Rafael Benítez Demands Answers Amid Uncertainty Over Liverpool's Future

Liverpool's manager, Rafael Benítez, has called on officials at the club to "answer a lot of questions" about the future direction things will take.

The Spaniard has a meeting scheduled this week with the chairman, Martin Broughton, in which he expects to be given detailed information about what plans are being put in place for next season and beyond.

Broughton, also the chairman of British Airways, has been brought in by the co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett to oversee the sale of Liverpool but it has taken him nearly three weeks to schedule a meeting with Benítez.

That has not pleased the manager, who would like to stay at Anfield despite strong interest from Juventus.

Benítez, 14 months into a five-year contract, wants an enhanced transfer budget in order to bring in the five players he feels they need to get back into Champions League contention, never mind a title challenge.

"We have plenty of time in this season, I still have four years of my contract left and I still I have to talk to the new chairman," said the Spaniard. "It [the meeting] is to talk about the future. Everyone is asking about my future but the future of the club is more important.

"Still I do not know what is going on in the club. I don't know if we will have any investors so there are a lot of questions – not just, for me, one question. For me the club has to answer a lot of questions. It is very clear: we have to wait and see what is going on. The future is maybe tomorrow or maybe one week; at this moment it is something we don't know."

Benítez refused to clarify his future plans after Sunday's 2-0 home defeat to Chelsea, which ended their hopes of Champions League football for next season. But he expressed his frustration at the campaign which appears to be going on around him concerning his future. He is unhappy about the way Juventus have publicly targeted him but also hinted there were may be factors at work within Liverpool to try to force his hand.

"If I have a conversation with him [Broughton] we will try to keep it private," said Benítez in his now-familiar cryptic style. "At this point we have to concentrate on next Sunday's game at Hull. There are too many rumours in the press and I know some people are just trying to create a mess.

"To be fair we were trying our best last week, signing [Charlton's two-footed midfielder] Jonjo Shelvey because still we have the same mentality – to improve the club and do the best for the club. I try to do my best every day."

Liverpool FC Get A History Lesson From Chelsea Fans

Away supporters never miss a chance to mock fans in the grounds they visit and the Chelsea followers who crammed into the Anfield Road end yesterday were no exception.

But while most of their singing was typically banal, turgid and witless, one chant which started just before the end of possibly the most soul destroying 90 minutes of the season summed up the direction in which Liverpool are headed.

“You’re ancient history,” they crowed, over and over again. In many ways, they are right. While folk dressed in Blue celebrated the victory that effectively clinched their third Premier League title, all those in Red had nothing to console them.

The days when Liverpool ruled the roost, collected trophies at will and dwarfed their rivals are long gone, nothing but a distant memory; today they stand as far away from being crowned champions of England as they have ever been since 1990.

Liverpool, you see, is a club on its knees. Torn apart by internal civil war – step forward, for starters, Mr Hicks and Mr Gillett – crippled by debt and possessing too many players who are not good enough to help drag it off the canvas, they are headed in one direction.

Such words do not come easy to compose but, then again, watching Liverpool has been anything but a walk in the park during the past nine months and, astonishingly, a new nadir was reached here against Chelsea.

All talk, of course, before Carlo Ancelotti brought his team to Merseyside centred around the number ‘19’, a reference to the fact that Manchester United are within an ace of overtaking Liverpool as the most successful club in the country.

Fittingly, all talk after Ancelotti and Co had departed also centred around the number ‘19’ but that was only because Chelsea had won to inflict Liverpool’s nineteenth defeat of the campaign without coming out of a hack canter.

Truly, truly demoralising. While Rafa Benitez’s men made a bright start to this contest, the highlight being Albert Aquilani skimming the bar with a 25-yard drive, by the final whistle they had been contemptuously swept aside.

Unable to conjure a shot on target or a tackle in anger, the only defiance showed was when Jamie Carragher’s son, James, waved an arm at the away section on the players’ lap of gratitude – some would call it a lap of dishonour – as if to say ‘We are Liverpool!’

That was, perhaps, the only heart warming sight of a miserable afternoon, one that exposed Liverpool’s myriad problems in gory detail; no wonder many were wondering how or from where a Red revival will come.

On the evidence that was presented yesterday, it might be more pertinent to ask ‘if’ recovery is possible; with little money for signings, the manager’s future under a cloud and players perhaps contemplating moves away, the situation is exceptionally fraught.

Mind you, it says everything about the farcical state of the club at present that the current Liverpool chairman could not attend a Liverpool game because of his lifelong allegiances to Chelsea.

Martin Broughton, it must be stressed, is blameless for all the current ills but on a day when a show of unity was needed, his failure to attend – and his quotes ahead of the match – did not send out the right message, in any shape or form.

Yes, some players had done their best to make the right noises in the build up – most notably Pepe Reina, Daniel Agger and Steven Gerrard – promising there would be no surrender but their words ultimately fell on deaf ears.

Haunted by everything that has happened since last August, Anfield – the visiting section apart – was like a morgue during the opening half hour, with many numb from so many chastening experiences. Others, evidently, were completely.

How has it come to this? Games with Chelsea in recent years have guaranteed a fabulous atmosphere, the mutual apathy between the clubs ensuring there was always a buzz inside this famous old ground at the prospect of a bitter scrap for three points.

It made the tone here all the more unpalatable. No matter how bad things are, never should a logical Red turn up to a game and want their team to lose; the ‘spirit of Shankly’ has been much spoken lately, so we ask – is wanting to lose a Shankly ideology?

You all know the answer to that. Yet the fact that subject has even been debated is another, painful indictment on this lamentable campaign; wanting to lose to the side that has been barracked for years about having no history? Come on.

True, a title triumph for Chelsea is absolutely the lesser of two evils but you get the point; emotions yesterday were borne of frustration, the fact that Liverpool were again forced to watch others fight for the ultimate prize too much to handle.

We can only speculate quite what would have happened if Liverpool’s bright start had yielded a goal – Chelsea hardly showed themselves to be a side of the highest calibre – but once Gerrard’s stray back-pass was seized upon by Didier Drogba, the game was up.

Frank Lampard put the gloss on the victory for Chelsea early in the second half and from that point the action resembled a training match, with both sides desperate to hear the final whistle for wildly differing reasons.

Chelsea’s players, predictably, revelled in their success, Liverpool’s players skulked off, disappearing down the tunnel before emerging shortly after with their families, to walk around the pitch, some appearing almost embarrassed by the ordeal.

Were some waving apologies? Were others waving goodbye? You get the impression that when the time comes to do something similar in 12 months, the squad will have a different look to it.

Will Benitez be at the helm? Again, that is to be decided. Clearly some fans will be happy for him to go to Juventus or wherever, fearing that his project has gone stale, others – the majority – still believe he is the man to take Liverpool forward.

Whatever happens, there is an enormous job to be done over the summer, the most important being to sort the financial mess out; this is something Broughton and Christian Purslow dare not get wrong

If they do, crowing fans in the corner of Anfield will become commonplace – and the notion of Liverpool being a successful club will be ancient history.

Alan Hansen: Liverpool Are Facing An Uncertain Future And Need An Overhaul

A title race may never be over until it is mathematically decided, but Chelsea can certainly head into the final game of the season knowing they have done all of the hard work.

Carlo Ancelotti's side have faced the toughest test of their run-in and emerged as convincing winners.

The question, in reality, was never likely to be whether Liverpool had the right attitude to beat Chelsea, but whether they had the right attributes.

In the end, they offered as bad a performance as they have produced this season.

That should not detract from the fact that Chelsea played extremely well at Anfield, inspired by the two players who have added to their squad most this season, Florent Malouda and Salomon Kalou. Both excelled on Sunday. Malouda has had an excellent season and Kalou has had a great four or five weeks as the campaign reaches its climax.

There was a stage when neither looked like they would be a Premier League player, when you assumed both would be shipped out, judged to be of insufficient quality. Malouda, though, has blossomed this year, and Kalou's recent contribution towards Chelsea's title push has been hugely important.

Manchester United had a similar situation at the start of their run of three league championships in as many years with Patrice Evra and Nemanja Vidic.

They struggled to impose themselves on the side when they arrived, but with time they have developed into great players. Both were awesome at Sunderland, as Sir Alex Ferguson's team secured the win which takes the title race to the final weekend.

Whatever happens next week, the differences between Chelsea and Manchester United are not vast by any means. While it has been a terrific campaign in terms of the interest and intrigue across the league, it has not been a great one for quality, as has been proved in the performance of the English teams in the Champions League.

United, Chelsea and Arsenal have all been a lot easier to beat this season than in previous years, as their defeat tallies show. It is among Europe's elite that such a weakness is truly exposed, though. If you are easy to beat in the Champions League, then you will get beaten.

That is why, regardless of whether Chelsea maintain their lead on Sunday to win the title or United manage to overhaul them, both need a considerable revamp in the summer.

Chelsea will no doubt look to strengthen their midfield, but it is their squad that has been weakened most noticeably over the years.

Under Jose Mourinho, it was always said that Chelsea's second string would finish in the top six in the Premier League, but that is simply not the case any more. They require four or five players to return them to that sort of level. Winning titles and, particularly, winning the Champions League is not about 11 players, it is about 20, and there is no question both sides need new personnel if they are to continue to be successful.

At least Ancelotti and Ferguson will only have to look to buy a handful of players this summer. Liverpool, on the other hand, may need to go into double figures before they have a squad worthy of returning them to where everyone at the club feels they deserve to be.

The worry now that their exclusion from next season's Champions League has been confirmed is whether they will be able to attract the right players to help rebuild the club.

Liverpool's supporters are the best in the world, but players do not join clubs because of the fans. They come first for money, and then for what is on offer. Without the lure of the world's biggest club competition, Liverpool simply cannot compete.

The only solace is that Liverpool are still Liverpool; they still have the history and tradition to attract players. That will only last so long, though. Should they go three or four seasons without Champions League football, even that lustre will fade.

That is why this is the most crucial period in the club's history. At the end of last season, it would have seemed impossible that they would be in the position they are now. That is the nature of football, though. It is easy to fall from grace, but extremely difficult to rise to prominence again.

Sir Alex Ferguson Disappointed With Steven Gerrard Mistake That "Gifted" Chelsea A Goal

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has bemoaned Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard “gifting” Chelsea a goal in the Blues 2-0 victory at Anfield on Sunday.

A poor back pass from Gerrard gave Chelsea striker Didier Drogba the opportunity to score the first goal in the critical Premier League battle at Anfield.

The Blues just need to defeat Wigan Athletic at home on Sunday to end United’s run for a record 19th Premier League title, and Ferguson knows that his side’s chances to win the title are very slim.

"I just saw it after the game. It was a great gift, Ferguson told The Sun.

"There is nothing you can do about it. You just have to get on with it."

After defeating Sunderland on Sunday, United remain a single point behind Chelsea in the standings, but there is only one game remaining in the season for the Red Devils to overtake the Blues for the title.

United must defeat Stoke City at Old Trafford and hope that Wigan can beat or draw Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next Sunday, and Ferguson knows that it is unlikely, but believes that in football anything is possible.

"You never know what can happen. Football is a crazy game.

"Manchester City did us a great turn by beating Chelsea twice and Wigan are another neighbour, but listen; we know we are clutching at straws a little bit."

"All we can do is win our game against Stoke.

"Obviously, I would not insult Wigan in any shape or form because they are a really good football team and they will have a go. But the important thing is for us to win our game and enjoy it."

Match Report: Liverpool 0 - 2 Chelsea

Chelsea edged closer to the Barclays Premier League title with a crucial victory over Liverpool at Anfield.

An error by Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard handed Didier Drogba a simple opening goal in the first half and Frank Lampard added a second after the break.

The result ensured Chelsea remained in pole position to win their first championship for four years but also finally put paid to the Merseysiders' hopes of securing Champions League football next season.

With Manchester United a point behind before kick-off and playing later in the day, Carlo Ancelotti's side knew anything less than a win would hand the initiative to their rivals.

And with next week's final weekend seeing United host Stoke - Chelsea are at home to Wigan - there was no margin for error.

Chelsea were undoubtedly the better side but the match may have turned out differently had they not been gifted a 33rd-minute lead.

The conspiracy theorists would certainly have had a field day.

Some fans had been suggesting all week they would rather Chelsea win an Anfield than beat the Stamford Bridge side and hand United the chance to eclipse the club's tally of 18 league titles.

However, even they could not have prophesied the manner of Chelsea's goal.

Gerrard failed to notice Drogba when he passed back to Jose Reina and the Ivory Coast international nipped in to round the goalkeeper and tuck the ball home.

Prior to that, the early exchanges had been open. Lampard shot wide and Nicolas Anelka forced Reina into a low save while Liverpool's Maxi Rodriguez and Javier Mascherano, standing in at right-back because of Glen Johnson's calf injury, saw shots deflected wide.

There were also three penalty claims in what was a bustling first half.

Two for Chelsea involved Salomon Kalou and his tendency to hit the ground as soon as he entered the box.

His first was a blatant dive in the ninth minute under Mascherano's challenge but referee Alan Wiley allowed that to go unpunished.

In added time at the end of the first half the same player was through on goal - with Lucas Leiva in close attendance - and managed to trip himself up.

Despite fierce Chelsea protests Wiley again made the correct decision.

Whether he got Alberto Aquilani's 26th-minute penalty shout right was open to debate after the Italy international went down under Branislav Ivanovic's challenge as he raced on to Rodriguez's chipped pass was open to debate as the defender appeared not to get the ball.

The loss of Rodriguez to injury just before half-time, when he was replaced by Ryan Babel, was a blow to Liverpool.

Six minutes into the second half Kalou muscled his way past Mascherano to drill a cross into the six-yard area, where Anelka failed to get the touch which would certainly have brought a second Chelsea goal.

But the Frenchman played a more influential role in the 54th minute when his cross picked out Lampard who bundled home from close range.

If that was not bad enough for Liverpool, they then lost Carragher to injury which meant 19-year-old Daniel Ayala was thrust into the action.

A forlorn-looking Fernando Torres, whose season was prematurely ended by a second knee operation in three months, could only watch on despondently from the stands.

It would have been 3-0 in the 67th minute had it not been for Reina's one-handed save from Florent Malouda's low shot.

David Ngog replaced Aquilani for the final 15 minutes but Liverpool were a spent force with only Reina keeping Chelsea at bay, punching away Michael Ballack's 25-yard free-kick and then producing a smart double save from Anelka and then Kalou.

The defeat meant Liverpool will finish the season with their lowest points total in five years, since accruing 58 in Rafael Benitez's first campaign in charge back in 2004-05.

Whether the Spaniard, strongly linked with Juventus, is around next season to rectify that remains in doubt.

Rafa Benitez Reveals Contract Frustration

Rafa Benitez is reported to have claimed that the club has broken promises made to him before he signed a new five-year contract just over a year ago.

The Spaniard has admitted his future beyond the end of the current season is unclear, and has been quoted in several of Sunday's national newspapers as saying that the conditions at Anfield had changed since he agreed his new contract.

"I decided to sign an extension because the squad was good and the money was going to be there. But the conditions changed," he said.

"We've had a bad season and hopefully things will be different in the future, but at the moment I can't talk about the future because I don't know what's going on."

Benitez said a similar situation unfolded at Valencia, leading to him leaving the Spanish club for Liverpool in 2004.

"I left Valencia because conditions changed," he added.

"It was not a question of my money that I stayed at Liverpool. I said 'no' to other massive offers. I decided to stay under certain conditions and they have changed.

"The players share the same frustrations. I know how they feel because I've been talking to them all season. The season has not been good, that is clear. We know why and what has to change."

Benitez has been strongly linked with a move to Italian side Juventus this summer.

Agger Making No Excuses

Daniel Agger has dismissed claims that Liverpool's financial problems off the field have been a catalyst for failure on it.

The Reds have failed to live up to expectations this year after finishing just two points off winning the league title in 2009, with the team's exit from the Europa League at the hands of Atletico Madrid on Thursday leaving their season all but over.

But Danish defender Agger has claimed that his side are yet to give up hope, and that the players can not blame the unrest at boardroom level and the issues over the future of Benitez for their level of performance.

"The players can't use the ownership issue as an excuse because it had absolutely nothing to do with us," he said.

"You can talk all you want, but it means nothing if you don't show anything on the pitch."

The ongoing wrangling between owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks as they try to sell the club and settle outstanding debts has been seen by Benitez as a reason behind the club's alarming fall from grace this season, with little funds available to strengthen the squad.

Agger appeared to agree with Benitez's issues to some extent; however the 25-year-old stated that despite changes in the hierarchy being required, his team-mates had to stand up and be counted in the final games of the season.

"A lot of things have to change here," he added.

"We all have to realise this season hasn't been good enough and we need to do more.

"For me the reason is simple - the players have not performed. Players should be playing for their futures.

"If you don't perform then you shouldn't play. It is that simple."

Rafa Benitez Will Quit Liverpool Like Valencia

It was June 2, 2004, when Rafa Benitez bid an emotional farewell to Valencia with tears streaming from his Spanish eyes.

Now, almost six years on, it seems inevitable that hysterical history will repeat itself and the weeping will begin again as Benitez walks alone from his beloved Kop.

The irony isn’t lost on anyone who knows the Liverpool boss that the corner which stubborn Benitez has painted himself into is all too familiar territory.

At Valencia, he felt betrayed when the club’s power brokers stalled and dithered on deciding about a new, extended contract.

Benitez didn’t feel he had their unreserved backing.

He felt unloved and said: “Personal and emotional damage have made me reconsider staying here.

“It seems they think more of me elsewhere than they do at home.”

Those words now sound oh so familiar as Benitez, 50, battles his inner demons and his own board, accusing anyone within earshot of breaking promises to him.

He expected a transfer budget of £20million, plus whatever he raised in sales, for this season’s planning.

It didn’t happen. And he believed that after the exit of chief executive Rick Parry, he would be able to adopt more of a hands-on role and be more in control of the club’s destiny.

But managing director Christian Purslow has come in and Benitez has discovered, to his dismay, which he interferes as much as Parry did.

Benitez, just 12 months into his new five-year deal, is at his wit’s end.

The tears are about to flow and won’t dry until he gets hold of the £80m transfer kitty promised if he becomes Juventus’ new manager.

He talked mainly in riddles after being dumped out of the Europa League semi-final on Thursday by Atletico Madrid.

But there were clear, incisive phrases too which summed up his thinking about being let down.

When asked if he considered it a privilege to manage Liverpool, he said: “For sure. This is a massive club and the fans have been fantastic every day.

“I’m proud to be here. I signed the contract extension because the squad was good and the money could be there. At the end things changed.

“We have had a bad season and at the moment I can’t talk about the future because I don’t know what’s going to happen.

“I said ‘no’ to massive offers. I decided to stay here under some conditions which have changed.

“I know how the players feel too, because I have been talking to them all season and we share the same frustrations.

“I also left Valencia because the conditions changed. The season has not been good. That is clear. We know why and what has to change.

“Because of the history of this club, everyone expects us to be top all the time. But the real situation is that we’re competing under different conditions because of money.

“From the start, expectations were too high. Mentally it was not easy for the players to approach every game thinking we need to be contenders when we were six, eight and then ten points behind.”

Liverpool Have Nobody To Replace Rafa Benitez

Liverpool have started their search for a new manager – admitting they have nobody lined up if Rafa Benitez quits for Juventus.

Even though there have been doubts about the future of Kop boss Benitez for months, Liverpool have only just begun canvassing opinion and sounding out sources on who would be the man for the job.

It’s another indication of the uncertainty at Anfield, with American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett trying to sell the club.

The obvious target, Jose Mourinho, is unlikely to accept, as he is waiting to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United and believes his chances of eventually landing that job would be damaged if he joined arch-rivals Liverpool.

Mourinho’s controversial, confrontational style - again evident in Barcelona last week when his Inter Milan side reached the Champions’ League final - means he doesn’t have universal support at Old Trafford.

But the former Chelsea manager’s brilliant record makes him the favourite to follow Fergie, who would approve of the appointment.

Mourinho could also have the offer this summer of what he would regard as a more-exciting challenge than Liverpool - Real Madrid.

So Liverpool could end up considering Bayern Munich’s Dutch boss Louie Van Gaal - Mourinho’s European Cup final opponent.

Another Dutchman, Guus Hiddink, appears to be out of reach after agreeing to become manager of Turkey.

Aston Villa’s Martin O’Neill and Birmingham’s Alex McLeish will be considered and Fulham’s Roy Hodgson, despite being 62, could be discussed after succeeding where Benitez failed in getting his team into the Europa League final.

The answer could even already be at the club in former manager and Academy Ambassador Kenny Dalglish.

But until Benitez’ future is resolved, the chaotic situation at Anfield will continue.

Liverpool Chiefs Believe Fulham Boss Roy Hodgson Would Be Rafael Benitez's Ideal Replacement

After leading Fulham to the Europa League final, Roy Hodgson has emerged as a shock candidate for the Liverpool hot-seat should Rafael Benitez leave Anfield in the summer.

According to the News of the World, Benitez’s future on Merseyside is very much still up in the air with a proposed move to Juventus rumbling on.

Such uncertainty had led the Reds to draw up a shortlist of potential candidates to become the Spaniard’s successor, and Hodgson's Premier League experience has placed him on top of their wish-list.

Others on the list include Aston Villa's Martin O’Neill and Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan, but having taken the west London outfit to the Europa League final in Hamburg later this month, Hodgson has emerged as favourite for the job.

The 62-year-old has a wealth of experience both home and abroad, and is said to be keen on the England job.

However, due to the excellent work carried out by Three Lions chief Fabio Capello, it appears the former Inter Milan manager isn’t prepared to wait.

The ex-Blackburn Rovers boss has impressed many over the past few seasons with his fine work at Craven Cottage, and it is believed he is ready for one last big challenge before he calls time on his illustrious managerial career.

Benitez Fails To Shed Light On His Liverpool Future

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez left everyone in the dark about his future with the Premier League club after he appeared to bid farewell to the fans during a lap of honour around Anfield.

Benitez, who has been linked with Juventus and is due to meet Liverpool's new chairman Martin Broughton in the next few days, refused to give any assurances that he will be at the club at the start of next season.

"I prefer to concentrate on the next game and I will try to see the chairman," the Spaniard told reporters after Liverpool were beaten 2-0 by Chelsea in their final home game of the season.

"I have four more years on my contract and we will wait and see.

"I have been talking about all the speculation for the last two or three weeks... I will not talk too much about (the future)."

Liverpool have failed to win any silverware since they triumphed in the FA Cup final in 2006.

DIC Close In On £500m Takeover Of Liverpool

The Sunday Express report that Dubai International Capital are finally close to securing a £500 million takeover of Liverpool.

The next few weeks are set to be tumultuous at Anfield with owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks selling up and Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez heading to Juventus, according to the Sunday paper.

DIC, the investment arm of Dubai’s ruling family led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, attempted to buy Liverpool in 2007 but lost out to the American pair of Hicks and Gillett.

In 2008, DIC attempted to buy Gillett’s 50% share of Liverpool but talks broke down again.

If the deal goes through this time, DIC are tipped to commit funds to build Liverpool a new stadium and will hand a new manager a significant sum of money to spend on new players.

The Sunday Express list a whole list of names to replace Rafa Benitez at Liverpool, including Joe Mourinho, Martin O’Neill, Martin Jol and Frank Rijkaard.

Premier League Preview: Liverpool vs. Chelsea

Title chasing Chelsea, fresh from their seven-goal thumping of Stoke City last weekend, visit Liverpool, looking for three points that will keep them top of the table going into the final day and, if results go their way elsewhere, could even secure the championship with a game to spare.

For Liverpool a season which promised so much after last season’s second place finish has become only more disappointing the longer it has gone on and after the Europa League semi-final defeat to Atletico Madrid on Thursday, the club are left with only the slightest of hopes of a top-four finish, and realistically only a Europa League place to play for.

After their extra-time defeat to a Diego Forlan goal, the side still without Fernando Torres are likely to be both physically and emotionally drained. And with uncertainty continuing to surround the future of the clubs owners, manager Rafael Benitez, who continues to be linked with the exit door and a move to Juventus, attentions on and off the pitch could easily be elsewhere.

Indeed the only positives for the Reds are that they are unbeaten in their last five games, and they have won nine of their last 10 Premier League games on home soil.

For Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti, his side are looking for a domestic double, with the FA Cup final against Portsmouth to come, and surely they can’t be taking on Liverpool at a better time.

With Frank Lampard in terrific form and having reached 20 goals for the season once again, and with the return to fitness of Ashley Cole, largely considered to be the world’s best left-back, they travel to Anfield on the back of 23 goals in their last six games, which has seen five wins including a victory at Old Trafford.

And Carlo Ancelotti will know that a victory, coupled with a defeat for Manchester United when they travel to the Stadium of Light to take on Sunderland later in the day, will ensure the title returns to west London for the first time since 2006.

FORM GUIDE

Liverpool

April 29 - Liverpool 2-1 Atletico Madrid (Europa League)
April 25 - Burnley 0–4 Liverpool (Premier League)
April 22 - Atletico Madrid 1-0 Liverpool (Europa League)
April 19 – Liverpool 3-0 West Ham United (Premier League)
April 11 – Liverpool 0-0 Fulham (Premier League)

Chelsea

April 25 – Chelsea 7-0 Stoke City (Premier League)
April 17 – Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Chelsea (Premier League)
April 13 – Chelsea 1-0 Bolton Wanderers (Premier League)
April 10 - Chelsea 3-0 Aston Villa (FA Cup)
April 3 – Manchester United 1-2 Chelsea (Premier League)

TEAM NEWS

Liverpool

Liverpool will once again be without Spanish international striker Fernando Torres, who this week underwent knee surgery.

Emiliano Insua will also miss out due to a thigh complaint.

Manager Rafael Benitez will have to decide whether to stick with Javier Mascherano at right-back or revert Glen Johnson back across from left-back to his natural position.

Last starting XI (vs Atletico Madrid): Reina; Johnson, Agger, Carragher, Mascherano; Lucas, Aquilani, Gerrard, Benayoun; Babel, Kuyt.

Chelsea

The Blues will be without long term absentees Jose Bosingwa and Michael Essien, who isn’t quite ready to return after a knee injury.

Ricardo Carvalho is doubtful after an ankle injury, whilst Jon Obi Mikel isn’t expected to be fit.

However, club captain John Terry is available once again after suspension.

Last starting XI (vs Stoke City): Cech; Ferreira, Alex, Ivanovic, A Cole; Lampard, Ballack, Malouda; Kalou, Drogba, Anelka.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Liverpool – Jose Manuel Reina
The Liverpool No.1 has been faultless this season whilst others around him haven’t met the high standards set by the clubs supporters.

Although the Spanish keeper plays second fiddle at international level, he is largely seen as the best goalkeeper in the Premier League.

The former Villarreal stopper will have to be at his best this weekend to keep the likes of Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka at bay.

Chelsea – Frank Lampard

Two more goals last weekend in the 7-0 rout of Stoke City took Lampard to 20 goals in a Premier League campaign once again.

After a slow start to the season by his own very high standards, Lampard has been in red-hot form lately and has, along with the vastly improved Florent Malouda, been crucial in Chelsea’s title tilt.

If Lampard scores at Anfield, you wouldn’t back against Chelsea leaving with all three points.

Rafael Benitez May Already Have Exit Strategy At Liverpool

When referee Alan Wiley blows his whistle to signal full time at 3.30pm at Anfield on Sunday, the Premier League will have its answer. So, too, will the Kop. The questions they are asking, though, are rather different.

While hundreds of lenses and millions of viewers will judge the closing chapters in a nerve-shredding title race by the looks of despair or of joy on the faces of Chelsea’s players, Liverpool’s minds will turn exclusively to Rafael Benítez.

His every movement will be tracked, every action monitored, as the game’s most famous ancient gallery tries to decipher whether, after six years, this really is the end.

The Spaniard has dallied with departing Liverpool before; he was saved by the defiant support of thousands of fans when Tom Hicks and George Gillett, the club’s owners, discussed his position with Jürgen Klinsmann; he was tempted by the riches of Real Madrid when his elaborate plans for the club were put at risk by the penury forced upon him by the same duo.

Never before, though, have the noises emanating from his supposed suitors been so strong, so insistent.

Last Monday, sources at Juventus suggested that the Spaniard’s arrival was “90 per cent” certain. By the time Andrea Agnelli was ratified as the Italian club’s new president on Thursday, the message had changed. The Old Lady is convinced she has got her man.

A four-year contract, worth £3.5 million a season after tax, awaits him in Turin. Transfer spending will be to the tune of around £60 million a year for the next three years.

The engagement is not yet announced, but Juventus’s proprietor John Elkann has already spotted his first wedding present. A Juve delegation flew to São Paulo this week to finalise a £12 million deal for Hernanes, the Brazil international, a player Benítez is known to admire.

It is not hard to see why such a project would tempt the Liverpool manager.

Ever since he arrived, he has faced a struggle to build the empire he desires, hamstrung first by an inability to land his primary targets — Simão Sabrosa and Daniel Alves both slipped from his grasp at the last — and later by the empty wallet and unfulfilled promises brought to Merseyside by Hicks and Gillett.

Benítez freely admits his responsibility in recent years has been to run a “company,” rather than a football club, balancing Anfield’s books rather than its squad.

Though RBS has brought in Martin Broughton as chairman and Barclays Capital to sell the club, which will end the tenure of Hicks and Gillett, there is no guarantee that the situation will change in the future. Juventus, in comparison, are offering him spending that is all but limitless. It is hardly Sophie’s Choice.

It would not be a choice at all, Benítez admits, were it not for the debt of gratitude he feels towards those fans who stood by him when the question was not whether Liverpool were good enough for the Spaniard, but whether he was of sufficient calibre for them.

“If I am here it is because of them,” he said. “I have had massive offers over the last year and I decided to stay because of them. I gave my word last year because of the fans. The fans are the main thing, the best thing, the club has. I decided to stay last year because of the fans and for one year I have been trying to do my best, and we will see what happens in the future.”

For all that loyalty, though, Benítez has steadfastly refused to quash the increasingly frenzied speculation suggesting he is on the verge of opting out of his £20 million, four-year contract and moving to Juve.

He has singularly failed to offer his supporters the same assurances over his future that he has made clear he would like from his employers, insisting only that he “cannot talk about the long-term future”.

Is that because he does not know what his future holds? “I know the future, and it is Chelsea.” Where does he want to be next season? “I want to win against Chelsea.” Juventus, though, are adamant he is their next coach. “I am here now, and I hope to be here against Chelsea.”

Perhaps, then, the answer the Kop seek is clear. So desperate a land has Anfield become that there are many who will welcome it, many who feel he has run his course, his successes, domestic and European, written out of history as the doctrine of Benítez as failure becomes orthodoxy.

Yet even if this is the end for Benítez, if Sunday is the final act on the Anfield stage where once they worshipped him, there is no closure for Liverpool.

Fans and board members alike may talk of attracting Jose Mourinho or Fabio Capello as Benítez’s replacement, a manager of the utmost quality, but with Anfield’s coffers empty and its ownership uncertain, such ambitions appear almost delusional. The end of the Benítez saga may come Sunday. Liverpool’s is doomed to continue.

Reina Focused On Victory

Pepe Reina insists that Liverpool will be giving their all to secure victory against Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday.

The Reds will be eager to end on a high as they play in front of their home fans for the last time this season.

But the Liverpool faithful will also be aware that a win could set arch-rivals Manchester United up to win the Premier League title.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side, who are searching for a fourth consecutive championship, would then be able to move clear of the Reds on 19 total titles if they were to successfully close the season out.

But Reina remains unconcerned by the potential implications of a Chelsea defeat and insists the squad is firmly focused on victory.

"They can think about what they want," said the Spanish goalkeeper.

"If you are a professional, you will never play to lose or draw in any game. It's just not us.

"We need a win at home for our supporters. I don't care about Manchester United. All I care about is us and making sure we get three points."

Liverpool just missed out on a Europa League final spot after losing out to Atletico Madrid on away goals on Thursday night.

Reina accepts that the players will find it tough to pick themselves back up after such a devastating result, but is adamant the players will be ready on Sunday.

"It's down to our own pride," the 27-year-old added.

"We will try to win, and if we don't, it will be because we're playing Chelsea, a tough team fighting for the championship.

"We're going into the game after a disappointing night playing 120 minutes. It won't be easy but we will try.

"I want to make sure we can fight for fourth place by getting those three points. We never play to lose."

Liverpool Planning Double Raid On Real Madrid’s Midfield

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is not looking at joining another club or walking out of Liverpool, in fact he is looking at strengthening the team for next season and has targeted the Real Madrid duo of Guti and Royston Drenthe as possible acquisitions for the Anfield outfit.

Guti would be available on a free come the end of the season and even at the age of 33 is still wanted by quite a few clubs including Tottenham and now Liverpool, Benitez knows what Guti is capable of and would not hesitate in offering Guti a rolling contract at Liverpool.

Drenthe on the other hand at 23 is seen as a more long term option, he is equally good with both feet and can play either defence or midfield and he would bring the sort of versatility that Benitez is looking for. Drenthe is returning from injury and in terms of timing it could not be better for Benitez.

Drenthe would not come too cheap but neither would he come at a premium, he is unhappy at Real Madrid and still effected by the booing he has received, his best friend is Ryan Babel and it would not be a huge surprise to see Drenthe end up a Liverpool player next season.

Rafael Benitez Unsure Whether Liverpool Will Sign The 'Four Or Five' Players They Need This Summer

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has revealed that there is still much uncertainty at Anfield over what form the Reds' summer rebuilding may take after a disappointing campaign.

Benitez's team were knocked out of the Europa League by Atletico Madrid on Thursday evening amidst continuing speculation that Benitez is set to depart the club for Serie A giants Juventus.

With the club also up for sale, it looks there will be a difficult summer to follow a difficult season for the Reds.

"I do not know whether I will have any funds. We will find out in the summer," Benitez told reporters after the game against Ateltico.

"Liverpool is a massive club but there has been a change in the last two or three years. We have had to balance the books and manage in this way.

"Someone said we needed four or five players.

I would more or less agree with that. That is what we have to do."

Benitez also bemoaned his team's luck this season, especially when it came to injuries.

"Everything seems to have been against them this season," he said.

"It is clear that we had some problems. We had too many injuries and were lacking forward options. But the players worked so hard and I am very proud of them."

Rafa - Fans Made Me Stay

Rafa Benitez admits he has only remained with the club because of the fans, amid renewed speculation he is ready to leave Anfield.

A barrage of media reports are claiming that Juventus are again stepping up their efforts to land the Spanish tactician and he will now accept the chance to take charge in Turin.

With the club up for sale, Benitez is far from sure of his future and, following Liverpool's Europa League semi-final defeat to Atletico Madrid, Benitez refuses to talk about anything beyond this weekend's game with Chelsea on Sunday.

"At the moment I can't talk about the future long-term," he said.

"I decided to stay last year because of the fans and for one year I have been working very hard, trying to do my best and we will see what happens in the future, because Sunday's game against Chelsea is the future now."

Benitez admitted he had previously turned down 'massive offers' in order to remain at Anfield.

"The fans are the main thing, the best thing that the club has. I gave my word because of them," he said.

"I have had massive offers over the last year and I decided to stay because of them.

"It's been a very disappointing season because we couldn't achieve what we were expected to, and still I'm here and I will do my best until the end."

Liverpool's Alberto Aquilani Will Not Join Juventus

Alberto Aquilani's agent Franco Zavaglia has announced the midfielder will not leave Liverpool for Juventus in the summer.

Despite reports claiming the Bianconeri would sign the Italian if they landed Rafael Benitez, Zavaglia insists his client is not going anywhere.

"Alberto to Juve? It's just talk," Zavaglia told Tuttomercatoweb.com.

"I don't understand how people can speak about his future being away from England.

"He is fine at Liverpool and he is not thinking about a return to Italy.

"There was also talk about a fight with Benitez, but this is absolutely false.

"In any case, Aquilani is staying at Liverpool. I have never heard from Juventus or other clubs."

Borrell Unhappy With Academy

Liverpool youth coach Rodolfo Borrell has criticised the "unacceptable" standard of the club's academy.

Borrell's assessment is that it will take two years before the set-up is close to the right level.

"The reality of what we found here was unacceptable," said Borrell, who joined nearly a year ago having previously worked with Cesc Fabregas and Lionel Messi in the Barcelona's youth system.

"The under-18s had no centre-forward, no balance, no tactical level, no understanding of the game.

"We are working hard, but you can't change things overnight.

"I think we have made a lot of progress over eight months, but we need to improve a lot more to get more players into the first team.

"I think if we keep working hard maybe in two years somebody can appear in the first team."

Borrell's brief from Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is to develop more English players.

This week the club signed England youth international Jonjo Shelvey from Charlton, who will go straight into the reserve squad, as they try to seek to redress the balance having previously brought in a number of foreign hopefuls.

"I agree - the best players to defend the Barca shirt are Catalan players, the best players to defend the Liverpool shirt are English players," Borrell told BBC Sport.

"We have to fight to make English players arrive.

"The rest of the players who are not English must be massive quality."

Liverpool Chairman A Chelsea Fan

Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton has confirmed he will not be at Anfield on Sunday, because of his loyalties to Chelsea.

Broughton, a life-long Chelsea fan, was appointed Liverpool chairman last month by the club's owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks.

The British Airways boss has been brought in to oversee the sale of the club and he admits he cannot simply forget about his Chelsea passion.

"Any true fan who has supported a club for 55 years - like I have - can't be expected to suddenly move against them overnight," he said.

"When you have followed a team for as long as I have then it's in the blood. It's a very emotional thing and all fans who have supported Liverpool for a long time will know what I mean.

"I can't come to the match on Sunday and show any of that emotion because that would be very disrespectful to the Liverpool faithful. Liverpool have terrific fans and I wouldn't want to do that, so the only sensible thing is for me to stay at home and watch it on the television.

"I suppose the perfect scenario would be for Liverpool to win this weekend and go on to secure Champions League qualification and then for Chelsea to go on and win the title. That would be great if it were to happen."

Match Report: Liverpool 2 - 1 Atletico Madrid

Atletico Madrid striker Diego Forlan scored against Liverpool for the second time in a week to end the Merseysiders' dreams of a third European final in five years.

The former Manchester United forward, who hit the only goal in the first leg, scored the crucial extra-time away goal which booked their place in May's Europa League final despite a 2-1 defeat at Anfield.

Alberto Aquilani's 44th-minute strike had ensured the game went into the additional 30 minutes and despite Yossi Benayoun putting his side ahead, Forlan - much derided during his time in English football - had the last word.

Twice previously in this competition Liverpool had come back from first leg deficits - against Lille and Benfica - but on this occasion even a win was not enough.

How they missed injured striker Fernando Torres, watching his former club take on his current employers from the stands, after dominating most of the game but failing to finish off their opponents in normal time.

But it was not the lack of goals which did for them in the end, but the one they let in at the Kop end to a familiar foe.

Liverpool had needed an early boost and they almost got it after just nine seconds.

Daniel Agger's long ball picked out Benayoun in the penalty area and his low shot from a narrow angle was turned behind by goalkeeper David de Gea, who had an easier save when Aquilani shot straight at him in the 11th minute.

It was a sign of things to come as Atletico's gameplan of sitting back and counter-attacking was restricted to just the former.

But the Spanish side, driven by the knowledge an away goal would strengthen their position considerably, still posed an occasional threat and Jose Reina dived low to his right to turn Raul Garcia's long-range effort around the post midway through the half.

Still Liverpool pushed forward and Dirk Kuyt, who recovered from a calf injury to lead the line, was only inches over as he slid into the six-yard area to deflect Javier Mascherano's cross.

The game was becoming more open but when Sergio Aguero went round Reina from Jose Antonio Reyes' perfect through-ball he opted to cross rather than shoot from a narrow angle and Forlan could not make up the ground.

Liverpool thought they had scored the goal they desperately wanted when Steven Gerrard curled in a 32nd-minute free-kick and Agger headed into the bottom corner only to be flagged offside.

Gerrard was booked for a needless foul on Aguero as the half drew to a close and frustration levels began to rise at Anfield.

But a minute before the interval the breakthrough finally came with the simplest of moves and the most exact of finishes.

Stand-in right-back Mascherano's throw down the wing was picked up by Benayoun whose cross was missed by Kuyt but found Aquilani who curled a low shot just inside De Gea's left-hand post.

With honours even Liverpool's approach play was more patient and measured as the second half began.

But the optimism around Anfield which was tangible before the break had been replaced by a growing sense of anxiety and the players could feel it, with Benayoun shooting well over from 25 yards.

Urged on by the Kop, Liverpool found an extra gear and when left-back Glen Johnson cut in and whipped in a right-footed shot De Gea could only parry it over the crossbar, but the goalkeeper was able to claim Gerrard's corner unchallenged.

The last 10 minutes saw Atletico have probably their best spell of the game but Forlan crucially mis-controlled the last chance of regulation time having sprung the offside trap.

Five minutes into the added period Liverpool went ahead for the first time.

A Gerrard free-kick was only half-cleared and Lucas lobbed the ball over the inside-left channel where Benayoun, played onside by Antonio Lopez, drilled home left-footed with De Gea getting a hand to the shot but failing to keep it out.

Substitute Jose Manuel Jurado's 20-yard effort inches wide of the post was a warning Liverpool failed to heed as in the 102nd minute Atletico scored a the vital away goal when Reyes beat Johnson to cross for the unmarked Forlan to stab home.

The second period was notable only for Simao Sabrosa firing just over as Liverpool's European dreams - and their hopes of a successful conclusion to their season - were extinguished.

Benitez: Reds Board Won't Back Me

Rafa Benitez last night threw his future as Liverpool manager into fresh doubt by revealing he has NEVER received assurances over his job.

But, with Juventus waiting in the wings to capture Benitez, it could well be the last big night of his six-year reign.

When asked if anyone from the Anfield boardroom had sat down with him and given assurances over his future, he replied pointedly: “No.”

He added: “For one year I have been listening to stories about Martin O’Neill taking my job or Klinsmann, Mourinho, Rijkaard or Hiddink.

“But I have to keep doing my job. All I can do is focus on the next game.

“The opportunity to be in a European final is massive for any club. We have some problems with injuries, but we will be ready for the game.

“I have read in the Spanish press Atletico players saying there is not much difference between the atmosphere at the Calderon and Anfield, but there is a massive difference and hopefully we will see that.”

Despite the doubt over his future, Benitez continued to build for the future when he completed the signing of Charlton youngster Jonjo Shelvey for £1.7m.

The 18-year-old midfielder has passed medical and agreed personal terms, and will complete his move to Anfield on May 10.

Ryan Babel Blames Outside Influences For His Mistakes At Liverpool

Liverpool forward Ryan Babel admits he allowed himself to be affected by influences which ruined his game and almost forced him out of the club.

The Holland international was a bit-part player midway through the season and found an outlet for his frustrations through his personal Twitter page.

That prompted a personal rebuke from manager Rafael Benítez and with Birmingham reportedly having a £9 million bid turned down, it appeared the Dutchman was heading for a January exit.

However, a meeting between Benítez, Babel and his agent straightened things out and since then the player has started to show glimpses of the form which persuaded Liverpool to pay £11 million for him in July 2007.

"I think the turning point was that I could focus on the football and not rumours and different sayings of people and the media.

"For every young player it is difficult to focus 100% when you know you are the subject of something that can influence your game.

"During that period people were telling me negative and positive things and that made me think about different things and you cannot concentrate on football.

"When you read in one paper that Liverpool want to get rid of you – even though you know it is not true – it is those little things which confuse you.

"I was not close to leaving but it was one of those things that did not make me concentrate 100%.''

Of Benítez's pep talk he added: "It is a situation where both sides have to work with each other. It has given me confidence recently and I'm now trying to give something back.

"Liverpool have confidence in me and I have confidence in Liverpool."

Babel lays some of his self-doubt and insecurity at the feet of his father, a hard taskmaster by all accounts.

"I am very self-critical, that is how I have been raised," he added. "I have a very difficult father who is always looking at points where I can improve.

"Sometimes that is annoying because you come off the pitch with a good feeling and he still comes with points that could be better.

"I only want to improve more. I think it is clear how my career has been so far but I'm confident for the future so, as long as I can concentrate on football, the best will definitely come."

Liverpool Target Danny Wilson Refuses New Rangers Deal

The chances of Danny Wilson leaving Rangers this summer appear to have increased following reports that the highly-rated young defender will not sign a new deal at Ibrox.

Liverpool have emerged as favourites to sign Wilson in recent weeks with his current Rangers deal expiring at the end of 2010/2011.

A report in the Scottish Sun today claims Rangers have given up hope of holding on to Wilson beyond his current deal which makes it likely he will leave this summer.

Rangers have reportedly held talks with Liverpool over a deal but the Merseyside giants face competition for the youngster from the likes of Aston Villa, Spurs and Manchester City.

The desire to sign Wilson is in line with the current transfer policy of Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez who recently signed Raheem Sterling and is close to a deal for Jonjo Shelvey, two of the hottest prospects in England.

Liverpool Line-Up Rangers' £5m Defender Madjid Bougherra

Rangers’ defender Madjid Bougherra could be a summer target for Liverpool - if Rafa Benitez keeps his job.

The Anfield boss is thought to be keen on bringing the Algeria international back to the Premier League ahead of next season.

But with Benitez's future on Merseyside uncertain, any hopes Bougherra may have of a summer move to Liverpool will hinge on the Spaniard staying at the club.

Bougherra's agent Farid Raayad said: 'There’s serious interest from three clubs and Liverpool’s is the strongest, but it depends on the future of Benitez.

'Panathinaikos are also interested as are Fenerbahce.'

Bougherra, who is rated at around £5m, could be joined at Anfield by teenage team-mate Danny Wilson.

Liverpool have been linked with a move for the 18-year-old as he refuses to sign a new deal at Ibrox after bursting on to the scene this season.

Mauro Zarate Attracts Attention From Liverpool & Manchester City

Mauro Zarate has been tipped to leave Lazio and head back to the Premier League, according to Leggo.

Zarate, who has experience in England having played for Birmingham City in 2008, is close to an exit following a less than perfect season.

He has scored just three goals in 30 appearances and is ready to pack his bags. He will ask to meet President Claudio Lotito at the end of term to ask for guarantees in relation to the challenge for objectives, such as qualification for Europe.

This season the focus has been on dodging relegation, something that has not gone down well with Zarate.

Leggo's report comes just weeks after Zarate's brother and agent issued a quit threat.

"If we are in the way of Lazio then we will leave," Sergio Zarate said.

Liverpool and Manchester City are both said to have made enquiries with the club.

Ngoo And Ince Strike In Under-18s Triumph

Liverpool Under-18s stretched their unbeaten run to nine matches with a superb 4-0 victory over Leeds United at the Academy on Thursday afternoon.

The Reds dominated for long spells against the Yorkshire outfit and deservedly earned the three points thanks to goals from Michael Ngoo, Tom Ince (2) and Conor Coady (pen).

It means Rodolfo Borrell's men have not lost a match since their FA Youth Cup defeat at home to Watford back in February and can complete an impressive finish to the season by avoiding defeat in their final game at Huddersfield on May 8.

Following a scrappy opening devoid of any real clear-cut chances, it was Liverpool who came closest when Toni Brito E Silva set up Ngoo on nine minutes.

The former Southend striker looked all set to fire in a shot at goal from just inside the penalty area but instead opted to turn back into trouble, allowing Leeds the chance to clear.

The opportunity merely served as a catalyst for Liverpool to step it up a gear, however, and on 18 minutes they grabbed the breakthrough courtesy of their in-form forward.

John Flanagan picked out Silva on the right side of midfield. The Portuguese winger cut inside his man and fired in a low shot that Ryan Jones could only parry into the path of Ngoo, who gleefully swept in the rebound.

Craig Roddan was then unlucky to see a long range drive flash just past the post shortly after as Liverpool began to get at the Leeds rearguard.

The Reds were well in control of the proceedings and it came as no surprise when they added a second, with Andre Wisdom setting up Ince to fire past Jones on the half hour mark.

The visitors had enjoyed very few forays forward and Adam Watson's speculative free-kick was the best they could muster in as one-sided a first 45 as you are likely to see.

Indeed, Leeds were lucky to go in just two goals behind at the break after Silva latched onto Ngoo's flick, rounded the 'keeper and fired in a shot that was hacked off the line.

The pattern continued after the interval and on 55 minutes the Reds ensured there would be no doubt over the result as Coady picked himself up to drill home the third from the spot after he was hauled down in the area.

As if the away side hadn't suffered enough, Borrell took this as the cue to unleash Raheem Sterling and the substitute almost added a stunning fourth when he skipped past two and arrowed a shot just beyond the far upright.

Liverpool pressed throughout the remainder of the encounter and after another substitute, Kristjan Gauti Emilsson twice went close, Ince wrapped up victory with a magnificent strike on 86 minutes.

McLeish Plans Birmingham Stay

Alex McLeish has spelt out his desire to remain as Birmingham manager for "at least" the next two seasons.

McLeish insists he is in no great rush to put pen to paper on a new deal. The former Scotland boss has been linked with a move to Liverpool should Rafael Benitez end his term at Anfield in the summer.

But he is happy with life at St Andrew's where he has guided Blues to promotion and a top-10 position in the Premier League in successive seasons.

"We haven't really sat down and got into (the contract) as such," he said. "There has been no real hurry for it. There are still two games to go. We are not into May yet.

"There is plenty of time. People outside seem to be more anxious about getting it done. The club and I are relaxed about it.

"I don't see any reason why I've got to leave. If you are talking about me being linked with big clubs, it is nice that my name is mentioned, but these clubs will be going for names of maybe people who have been a little bit more successful than me in the game.

"I've had some success but maybe they are looking at a different kind of level, European success, English titles, things like that. At the moment I am concentrating on Birmingham, certainly for this season and the next couple of years at least."

Phil Parkinson: Jonjo Shelvey Sale Is Good Value For Charlton And Liverpool

Charlton Athletic manager Phil Parkinson believes the £1.7 million sale of midfielder Jonjo Shelvey to Liverpool is a good deal for the south London club.

The teenager's transfer fee will rise depending on how he fares at Anfield, and Parkinson believes Rafael Benitez has a great young talent on his hands. But he also believes the time was right for the Addicks to cash in on one of their most promising assets.

"No manager likes to lose their best players, but this deal represents very good value for the club going forward, and is a fantastic opportunity for Jonjo," Parkinson told reporters.

"It's very difficult to stand in the way of any young player joining a club the stature of Liverpool."

With Charlton seemingly destined to be in the League One play-offs at the end of the season Parkinson is only disappointed that they will not be able to call upon their prodigy for the remainder of the campaign, as they look to claw their way back into the Championship at the first attempt.

"I've spoken to a number of fans and I know they are puzzled about the timing of the transfer," he said, as Shelvey will join the Reds at the conclusion of the final league game.

"The timing isn't ideal but unfortunately that was taken out of our hands once Liverpool approached, and the board and I agreed it was best to get everything out in the open.

"We can now move on and concentrate on the next few weeks as we enter a crucial stage of the season, and indeed, the club's history."

Shelvey became Charlton's youngest player when he made his first-team bow in April 2008, aged just 16 years and 59 days. He has 48 appearances and scored eight times for the Addicks.

Liverpool And Carlsberg Set Sights On Lucrative Chinese Market

Carlsberg will appear on the shirts of Liverpool FC at Anfield for the final time this weekend when the Reds take on Chelsea, and use the opportunity of the biggest game of the Premier League weekend to target the Chinese market.

Liverpool's sponsor will display its logo on the famous red shirts worn by Steven Gerrard and his teammates in Chinese.

'Carslberg officials came up with the idea as a way of interacting with the club's huge support in Asia and as acknowledgement of Liverpool being the only UK city to be exhibiting at the World Expo in Shanghai later this year,' reports the Liverpool Daily Post.

'Chinese messages will be displayed on the perimeter advertising boardings during the match and a Chinese competition winner will present a trophy to the 'Man of the Match' in the Carlsberg Lounge after the final whistle,' the newspaper adds.

The match is vital for both Liverpool and Chelsea. The London team are hoping to stay ahead of Manchester United in the race for the Premier League title, while Liverpool are desperate for three points as they chase qualification to the Uefa Champions League.

Rafa Benitez's side currently sits in seventh, with Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and Manchester City in the race.

However, Liverpool are hoping that the fact that Manchester City and Aston Villa meet on Saturday and Tottenham and City play on Wednesday will open up a chance for the Reds to leapfrog their rivals.

Europa League Preview: Liverpool vs. Atletico Madrid

Liverpool's 4-0 victory over Burnley in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon propelled them to seventh in the table with 62 points from 36 matches, just two points off the fourth and final Champions League place. The Reds are five points clear of Everton, who are eighth, meaning that next season the former European champions will more than likely feature in Europe.

However, this season has largely been a disaster for the Premier League giants and the Europa League remains their only hope of salvation. Dumped out of the Champions League in the group stage, Rafael Benitez's side have done well to reach the semi-finals of the Europa League, but Liverpool need to do something special against Atletico Madrid on Thursday night if they want to reach the final of what is essentially Europe's second most prestigious club competition.

Liverpool's win at Burnley will certainly have boosted their confidence and Benitez will fire up his men for another special night at Anfield.

Atletico Madrid are already in the Copa del Rey final, and progress to the final of the Europa League will mean that between now and the end of the season the Mattress-Makers will have the chance to win two cup competitions.

This is indeed a great occasion for the 'other club' from Madrid, who have won no major trophies since 1996, when they did the league and cup double in Spain. Like Liverpool, Atletico were relegated from the Champions League to the Europa League at the end of the group stage, but before their victory over the English giants at home last week, the former European Cup finalists had won just once in Europe since their Champions League qualifiers against Panathinaikos back in August.

Atletico are struggling in the Primera Division at the moment, but they did win 3-1 against Tenerife at home at the weekend. Atleti have no hope of getting a Champions League spot, but they would certainly like to remain in the hunt for European silverware after the match against Liverpool at Anfield.

FORM GUIDE

Liverpool

April 25 v Burnley (A) - WON 4-0 (Premier League)

April 22 v Atletico Madrid (A) - LOST 1-0 (Europa League)

April 19 v West Ham United (H) - WON 3-0 (Premier League)

April 11 v Fulham (H) - DREW 0-0 (Premier League)

April 8 v Benfica (H) - WON 4-1 (Europa League)

Atletico Madrid

April 25 v Tenerife (H) - WON 3-1 (La Liga)

April 22 v Liverpool (H) - WON 1-0 (Europa League)

April 17 v Villarreal (A) - LOST 2-1 (La Liga)

April 14 v Xerez (H) - LOST 2-1 (La Liga)

April 11 v Espanyol (A) - LOST 3-0 (La Liga)

TEAM NEWS

Liverpool

Fernando Torres will be out of the second leg just as he missed the first. Midfielder Maxi Rodriguez is ineligible and while Alberto Aquilani started against Burnley in the Premier League at the weekend, it is likely that he will be on the bench on Thursday night. David Ngog, who complained of a back problem after the game at the Calderon, should be fit for Thursday night's fixture.

Probable Line-up (4-2-3-1): Reina, Agger, Carragher, Kyrgiakos, Johnson; Mascherano, Lucas; Gerrard, Benayoun, Kuyt; Ngog

Atletico Madrid

Tiago and Ibrahima are ineligible for the Europa League. Tomas Ujfalusi has recovered from a groin strain and will start at Anfield. Sergio Aguero returns from suspension and will partner Diego Forlan upfront. Mariano Pernia and Pablo Ibanez have not been selected for the trip to Anfield by Atleti coach Quique Sanchez Flores.

Probable Line-up (4-4-2): De Gea, Ujfalusi, Perea, Antonio Lopez, Alvaro Dominguez; Simao, Paulo Assuncao, Raul Garcia, Reyes; Forlan, Aguero

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)

Thursday night will be one of those nights when Liverpool need inspiration, and who better than 'Captain Fantastic' Stevie G to provide them with that. The England international midfielder had one of the few clear chances for the Reds last week at the Vicente Calderon and with Liverpool missing striker Fernando Torres yet again, Gerrard, placed 91st in the Castrol Rankings, will be the Reds' main hope.

Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid)

Although Atleti looked the better side in the attacking department at the Calderon last week, there was something missing, and that something was Sergio Aguero. The Argentina international returns for the second leg of this mouth-watering semi-final clash and his presence upfront will be a headache for the Liverpool defenders. The 21-year-old, placed 64th in the Castrol Rankings, has struck 12 times in the league this campaign and his partnership with Diego Forlan is likely to breach the Liverpool citadel at Anfield.

Ryan Babel Happy To Play The Lone Front Man For Liverpool Against Atletico Madrid

Liverpool's forward Ryan Babel is ready lead the club's frontline in the Europa League showdown with Atletico Madrid on Thursday, if called upon by manager Rafael Benitez.

The mantle could fall to the Holland international to reprise the role he fulfilled during his Ajax days, with Fernando Torres sidelined for the rest of the season and both David Ngog and Dirk Kuyt still major doubts for the semi-final clash.

The 23 year-old has played in all six of Liverpool's European adventures this year and is anticipating another famous Anfield European night to fire his team into next month's final in Hamburg.

"Playing as a striker is a nice role because I spent all my youth there so that’s why I like it," he told reporters.

"It’s a very big game and another chance to win something and to make a success of this season, which is definitely important for the club and also for the players.

"It’s a good thing that the second leg is at Anfield also as we have come from behind before so I have confidence that we can do it again.

"For everybody, I think it’s clear that we have the fans behind us and an atmosphere that can make a very big difference."

Rumours spread in January about whether Babel would stay at Anfield much longer, after his omission from the squad that traveled to face Stoke City prompted an outburst at manager Rafael Benitez on Twitter.

However he has since had clear the air talks with his Spanish boss and now he is clear of his role within the squad, he is focused on the rest of the season and Liverpool's European ambitions.

He said: "I am happy because we have discussed everything and I have great things to look forward to. This is a big club and I am aware that I am a part of this.

"It makes it easier now I know what the club expects from me."

Babel remained coy on his World Cup prospects with Holland, refusing to comment on his chances of making the Dutch squad.

"To be honest, I am just focused now on Liverpool so the World Cup will be something I will think about at the end of the season."

Liverpool New Boy Jonjo Shelvey Will Be 'Ideal Replacement' For Steven Gerrard: Former Coach

Liverpool's latest signing Jonjo Shelvey can grow into the perfect long-term replacement for Steven Gerrard, according to the 18-year-old's former physical education teacher.

The Reds confirmed on Wednesday that the England Under-17 midfielder will join the club from Charlton Athletic on May 10, after undergoing a successful medical at Melwood earlier this week. The fee is believed to be an initial £1.7 million, rising to £3m depending on appearances.

Ackred Atkinson coached Shelvey at school, district and county level, and told Goal.com UK in an exclusive interview that he feels the Romford-born starlet can be moulded into the ideal successor to Liverpool skipper Gerrard, and even has the potential to emulate his illustrious new team-mate.

"I would say Jonjo is in that exact mould," said Atkinson. "He would be the perfect replacement for a player like Gerrard. If you are talking about how far Jonjo can go in the game, I would say all the way; he is a fantastic player."

Atkinson added that Shelvey was always highly rated at Brentwood County High School, and revealed that the youngster possessed outstanding physical and technical attributes.

"For sure, he was always head and shoulders ahead of the other boys," he said. "We had a few lads of similar ability - a couple have gone to Leyton Orient and to West Ham United - but he was on another level.

"He had a real intimidating presence, being tall and strong, and he certainly used to stand out in every game he played.

"He began by playing as a centre-back, but his ability on the ball and with free-kicks - which he would smash in left, right and centre - meant he was quickly moved forward into midfield, where he has of course made his career so far."

Shelvey is said to have rejected a move to Chelsea upon signing professional terms at Charlton on his 17th birthday, and is known to be a huge West Ham supporter, so does his decision to leave London and join Liverpool surprise Atkinson?

"It does surprise me in a way," he said. "I think when he signed for Charlton, he wanted to show his loyalty to a lesser club. Of course he is a West Ham boy deep down, and it was always expected that he would end up there, but you never know whether they will be a yo-yo club.

"I think Liverpool, in the best possible way, still has that 'English-ness' that may have attracted Jonjo. Compared to the likes of Arsenal or Chelsea perhaps, Liverpool might seem a more appealing destination. Especially with someone like Gerrard there as the ideal role-model."

Atkinson also revealed that Shelvey keeps in touch with his old school, and supports the P.E. department on open days. He even texted his old school team manager to let him know of his move to Anfield, an indication of his growing maturity.

"He did have temperament issues as a younger player," says Atkinson. "But I think as he has grown and been immersed in a professional environment, they have been ironed out.

"He was always totally dedicated to his football, that was always clear, and it is always nice to see him when he pops back into the school. He often helps out with open days and things like that, and he sent me a message to say he was on his way to Liverpool on Monday.

"We are all delighted for him, and hopefully we will be hearing a lot more about him in the coming years!"

Jonjo Shelvey Agrees To Join Liverpool FC

Liverpool FC have sealed the signing of England under-17 international Jonjo Shelvey for an initial fee of £1.7m.

Shelvey has passed a medical and agreed personal terms and will complete his move to Anfield from current club Charlton Athletic on May 10.

Liverpool FC managing director Christian Purslow said: "Jonjo is an exciting young England international. His signing is part of our long-term strategic recruitment plan and we all look forward to welcoming him to Melwood (training ground)."

The fee also contains a number of potential add-ons, relating to domestic and international appearances.

Shelvey has made 48 appearances for Charlton since becoming their youngest ever player when he made his debut aged 16 years and 59 days in April 2008.

He is also their youngest goalscorer in both the league and FA Cup and established himself as an important part of the League One side’s first team this season, scoring four goals in 27 appearances in all competitions.

Charlton chairman Richard Murray said: "It’s with the greatest reluctance that we have accepted an offer for Jonjo from Liverpool.

"No club likes to lose such a talented prospect, but the overall package is one we couldn’t refuse, and one which was very attractive to Jonjo.

"As a club, we have never stood in the way of any of our young players moving to ’bigger’ clubs, and this also applies to Jonjo.

"Liverpool are going to develop him over the next few years to be a top player, and I can’t think of a better place for him to go."

The two clubs also revealed that they are in talks over "a strategic partnership involving the development of players in both directions" following Shelvey’s move to the Barclays Premier League.

Liverpool Readying Sensational Bid For Man City Hit Man

Rumours have been circulating over the last few days that Carlos Tevez is far from happy at Man City and that he is on the verge of demanding a transfer with Liverpool seen as a likely destination.

At first the story was seen as pure gossip but now both the Spanish and Italian media are also running with the story and in fact the Italians are fairly confident that Tevez will be at Anfield next season partnering up with his old mate Javier Mascherano and forming a world class partnership with Fernando Torres.

The story goes that Liverpool can afford to pay up to £18 Million and that Man City may well be interested in accepting the bid rather than keep a player that is unhappy in the dressing room, they may even use Tevez has bait to tempt Liverpool to sell Anfield captain Steven Gerrard to City.

With other rumours linking Benitez with the manager’s job at City next season and repeated speculation linking both Gerrard and Torres with moves to City also one can expect that there will be a lot of communicating going on between Man City and Liverpool in the close season.

Chelsea Wants Thomas Ince To Shape Future

Chelsea want to poach Paul Ince’s teenage son Thomas from Liverpool as part of their drive for youth this summer.

Talented winger Thomas, 18, has been at Liverpool’s academy since he was 16 and is one of their most highly rated prospects. He is expected to make it into the first-team soon, at the club where his father spent two years.

Thomas has a year left on his Anfield contract and Chelsea scouts, under orders to bring bright young talent to Stamford Bridge, have watched him regularly. The club are trying to put together a deal to persuade Ince to come to London for the start of next season, but Liverpool are desperate to hang on to him.

Chelsea have also targeted two of Spain’s brightest starlets. Under-17 winger Pablo Sarabia, who plays for Real Madrid’s B team Castilla, has been watched extensively and could be signed for nothing at the end of the season, as he is currently involved in a contract dispute.

Sarabia is also on Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger’s wish list and the Gunners have already made inquiries, while Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola is also keen.

The £16million-rated Under-21 midfielder Javi Martinez of Athletic Bilbao, linked with a move to Liverpool last summer, is also a Chelsea target, with Blues owner Roman Abramovich wanting to place the emphasis on younger, cheaper talent.

Rafael Benitez Growing Frustrated With Juventus Link

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is growing tired of the rumours surrounding his future at the club, with constant speculation the Spaniard will jump ship to Juventus in the summer.

Benitez has been forced to prepare for Thursday's Europa League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid amid the constant distraction of rumours and admits the speculation is starting to frustrate him.

"I don't like [the rumours]," Benitez told reporters ahead of the game at Anfield.

"I would like to see news in the press about trophies, or goals or fantastic performances about players but you cannot control everything.

"My future is Atletico Madrid. We have to concentrate on this game and try to win because it is the best for the club."

With the club having signed 15-year-old Raheem Sterling from QPR earlier in the season, Benitez expects further English additions in the near future as he follows a carefully prepared transfer plan.

"We have been working for years; I was trying to sign Gareth Barry before and Glen Johnson was the same idea - we were trying to bring in British players with passion," he said. "Players who could feel what it means to be a Liverpool player."

Benitez Free To Pursue Potential Juve Move

The attitude of the Liverpool hierarchy towards Rafael Benitez is that they will not stand in his way if the well-trailed offer from Juventus is finally put to their Spanish manager, but both parties regard that situation as still a long way off.

The pressure has been building this week, with more leaks from Italy suggesting that Benitez, who has four years left to run on his Liverpool contract, will be the subject of a £16m, four-year deal from the Italian club. While the Italians are not yet near to putting a formal request to Liverpool there is the sense that the move will speed up over the next few weeks.

Senior figures at Liverpool have indicated that – unlike in the past when Benitez has parlayed his popularity with the fans into improved contracts and greater influence at the club – this will not be the case should Juventus’ offer turn out to be genuine.

Benitez was in a much stronger position in March last year when he signed his existing deal at Liverpool – a four-year extension to 2014. With the club's American co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks desperate to keep some semblance of stability to attract potential buyers, Benitez was regarded as untouchable 11 months ago.

His agent, Manuel Garcia Quilon, is considered by the club as a prime mover in the attempts to broker an agreement with Juventus, although not everyone in English football is really convinced that they have the resources to complete the deal. It is likely that there will be some interest from Real Madrid in Benitez this summer, although the Juventus president, Jean-Claude Blanc, would push for a quick answer should the club put together an acceptable deal.

Rafael Benitez: Daniel Ayala Can Be A Great Defender For Liverpool

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes his young Spanish centre-back Daniel Ayala has the potential to become a "great defender" over the coming years.

The teenager impressed during his second league start of the season in the 4-0 win over Burnley on Sunday.

His first-team call up during a defensive injury crisis at Anfield follows an impressive season at the back for the reserves.

"Daniel has been really good for the reserves through the whole season and now he has had his opportunity in the first-team," Benitez told the club website.

"He is good in the air, he is focused all the time and he has the potential to be a great defender."

Benitez is seemingly thrilled with the 19 year-old's development and was quick to emphasise his contribution against Burnley

"We are really pleased with the progress he has made. Steven Fletcher is a good player and you could see that he had targeted Daniel and he tried to challenge him.

"But he got on with it and you could see that in the second half Daniel's game improved."

Daniel Ayala arrived on Merseyside from Sevilla at the start of the 2007/08 Premier League campaign and has made four league appearances this season.

Rafael Benitez Pleased With Steven Gerrard's Reaction To Recent Off-Field Gossip

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is impressed with the way Steven Gerrard has handled himself in the wake of recent rumours surrounding his personal life.

The midfielder's marriage has been the subject of much speculation in the past week, with some outlets reporting he had split from his wife Alex Curran, and moved into a Liverpool hotel.

After denying any truth to the reports, Gerrard showed his performances on the pitch would be unaffected by the distractions, scoring two goals in his side's 4-0 Premier League win against Burnley at the weekend.

After that display, Benitez is confident his captain will continue to be on top form for the club's remaining challenges of the season — starting with Thursday's Europa League semi-final clash with Atletico Madrid.

"It was important for him to score with all the rumours and he was playing well," Benitez said in his pre-match press conference.

"I think it has been very good for the team. Now we can concentrate on our game and try to do the best, like Gerrard the other day scoring two goals.

"We have a lot of belief and everyone is ready so we have to show this on the pitch.

"If he is a leader on the pitch the rest of the players will follow him."

The Reds are currently 1-0 down after the first leg against Los Colchoneros, but are hoping victory at Anfield will see them progress to the final in Hamburg.

Benitez is even hoping to channel the memory of a past Anfield success to ensure his side get the right result.

"I was talking with the laundry man before I left Melwood and he told me 'I think about the game against Olympiacos','' Benitez revealed, referring to Gerrard's stunning late strike which secured a 3-1 win and the two-goal cushion needed to progress out of the Champions League group stage in 2004. The Reds went on to win the competition.

"We will take this, 3-1. The people believe so the staff have to believe and the players have to have belief too. It will be massive to be in another final so I think everyone will be pushing.

"These games are easy for me in terms of preparing the team talk. It is just to give two or three ideas about the game plan and then leave them to it as they are so focused to succeed.

"We have some players with experience in very important games. The main thing will be to push from the pitch and the players have to go there and show character, commitment and quality.''

Steven Gerrard’s Wife Alex Curran Dismisses Rumours Of Split

The wife of Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has dismissed “ridiculous” suggestions that her marriage to the England player is on the rocks.

Alex Curran, 27, hit out at gossip which was fuelled by pictures of her out and about without her wedding ring. The Liverpool-born Wag told OK! magazine she was now keen to “set the record straight” and insisted the couple “don’t even argue”.

“There have been loads of rumours going around Liverpool saying that me and Steven have split up, that he’s moved into a hotel and ridiculous things like that. This always comes up every couple of years,” she said.

“It’s funny because we were saying the other day that we’ve never been happier.”

The model and fashion columnist insisted suggestions that her marriage was in trouble were completely unfounded, adding: “It doesn’t bother me too much as long as our close friends and family know the truth – that’s all that matters.”

Juventus Reach Agreement With Liverpool Coach Rafael Benitez - Report

Juventus are on the verge of landing Liverpool coach Rafael Benitez after the Italian club reached an agreement with him via his agent Manuel Quillon Garcia, accoring to Tuttosport.

Director Roberto Bettega met with the agent in Monte Carlo on Monday night, where the two men spoke about bringing the Spaniard to Turin.

A verbal agreement has now been reached over a three-year deal, and all that remains is to set him free from the contract he is under at Liverpool.

Bianconeri president Jean-Claude Blanc will fly to Merseyside at the end of the week in an attempt to convince Liverpool into yielding their man.

Despite the report, Juventus have said Bettega was in Turin until 16:00CET on Monday, and neither the agent nor the director has confirmed talks had taken place.

Meanwhile, La Stampa reports that a Benitez arrival in Turin could spark off a squad overhaul at Vinovo.

They claim Fernando Torres, Javier Mascherano, Dirk Kuyt and Martin Skrtel would all follow the coach.

However, reports suggest Liverpool would accept no less than €70million for the Spanish striker.