Rafael Benítez Blames Christian Purslow For Liverpool Exit

Rafael Benítez has blamed Liverpool's managing director, Christian Purslow, for his departure from Anfield and the club's financial problems for last season's dramatic downturn on the pitch.

The former Liverpool manager accepted a severance payment worth up to £6m to leave Anfield this month, following a miserable campaign that yielded a seventh-place finish in the Premier League and saw the club drop out of the Champions League for the first time in six years.

Benítez endured a fraught relationship with Liverpool's co-owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, during his final years at Anfield and the pair tried to replace him as manager with Jürgen Klinsmann. However, the new Internazionale coach said the man responsible for his exit was Purslow, who joined Liverpool in June last year and is now overseeing the search for the Spaniard's successor as manager.

"It was really sad," Benítez said when discussing his departure in an interview with Radio City today. "I was on holiday so it was a surprise that everything was going on in this way, but at the end of the day it has to be like this because Christian Purslow is now in charge and he decided to do it in this way. That is it. It is really sad but you have to move forwards. I said to my family that we cannot stay talking too much or complain too much; we have to move forwards.

Roy Hodgson is expected to become the club's next manager once the terms of his departure from Fulham and contract at Anfield have been resolved, but Benítez said the problems of last season will not be eradicated simply by his exit. "It's strange. This year everything changed from the beginning," he said.

"People in the club changed and the approach to everything was different. Clearly it was a question in the beginning of controlling the money we could spend or not, and everything was different to the past. We were so close to winning the title the year before that everybody was expecting something more but we couldn't do it. We had some problems from the beginning with injuries and some performances, and there was a little bit of frustration. At the end the atmosphere was different and we can see now during the summer that the fans are not very happy."

Benítez kept open the possibility of a return to Merseyside, insisting he has no plans to sell his house in Wirral. He added: "I can guarantee one thing – I will not sell my house. It is our home and we will come back. I don't know when but we will come back for sure."

Birmingham Looking To Hijack Liverpool's Striker Deal

Birmingham have put Serbian striker Milan Jovanovic back on their radar after Rafa Benitez's exit from Liverpool.

Mirrorsport revealed on November 30 that Brum boss Alex McLeish was eying Serbian pair Jovanovic and Nikola Zigic to play together in the Premier League.

City finally got 6ft 8in Zigic, 29, earlier this month in a £6million deal from Spanish club Valencia.

And fellow Serbian World Cup star Jovanovic, 27, is set to leave his club Standard Liege this summer on a Bosman.

The forward was expected to go to Anfield on a free transfer to work under Benitez after talks in January.

But Jovanovic's future has been thrown into doubt following Benitez's move to Champions League winners Inter Milan.

And now Brum would like Jovanovic to come to St Andrews to link up with his compatriot Zigic.

Agent Barry McIntosh confirmed: "Birmingham wanted Jovanovic in January and I tried to make it happen but he wanted to run his contract down.

"Now a move to Birmingham is a possibility once more."

Brum are also interested in Tottenham forward Robbie Keane and Fulham's Bobby Zamora but he is expected to pen a new deal at Craven Cottage.

Torres And Spain March On

Fernando Torres can look forward to a World Cup last sixteen clash against Portugal next week after Spain sealed qualification from Group H with a 2-1 victory over Chile.

First half goals from David Villa and Andres Iniesta secured victory for Del Bosque's men, who have recovered from an opening match defeat to Switzerland to top the group ahead of Chile in second place.

Rodrigo Millar pulled a goal back for Chile in the first minute of the second half, but by that time they had been reduced to ten men after Marco Estrada was dismissed for a trip on Torres and despite pressing for an equaliser they were unable to find the goal which would have changed the dynamic of the group.

Torres was on the field for less than an hour before being replaced by Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas and it remains to be seen whether or not it was an injury which forced his early withdrawal and whether he is a doubt for Spain's mouth-watering knock-out clash with Portugal next week.

Liverpool FC Fans To Hold July 4th Rally Against Tom Hicks & George Gillett

Hundreds of Liverpool FC fans are expected to attend a rally outside St George’s Hall in protest against the club’s American owners.

A line-up of politicians, ex-Reds footballers and musicians have been assembled to speak on July 4, an event billed as “Our Independence Day”.

And the day will signal the launch of a new supporter ownership scheme as part of a bid to wrestle control of Anfield back from reviled Liverpool bosses Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

Credit unions are on the verge of being set up to help supporters raise the £500 necessary to buy a share in the club.

A week on Sunday, Karen Gill, Bill Shankly’s granddaughter, John Aldridge, new Walton MP Steve Rotheram will attend the rally with music from Ian McNabb from the Icicle Works and John Power from Cast and The La’s.

Fans group Spirit of Shankly have been in discussions with Share Liverpool who, in 2008, launched a proposal for 100,000 Reds fans to buy a share for £5,000 to raise the £500m necessary to purchase the club. Over the past 24 months, that figure has been reduced to make the idea more affordable to every day supporters.

It has been suggested for supporters to pool their financial resources together to raise enough cash for a share, or even pay by installments.

The credit union could be set up in the coming months to allow interested Reds to structure payments in installments to secure the money.

Exactly how much is needed before the supporters union could approach Hicks and Gillett with an offer of investment is still being finalized.

James McKenna, spokesperson for Spirit Of Shankly, said: "This day is our chance to truly have independence from the current American owners.

“On what is a symbolic day, we hope it will represent the future of Liverpool Football Club, all fans coming together to make supporter ownership a reality.

“Our plans for supporter ownership, using the credit union format, means it is accessible to everyone.

“We can be custodians of the football club we love, and there is no reason to suggest why we shouldn't be.

"Karen Gill, John Aldridge, and Steve Rotheram, like Spirit Of Shankly, have spoken out about the current ownership and the problems they have caused.

“Now is the time for change at this club, and we want to achieve that.

“We want all fans to come to the rally, hear what is said and make their own mind up."

Figures show Liverpool has £351m debts and huge uncertainty surrounds the transfer budget available to the Reds next manager in the pre-season following the departure of Rafa Benitez.

The Reds failure to qualify for the Champions League last season hit the club’s finances hard and the prospect for a new stadium in Stanley Park has stalled with no cause for optimism on the horizon.

Liverpool Set To Announce Roy Hodgson As Manager

Liverpool expect to finalise the appointment of Roy Hodgson as the club's new manager following his return from South Africa today. The Fulham manager, who has been commenting at the World Cup for the BBC, has been the frontrunner for the Liverpool job since Rafael Benítez left Anfield this month and could be confirmed as the Spaniard's successor within days.

Liverpool have considered several candidates for the position, including the former Real Madrid and Villarreal coach Manuel Pellegrini, but Kenny Dalglish, the club legend asked to conduct the managerial search alongside the managing director, Christian Purslow, is not in the running.

Anfield officials are confident of securing a deal with Hodgson now that he has returned from South Africa and with his prospects of being offered the chance to succeed Fabio Capello as England manager diminished by the national team's World Cup victory over Slovenia.

It is understood the make-up of Hodgson's backroom staff is one of the issues to be resolved prior to his appointment, with the 62-year-old keen to bring the Fulham assistant manager, Mike Kelly, with him to Merseyside.

While Liverpool await the arrival of their next manager, Yossi Benayoun is close to leaving Anfield for Chelsea after the two clubs agreed a £5m fee for the Israel international.

Liverpool's Javier Mascherano Unlikely To Join Inter

Inter president Massimo Moratti has said Javier Mascherano is unlikely to arrive from Liverpool.

"Mascherano is strong, but it is improbable that he will come. He costs too much and plus it's not said that Liverpool will sell him," he told Rai.

Inter have been linked with the Anfield midfielder as he is admired by their ne coch, former Reds manage Rafael Benitez.

But Moratti is looking elsewhere for reinforcements.

"Felipe Melo? It's an intriguing idea which we are working on."

And the chief hopes revamping the squad will lead to further success on the trophy front.

"We want to start well and win everything even next season. Benitez is different to others. He is good and he is a hard worker," he concluded.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic Not Enough To Tempt Liverpool Into Barcelona Swap Deal For Fernando Torres

Liverpool are set to spurn Barcelona's offer to swap Zlatan Ibrahimovic for Spanish superstar Fernando Torres.

Incoming president Sandro Rosell is reported to have put the hot-shot at the top of his wish list as he attempts to make his mark at the Nou Camp. The giant Swede is understod to be surplus to requirments after failing to ignite since last summer's £65 million switch from Inter.

According to the Liverpool Daily Post, La Liga champions are set to test the Anfield outfit's resolve by offering Ibrahimovic plus cash for Torres. The Merseysiders are expected to give the bid short shrift, however, after they decided to hold on to their main striker amid interest from Chelsea and Manchester City.

Liverpool Set For Financial Boost As £16.5m Trio Head For Anfield Exit

Whilst almost every player in our squad has been linked with a move to Inter Milan its good to see some others clubs reportedly taking an interest as well. Without a manager at the reins, which is just ridiculous, there are no doubt loads of teams attempting to to deals whilst no one is looking but Christian Purslow says no one will leave until the vacant position is filled so who am I to argue.

That being said this source suggests that this trio is on their way out which brings a mixture of happiness and sadness in equal measure.

First let’s start with Albert Riera. The Spaniard will surely leave this summer as he has been pretty damn average since the first day he arrived at the club. Too often the winger makes the wrong decision and almost always fails to deliver. There is no doubting the former Espanyol man has some talent its just getting a little boring waiting to see him use that ability whilst wearing a Liverpool shirt. A move to Serie A beckons.

Emiliano Insua is a good little player. Young and eager to get better I wouldn’t want to see the Argentine full back leave and I would imagine who ever the new boss is, Roy Hodgson seems favourite to take the job today, they will probably try to keep the pint sized 21 year old.

That bring us to Yossi Benayoun. It seemed he was all set to join Chelsea and it does seem a deal is quite far away down the line to being completed. This will be a tragedy in my book. The Israeli always makes things happen and tries his heart out every single time he takes to the field, something you can not easily say about everyone else at the club. If he goes to Stamford Bridge then they will have netted themselves an adaptable player who will give you 100% week in, week out.

Who else do my fellow Liverpool fans think will leave, and perhaps more importantly who do they WANT to see pack their bags and get going?

Liverpool In Surprise Move For Wolves Goalkeeper Hennessey

Liverpool are looking to sign Wolves goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey and have already reportedly had a £2million bid turned down for the Wales stopper.

23-year-old Hennessey broke into the Wolves side during the 2007-8 season. Although he was initially Mick McCarthy’s first choice at the start of last season as the club returned to the top flight, he was dropped to the bench in favour of Marcus Hahnemann for most of the campaign.

The Sun reports that Liverpool will make a renewed bid for Hennessey, who has 25 caps for Wales, having had a £2million offer already rejected by Wolves.

Liverpool are thought to have been searching for a reliable understudy to Pepe Reina for some time, with Reading’s Adam Federici previously linked with a move to Anfield.

Stevie Ready For Penalty Pressure

Steven Gerrard today insisted he will rise to the pressure of taking a penalty if England's World Cup progress has to be decided by spot-kicks.

England face Germany in Bloemfontein on Sunday hoping to avenge the bitter memories of the 1990 World Cup and 1996 European Championships when the Germans knocked them out on penalties - and Gerrard believes England's path to the final this time around could eventually need to be settled by another nerve-shredding bout of spot-kick drama.

"I've got a feeling we might have to go to penalties at some point," said Gerrard, who himself missed for his country four years ago in the quarter-final defeat to Portugal.

"As a player at a World Cup, you've got to be prepared for a shoot-out. It's as simple as that.

"We're in the last 16 and the games, when you get further into a tournament are so tight. Hopefully we get a bit more luck this time and I take a better penalty."

England boss Fabio Capello has been instructing his players to practise penalties in training, but Gerrard while admitting it's a useful exercise he insists it's impossible to replicate the high-pressure experience of a World Cup shoot-out on the training pitch.

"When you practice penalties in training you pick a ball up and shoot within a few seconds," he added.

"But in the World Cup it's a 30-second walk from the halfway line when you've got millions and millions of viewers back home wanting you to score? You can't prepare for that.

"But what you can do is be ready and not shy away from it and have the bottle to step up there for another go, especially when you've missed one before.

"All I can say is I'll be ready. It is massive pressure. I didn't handle it in 2006.

"If I'm put in that situation again I will try and deal with the pressure a lot better.

"The manager is on to the penalty takers to make sure we're doing it properly in training and not messing around.

"He wants us to do in training what we do in a game. He said 'pick a spot and not change your mind.'

Skrtel's Slovakia Stun Italy

Martin Skrtel's Slovakia produced one of the shocks of the World Cup as they beat defending champions Italy 3-2 on Thursday afternoon.

Robert Vittek was the hero of the hour, netting a superb brace, as the Fighting Jondas held on to earn the three points and claim a spot in the last 16 on their first ever appearance at the finals.

Substitute Kamil Kopunek was also on target for Vladimir Weiss's men to ensure they finished in second place, behind Group F winners Paraguay.

Antonio Di Natale and Fabio Quagliarella were the goalscorers for the Azzurri, who will now head home following a disastrous defence of the trophy.

Everything Changed Last Season But I’ll Be Back To Liverpool, Says Rafael Benitez

Rafael Benitez has claimed ‘everything changed’ at Liverpool last season and that he will return to the city one day.

The Spaniard left Anfield by mutual consent earlier this month after a disappointing campaign in which his team finished seventh in the Premier League and failed to qualify for the Champions League just a year after narrowly missing out on the league title.

Reflecting on his six years on Merseyside, the new Inter Milan manager claims his final year at Anfield was made difficult due to changes of personnel at the club.

“This year everything changed from the beginning,” said Benitez.

“The people in the club changed and then the approach was different.

“Clearly there was the question of controlling the money we could or couldn’t spend. From the beginning of the season everything was different to in the past. We were so close to winning the title the season before. Everybody was expecting us to do something more. But we had problems from the beginning with injuries and performances. That led to a bit of frustration and you could see the atmosphere at the club was different at the end of the season.

“Now, during the summer, you can see the fans are not very happy.

“I enjoyed the first five years especially but the last year was more difficult. But the memories after six years have been really good overall.”

Despite a strained relationship with the club’s owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, Benitez describes his sadness at his departure and paid tribute to the Liverpool supporters.

“I was really sad to leave Liverpool,” said the 50-year-old. “It’s really sad but you have to move forward. I always say to my family that you cannot stay talking too much, or complain too much.

“The people of Liverpool are fighters and I came here fighting from the beginning until the end. I was really pleased at Liverpool where the fans were amazing. Now I have to think about the future. I must move forward and do the best for my new club.”

As Liverpool faltered last season, Benitez provided the guarantee of a top four finish. It was a promise he could not keep and the former Valencia boss admits to making mistakes during his time at the club.

“Every manager can make mistakes,” he says. “We know we made some mistakes. But if you analyse them in the context of the decision, sometimes you have to do these things.

“For example, if you play two holding midfielders maybe it’s because you don’t have the offensive midfielders you need.

“Some journalists like to analyse but don’t always know exactly what’s going on. It’s difficult to have to explain every single day. But all managers make mistakes and will continue to do so in the future.”

Benitez always maintained his family were settled in England and has said he intends to keep their home on the Wirral.

“I can guarantee one thing,” he finished. “I will not sell my house. It is our home here.

“We will come back. I don’t know when, but we will come back for sure.”

New Reds Home Shirt Is Fastest Selling In Liverpool FC History

Liverpool’s new home kit is the fastest selling in the club’s history, according to commercial director Ian Ayre.

The red Adidas shirt, which features the logo of new sponsors Standard Chartered, was launched last month.

“We’ve had what was the fastest selling shirt we’ve ever had in the new home shirt and the largest amount of orders in the fastest time, so our retail business and particularly our shirt sales have never been so good,” Ayre said.

“It’s a great shirt. Adidas did some great work with us on that. It’s got a new sponsor and I know on the day we launched we shipped 35,000 parcels to over 100 countries. That’s a record for us on day one and sales have been fantastic since then.

“I think we’ve seen historically, and we continue to see, that our fans are very loyal and are keen to keep supporting us at retail and that’s something we’re all grateful for.”

Rafa Benitez And Wife Montse Offer Parting Gift To Hoylake Cottage

As they prepare to leave for Italy former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez and his wife Montse have offered a final donation to the Merseyside care home they have supported since arriving in the city.

The couple left a “generous” but unspecified amount to the Hoylake Cottage Day Care Appeal. It is a parting gift from the couple as Montse gives up her voluntary role of chair of Hoylake Cottage’s social events committee.

She has helped to galvanise support for a £1.5m appeal for a new day care centre for older people.

Now, Montse is house hunting and checking out schools in Milan, as Rafael prepares to take up his new job in charge at Inter Milan FC.

Montse Benitez said: “I was very close to my granny who had dementia for 10 years until she died.

“She had a nurse at home, but not everyone is so lucky which is why I wanted to help Hoylake Cottage.

“I will keep in touch with all the progress and hopefully once the new centre is built, I will come back to join in the celebrations.”

Hoylake Cottage Chair of Trustees Tony Twemlow said: “The gift from Montse and Rafa is extremely generous and we are all more grateful than we can say for their tremendous kindness.

“Their donation will go a long way to helping us to build a centre which will provide relief to older people and those who care for them at home.

“Also, I would like to say a huge thank you to Montse for her support over the years; she has been a fabulous ambassador for Hoylake Cottage and has helped us to gain much-needed support for our events and campaigns.

“I wish her and Rafa lots of success in their new life in Italy.”

Work will start later this year on the first phase of the centre demolishing part of the old building to build a new kitchen and laundry.

Reds Eye Up Rijkaard

Skysports.com understands Liverpool have lined up a move for Galatasaray boss Frank Rijkaard as they search for a new manager.

The Reds are still hunting a replacement for Rafa Benitez following the Spaniard's departure from Anfield earlier this month.

A number of names have been linked with the Anfield hot-seat, including Fulham boss Roy Hodgson and former Real Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini and now Rijkaard has come under consideration from the Liverpool board.

Former Holland international Rijkaard is regarded as one of the best coaches in Europe following his success at Barcelona, where he won two Spanish titles and the UEFA Champions League during his tenure at Camp Nou.

Sources in Turkey claim Liverpool have approached Galatasaray twice in the last week to seek permission to talk to Rijkaard, but that the Turkish club have rejected their overtures.

Rijkaard, who took over at Galatasaray in June 2009, has just a year to run on his current deal, meaning Liverpool may not have to fork out a high compensation fee if they can agree a deal with Galatasaray for the 47-year-old.

The Dutchman is believed to be keen on managing in the Premier League at some stage in his career, but Galatasaray are reluctant to lose his services.

Liverpool are keen to sort out their managerial situation as soon as possible and they could be forced look elsewhere if Galatasaray fail to release Rijkaard.

Liverpool FC Will Tell Barcelona Fernando Torres Is Not For Sale

Liverpool will resist any offers for Fernando Torres.

Reports from Spain claim Barcelona are preparing a £40 million plus bid for the Spain international.

The La Liga champions paid Valencia £36 million for Torres’ international strike partner David Villa last month.

Villa’s capture was thought to cool Barca’s interest in Torres but the Catalan giants want to unite the pair at club level also.

Torres is said to be new Barcelona president Sandro Rosell’s number one target.

Rosell is prepared to test Liverpool’s resolve by offering Zlatan Ibrahimovic in a player plus cash deal.

The Nou Camp club are likely to receive a frosty reception from Liverpool, however, who have continually maintained the star striker is not for sale.

Barcelona’s interest in Torres has come to light just days after defender Gerard Pique urged his club to try and capture the former Atletico Madrid man.

Juventus Target Liverpool Midfielder Albert Riera

Juventus have set their sights on Liverpool midfielder Albert Riera, hoping the strengthen their midfield prior to the season beginning.

Riera struggled to find space in the Reds' starting XI, as former coach Rafael Benitez did not allow the player much game time.

The 28-year-old's arrival at the Bianconeri will depend on the sale of midfielder Tiago and defender Fabio Grosso to Atletico Madrid, according to SportItalia.

A figure of approximately €7-8 million is said to be enough to see the Reds allow the player to leave the side.

German teams Hamburg and Stuttgart are also interested in the Spanish international.

Arsenal Consider Shock £12m Liverpool Star Bid

Arsenal are rumoured to be considering a bid for Liverpool winger Ryan Babel as they look to take advantage of the uncertainty at Anfield to capture a player that Arsene Wenger has long been an admirer of. The 23 year old Dutch international has failed to impress in three seasons on Merseyside and has been linked with a move away from the club as they look to garner funds from player sales.

Many clubs have been linked with moves for the former Ajax man with Birmingham City stumping up a sizeable bid for the talented but inconsistent performer. As yet no offer has been high enough for Liverpool to consider accepting but given that the Gunners have money to spend this summer they may well be able to make an offer that is hard to refuse.

Christian Purslow has stated that no players will be sold until a new boss is appointed but when that vacant position is filled a move from the north London club may well get near to the £10-12m valuation the club has placed on their misfiring star.

Ryan Babel’s long term friend Robin Van Persie will no doubt be keen to see his countryman join him at the Emirates and given that Wenger is looking to bring in established experienced players in to help end a five year silverware-less streak then a move for the Amsterdam born speed king.

RBS Urges Liverpool Sale Patience

Royal Bank of Scotland Group says Liverpool fans must be patient and allow time for chairman Martin Broughton to find the right new owners for the club.

Supports angry at the tenure of Americans George Gillett and Tom Hicks have been contacting the bank since March urging it to restrict the club’s credit facilities. Liverpool owes RBS and Wachovia £237m.

Gillett and Hicks put the club up for sale in April and brought in former British Airways chairman Broughton to oversee the process.

Broughton said in an interview at the time that he was hopeful a sale could be completed before the start of the new Premier League season in August.

But in an emailed response to fans, RBS’s head of public affairs Roger Lowry said: “This [sale] process needs to be allowed sufficient time to maximize the chances of the club being sold to ownership capable of realizing its long-term potential.

“We are confident that the chairman and the board will be mindful of the need to avoid any unnecessary delay in concluding a sale, as it is in no one’s interest to risk deterioration in the performance of the club prior to it being sold.

“I appreciate that the club’s finances have been a source of frustration for many supporters but it is in the interest of the fans, the club and the bank that we continue to support it through this process to ensure its longevity for all concerned.”

Roy Hodgson Flying Back Home To Finalise Deal To Become New Liverpool Boss

Fulham boss Roy Hodgson is flying back to England hoping to seal the deal to become Liverpool’s next manager.

Hodgson was the most likely candidate to replace England manager Fabio Capello if the Three Lions had crashed out of the World Cup on Wednesday and the Italian was forced to resign.

The Cottagers' manager has been the Reds number one target to replace Rafael Benitez, who left Anfield to lead Inter Milan next season, and Liverpool made an official move for Hodgson last week, according to The Mirror.

Negotiations between Hodgson and Liverpool have stalled as the Fulham boss is currently working as a BBC pundit at the World Cup.

However, Hodgson is returning to England to complete his move to Liverpool, with club officials planning to announce the deal within the next two days.

Liverpool have talked to numerous candidates including Aston Villa boss Martin O’Neill, former Real Madrid manager Manuel Pellegrini and Alex McLeish of Birmingham City.

Reds legend Kenny Dalglish and managing director Christian Purslow were given the responsibility of finding a new manager and the two decided that Hodgson was the best choice for Liverpool.

England And Liverpool FC Captain Steven Gerrard Helps The Nation Smile Again

Steven Gerrard believes England have started to answer their critics as they moved into the last 16 at the World Cup.

A first half Jermain Defoe goal was enough to beat Slovenia in Port Elizabeth to see Fabio Capello’s team finish second in Group C behind the USA who beat Algeria 1-0 in Pretoria.

Consecutive draws against the American’s and Algeria had threatened England’s progress in South Africa.

Gerrard had questioned the desire of the team ahead of the final group match, insisting the supporters deserved much more.

His rallying call had the desired effect and now the Liverpool and England captain wants more of the same in the knockout stage when they face Germany in Bloemfontein on Sunday.

“We did everything that could be asked for,” said Gerrard.

“We showed passion, fight, team spirit, togetherness and quality as well. We thoroughly deserved to go through.

“We’ve done this before as when our backs are against the wall and there are people doubting us we roll our sleeves up and produce the goods, but we need to do that all of the time to get to the final stages of the tournament.

”We need to find consistency now, especially in the knockout stages because if we perform like we did against Algeria then I don’t think we will get another chance.”

England missed a host of chances to settle the match before enduring some nervy moments as Slovenia put together a late charge.

“When you need to win a game and when you don’t finish teams off you’re going to be be anxious at the end,” admitted Gerrard.

“But I thought all the players that started the game and all the subs were terrific.

“We need to find consistency now in the knock-out stages.

“I think if we play like we did on Wednesday and keep listening to the manager and keep delivering what he’s asking we’ve got the quality you need to win football matches, anything can happen.”

Gerrard started on the left of a four-man midfield as Capello looked to accommodate Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry in the middle.

The Italian has been criticised for not utilising Gerrard in his favoured central role but the midfielder was pleased with his performance.

Wayne Rooney is yet to score, however, but Gerrard was quick to defend the Manchester United striker.

He said: “I felt very comfortable and I am very happy with my form throughout the tournament so far but I don’t think it’s fair though to point out any individuals from today as all the players and all the substitutes that came on were terrific.

“Wayne’s had a bit of criticism over the last couple of games but today he worked his socks off and showed his quality.

“I know goals are around the corner for him.

“If we play like we did, stick together, keep trying to improve and keep listening to the manager – because his ideas and what he wants from the team are spot on – and deliver what he’s asking then we will be difficult to beat.

“We have the quality in the team to win football matches.”

Hillsborough Files Face Delay

The new coalition government today issued its support for the release of previously unseen Hillsborough files as it was revealed it could be another 18 months before they are disclosed to the public.

The Hillsborough Independent Panel had hoped the papers would be available by the spring of this year, but it is now believed the proposal will be reworked, with publication expected in early 2012.

There were some fears that the project could lose momentum after Labour lost power, however, the Conservative and Lib-Dem coalition government has today given the first indication it is firmly in support of the panel.

A spokesman for the Home Office said: "The panel has made a good start on the complex and challenging process of releasing the mass of material relating to the Hillsborough disaster that has remained hidden from the public for more than 20 years.

"Positive and productive work is ongoing between the panel members, the families and public partners including South Yorkshire Police and Sheffield City Council.

"But full public disclosure will not happen overnight.

"The panel wants to achieve disclosure as quickly as possible, but is absolutely determined to get the process right."

Margaret Aspinall, chairwoman from the Hillsborough Family Support Group, added: "We are in agreement with one report at the end of the process, so long as the files are looked at fully.

"We trust the panel implicitly to get on with this mammoth task and we will be meeting them on occasions along the way.

"Hopefully, it won't take longer than the two years which has been set aside."

Sheila Coleman, spokeswoman for the Hillsborough Justice Campaign, said: "I wouldn't be surprised if documents weren't released as we proceed as it would open up to people challenging the evidence which could lead to complications in their eyes.

"The government wants this to be a smooth exercise."

Torres 'Set To Lead Liverpool Exodus'

Fernando Torres is among four players set to walk out on Liverpool - including one who hasn't even joined the club yet - according to reports.

The brilliant striker is set to be the subject of a £38m bid from Barcelona, who believe he is eager for a move to the Nou Camp.

Javier Mascherano is also thought to be a Barca target, with Rafael Benitez's new club Inter Milan also interested.

And Milan Jovanovic, who had agreed to join Benitez at Anfield before his dismissal, may now choose to link up with the manager at the San Siro instead.

Meanwhile left-back Emiliano Insua is said to be keen on a switch to Fiorentina, with the club's haggling over his likely £4m transfer fee.

Toure Deal Will Increase Barcelona Interest In Liverpool's Mascherano

With Manchester City having all but signed Yaya Toure from Barcelona, the Catalan giants will intensify their interest in Liverpool's Javier Mascherano, according to Spanish daily AS.

It appears that the drawn out transfer of Toure may finally have been completed with sections of the Spanish media reporting that the midfielder will move to Manchester City for 30 million euros with only the formality of a medical outstanding. Spanish daily 'Sport' reports that "the agreement between the clubs is closed."

Meanwhile, AS speculates that the sale of Toure will speed up a Barcelona bid for Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano. It had been thought that the Spanish champions were put off by a 30 million price tag, but given the sale of Toure, Barcelona will increase their interest in the Argentina captain, having attempted to prize him away from Anfield last summer. AS describes the deal now as "more feasible".

Should Barcelona attempt to sign Mascherano, it is thought that they will have to compete with Inter Milan for the 26-year-old's signature. Mascherano has spoken openly of his admiration for former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez, now in charge at the San Siro.

Mascherano, widely regarded as the best holding midfielder in the world, played 47 games for Liverpool last season and is currently starring at the World Cup for Argentina.

Barcelona Weighing Up £38m Move For Liverpool Striker Fernando Torres

Barcelona are believed to be lining up a £38 million bid to secure the signature of Spain and Liverpool striker Fernando Torres, according to the Daily Mail.

The Reds had a torrid campaign last season, with early exits in all cup competitions and a disaster in the domestic circuit that saw the club miss out on Champions League qualification.

The Merseyside club's biggest names have consequently been linked with moves away from Anfield since, with the Spanish heavyweights reported to have been keen on signing the hitman.

However, the Catalan club are believed to be unwilling to pay more than £38m to sign the forward, and believe that the Anfield ace is willing to join their ranks.

Chelsea have also been linked with a move for the prolific goal scorer, and it has been speculated that the Stamford Bridge coffers may open wider than the Spanish ones to sign the forward.

It is said that Barca believe that Torres' inclination to make a move to Camp Nou will see them pip their Premier League rivals in winning the race to sign the hitman.

Wolves Keen For Liverpool To Revive Hennessey Bid

Wolves are counting on Liverpool to revive their interest in goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey.

The Express & Star says Hennessey is among players being made available by Wolves this summer.

It is understood Liverpool lodged a £2m bid for Hennessey before Rafael Benitez’s departure as they sought back-up for Pepe Reina, and the keeper is known to be unhappy at his exile from the team.

Jovanovic Hints At Reds U-turn

Serbia international Milan Jovanovic has revealed he could pull out of his move to Liverpool.

The 29-year-old signed a pre-contract agreement with the Premier League giants in February as his deal with Belgian side Standard Liege was coming to an end this summer.

But the Reds then failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League and manager Rafael Benitez has since left Anfield and joined Inter Milan.

There has been speculation Benitez will attempt to hijack the transfer and take the striker with him to the San Siro.

And Jovanovic has claimed he may be able to pull out of the move, which was set to see him sign a three-year contract at Anfield.

"There is an agreement signed with Liverpool," he is quoted as saying on Tuttomercatoweb.com.

"But if either party wants to end it, it's not impossible."

AC Milan, Juventus and Valencia were all thought to be tracking Jovanovic when his agreement with Liverpool was initially announced.

And he has provided further evidence of his quality at the World Cup, scoring the only goal in Serbia's 1-0 upset of Germany.

Fear Of World Cup Failure Will Spur Us On, Says Steven Gerrard

Captain Steven Gerrard has said England will be driven on by the fear of failure in their make or break World Cup encounter with Slovenia.

And the Liverpool midfielder knows it is vital that Fabio Capello's side do not buckle under the pressure in Port Elizabeth.

Gerrard accepts England "stopped doing the things we're good at" during the goalless draw with Algeria in Cape Town on Friday.

Now they need a win against the current group leaders Slovenia to guarantee a place in the last 16.

Gerrard said: "The fear of not winning drives you on. The last thing you want is to go home in the group stages.

"We've come here to stay in this tournament to the end. It would be an absolute disaster for this group of players to go home after the group stages.

"We want more. We want a performance. The key is to try and live without fear. There is pressure and fear.

"You're playing for England and you have massive support. It doesn't help to go on to the pitch and play with that fear.

"You have to go on to the pitch and try and relax, be patient. The performance will come."

Gerrard acknowledges England will be favourites, despite their stuttering form, but feels the World Cup has proved nothing can be taken for granted.

He said: "On paper, we're massive favourites. They're a small nation compared to us.

"But every game in this World Cup, as has been proven, is difficult.

"They only need a draw, and the pressure is on us because we need to win the game. But we need to live with that, play with that on our shoulders and get on with it."

Gerrard is clear in his own mind what England have to put right if they are to overcome Slovenia.

He said: "We've stopped doing the things we're good at. We watched the game with Algeria in the team meeting, without anyone talking, and it was clear to see we weren't aggressive enough.

"We didn't play to our strengths. We didn't press high enough. We didn't win the ball back when we lost possession.

"We didn't run enough, press the ball enough. I don't think we made any big mistakes in the game.

"We kept a clean sheet and didn't lose the game. We did okay up until the final third, but then we didn't have the cutting edge to break that team down. We need to get that in this game."

Torres Ready To Go Distance

Fernando Torres believes he is ready to play 90 minutes for Spain after starting his first game of the World Cup finals on Monday evening.

The Liverpool striker figured for 70 minutes as La Furia Roja recorded their first win in South Africa with a 2-0 success over Honduras.

With a first start since undergoing knee surgery in April now under his belt, Torres insists he is ready to go the distance in Spain's next outing against Chile on Friday.

"I'm ready to play the full 90 minutes when the boss sees fit," he said.

"I played 70 minutes and the good news is I feel ready to last for 90 minutes for the first time since my recovery."

David Villa struck twice to help Vicente del Bosque's side to three points against the Hondurans, while the Barcelona newboy also missed a penalty during an absorbing encounter in Johannesburg.

The result means a win over Group H leaders Chile will see Spain successfully navigate their way into the last 16 of the World Cup.

"Once again we created plenty of chances," reflected El Nino. "We scored, but we missed a lot of chances. We still need to get the feel of the ball.

"Villa and I have said we understand each other perfectly and hopefully we can play together again, although we've always said that if we don't then it doesn't matter as long as the team works well.

"Jesus Navas got to the by-line well and we spent most of the game camped in their half. And scoring in the first-half helped the side a lot. Our gameplan is clear."

He added: "Our defeat against Switzerland was already water under the bridge, we talked about it and it's not logical to look back. We played in the same style as we played against Switzerland, we attacked and played short passes.

"This first group of games is very difficult, we still have a match to play against Chile. Being world champions is a long way down the road.

"Not just for any national squad, but in terms of time as well, there is a long time to go before the final and there are many matches to play before then. At the moment we are focused on Chile, beating them and moving on to the next round."

While England's frustrating World Cup campaign has come under the media microscope recently, Torres is eager to highlight the positive backing Spain are receiving back home.

He said: "We are very happy with the press back home. They have shown their support to the team since day one.

"The rest of the world are waiting for us to make a mistake, they doubt our style of play, but I don't feel that they have any reason to do so."

Liverpool Legend Jan Molby Believes England Captain Steven Gerrard Must Partner Wayne Rooney In Attack Against Slovenia

Liverpool and Denmark legend Jan Molby reckons Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard must partner Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney in attack to allow for an overall balance throughout the side.

Molby believes Fabio Capello must reinvigorate his England side for their Wednesday evening clash with Slovenia if he is to gain the necessary result that will see England through to the knockout stages of the World Cup competition.

"It's simple for me. I would go with a 4-5-1 system with Steven playing just off Rooney," Molby told Liverpool’s official website when quizzed about Gerrard’s on field position.

"I'd play Joe Cole on the left and play two central midfielders in Gareth Barry and Michael Carrick.

"Frank Lampard has had no impact on this World Cup whatsoever and it's now time for action if England are to make the last 16.

"Your job as a manager is to get the best out of your players and Capello is not doing that at the moment with Steven."

Gerrard, who has scored 17 goals in 82 international appearances for England, has scored the only goal of England’s World Cup campaign so far; the opening goal of their 1-1 draw with the United States on June 12.