that over the last few years you must be deluded.

"Not this time but many other times I have been criticised personally by the manager - all I said was they got six bookings at Manchester City away so they are digging games out now rather than the flowing football they played last year."

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina sustained a shoulder injury after the break challenging for the ball but was able to carry on.

"We knew it would be a tough game and nothing surprised us," he said.

"They play that way and to be honest I felt a little under-protected, but the most important thing was that we won."

The win lifted Liverpool to within one point of Tottenham as they continue the battle for fourth spot - and saw Torres start a game for the first time since 13 January.

"We know it will be tough until the end but we have to keep going," added Benitez.

"But it is always important to have players back and feeling fresh."

Rovers have won once away from home in the Premier League this season - and Allardyce pointed to a lack of composure in front of goal when explaining his team's failure to take something from Anfield.

"Our problem is that we did not have a goalscorer to finish off our good work and chances," he said. "If we did we would have had a draw at least.

"That has been our downfall away from home all season. It was disappointing we did not convert at least one of our openings before Gerrard opened the scoring.

"In the second half we again did more than them but our failure in front of goal cost us."

Match Report: Liverpool 2 - 1 Blackburn

Striker Fernando Torres marked his first start since January 13 by scoring the winner in an ill-tempered 2-1 victory over Blackburn at Anfield.

The Spain international hit his 13th goal in 17 Premier League appearances just before half-time, having missed five weeks at the start of the year after a knee operation.

Liverpool had gone ahead midway through the half through Steven Gerrard only for Jamie Carragher's handball to allow Keith Andrews to equalise from the penalty spot five minutes before the interval.

With fellow top-four challengers Tottenham and Manchester City both winning this weekend, it was imperative Rafael Benitez's side maintain the pressure - and they ground out a win against combative opponents.

Before the match Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce, who has never had a great relationship with Benitez, had said the Spaniard's side played like his former club Bolton.

However, on this evidence - five Rovers players were booked and they could easily have had Steven Nzonzi and Pascal Chimbonda sent off - it was Rovers who lived up to Allardyce's reputation.

But it was the goalscoring return of Torres that will have put a smile on Benitez's face as Liverpool scored for the 26th successive league game at Anfield and the 33rd in all competitions.

Surprisingly, the Spain international played no part in the opening goal, which came from a swift and incisive move started by Lucas on the halfway line.

The Brazilian picked out Gerrard who, after exchanging passes with Dirk Kuyt and offloading to Yossi Benayoun, continued his run into the penalty area to collect the return ball, go past Samba and clip home a left-footed shot.

That was after Chris Samba, Martin Olsson and Morten Gamst Pedersen had all had half-chances to put Blackburn ahead.

Liverpool, though, were indebted to Jose Reina in the 17th minute as the goalkeeper made a good double save from Pedersen, particularly the first shot which deflected off Jamie Carragher.

On the half-hour Kuyt should have made it 2-0 from Gerrard's corner but appeared to be surprised by the pace of the ball and headed wide from three yards.

In the 38th minute Liverpool were forced into a change when Fabio Aurelio limped off with what looked like a thigh injury and was replaced by Emiliano Insua.

Two minutes later Rovers were gifted an equaliser when Benayoun's weak clearance was played straight back into the penalty area and, despite three Liverpool players surrounding Kalinic, Carragher catastrophically went to ground where the ball hit his hand.

Andrews fired home from the spot to put his side firmly back in the game.

However, Liverpool went ahead again a minute before the break when Samba could only poke the ball off Torres into the path of Rodriguez, who crossed into the six-yard area for the Spaniard to smash home.

Early in the second half Olsson was booked for handball in the centre-circle before Nzonzi was lucky to escape with a caution, having flattened Lucas with an aggressive push to his face.

Pascal Chimbonda's first act, having come on for Olsson, was to bring down Rodriguez as he threatened to cut into the penalty area.

Daniel Agger headed Gerrard's whipped-in free-kick over at the far post.

Chimbonda's second contribution was to carelessly give the ball away to Kuyt, which eventually resulted in Robinson having to tip Rodriguez's shot around the post.

Kalinic was next to go into referee Alan Wiley's book for hacking down Mascherano from behind and, after several close calls, former Liverpool forward El-Hadji Diouf was eventually booked for bringing down Mascherano.

Referee Wiley and one of his linesmen somehow missed Chimbonda, who had already been booked, thrusting his boot into Rodriguez's chest as the Rovers defender rolled on the floor.

Ryan Babel replaced Benayoun for the final 10 minutes but with only a slender lead the pressure began to mount on the hosts.

Torres departed to a standing ovation with his work done but in the knowledge he will have to continue to produce on a regular basis if his club is to secure Champions League football next season.

Liverpool And Chelsea Will Be Kicked Out Of The Champions League

Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City all face the extraordinary prospect of being excluded from the Champions League and Europa League in two years because of the huge financial losses they continue to suffer.

European football chiefs insist they will enforce a ban on those clubs unless they radically reduce their multi-million pound losses.

And though Manchester United will escape censure despite their £716million debt, because they are still making a profit at present, Liverpool's precarious financial state means they face a huge crisis if they wish to meet UEFA's tough new rules.

The regulations will be published this summer in a bid to prevent further clubs going into financial meltdown, as Portsmouth have done this week, and will outlaw the kind of support that owners Roman Abramovich and Sheik Mansour have provided Chelsea and City.

UEFA general secretary Gianni Infantino insists that the bodies set up to regulate the new rules will not baulk at throwing out clubs who cannot balance their books, whether they be Real Madrid or Liverpool.

Infantino said: 'It is not our objective to exclude clubs, but if there are rules, it is our objective that those rules will be respected. For this reason we have established the club financial control panel, chaired by Jean Luc Dehaene, who is the former Prime Minister of Belgium. I don't think somebody like him would be afraid of anything.

'They are independent to oversee the rules and pass any potential sanction to the disciplinary committee, which is also independent and which will decide the sanction.

'But the rules will be the same for everyone and of course they will be enforced the same for everyone.'

UEFA's drive for what they call financial fair play is the biggest shake-up of elite football since the formation of the Champions League in 1992 and represents a direct challenge to the Premier League's financial model, which has allowed excessive borrowing and rich benefactors to fund many clubs, factors which caused the demise of Portsmouth.

The renewed threat from UEFA, who will finalise their new rules this summer, will wholly undermine Manchester City's plans to spend further millions this summer.

City recorded a loss of £92.6m last year and that figure is likely to balloon still further after the extraordinarily expensive signings of Gareth Barry, Emmanuel Adebayor, Carlos Tevez, Joleon Lescott and Kolo Toure.

UEFA are likely to demand that by the time the 2012 regulations come into force, City are on course to break even, which seems highly unlikely, unless they slash their wage bill and decline to enter the transfer market.

Liverpool, too, are at huge risk given that last year they posted losses of £42m and had to pay £36.5m interest on their debts, which the Anfield club claim have now been reduced from £350m to £237m.

UEFA will give clubs two years to put their accounts in order and will allow a transitional period in the first two years of the scheme, but they insist that clubs such as City and Liverpool cannot simply continue as they do now and expect to be cleared for competition.

Infantino added: 'The rules come into force in 2012-13 and at the beginning there will be some sort of transitional period, which we are defining. But it doesn't mean that a club cannot be excluded in 2012 if the situation is extremely bad and getting worse.

'From this summer the clubs will know what the rules are going to be and if a club doesn't do anything and think that rules will only apply after 2012-13, that's a wrong calculation.'

Infantino confirmed that, at present, United would meet UEFA's criteria because last year they made a profit, even though their enormous debts cost them £68.5m in interest payments.

'United is, of course, very well managed by David Gill and as long as they can still make a profit at the end of the year, it's fine. In the long term, though, the question is whether they can still afford this debt.'

Liverpool though have been warned that their financial model will have to change, putting owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks under further pressure to secure new funding.
'They have to look at not making these £40m losses every year. And one of the ways of not making them is to reduce the debt, or to reduce the salary of the players, though that has sporting consequences.'

Chelsea have at least embarked on a campaign to wean themselves off the funding of Abramovich, having reduced their losses from a staggering £140m in 2006 to £44.4m last year and, if they can continue at a similar rate, would be likely to meet UEFA's criteria.

Infantino said: 'Chelsea is a good example as a few years ago they said that their objective was to break even and now it will be underlined by some rules. If everyone plays by the rules this inflation which raises higher salaries and transfer fees, will decrease. It will be a big change and I don't think the owners will be unhappy. On the contrary, what they are saying to us is that they would be happy of they don't spend their personal fortune on this.'

When the rules are applied, UEFA will assess a club's accounts over a three-year period so that making a loss for a single season would not be punished.

Liverpool Manager Rafael Benitez Unhappy With Spain Boss Vicente Del Bosque Over Fernando Torres Call-Up

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is furious with Spain boss Vicente del Bosque's decision to start with striker Fernando Torres in the upcoming friendly with France, according to the Sunday Mirror.

The Reds forward has only just returned from a six-week lay-off due to groin and knee problems and Benitez needs his star man in top shape as his side prepare to push for fourth spot in the Premier League.

Benitez will reportedly hold showdown talks with Del Bosque, following the latter's announcement that 'El Nino' will be making an appearance against the Frenchmen in Paris on Wednesday.

A source close to the Kop boss is quoted as saying: "Rafa is not happy that there have been no discussions with anyone from the Spanish national team about Torres’s fitness.

"He cannot stop Fernando reporting for international duty, but he will be making it clear to Del Bosque to remind him that Torres is far from 100 per cent fit after his recent injury and that he must be handled with care and consideration."

Liverpool Land QPR Midfielder Raheem Sterling

Liverpool have captured highly-rated English international Raheem Sterling from Queens Park Rangers.

With the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, and Fulham in the hunt for the youngster, Liverpool have managed to sign the player for an undisclosed fee.

The player will join up with the Liverpool Academy.

Managing Director Christian Purslow told Liverpool's official wesbite: "The success of our Academy is vital to the future progress of the club and we have made clear that we will invest in outstanding young talent.

"Raheem is a very exciting young English player whose progress was being closely monitored by many other leading clubs and I'm delighted he's joining us.

"Frank McParland and his staff have done a great job in bringing him to Liverpool."

Allardyce Accuses Liverpool Of Mistreating Diouf

Blackburn Rovers manager Sam Allardyce has further turned up the heat ahead of the Premier League clash against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday afternoon.

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has disliked Allardyce’s physical approach to the game for some time and went as far as making a DVD on Big Sam’s Bolton side to send to the referees’ association, highlighting perceived injustices. Allardyce recently accused Benitez of using the same physical tactics this season.

He has now stoked the fires further by claiming that Liverpool did not handle Blackburn striker El-Hadji Diouf properly during his time at Anfield.

Allardyce said, “Dioufy had the opportunity to be a big star at Liverpool when they spent £11-12m on him after the 2002 World Cup, but he got cast off very quickly and didn’t get the back-up service he would have expected at a club like that. He does feel let down by them.

“He was left on his own in a strange country where he couldn’t speak the language. He didn’t know where he should live or anything about the finance and banking side.

“He was a young man with plenty of money, liked going out and that’s what he did. He’s motivated enough now to know that’s not the way forward.

“I think Liverpool slipped up in that department. They should have persevered with him, but he looked a complete write-off and waste of money coming out of Anfield.

“We looked after him at Bolton. We looked after all that off-field side of it so he could just concentrate on his football and he felt much happier.

“Understanding your players is a very important part of man-management. Getting the best out of players is what I’ve been all about and Dioufy resurrected his career with me.

“He’s still playing at the top level and hopefully he can go and play really well on that big stage at Anfield and show them what they’re missing.”

Diouf struggled for goals during a three year spell at Liverpool before Allardyce signed him at Bolton. Diouf has scored 2 goals in 20 appearances so far this season.

Liverpool's Lucas Leiva Expects Race For Fourth Place To Go To Wire

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva admits that the fight to finish fourth in this season's Premier League may not be decided until the last day of the season.

Manchester City, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur are tussling with the Reds for that coveted Champions League place, but Lucas is confident that Rafael Benitez's team has the necessary backbone for the battle.

"It might even go right until the last game of the season to decide fourth place," he told the Reds' official website.

"We have difficult games against Manchester United and Chelsea, while [Manchester] City also have games against Tottenham, Arsenal, Aston Villa and [Manchester] United. It will be an interesting race and hopefully we can finish fourth.

"We kept another clean sheet against Manchester City which was a positive and I think we are stronger in defence now.

"At the beginning of the season we were conceding too many goals, especially from set pieces and we have improved a lot on this.

"We were disappointed not to win against City because we wanted the three points.

"We had the opportunity to go fourth but I think it will be the same until the end of the season with four teams battling for the Champions League place, and I hope we'll be there."

Liverpool hosted Blackburn Rovers to Anfield on Sunday afternoon and Lucas is looking for his side to claim an important three points.

"It's an important game for us because from our last two games we lost at Arsenal and drew with Manchester City, so we need the three points on Sunday," he said.

"We are in good form at home and have won our last five league games at Anfield. It will be important to keep the clean sheet first and then score goals to get the three points and stay in the race for the top-four.

"We drew 0-0 with them at Ewood Park in December but it was a game we could have won."

Spirit of Shankly Add Pressure On Liverpool Owners

Spirit of Shankly has unveiled billboards around Liverpool in an attempt to raise awareness about the ongoing backroom problems at the club and add pressure on the Reds’ American owners.

Spirit of Shankly, last month, forced Tom Hicks Junior from the Board of Liverpool FC after the American foul mouthed a Liverpool fan via email.

The fans’ group has had success in getting through to the club recently, having a meeting with managing director Christian Purslow at the start of February.

Billboards were put up today at Vauxhall Road and Prescot Road in Merseyside and more billboards around the city have been planned.

The billboards, which read “Tom and George: Debt, Lies, Cowboys – Not welcome here”, also redirect fans to the Spirit of Shankly website which has more information on the group’s campaign against the owners, which started in early 2008.

The owners have broken their promises on not loading debt on the club, giving manger Rafael Benitez funds for the transfer market and building a new stadium.

The club’s debt currently stands at £237 million, according to Purslow and the building of the new stadium has been postponed on several occasions.

Who are Spirit of Shankly?

In January 2008 over 350 Liverpool supporters crammed into The Sandon pub, Anfield, and discussed not only the custodianship of our current owners but the wider issues that affect us as supporters. Issues that have been discussed by fans for decades, issues where almost unanimous desire for change is consistently met by indifference from the club – all these were aired and on a historic and emotional night, ‘Spirit Of Shankly’, the Liverpool Supporters’ Union was born.

Since that date, and following two mass meetings at the Olympia in Liverpool, a volunteer acting committee has been established, the Union has been set up as an Industrial and Provident Society and a set of aims for the short, medium and long term have been established.

The inaugural AGM took place in February 2009 and Liverpool supporters the world over were invited to take part. A Management Committee was elected after the wonderful work done by the volunteer Committee during the first year.

Why should Liverpool supporters join the union? In a nutshell, if we stand together and speak with one voice, regardless of language or accent, we can make a genuine difference to our football club, the city of Liverpool and indeed the wider footballing world.

Match Preview: Liverpool vs Blackburn

Liverpool return to Premier League action on Sunday against Blackburn aiming to boost their bid to finish in the top four.

The Reds dropped down to sixth spot following last weekend's draw at Manchester City and they will be determined to keep pace with their rivals for a top-four finish.

Blackburn goes into the game on the back of last weekend's win over Bolton and they will be seeking their first Premier League win at Anfield since 1993.

Liverpool could hand Fernando Torres his first start since his return from knee surgery after he made a late substitute appearance against Manchester City and was then an unused substitute in the Europa League win over Unirea Urziceni.

Maxi Rodriguez is available again after being ineligible against Unirea and he could start as Rafa Benitez is expected to freshen up his side after the long trip to Romania.

Benitez could be forced into a reshuffle at the back with Martin Skrtel set to miss out with a broken toe picked up against Unirea and Sotirios Kyrgiakos serving the final game of his three-match ban.

With Glen Johnson still sidelined Jamie Carragher is likely to revert to central defence alongside Daniel Agger with youngster Martin Kelly set to step into right-back.

Meanwhile, Blackburn make the trip to Merseyside without influential captain Ryan Nelsen.

The New Zealand international suffered a knee injury in last week's defeat of Bolton and could be out for several weeks.

Christopher Samba is likely to take his place having served a suspension while Brett Emerton (Achilles) is also available again.

David Dunn is pushing for a recall having had a run-out in the reserves this week.

However, Sam Allardyce could stick with the side that performed so well against Bolton last time out.

Possible starting XIs:
Liverpool: Reina, Kelly, Carragher, Agger, Insua, Lucas, Mascherano, Kuyt, Gerrard, Maxi, Torres.

Blackburn: Robinson, Salgado, Givet, Samba, Olsson, Diouf, Andrews, Grella, Nzonzi, Pedersen, Kalinic.

Benitez Has No Defensive Concern

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez insists his side is more than well-equipped to deal with everything Blackburn will throw at them.

During a nervous half-hour in Bucharest it seemed the Reds' old defensive frailties had crept back in as Europa League opponents Unirea Urziceni threatened to score from virtually every set-piece.

It is something which will not have gone unnoticed by Rovers boss Sam Allardyce, especially after a free header from centre-back Bruno Fernandes put the Romanian champions ahead from a 19th-minute corner in Bucharest.

But Benitez has no concerns - even in the absence of broken metatarsal victim Martin Skrtel - about his defence, which has improved immeasurably in recently weeks.

"We did not do badly. We conceded a goal [against Unirea] and it was more difficult but we showed character," he said.

"They were good deliveries and the Europa League ball is very difficult for goalkeepers because it changes direction.

"But you can see the last few games we have had a lot of clean sheets, I think 13 games and nine clean sheets, so the team is very strong in defence.

"We were really good at set-pieces. We are at the same level as we were in the past but the team is stronger in everything.

"We will try to have control of the game and not give them too many chances to play corners or free-kicks.

"It will be tough because it is the Premier League but we are confident and this team is stronger.

"We are solid in defence and we just have to improve the creativity in attack and we will have the balance we are looking for."

Liverpool's Barclays Premier League record, in isolation, is even more impressive.

They have conceded just one goal (to Arsenal) in their last six games and two in their last nine.

That has brought them 18 points from a possible 27 and kept them in the hunt for Champions League qualification, despite last week's goalless draw at Manchester City allowing Tottenham to return to fourth.

Benitez has long-been convinced it will be a four-horse race which will probably go down to the wire and nothing has changed his mind.

"We have to fight for being in the top four and that will be very difficult because there are three or four teams very close," said the Spaniard.

"My message two months ago was that it will be a long race and now it has proved true.

"Anything can happen, it is the Premier League, so we take on Blackburn and then see."

Benitez defended his decision to take striker Fernando Torres, whose substitute appearance last Sunday was his first for five weeks after a knee operation, to Romania but not play him at all.

And he dispelled any suggestions the club's record signing was only currently fit enough for a place on the bench.

"I think it was the right decision. It was a bad pitch and the injury to Skrtel changed the plans we had," said the Liverpool boss.

"We will see how he trains and after we will see [whether he can start]."

Blackburn will have had the benefit of a full week without competitive action by the time they arrive at Anfield on Sunday.

That is in contrast to their opponents, who did not get back from eastern Europe until the early hours of yesterday morning, having played 90 minutes on a wet, energy-sapping pitch.

But Benitez said they were issues the players had to adapt to, stressing it was not that different to when they were playing in the Champions League.

"It is always more difficult when you play two matches in a week and especially when you do not have too much time," he said.

"But we have some experience of this and hopefully we can do well. Everyone understands it is a massive game and the players need to do well."

Allardyce: Reds Have Gone Physical

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce thinks Liverpool have adopted the same physical style which Reds boss Rafael Benitez used to criticise his old club Bolton for.

Allardyce claims the Spaniard sent a DVD of what he saw as Bolton's rough play to referees' chief Keith Hackett, but now sees elements of that same physical approach in Liverpool's play as they bid to salvage their season and qualify for next season's Champions League.

Allardyce, whose Rovers side face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, told the Daily Mirror: "(Benitez) has used all that stuff that he says he doesn't like. It's ironic isn't it?

"They have had to go back to basics and the pretty stuff goes out the window until you start winning matches.

"I watched them play at Manchester City and they got six players booked, so it shows he's brought the physical side out in them.

"If it's a good physical challenge on Sunday, then I'd be more than happy to go down that route, although I don't really have the players here to do that like I did at Bolton."

Allardyce said Benitez was so riled by Bolton's tactics that he compiled a DVD and sent it to referees' chief Hackett.

"He's had a bee in his bonnet for a while. He's entitled to have his opinion as everyone is and it's nice to have someone complaining about you when you are beating them.

"Because he didn't like it, he found an excuse about how we played. Wenger did it, Mourinho did it, they all do it when they get their backside kicked."

Benitez was criticised by Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson last season for what he saw as a mark of "disrespect" towards Allardyce, when he appeared to gesture that the game between Blackburn and Liverpool at Anfield was over as a contest when Fernando Torres scored their second goal in a 4-0 win.

Allardyce added: "I didn't get an explanation for that. He's his own man and he does things his own way. I didn't particularly like it."

John Aldridge: Liverpool Can’t Afford More Slip-Ups

Blackburn is the first of what you would assume are three very winnable league games for Liverpool.

With Wigan and then Portmsouth ahead of the trip to Old Trafford, we’ve got a great chance to pick up points in the league and put pressure on fourth place.

We can’t lose our concentration or focus in any of these games.

We can’t afford many more slip ups.

With Torres back, we’ll be more creative going forward, but if we can also capitalise on set-plays, we’ll give ourselves an even better chance of winning these games.

Sam Allardyce plays percentage football. He’ll know our strengths and weaknesses and will come to Anfield looking to counteract anything we throw at them.

I imagine they’ll put men behind the ball similar to what Unirea did at Anfield recently.

They’ll probably come looking for a point but if we can nick the first goal it will be a different game.

Five Given Lease Of Life By Liverpool In Europe

Liverpool dropping out of the Champions League into the Europa League might not have been good news but for those at Channel Five it has been manna from heaven.

Normally you do not get too many tuning in to listen to the erudite and enlightening views of Stan Collymore and the equally articulate Colin Murray but the Reds’ first meeting with Unirea Urziceni attracted an audience of 3.1 million.

Clearly, the longer Liverpool stay in the competition, the better it will be for Five and with that in mind, it is no surprise they have launched an amusing advertising campaign to sit side-by-side the games that are scheduled to be played.

It features the thoughts of Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard and Rafa Benitez during a training session before a big game – or does it? Without giving too much away, ace impersonator and Reds fan Darren Farley has a part to play.

Keep your eyes peeled for the advert in the next couple of weeks, before the Reds face Lille in the last 16 – you will know it is light-hearted when you hear how many ‘keepy-ups’ Carragher believes he can do.

John Aldridge: Liverpool Responded To Unirea Goal Fright

After Manchester City last weekend, it was important we produced a decent performance in Romania.

Our often conservative play tends to change as soon as we concede, as was the case when Unirea Urziceni took the lead on Thursday night.

When we have to come out and play, we look much more dangerous. Istanbul was a prime example.

Sometimes you’re almost willing a team to score against us to spark us into life.

That’s what happened in Bucharest where Urziceni gave us a wake-up call.

Thankfully we had creativity with the likes of Yossi Benayoun, Steve Gerrard and even Ryan Babel to a certain degree, who did well for his goal.

I still expect him to leave in the summer and believe the only reason he’s still here is probably because the banks would have swallowed any transfer fee and it’s better for Rafa to utilise an extra body in the squad.

Either way, this was one of Babel’s better games for Liverpool. His goal was superb. He displayed a bit more energy than usual, plus he did well in the first leg, creating the goal when he came on.

If Benayoun doesn’t play we struggle on the left. Babel blows hot and cold but, on Thursday’s showing, could be worth using until the end of the season.

I can’t work out why David Ngog is still playing as a lone striker though.

I’ve mentioned it before in recent weeks but he simply can’t play up there on his own.

He can’t hold the ball up well enough and perservering with him will only knock his confidence in the long run.

Having Fernando Torres back is a massive plus.

Rafa didn’t play him in Bucharest and rightly so. He’s wrapping Torres in cotton wool but I’d expect him to figure against Blackburn tomorrow.

It’s another week down the line in terms of match fitness but I wouldn’t expect too much from him yet.

100 Up For Daniel Agger

Another European night, another reason for Liverpool's statisticians to scribble another entry into their books.

While, inevitably, the focus was on Steven Gerrard after he took his tally of European goals to 33, surpassing Alan Shearer as Britain's all-time leading scorer in continental competition, there was another significant foot note.

Four years and one month after joining Liverpool from Brondby, Daniel Agger made his 100th appearance for the club; only when you fully consider the date he actually arrived on Merseyside can you begin to put that achievement into context.

By rights, Agger should be closer to a double ton than just getting the single to notch his maiden century but, as the figure would suggest, things have not always gone according to plan for the Denmark international.

Injuries, of course, have been a source of enormous frustration, both for him and Rafa Benitez, a series of problems that have led him to spend months rather than weeks on the sidelines; in the worst case scenario, they have written off seasons.

So frustrating. On more than one occasion, the effortless way Agger can cover the ground moving forward or spirit the ball off an opposing forward's foot have led him to be likened to Alan Hansen.

Agger is one of those players to whom everything about the game comes easy, a terrific, natural talent whom it is a privilege to watch in close quarters, as he has skills that many attacking players don't possess.

Before Liverpool played Debrecen in Budapest last November, Benitez was overseeing a training session the night before at the Ferenc Puskas Stadium, looking for those who would press their claims for a starting place.

The longer the session progressed, the more the individual who was wrapped up in a rain jacket and a woolly hat to combat the elements stood out; all feints, quick passes and subtle movement, at first glance it was easy to assume it was Alberto Aquilani.

Not so. Agger was the man stealing the show, proving why so many clubs wanted to sign him when it became clear that Brondby, where he started his career under the guidance of the Danish legend, Michael Laudrup.

"Daniel is a very good player and if he can put his injury problems behind him and play at a high level in the next few years, then maybe you will be talking about him in the same breath," Laudrup said recently, when asked to compare Agger with Hansen.

"To play 100 times for a top club like Liverpool is something to be proud of. But he will be frustrated that the injuries have restricted his appearances. It's important that he now goes on to enjoy a spell free from injury.

"He's only 25 and there is still much more to come from him. Ask any player in the world, even the greats - you can't hit top form if you have niggling injuries. If he can stay fit then I think he can definitely be one of the best central defenders in the game."

The question now, however, is when does his potential become consistently fulfilled? With Sami Hyppia long gone and Martin Skrtel facing a lay-off after cracking a metatarsal, Liverpool need another centre-back to ease the pressure on Jamie Carragher.

There is absolutely no doubt that Agger has the talent for the job; it is difficult to think of a centre-forward that has ever given him the run around, while there are not many defenders who can strike a ball as sweetly as he.

Quite simply, he has the lot; athleticism, skill, strength and speed but, until he puts together a lengthy sequence of games without breaking down, his talents, quite possibly, will not get the recognition they deserve.

Agger knows this better than most.

He has spent hours at Melwood trying to combat the ailments that keep holding him back and, granted some good fortune, Agger will be able to get through to the end of the season with trouble.

Few would begrudge him a change in fortune and if that happens, it is a certainty that he will reach 200 Liverpool appearances in far less time than it took to get to that milestone that was clocked up on a squally night in Bucharest.

Youngsters Held By West Brom

Liverpool under-18s were left hugely frustrated after being held to a goalless draw with West Brom at the Academy on Saturday afternoon.

Rodolfo Borrell's side followed up their impressive display at Manchester City last week with another good showing but could not find that elusive winning goal as the Baggies escaped with a somewhat fortuitous point.

Despite the disappointment of their recent FA Youth Cup exit, the Reds began the match in confident mood and were almost gifted an opener inside 60 seconds but Lauri Dalla Valle was thwarted by a last-ditch challenge from Ashley Malcolm after the Finn had seemed set to capitalise on Luke Connolly's poor touch.

West Brom responded and carved out a superb chance of their own just two minutes later when Kayleden Brown's improvised volley flew over the top following a clever run and cross from Lateef Elford-Alliyu's on the left.

Back came Liverpool and Kristzian Adorjan saw a left footer from the edge of the box well blocked before Dalla Valle somehow contrived to stab wide after a flick-on from Chris Oldfield's long kick had sent him clear.

The away side certainly had an air of vulnerability about them at the back but continued to play good, intricate football in the final third, with Akil Grier and then Mantom almost finishing off slick passages of play with shots from distance.

As an entertaining first-half came to a close the hosts stepped it up a gear and pressed for the goal their approach play deserved. A rampaging run from Michael Ngoo saw him leave three Baggies players in his wake, but when he slipped the ball across the six yard box it was just behind the waiting Tom Ince.

The young winger was visibly frustrated not to have been able to convert but given the open nature of the game, the Reds would have been convinced more opportunities would present themselves in the second 45.

They didn't have long to wait either, with Ngoo once again getting to the byline on 47 minutes, only to see his cut back to Dalla Valle cannon back off his strike partner's foot and away to safety.

Liverpool continued to look the more likely and the lively Ngoo added to his series of nearly moments on 58 minutes when his stabbed shot from inside the six yard box was blocked by the legs of Ryan Allsop in the West Brom goal.

Ngoo and Dalla Valle were proving to be a real handful for the visiting defence and they almost combined to tee up Ince for the opener on the hour mark, but the winger saw his shot brilliantly saved by Allsop.

The away side had been almost extinct as an attacking force following the restart, but could have stolen ahead on 65 minutes when Elford Alliyu forced a smart save out of Oldfield following a clever turn inside the Reds' penalty area.

It seemed to inspire a late rally and substitute Saido Berahino was a lick of paint away from securing an unlikely victory with a rasping 25 yarder before Elford Alliyu stung Oldfield's fingertips with a thumping volley from distance.

As the clock ticked down it was West Brom who should have won it, but Berahino smashed wide of a gaping net in the last minute to ensure both sides would share the spoils.

Purslow Dragging Liverpool Into The Modern Age

Real Madrid are the biggest club in the world. According to them. They can base this on their glorious history, their relatively glorious recent one, and pretend all the stuff in the middle doesn’t really matter.

Manchester United are also the biggest club in the world. According to them. They can base this on their slightly less glorious history, their slightly more glorious recent one, and pretend all the stuff in the middle doesn’t really matter.

AC Milan are similarly the biggest club in the world, according to Silvio Belursconi, and so on and so forth and you already get my drift on this.

What all 3 clubs – and Barcelona and a couple more to boot – have in common, is that they’ve all made lots of money off being the biggest, or one of the biggest clubs in the world of football. They’ve marketed themselves brilliantly to fans, players, investors, sponsors and any old whoshemebob who knows a thing or two about football. And good for them.

Most of all that “stuff in the middle” of Manchester United and Real Madrid’s success however, was Liverpool’s success. United like domination of the League and a greater return in the European Cup during the 70s and 80s means that Liverpool have just as much claim to the glorious history title and – even despite relatively less successful recent seasons – should still have almost as much potential appeal to the whoshemebobs as the aforementioned trio. And yet they don’t, or they certainly didn’t until recently.

Liverpool’s failure to win the league during the Premiership era is a stumbling block their marketing people can’t neglect. However as worldwide brands go, they’ve still been a hugely undervalued one. Manchester United may be sitting pretty with them “on the perch” now, but when the Premier League first took off, they were no where near. Yet on the back of their first success in ‘93, they ran with it, like a demon (or perhaps a devil) possessed, maximizing every link, every romantic connection, every possible sponsorship or Stadium expansion and every opportunity until they dwarfed Liverpool in global appeal and profit. And yet even now, as Liverpool start to take advantage themselves with Christian Purslow, their managing director, clearly aware of the mine of worldwide support and potential to tap, they still sit fairly equally in standing as football clubs historically despite United’s greater value.

Liverpool’s failure to take advantage of this potential is better assessed when compared to clubs not their equal in success. Arsenal and Chelsea for example (though Arsenal clearly the more historically grand of them) have similarly capitalized on the Premier League’s appeal by increasing their worldwide profile, support and profit dramatically since their recent era success. Great players want to play for them, sometimes regardless of where they stand in the table. Winning the Premier League certainly helped, yet still neither can boast a single European Cup triumph whilst Liverpool can boast not just a recent one, but 5 in total.

Barcelona, before 2006, had only 1 paltry success in the competition, and even that coming in the 90s. Until their league success that year they couldn’t even match Liverpool’s domestic achievement of 18 titles, even in a league historically far less competitive (only 9 teams have ever won La Liga, and only 5 more than twice). And yet they remained the more glamorous club. Famous players wanted to go to Barcelona, and still do, as they do Madrid, United, Milan and Chelsea. If Madrid are the kings of aggrandizing their history then Liverpool are the paupers. They might roll out the 18-5 banners when United come to Anfield, but they don’t parade all their replica trophies on special velvet plinths when presenting new signings.

But their signings are rarely that big enough to require it anyway. Whilst Madrid can get stuffed by Liverpool themselves in the Champions League, embarrassed by Barca in their own stadium and become a Schadenfreude pleasure to rival fans the world over, they can still tempt the World Player of the Year away from a club that’s the reigning World Champions and have just reached 2 Champions League finals on the trot. Their profile supercedes their success at any given time. They can tempt the Zidanes the Kakas and Ronaldos whilst Livepool can only tempt Torres, the one and only truly global foreign star that has ever signed for Liverpool at his peak.

Purslow know this. As a Liverpool fan himself and a veteran of over 500 matches (apparently) he knows better than most how undervalued the brand is. In his first interview after replacing Rick Parry as the clubs managing director he stressed the need to expand the brand. Whilst United have megastores and cafes around the world Liverpool have virtually no club sanctioned businesses outside of the city itself. However the 3 way power struggle currently embroiling Anfield ends up, the need for Liverpool to start making some serious bucks off their name alone remains. But whilst the support base and potential is there, success off the field needs to be supplemented in at least a small way on it. If Liverpool really are going to be dragged kicking and screaming into the 21st century (or even the tail end of the 20th) they need a platform to jump off. In short, like with everything else at the club, it’d really help things if they eventually won the league.

Lee Praise For Tireless Torres

Sammy Lee paid tribute to the tireless determination of Fernando Torres to regain fitness and insisted the Spain star's return has given everyone connected with the club a timely boost.

After spending five weeks on the sidelines due to a knee injury, Torres made his first-team comeback as a late substitute in the goalless draw with Manchester City on Sunday.

Though it's likely El Nino will have to settle for a place on the bench against Unirea Urziceni this evening, Lee believes the 25-year-old deserves recognition for the hard work he's put in at Melwood in recent weeks.

"It was nice to see him on the bench against Man City," the Reds assistant manager told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"It gave us a lift, gave all of the supporters a lift and I know for a fact it certainly took Man City by surprise.

"His recovery has been excellent and it's down to him and the medical staff. He's been working very hard.

"He's worked tirelessly coming in very early in the morning and staying very, very long hours. He has had good people working with him.

Gerrard Revels In Surpassing Newcastle United Legend's European Record

Liverpool FC talisman Steven Gerrard admitted he was extremely proud to surpass Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers legend Alan Shearer’s European scoring record during Liverpool FC’s 3-1 win in Unirea on Thursday night.

The Liverpool FC star scored the 33rd European goal of his career in the second half against Unirea Urziceni in Budapest last night, to better Newcastle United hero Alan Shearer’s tally and in doing become England’s all-time leading scorer in European competitions.

Gerrard suggested the feat, which helped Rafa Benitez’s Liverpool FC side to a 4-1 aggregate win in the Europa League, was all the more special because of the respect he retains for the once prolific Newcastle United striker, Alan Shearer.

The Liverpool FC captain told the club’s official television channel: “I wasn't aware before the game about a record and it's always nice to break them, especially someone like Shearer's, who I have a lot of respect for, so I'm really pleased.”

“It's always nice to break records but the main thing is to get into the next round - and the most pleasing thing is to do that.”

Liverpool Confirm Martin Skrtel Has Broken Metatarsal

Liverpool FC manager Rafa Benitez has suffered another injury blow after it was confirmed defender Martin Skrtel has broken his foot.

The Slovakian centre-back was injured in last night’s 3-1 victory over Romanians Unirea Urziceni, which helped Liverpool FC reach the last 16 of the Europa League.

Benitez feared the worst last night and x-rays at the club’s Melwood training ground on Friday have confirmed he has fractured a metatarsal in his right foot.

"We were really disappointed after the game because it was a good result but then we had the bad news about Martin," said the Liverpool FC manager.

"He’s had x-rays today and they confirmed he has a broken metatarsal.

"We have to check over the next couple of days how long it will take to recover."

Skrtel's absence, however long or short it turns out to be, comes just as Benitez thought he finally had a full-strength squad with which to tackle their remaining 11 matches as they bid to secure Champions League football next season.

Striker Fernando Torres and midfielder Yossi Benayoun, both so important to Liverpool FC’s attacking options, have both returned in the last week after more than a month on the sidelines with injury.

Even £17million summer signing Glen Johnson is nearing a comeback, having not played since late December because of a knee injury.

"He’s doing well. He was training today with the team - a light training session," said Benitez.

"I was watching him and he was quite sharp but Sunday will be too soon."

Jamie Carragher has been filling the England international’s spot on the right of defence in the interim but with Skrtel now ruled out of Sunday’s Barclays Premier League clash at home to Blackburn and Sotirios Kyrgiakos suspended, Liverpool’s vice-captain is likely to switch back to the centre.

That leaves an opening which could be filled by Philipp Degen, Martin Kelly or Stephen Darby.

Gerrard Demands 'Bottle' From Reds

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has called on the side to show "a bit of bottle" when it comes to attacking.

Despite improving what was a poor defensive record by their standards over recent weeks, critics still complain the Reds do not have enough going forward to really hurt sides.

The 3-1 victory over Europa League last 32 opponents Unirea Urziceni in Bucharest on Thursday night was the first time since the 6-1 win over Hull on September 26 they had scored more than twice in a match.

Gerrard hopes the players can draw some inspiration from that in their bid to secure Champions League football next season, starting against Blackburn at Anfield on Sunday.

"It was slightly worrying that we were not creating enough," said the England international.

"To win football matches you have got to create a lot of chances and we did that.

"That's what made Thursday night so pleasing. Now we've got to get the balance right between now and the end of the season.

"We haven't been good enough going forward and we haven't been creating enough, so it was nice to get three goals.

"It does play on your mind. The most important thing is to defend well and keep clean sheets but it is also important that you do well going forward.

"I think we have shown over the last few games that we are back to defending well and are more solid and are working harder and results have improved.

"We've still got to be good defensively but have a bit of bottle and be a bit risky in the final third as well. You have got to keep making chances."

Gerrard scored the third goal against the Romanian champions at the Steaua Stadium to set a new record.

He has now struck 33 times in European competition, taking him past Alan Shearer as the leading British scorer.

"From a personal point of view, it's always great to break records," added Gerrard, who scored his first goal since January 2.

"Some of my goals have come against easy opposition, so I don't think it's fair to put me above the likes of Alan Shearer.

"To be mentioned in the same breath as that great man is always a pleasure.

"But what is more pleasing is to progress into the next round (to face Lille)."

Despite struggling at times against Unirea the Reds captain believes Liverpool have what it takes to reach the Europa League final in Hamburg in May.

"Every competition is very important to this football club, especially when you've gone out of other tournaments," he said.

"This is our last hope of silverware, and it would be terrific if we could go all the way to the final for the fans that have supported us this season.

"There is a long way to go but we want to go all the way to Hamburg but we need to keep improving and working hard."

Ryan Babel Shines As Reds Find Their Shooting Boots

For eleven first-half minutes, Rafael Benitez must have feared the worst. Thankfully the Spaniard's attack-minded approach paid off and Liverpool move on to the Europa League's last 16 with relative comfort, after a 3-1 win over Unirea Urziceni in rain-soaked Bucharest.

It had looked worrying for Benitez and his side when Ricardo Gomes was allowed to rise unchallenged to meet an 18th-minute corner and draw Unirea level in the tie, but Liverpool's response was as clinical as it has been all season. Javier Mascherano, Ryan Babel and Steven Gerrard struck the decisive blows as the Reds set up a clash with Lille in the last 16.

Benitez sprung a few surprises in his starting XI. Both Babel and David Ngog were deployed from the outset, with Dirk Kuyt joining Fernando Torres and Alberto Aquilani on a strong-looking bench. But Liverpool looked as cohesive an attacking threat as they have for some time, even minus their two top scorers and their £17 million midfielder. That Benitez was not forced to throw his big guns into the fray is testament to those who started the game.

Babel in particular seemed to revel in the Bucharest rain. The Dutchman has been lurking dangerously close to the Anfield exit door since a promising debut campaign in 2007/08, but has enjoyed an upsurge in form over the past few weeks, and here he got his reward.

He was involved in the equaliser, his presence at the front post forcing a rushed clearance from Marius Onofras which Mascherano smashed into the net from 25 yards, and put his side ahead before half-time with the type of clinical finish which adds weight to the belief that the former Ajax man deserves a prolonged run in the starting line-up.

Gerrard's right-wing free kick was not an especially good one, yet when it flashed off the head of Sorin Paraschiv, it was Babel who reacted instantly to control and finish on the half-volley, all in one movement. It was a superbly taken goal, and effectively killed the tie as a contest, just 20 minutes after it looked like Unirea were ready to cause an upset.

For many, the main criticism of Babel is a perceived lack of effort. Certainly the Dutchman can give the impression he is drifting through games with minimum fuss, promising plenty but delivering little. Tonight though, he was very much in the mood. On a pitch more suited to rugby, the 23-year-old was a constant menace with his direct running power. Having created the only goal at Anfield last week, here he was the Reds' star performer.

Fittingly it was Gerrard, on his 515th appearance for the club - equalling Kenny Dalglish - who finished matters. His 33rd European goal - a record for an English club side - was hardly his most important, or spectacular, but it capped a vastly-improved display from the Liverpool captain, as he inspired a more attacking approach from his side.

There will be a few points of note for Benitez, a renowned perfectionist. The marking for Gomes' opener was, in a word, shambolic, with the 6ft 2in defender given the freedom of Bucharest to head past Pepe Reina. Liverpool's improvements in defending set-pieces have been plain for all to see, but of the six goals conceded by the club since Christmas, five have come from crosses into the penalty area that have not been defended well enough.

Thursday night was the first time Benitez's side had scored three times in a game since a 6-1 rout of Hull City in September, and the first time they had scored more than a single goal in Europe all season. The standard of opposition will be highlighted, but Unirea were unbeaten at home in a Champions League group containing Sevilla, Rangers and Stuttgart earlier this season.

Nothing ever seems to be perfect with Liverpool this season - there is always room for improvement - but having witnessed the colourless first leg of this tie, Benitez must be pleased that his side is making progress as they approach a tense finale to the season.

Rafa Praises Character After Euro Win

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez hailed the character shown by his side in their 3-1 victory over Unirea Urziceni in Romania, which sealed a 4-1 aggregate win and a place in the last 16 of the Europa League.

Shaky defending from set-pieces in the first half saw them fall behind to Bruno Fernandes' header in the 19th minute, and for a while they looked rattled.

However, goals from Javier Mascherano from long range, and Ryan Babel from close in, turned things around before the interval and Steven Gerrard's 33rd European goal after the break ensured any potential Liverpool embarrassment was avoided.

"We showed character. It was a difficult game because of the pitch. We needed to be calm and do the job properly," Benitez said.

"To play better we needed to score our goal as they were dangerous at set-pieces.

"I think once we scored a goal everything was easier and the second and third goals made things better.

"Still we had some problems but the main thing was to score; we did it and we had more control of the game."

Meanwhile, Gerrard's goal took him past Alan Shearer (with 30 goals for Newcastle and two for Blackburn) as Britain's leading scorer in Europe.

Benitez felt it was an honour well deserved.

"It is really positive for him and the club - it also means we are playing a lot of games in Europe so hopefully we can play a lot more and he can score more goals," said the Spaniard.

"It is very good news for the club. This is a historic club with a lot of records so to have a new record is massive for him and very important to the club.

Unirea coach Roni Levy admitted even when his side opened the scoring he did not consider there could be a potential upset.

"I knew it was an early goal and we had a long time until the end of the game," he said.

"The equaliser came very early so I did not have much time to think about what our goal meant.

"What was important was that we were organised and looked like a serious team - irrespective of the result.

"From my opinion we deserved a better result."

David Prentice: Liverpool Have Made The Liver Bird Their Own

Mersey football fans are used to rows about football. But when it’s a row over a bird, well things can get messy. In case you missed it, a passionate, enthusiastic and well meaning Evertonian is urging his club to start using the city’s Liver Bird symbol on club merchandise and memorabilia again.

And before Red fans cry fowl (sorry!), he points to a clutch of pre-War medals awarded to Everton footballers which all clearly carry a Liver Bird at its heart. There’s no doubt that the Liver Bird belongs to the City, not the football club of Liverpool. It’s a civic rather than a footballing crest.

But you ask any number of individuals chosen at random worldwide what that strange looking creature with the seaweed in its beak conjures up, and I’ll wager you’ll get Liverpool Football Club in reply. The reasons are clear. Liverpool’s achievements throughout three decades of remarkable football dominance seared that image into a worldwide public consciousness.

It might not belong to the Reds, but they have made it their own. Any Everton attempt to reclaim it will surely be doomed to failure. Besides, I rather like Prince Rupert’s Tower with the laurel wreaths.

That club crest has a history all of its own. Created by Theo Kelly in 1938 to be included on a club neck-tie, he explained: “I was puzzling over it for four months, then I thought of a reproduction of the ‘Beacon’ which stands in the heart of Everton” – a Beacon which has stood on Everton Brow since 1787.

The Liver Bird has undoubtedly brought good luck to Liverpool – Wikipedia claims the club first started using it in 1901, the year of their first title success. But Everton’s new crest – accompanied by the motto Nil Satis, Nisi Optimum, was worn by Kelly and chairman Mr. E. Green on the first day of the 1938/39 season. Everton won 2-0 at Blackpool with goals by Lawton and Stevenson.

That was on the 27th August, 1938 – and four days later the ties and the crest made their first appearance at Goodison. Everton triumphed again … 3-0 over Grimsby Town. Indeed, the ties and the crest were proclaimed lucky, as Everton raced to six consecutive wins in their opening games … and in May, the League title!

Both club crests have their own heritage and history. Perhaps it’s best to let sleeping dogs, and birds, lie.