Skrtel: Anyone Can Play Now

Martin Skrtel believes Liverpool finally has a squad capable of competing at the top end of the Barclays Premier League.

The Reds have collected seven points from their opening three games and temporarily went top of the league this weekend.

Their latest victory against Bolton on Saturday was secured with record signing Andy Carroll on the bench, while a week ago Kenny Dalglish left Luis Suarez out of his starting XI for our trip to Arsenal.

For Skrtel this is an illustration of the strength within the squad.

"For this season we signed a few new players and we have a really strong squad now," the Slovakian told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"It doesn't matter who is playing now. We have maybe 22 players and everyone can play in a game. That's very good and we can compare to the best teams in the Premier League.

"I can say we are playing in one of the best periods since I came to the club.

"We had a target at the start of the season. Now we'll just try to win every single game, get as many points as possible and qualify for the Champions League."

Skrtel scored his fourth goal for the Reds in Saturday's 3-1 win having previously netted against Tottenham, West Brom and Man City.

This after replacing the injured Martin Kelly to operate in an unfamiliar role on the right of a back four.

"I'm delighted because it's only my fourth goal for LFC, so I'm happy," he added.

"Right-back is not my position but if the manager needs me there, I'm happy to play there. It's quite different from playing in the middle but I'll be happy if I play every single game for the club - it doesn't matter which position! I will always try to do my best for the club."

Skrtel now departs for international duty hoping to collect his 50th cap versus the Republic of Ireland before a game against Armenia.

'We Just Watched The Suarez Show'

Jamie Redknapp cannot wait to see Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez on the same pitch.

Both Redknapp and the injured Gerrard were at Anfield on Saturday as Liverpool swept aside Owen Coyle's resilient Bolton.

Several home players could have claimed the match champagne afterwards, but it was Suarez who had our former midfielder purring.

"I could pass a bit as a player and I love to see a playmaker open a defence with a pass," explained Redknapp. "Luis Suarez can do it too.

"The most difficult pass to execute is with the outside of the foot, because it's harder to establish the correct contact and weight. When Suarez bent a drifting, right-footed in-swinger from the left to Stewart Downing that inspired the first goal, it was stunning.

"I bumped into Steven Gerrard on Saturday as I was leaving Anfield and, while he hasn't played this season after a miserable run of injuries, he was in very good spirits.

"Like me, he'd just been watching the Luis Suarez show and Stevie will be excited about the prospect of playing alongside Liverpool's new star again.

"I can't wait to see the two of them together, either. They will be on the same wavelength."

Match Report: Liverpool 3 - 1 Bolton

Jordan Henderson and Charlie Adam scored their first Liverpool goals as the Reds crushed Bolton to move top of the Barclays Premier League tonight.

The summer signings struck either side of a powerful Martin Skrtel header as the hosts, inspired by the outstanding Luis Suarez, produced an electrifying performance at Anfield.

Bolton struck late on through Ivan Klasnic but generally offered little as Liverpool, backed by a raucous crowd, displayed further evidence of their rejuvenation under Kenny Dalglish.

The home team maintained a ferocious tempo from the kick-off with Suarez, preferred to Andy Carroll up front, at the heart of almost all their attacking play.

With another new player in Stewart Downing also influential, Liverpool looked a different proposition from the Roy Hodgson side which started the last campaign so sluggishly.

For Bolton defeat was a reality check after a promising start to the season.

It may also have been their last game with Gary Cahill as Arsenal consider whether to make another bid for the inspirational defender before Wednesday's transfer deadline.

Bolton struggled to cope with the pace of Liverpool and was fortunate to survive when Downing lost control in the area after a quick counter-attack.

It came as little surprise when the Reds claimed the lead after more good work in the 15th minute.

Suarez brilliantly crossed into the box with the outside of his left boot and Jussi Jaaskelainen reacted quickly to keep out Downing's volley.

Dirk Kuyt was first to the loose ball and fed Henderson who, after his first effort was blocked by Nigel Reo-Coker, fired firmly into the top corner.

Bolton almost grabbed a spectacular equalizer moments later when Chris Eagles crossed for Martin Petrov but Jose Reina parried the Bulgarian's tight-angled volley.

Liverpool upped the tempo with Suarez driving forward and Kuyt almost diverting in a low cross in from close range.

Suarez then broke clear and coolly lobbed Jaaskelainen but the ball dropped just over the bar.

Both sides were forced to reorganize midway through the first half.

Bolton sent on Mark Davies after Fabrice Muamba went off before Liverpool right-back Martin Kelly, who missed the closing months of last season, left the action to be replaced by Skrtel.

Suarez delivered another dangerous cross but Kuyt volleyed straight at Jaaskelainen from a Downing flick-on.

Kuyt then went close from long range before the Reds appealed for a penalty when Gretar Steinsson handled as Downing tried to flick the ball past him.

Replays, however, backed referee Lee Probert's decision to give a free-kick just outside the box and Henderson's cross was cleared.

Liverpool maintained the pressure after the break and within moments of the restart Suarez was clear again.

The Uruguayan broke into the box but his fall after an attempted challenge by Zat Knight seemed rather theatrical.

Suarez, with countryman and prospective new signing Sebastian Coates watching in the main stand, was then involved in the action again on the edge of the area.

He was bundled off the ball but Adam picked up possession and had a shot deflected wide.

The Scot took the resulting corner himself and delivered an inviting cross for Skrtel to double the lead with a thumping header.

Adam got on the scoresheet barely a minute later as he finished off good work from Kuyt by firing low past Jaaskelainen.

It almost got worse for Bolton as Suarez rounded Jaaskelainen but shot into the side-netting.

Bolton had a rare opportunity when Klasnic had a shot blocked by Jamie Carragher.

But there was little respite for the Trotters as Daniel Agger charged forward from deep to fire a shot well over.

Liverpool should have had a free-kick inside the area when Jaaskelainen clearly handled a back-pass from Paul Robinson under pressure from Suarez but Probert gave nothing.

Suarez and Henderson made way for Carroll and Maxi Rodriguez 14 minutes from time.

The Reds eased off but continued to dominate possession with Jose Enrique twice finding room to whip in good crosses.

Some of the gloss was taken off their afternoon, however, when Petrov troubled Carragher and Klasnic tapped in a stoppage-time consolation.

Dalglish Delighted With Reds

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish paid tribute to his players after a 3-1 victory over Bolton lifted them top of the Premier League table.

It is early days in the season and Manchester United and Manchester City will have the opportunity to go back above the Reds on Sunday, but there has been plenty for the Anfield faithful to get excited about already this term.

Jordan Henderson, Martin Skrtel and Charlie Adam scored to seal the win and even a late consolation from Ivan Klasnic did not take the gloss off for Dalglish.

"It was a pleasure to watch," he told Sky Sports.

"We got the result because we worked hard, played together and played for each other.

"To lose a goal at the end maybe puts a dampener on it for 40 seconds or so but that also says a lot."

Luis Suarez may not have got on the scoresheet but he was once again an inspirational figure in attack, and Dalglish had nothing but praise for the Uruguayan.

The Scot said: "He's a fantastic player and a good character in and around the place."

Henderson and Stewart Downing were also united in their acclaim for Suarez after the final whistle.

"His movement is brilliant, he's always moving and always looking to get in behind," Henderson said of Suarez, who led Uruguay to the Copa America title this summer.

"He's a nightmare for defenders."

Downing was similarly enthusiastic, saying: "We all know he is a top player.

"He creates things and he scores goals too, he's had a long summer but it doesn't seem to be affecting him."

Bolton Remain Keen On David Ngog

Bolton Wanderers remain keen to sign Liverpool forward David Ngog in a £3 million deal, according to reports.

The French forward has been heavily linked with a move away from Anfield in the transfer window, with Kenny Dalglish thought to be weighing up his current attacking options.

Owen Coyle has remained coy over his interest in the 22-year-old, who moved to Liverpool from PSG in 2008, but admitted that his side could use more players for the advanced position.

"We do have a goal threat - and we will look to add to that - and for me that augurs well," said the Trotters boss.

"We are still trying to get people in but I don't have anyone cut and dried at this moment. In the next few days we will try to pursue that quite vigorously to ensure that happens.

"We will try to get the one or two in who we think will help us because we want to make sure we have a squad that is able to cope with the demands of the season."

Rafael Benitez brought Ngog to England for an undisclosed fee, and the French U21 international has since made 94 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool.

However, the player finds himself behind Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll in the Liverpool pecking order, and a move to the Reebok could provide the youngster with his first taste of regular first team football.

The Daily Express claim Liverpool will be looking for around £3 million from any possible sale.

Coyle - Cahill Affected

Bolton manager Owen Coyle admitted after the 3-1 defeat to Liverpool that Gary Cahill's performance had suffered as a result of the recent transfer speculation.

The defender has attracted interest from Arsenal this summer and Coyle admitted on Friday that Bolton had rejected an offer that was so far below their valuation 'the word derisory doesn't even cover it'.

Arsene Wenger later responded by saying the reported figure of £6m-£7m was wrong, but there are now just a few days remaining to see if the Gunners can reach an agreement to buy Cahill.

Coyle was reluctant to discuss Cahill's situation after the Anfield loss but did concede that he had not been at his best.

"I do think it had an effect on him today," said Coyle.

"It's probably the first time I have seen him not be the normal outstanding lad that he is. But that can happen to anyone."

Coyle did also admit that he would not stand in Cahill's way if a bigger club came in with a suitable offer.

"If something happens prior to Wednesday and Gary is to leave the club then I, as a manager, will wish him all the very best. He is a great lad," Coyle said.

"But if it doesn't then Gary is all heart and he will be ready to give everything for Bolton Wanderers.

"Gary wants to play at the highest level and there is nothing wrong with that ambition and he has been a terrific servant for Bolton.

"The bottom line is, if someone out there has a price that I think is the right value for Gary Cahill and they make an offer, then there is a chance business will be done.

"If they don't, there is nothing to talk about."

Coyle was philosophical about his side's performance, admitting that while Liverpool had played well, Bolton had not helped their own cause with some poor defending.

"Liverpool are a very good side but saying that, I thought we started the game pretty well," said Coyle.

"It was a great finish from Jordan Henderson but that's why you pay £20million for players, exquisite finishes like that."

Coyle added: "We shot ourselves in the foot at the start of the second half by conceding two goals.

"They were good finishes from both the (Liverpool) lads but poor defending from us as a group, and it gave us a mountain to climb."

Jordan Henderson Hails Luis Suarez

Jordan Henderson scored his first Liverpool goal in a 3-1 win over Bolton Wanderers at Anfield, but insisted Luis Suarez should take the credit for the victory.

The Uruguayan striker did not manage to join Henderson, Martin Skrtel and Charlie Adam on the scoresheet, but he posed a constant threat and caused a Bolton defence that included £17million-rated Gary Cahill no end of problems.

Henderson, a £16million summer signing from Sunderland, was quick to pay tribute to Suarez after a victory that sent Liverpool to the top of the Premier League table.

'His movement is brilliant, he's always moving and always looking to get in behind. 'He's a nightmare for defenders,' the England midfielder said.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish also had words of praise for Suarez following a game he thought was a 'pleasure to watch'.

'He's a fantastic player and a good character in and around the place,' Dalglish said.

Henderson opened the scoring after just 15 minutes at Anfield with a fine finish that will silence some of the critics who have suggested Liverpool paid too much for him.

Skrtel doubled the home side's advantage with a powerful header from Adam's corner seven minutes after half-time, before Adam made certain of the three points with his first Reds goal just 60 seconds later.

Liverpool should have extended their lead, but ended up conceding in injury-time when Jamie Carragher's mistake allowed Martin Petrov to set up Ivan Klasnic for a close-range finish.

Dalglish Rues International Break

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has expressed his frustration that his new signings' bedding-in process at Anfield will be disrupted by the forthcoming international break.

Dalglish is eager to get his squad settled, but after Saturday's home fixture against Bolton, and with their Barclays Premier League campaign just three games old, the group will then split as the players go off to represent their countries.

"It's a fantastic honour to represent your country and you should go and do that, but you get a wee bit of momentum going (at club level), then you're off for two weeks and have to pick it up again and start off," said Dalglish, whose side's next match after Bolton is a trip to Stoke on September 10.

"It's difficult, but it's the same for everybody - and everybody knew the score before we started (the season).

"New boys come in, they're settling down and here for a wee while, and then they've got to go and represent their countries.

"It's not undermining the honour of representing your country, it's just a fact of life - the longer they're here, the quicker they'll settle."

Henry Questions Transfer Critics

Liverpool owner John W Henry is baffled by criticism of the club's summer spending spree and believes critics have been hypocritical.

Since taking over the club in October 2010, Henry has sanctioned big-money signings such as Andy Carroll, Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing for a combined figure in the region of £71million.

The American entrepreneur claims the same critics who have slated the club's policy of spending huge sums on British talent are those who questioned that he had the team's best interests at heart upon his takeover.

"It's odd to be criticized by some who think we are overspending," he told The Daily Telegraph. "The worry seemed to be that we wouldn't spend.

"But we've been consistent, we intend to strengthen this club annually but that doesn't mean we will deficit spend.

"Look at the prices paid this summer for (Connor) Wickham and (Alex) Chamberlain. At Liverpool we have purchased each player for a different reason, and are headed in the right direction.

"This year our goal is to get back to the Champions League. But it won't be easy as there are six big clubs - among the best in Europe - fighting for four spots.

"It's up to us to strengthen revenues. Only then will we be strong enough to compete in Europe."

Meanwhile, Henry revealed talks over Liverpool's prospective ground move are ongoing, but suggests a new business strategy may be needed to fulfil the club's potential, although a ground-share with Everton is unlikely.

He said: "There's no doubt that if a new stadium were to be built in Liverpool from a financial prospective, which is the major issue, a ground-share would be helpful for both clubs.

"But there doesn't seem to be any support for that from fans. If Anfield cannot be expanded, a new stadium is a wonderful choice.

"But we already have 45,000 seats. If a new stadium is constructed with 60,000 seats you've spent an incredible sum just to add 15,000 seats.

"If the cost is £300million for an extra 15,000 seats, that doesn't make any sense. Liverpool isn't London, you can't charge £1million for a long-term club seat."

Reds To Face Brighton

Liverpool will visit Brighton in the third round of the Carling Cup.

The Reds will travel to the Amex for the clash with the Seagulls in the week commencing September 19.

Kenny Dalglish's side set up the tie following a 3-1 win at Exeter City in the previous round.

The last time the two sides faced each other in the competition was at the same stage back in October 1985.

The boss was on target that day but it was Paul Walsh's hat-trick that stole the limelight as Liverpool ran out 4-0 winners at Anfield.

Match Preview: Liverpool vs Bolton

Liverpool will expect to make it a perfect 10 wins on the trot over Saturday's opponents Bolton at Anfield.

Not since September 2006 has the Reds dropped points against the Trotters, when Sam Allardyce inflicted a 2-0 defeat upon his then counterpart Rafa Benitez.

Much has changed at both clubs since then, with Liverpool scoring 23 goals to Bolton's four in reply, taking in an impressive sequence of nine victories both home and away.

However, only Manchester City have scored more goals than Bolton in their opening two Premier League games this season, following a 4-0 opening win at Queens Park Rangers and a 3-2 home defeat to Roberto Mancini's side last time out.

Kenny Dalglish's side are unbeaten, though, with four points on the board following an opening-day Anfield draw with Sunderland, followed by a comfortable 2-0 win over Arsenal at the Emirates.

Both sides were successful against lower league opposition in the Carling Cup in midweek, but changes are expected to be made upon the return of top flight football.

Liverpool Team News

Dalglish is yet to name the same side in Liverpool's opening three fixtures and has a fresh injury concern adding to the absence of club captain Steven Gerrard and full-back Glen Johnson.

Raul Meireles, who earned his first start in the midweek win at Exeter, was forced off in the 3-1 win at St James Park after a nasty fall on his collarbone. The extent of the midfielder's injury is yet to be revealed, but he can expect to play no part against Bolton.

Dalglish is likely to name the same back five, including goalkeeper Pepe Reina, which kept Arsenal at bay last Saturday, with full-backs Jose Enrique and Martin Kelly earning the right to support stand-in captain Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger at centre-half.

Lucas Leiva and Charlie Adam appear to be Dalglish's preferred central midfield pairing at present, and Stewart Downing can expect to start on the left flank, while Dirk Kuyt may return to the right.

With Andy Carroll, who replaced Meireles against the Grecians and scored Liverpool's third, is off the mark for the season and is likely to start alongside Luis Suarez, who has netted three goals in three games.

Bolton Team News

Tuncay Sanli has given Bolton boss Owen Coyle a selection headache, having come off the bench to single-handedly rescue the Trotters from defeat to Macclesfield Town on Wednesday.

The Turkish playmaker came off the bench to make his debut and spectacularly equalized with an aerial volley before setting up Martin Petrov for the winner.

Coyle has named an unchanged side in his two league encounters so far, though, so Tuncay may be forced to settle as a useful option from the bench.

Gretar Steinsson is struggling to keep his place after picking up a foot injury, and he will face a late fitness test.

And the game may come too soon for Ricardo Gardner to make the match squad as he continues to shrug off a groin strain, while Marcos Alonso, Sam Ricketts and Stuart Holden are all sidelined.

Chung-Yong Lee and Tyrone Mears are long-term absentees having each suffered a broken leg in pre-season.

Possible Starting XI

Liverpool: Reina, Enrique, Carragher, Agger, Kelly, Lucas, Adam, Downing, Kuyt, Suarez, Carroll.

Bolton: Jaaskelainen, Robinson, Knight, Cahill, Steinsson, Reo-Coker, Muamba, Petrov, Eagles, Klasnic, K Davies.

Liverpool Plot Late Move To Sign Barcelona Attacker

Liverpool’s director of football is eyeing up a late move for Barcelona winger Ibrahim Afellay as the Merseyside club looks to continue their summer spending. The attacker has barely featured for the Catalan side since his move to the Nou Camp in January and the signing of Chilean Alexis Sanchez will push the former PSV Eindhoven man further down the pecking order and may convince the Dutch international to consider pastures new.

Thus far Liverpool have spent over £50m to bring Jordan Henderson, Doni, Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam and Jose Enrique to Anfield and having resolved the lack of natural width on the left hand side now boss Kenny Dalglish may look to do likewise for the right hand side of his attack.

For the past few seasons Dirk Kuyt has been employed as a converted right winger, a role he has succeeded in making his own, but the 31 year old is very much a square peg in a round hole. There is no doubt the former Feyenoord man gives his all and is a determined performer but Dalglish is known to like the use of traditional wingers and may feel that Afellay may be the right man to fill the spot in the long term.

Comolli has had dealings with Barcelona in the past and pulled off of a coup back in 2008 when he brought Mexican youngster Giovani dos Santos to Tottenham, a move that was considered something of a shock at the time. Now the French head scout is interested in snapping up Afellay.

The 25 year old Afellay cost Barcelona just £2.5m back in January as the Utrecht born winger, who can also play as an attacking central midfielder, was set to be out of contact at the Eredivisie side in the summer. Pep Guardiola may be ready to accept offers in excess of £5/7m as such a fee would represent a profit and would help balance the books at the La Liga giants, who have spent over £45m to bring the aforementioned Sanchez and Cesc Fabregas to the club.

Liverpool Consider Move For £10m Rated Italian International Hotshot

AS Roma have offered striker Marco Borriello to Liverpool.

Il Tempo says Borriello, who has been put up for sale by Roma this week, has rejected an offer from Fulham.

Determined to clear him off the books, Roma made contact with Liverpool about the striker’s availability.

Liverpool did not shut the door, but told Roma to wait while the Reds pursue Manchester City attacker Craig Bellamy.

By all accounts Marco Borriello is fairly confused as to why he is being made available by Roma, especially given that fellow Stadio Olimpico striker Mirko Vucinic has been sold to Juventus. Clearly the arrival from Barcelona of Bojan may though have an impact on how often the 29 year old former AC Milan gets a spot in Luis Enrique’s starting eleven.

Marco Borriello has been in fine form in recent seasons, notching 19 goals with Genoa in 2007/08 which earned the Naples born striker a move to the San Siro where in 2009/10 he managed 15 goals with the Rossoneri but led to a surprise loan spell away from the club when Zlatan Ibrahimovic arrived at AC Milan.

Last term at Roma the talented frontman netted 15 goals in all competitions and it is therefore a little odd that he is being offered to all and sundry. Perhaps Kenny Dalglish feels that Borriello would be a useful back up for first choice pair Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll. David N’Gog doesn’t appear good enough to play for Liverpool and Dirk Kuyt is not a fully converted right winger.

Roma are thought to want a fee in the region of £10m for the experienced Serie A man and that fee may be a fair one given his recent good form.

Liverpool Reveal Meireles Should Only Miss One Game

Liverpool has revealed good news on midfielder Raul Meireles, who will only be out for a couple of weeks after hurting his collarbone.

Meireles lasted just 23 minutes of the Reds' 3-1 win at Exeter in the Carling Cup, taking an awkward tumble that led to his substitution. Replacement Andy Carroll came on and scored to add to goals from Luis Suarez and Maxi Rodriguez.

Kenny Dalglish had been unable to rule out a significant layoff for the Portugal international in the post-match interview, commenting: "I've not got a medical term for it. He just damaged his collarbone. He just fell on it. It's disappointing."

However, any fears of a fracture have been dispelled by Liverpool, who revealed on their official website that Meireles should only miss one game - Saturday's home clash with Bolton. The midfielder should therefore be available for the trip to Stoke after the international break.

"It's his collarbone that is damaged, but it's only a week or two," Dalglish said on the Reds' website. "We've been quite fortunate with that. A week or two will be the maximum."

Liverpool Denied In South American Striker Pursuit

Liverpool has been dealt a decisive blow in their pursuit of Wigan Athletic striker Hugo Rodallega.

The Colombian international has been linked with a Barclays Premier League switch this summer, with Kenny Dalglish thought to be keen on bringing the 26-year-old to Anfield.

However, Latics boss Roberto Martinez has quashed rumours that the former Necaxa striker could be making a move to Merseyside in the closing stages of the transfer window.

"We would not consider anything," Martinez is quoted as saying in the Daily Mirror.

"You can't replace players at this stage of the season. If a player is moving on for big money they have to go earlier in the summer. We would not be in a position to replace him now. It is not possible."

ESPN cite reports claiming the Liverpool manager is willing to test the resolve of Martinez in the coming days, with Dalglish hoping to capitalize on the player's current contract, which runs out in less than 12 months.

However, the Reds may have to take their search elsewhere if they are to add to the summer signings made already. Jordan Henderson, Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam and Alexander Doni have all joined Liverpool in recent months, with the club spending big in an effort to return to the top four.

Despite adding Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll in January, the Liverpool boss is still keen to add a further striker to the ranks, but will have to look elsewhere with Rodallega set to stay at the DW Stadium.

Emiliano Insua Joins Sporting CP

Emiliano Insua has joined Portuguese side Sporting CP on a five-year deal.

The Argentine left-back spent last season on loan to Galatasaray and despite being a regular for his country, he didn’t figure in Liverpool’s plans for the forthcoming season, especially since the arrival of Jose Enrique and emergence of Jack Robinson.

Insua told his new fans “I am delighted with many ‘ganas’ to start training and playing. The Sporting is one of the big Portuguese clubs and is recognized for their work in training players. The club is looking for a win and win titles. I will give everything for Sporting.”

Insua made a total of 62 appearances for Liverpool, scoring once, since arriving from Boca Juniors – initially on loan in 2007.

Dalglish Explains Why Aquilani Left Liverpool

Kenny Dalglish spoke to Liverpoolfc.tv and told us why Aquilani has left Liverpool to go on a season long loan to AC Milan.

“It’s a great move for Alberto. He’s got his wife and kid over there. It was difficult for him here.” Dalglish said.

“When he came back his pre-season training was excellent. We gave him a few games, he did well in those games. But the problem for us was trying to get him in the team. We couldn’t get him in the team.

“Obviously everybody wants to play and Alberto is moving over to a fantastic football club. He goes there with the best wishes of everyone and we hope it works out for him, because he was never a problem in any way, shape or form.”

Free LFC Camp Delights Kids

Liverpool FC this afternoon waved goodbye to over 100 kids who participated in a five-day free football camp in South Liverpool.

The 'Goals 4 All' football camp, organized by LFC community coach Scott Fowler and his colleagues, saw 120 boys and girls attend daily training sessions at 'Goals' in Speke, one of the best amateur football facilities in the city.

As well as receiving some first-class coaching in small groups, each child was also taught about some serious social issues ranging from the perils of guns and drugs to the dangers of bullying and racism.

"The whole week has been a great success," claimed Fowler, brother of former Anfield legend Robbie. "The kids all seemed to love it and I think the parents really appreciated the fact that the club put it all on free. Money is tight for lots of people in this city right now and if we as a club can help make a child's summer holiday that little bit more enjoyable then it makes all this worthwhile."

Dalglish Impressed By New-Look Liverpool

Kenny Dalglish believes his new-look Liverpool are beginning to hit their stride as the Reds look to maintain their unbeaten start to the season against Bolton on Saturday.

Dalglish has made wholesale changes at Anfield since taking charge in January - spending over £100 million on new players - and the Scot has already seen signs that his heavy investment is paying off.

Dalglish's revolution has seen him recruit the likes of Andy Carroll, Luis Suarez, Charlie Adam, Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing to bolster a squad now tipped to mount a push for at least a top-four finish.

There is the promise of further signings, with Sebastian Coates, a 20-year-old Uruguay defender, thought to be close to completing a transfer from Nacional.

But Dalglish is already delighted with the way his squad is developing and the Reds boss said: "We're happy with what we've got. We've been absolutely delighted with, but not surprised, by the way the players have gone about their work in training and in games and we're happy with the way they've started the season.

"We've said before the squad this year is stronger than the one we had last year in every department. Going forward is part of that - you're not going to win too many games if you don't score goals. It's an important part of the squad making sure you've got enough people up front who are going to get you goals, but it's also equally important to make sure you don't lose any.

Dalglish's side began the new Premier League season with a draw against Sunderland. But back-to-back away wins against Arsenal and then Exeter in the League Cup have boosted morale at Anfield.

He believes the rapport between new strike pairing Suarez and Carroll is beginning to improve as well, with both players having got off the mark in the opening few games of the new season. "Luis is always going to score goals, but three in three is certainly a reasonable return from him," Dalglish said. "We're delighted with Andy as well. I'm sure we'll be happy with their contributions, not just this season, but throughout their careers at Liverpool."

Liverpool will be expected to continue their impressive start against a Bolton team whose convincing opening-day win over QPR was followed by a narrow defeat to Manchester City. "They got a fantastic result in the first game at QPR and were a bit unfortunate as they had a good game against Man City," Dalglish said.

"They've scored six goals in two games and they don't know when they're beaten. It will be a difficult game, but we know what to expect and it's up to us to overcome it. We're at home, so the onus is on us to take the game to them - and we'll try our best to do that."

Suarez's Form Pleases Kenny

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has expressed his delight at star striker Luis Suarez's form this season.

The Uruguay international made it three goals in three games after he found the back of the net in Wednesday's 3-1 Carling Cup win at Exeter.

Suarez netted in Liverpool's season-opener against Sunderland before scoring off the bench in last weekend's 2-0 success over Arsenal.

Dalglish knew Suarez would have his tail up following a hugely successful Copa America and the Anfield boss is pleased the striker has maintained his good form.

High

"He was on a high when he came back from the Copa America," he told the club's official website. "He was voted player of the tournament and they won it, so he is going to be on a high and flying.

"Luis is always going to score goals, but three in three is certainly a reasonable return from him."

Strike partner Andy Carroll also found the back of the net in the Carling Cup tie and Dalglish is pleased with both of his big-money captures.

"We're delighted with the pair of them and I'm sure we'll be happy with their contributions - not just this season, but throughout their careers at Liverpool," he concluded.

Sebastian Coates Flies In For Medical At LFC

Sebastian Coates will move a step nearer to completing a move to Liverpool FC today – and the Uruguayan centre-back could yet be followed into LFC by Craig Bellamy.

Coates will undergo a medical at Melwood today having been given permission to fly to Merseyside after Liverpool FC had an £8million bid for the centre-back accepted by Nacional.

Compatriot Luis Suarez is said to have been influential in persuading the 20-year-old, who was voted Best Young Player at the recent Copa America, to ignore advances from Manchester City and instead hold talks with Liverpool.

Downing Glad With Reds Quality

Liverpool winger Stewart Downing is optimistic of a successful 2011/12 season and is hopeful that they can garner back-to-back victories this weekend by defeating Bolton Wanderers at Anfield.

Downing joined the Reds from Aston Villa this summer and has started in each of their two league matches against Sunderland and Arsenal.

Kenny Dalglish's side have made a number of signings during the transfer window including those of Doni, Charlie Adam and Jose Enrique, and Downing says that all of the newcomers get along well with those who were already present in the team.

"There's a good mix of lads, young and old, English lads and foreign lads," the 27-year-old told Liverpool's official website. "We all get on very well, which helps a lot.

"Team spirit is a massive part of football and I sensed that straight away. The lads are really close and I think that helps on the pitch. It's showing in our performances.

"I'm very excited about what we could achieve this season. With the squad we have now, you can see there's a lot of quality, even on the bench.

"There are people who aren't getting picked who are top players. For the manager it's probably a headache but one he'd like."

The Reds have made a positive start to the league campaign, drawing 1-1 with Sunderland in their opening game and then defeating Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates last weekend.

Downing is confident that they can earn a similar positive result against Bolton on Saturday evening but urges caution.

"We've got to make Anfield a cauldron, a hard place to come," he explained. "I thought we played very well against Sunderland, especially the first half.

"But at Arsenal it was a very good team performance. We have to build on that. It'll be tough. I watched Bolton against Man City and they played very well. They were unlucky not to get something.

"They pass it around a lot now. He (Owen Coyle) has brought Tuncay in who I played with at Middlesbrough.

"He's a very good footballer, and Eagles is a good winger. Their style of play is to get it down, pass the ball and get it wide - similar to how we play, a little bit. I think it will be a good game of football."

Henderson Admits Simulation

Jordan Henderson admits he was correctly booked for simulation during Liverpool's Carling Cup win at Exeter but insists he did not cheat.

Henderson went down inside the box in the second half, with referee Tony Bates waving away penalty appeals before brandishing the yellow card.

"I think the referee got it right, to be fair," Henderson told the Daily Mirror. "I probably over-ran it, and although I didn't cheat or dive, I did go down far too easily. So I think it was a fair call."

Liverpool ran out 3-1 winners, with goals from Luis Suarez, Maxi Rodriguez and Andy Carroll, with Henderson playing 90 minutes in a strong side named by manager Kenny Dalglish.

And the former Sunderland midfielder believes Dalglish showed respect to their opponents and the Carling Cup, while managers have been quick to criticize the competition.

He said: "I thought I worked hard against Exeter, and I feel a lot fitter - hopefully I can keep building on my performances and keep improving.

"There were lots of positives to come out of the game. We avoided the banana skin, we put a strong team out and gave both the Carling Cup and Exeter the respect they deserve.

"It's up to other managers to say whether [the Carling Cup] matters to them or not, but we definitely care. It's an opportunity to go to Wembley, to win a trophy and to play in Europe.

"That's what Liverpool want, and that's why I signed for the club - because they want to win trophies and finish as high as they can.

"Four points from two Premier League games, and an away win in the Carling Cup, is a good start, but we need to keep building and keep pushing.

"I think we're playing some good football at times. There's still some improving we need to do with the team and we need to gel better, but defensively we've improved, and if we continue to do that it's looking good."

Henderson was delighted to see former Newcastle striker Carroll get off the mark for the season and, following the Magpies' 1-0 win at Sunderland last weekend, he revealed the pair have not forgotten their roots.

Henderson said: "There was a bit of banter between Andy and myself about the Tyne-Wear derby result last weekend, but the most important thing is that we got a good result at Arsenal.

"Now he's up and running, I'm sure it will be the first of many this season. His goal at Exeter was a great finish."

Liverpool Prepared To Let Joe Cole Talk To Tottenham Hotspur

While Liverpool is prepared to let Joe Cole go to Tottenham Hotspur, Kenny Dalglish is looking to bring in two players to Anfield.

The Merseyside club is close to signing Nacional's 6ft 4in centre-half, Sebastián Coates, who excelled in Uruguay's Copa América campaign.

A deal to bring Craig Bellamy back to Anfield also looks likely.

The move that would take Bellamy back to Liverpool, where he spent a single season, gained momentum when Manchester City indicated they would be prepared to settle the striker's £90,000-a-week contract to allow him to leave immediately.

Alberto Aquilani Completes Loan Move To AC Milan

Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani will return to Italy with AC Milan for the rest of the season after agreeing a loan move to the San Siro.

The former Roma player moved to Anfield in 2009 but struggled to make an impact in the Barclays Premier League and was allowed to spend the 2010/11 campaign back in Serie A with Juventus.

Now Milan has moved for the 27-year-old Italy international, with the deal only now hinging on the outcome of a medical.

Liverpool announced on their official website that an option has been negotiated to make the move permanent in the future.

Liverpool director of football Damien Comolli said: "I want to pay tribute to the way Alberto has conducted himself during these discussions.

"Throughout the entire process, his only desire has been to play football and he has put this ahead of any other considerations and at personal cost to himself. We wish him well for the season ahead."

Gary Speed Sees Benefit In Craig Bellamy Returning To Liverpool

Wales manager Gary Speed has welcomed reports linking striker Craig Bellamy with a return to Liverpool.

The 32-year-old appears surplus to requirements at Manchester City after being frozen out of manager Roberto Mancini's plans.

Reports claim Bellamy, who spent last season on loan at Cardiff, is being considered by Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish as back-up to first-choice strikers Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez.

Bellamy spent the 2006-07 season with Liverpool before moving to West Ham United and then City, where he fell out of favour after Mancini replaced Mark Hughes as manager two years ago.

Speed said: "It is only natural Craig is going to be linked with top clubs because he is a top player.

"Liverpool is a fantastic club and if that is true and it comes off, that would be great.

"Hopefully by the end of the transfer window things will be sorted out."

Celtic manager Neil Lennon made it clear over the summer that he was interested in taking Bellamy back to Parkhead.

The striker played in Glasgow on loan in 2005 but is not keen to return north of the border.

"I do not want to go on loan again, because where would I go after that?" said Bellamy at the beginning of this month.

"A permanent move would be the best, but it would have to be somewhere wealthy so I can guarantee future earnings for my charity."

Martinez Warns Liverpool Off Rodallega

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez has told Liverpool that they have left it too late to make a move for striker Hugo Rodallega.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish has boosted his midfield and defensive options this summer, but has yet to add any attacking reinforcements to complement an already impressive front line of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez.

Time is running out in the summer transfer window, but it is being claimed Dalglish is ready to test Wigan's resolve to hold onto Rodallega. The Colombian's contract has less than a year to run, but the Latics have insisted they will not sell as it will not give them enough time to bring in a replacement.

"We would not consider anything," Martinez is quoted as saying in the Daily Mirror. "You can't replace players at this stage of the season.

"If a player is moving on for big money they have to go earlier in the summer. We would not be in a position to replace him now. It is not possible."