Liverpool Rival Manchester United For New Messi

Old rivals Manchester United and Liverpool are both attempting to land the player dubbed the next Lionel Messi as they try and convince Xherdan Shaqiri to make the move to the Premier League.

Shaqiri has been one of the stand out performers for Basel this season and was instrumental in helping the Swiss side knock Manchester United out of the Champions League.

His superb displays have alerted some of the biggest clubs in Europe, with Manchester United hoping to bring the youngster to Old Trafford in the coming transfer window.

The Daily Star has reported that United have already contacted Shaqiri's agent Ulisse Savini about a possible switch to Old Trafford, with a figure of £10million being suggested.

Shaqiri has drawn comparisons to Barcelona legend Messi because of his ability to run with the ball and his impressive left-foot. The 20-year-old is on the radar of United and Liverpool who were strongly linked with the midfielder over the summer.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish is keen to add the creative midfielder as he has a lack of options on the right hand side of midfield, the position that Shaqiri prefers as he has the ability to cut in onto his stronger left-foot.

Liverpool director of football Damien Comolli is a huge admirer of the winger and is hoping that he can convince Shaqiri to choose a move to Anfield where he would be guaranteed first team football.

Should Manchester United miss out on Shaqiri then they will more tha likely turn their attention to Benfica midfielder Nicolas Guitan.

Liverpool Delay Gerrard Return

Steven Gerrard took an active part in Liverpool training on Tuesday, but Kenny Dalglish is refusing to put a date on the player's return to action.

Liverpool has been shorn of the services of their captain since he picked up an ankle infection in October. The Reds have made repeated denials that the midfielder had suffered a setback and he was pictured working hard in training on Tuesday.

The images suggested Gerrard could be included against Wigan on Wednesday, but that game will come too soon for the 31-year-old.

"We don't have any problems, apart from Jack Robinson, Steven (Gerrard) and Fabio (Aurelio) as well," Dalglish said. "The longer term ones aren't in the squad."

Asked if there was a chance Gerrard would feature at any point over the festive period, Dalglish said: "It remains to be seen, but we won't be making any comments on it."

Reina Targets Festive Boost

Jose Reina admits a productive Christmas can help to shape a season, and he believes Liverpool can catapult themselves into the New Year.

A top-four finish is the target for those in the Anfield camp, with the Reds having slipped out of that elite group in recent years.

Kenny Dalglish has them well placed to push on towards that goal, with three points currently separating them from the UEFA Champions League spots.

The next few weeks could be crucial to the Reds' cause, with the fixtures set to come thick and fast over the festive period.

Reina has been around long enough to know how important this time of year can be and the Spanish shot-stopper sees no reason why Liverpool cannot welcome 2012 style.

Fixtures against Wigan, Blackburn and Newcastle will take them through to the end of the year, and the Reds will be looking to take maximum points from that run of games.

"We know from experience how important December and January can be in terms of the title race and your position in the league, so we have to push now more than ever," Reina told the Reds' official website.

"Without meaning any disrespect to the teams we are playing in this period, I think all the games are winnable.

"Obviously, every team is tough to beat in this league but now we have to make sure we don't make any mistakes at home and that we take maximum points as often as we can."

Lille Hope To Keep Cole

Lille boss Rudi Garcia has expressed his desire to keep Joe Cole at the club beyond the end of his loan spell.

Cole joined the French champions from Liverpool over the summer on a season-long deal, and has settled in quickly with a series of impressive performances.

Kenny Dalglish stated last month that he had not heard anything from Lille about the possibility of turning Cole's move into a permanent arrangement, but the midfielder has repeatedly spoken about how much he is loving his European adventure.

Garcia has also enjoyed working with Cole and has made it clear he would like the former England international to stay.

"Of course I would like to keep Joe Cole at the club next season," said Garcia. "He's not just a very talented player, but also a man of many qualities.

"He shares the values of Lille and northern France. He is a humble guy, and honest and approachable despite his fantastic CV as a player.

"His team-mates really appreciate him. He has the virtue of being a hard worker - he goes flat out all the time.

"I sometimes have to tell him during training to take his foot off the gas and save some energy. He is a pleasure to coach."

Aldridge: Craig Is Signing Of The Season

Craig Bellamy is the 'signing of the season' - according to former Liverpool striker John Aldridge.

Bellamy returned to Anfield on a free transfer in the summer and netted his third goal of the campaign to set the Reds on their way to three points at Villa Park on Sunday,

After picking up the man of the match award as he helped Liverpool move to within three points of the top four, Aldo was fulsome in his praise for the Welsh international.

"Craig had his best game for Liverpool FC at Villa Park and he must be the signing of the season," said Aldridge.

"Jose Enrique has proved to be a bargain buy but to get Bellamy on a free transfer was remarkable business for Liverpool FC.

"We're talking about a player worth £15million plus!

"Forget about his age, he's as fit as a butcher's dog and is still as quick as he was when he was 21.

"We all knew it was a masterstroke by Kenny Dalglish signing Bellamy. Everyone knew he was available but Kenny used his persuasive powers to get him back to Anfield. It was a no-brainer.

"Now Bellamy has a second chance at the club he supported as a kid and you can see how much playing for Liverpool means to him.

"He was tremendous at Villa Park and I love his attitude and will to win. He gets on everyone's nerves on the pitch, including referees. He isn't afraid to have a pop at his own team-mates and I like that. It shows he cares. Point the finger at someone and then have a laugh about it afterwards - that's the way it should be."

Shelvey: Luis Made It Easy For Me

Jonjo Shelvey is hoping his display in his first ever top-flight start for Liverpool at Villa Park alongside Luis Suarez will be the springboard to future success with the Reds.

Kenny Dalglish handed him a role playing just off Suarez through the centre - a position he excelled in during his loan spell at Blackpool, and the No.33 turned in an accomplished display.

"I only found out I was going to be starting two hours before kick-off so it was a great feeling and I was buzzing," Shelvey told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"I was surprised to start but luckily for me it was my big chance and I felt I took it.

"I enjoyed it immensely. No disrespect to the lads I played with at Blackpool but to play up front with Luis was just an absolute honour for me. He is so clever and sharp and he made it easy for me.

"It was great to play a part in our first goal. I just tried to help the ball on and Bellers finished it which set us off. I thought we controlled the game and played well.

"It was great to get six points from the last two games and we want to kick on now and keep winning."

Shelvey was making his first ever Barclays Premier League start for Liverpool and chalked up some impressive stats during the 2-0 win.

From 29 passes made he recorded an 82.8 per cent accuracy, had the most shots, five, during his 83 minute outing and also had an assist for the first goal which Craig Bellamy slotted home from a corner.

He added: "I had a few chances and snatched at a few to be fair. I had a little joke with Charlie (Adam) after the game when he had a chance to play me in and went for it himself. Their keeper also pulled off a good save from my left footed shot and overall I was really happy.

"The manager has given me a lot of confidence with the faith he has shown in me. I want to stay at Liverpool now and help this club achieve some success this season. I don't want to go back out on loan and I want to fight for my place.

"I will work hard and try and show what I can do. Even if I play for the reserves I will give 110 per cent because you have to do that every time you represent Liverpool Football Club."

Dalglish Hails Suarez Display

Kenny Dalglish believes Luis Suarez's performance against Aston Villa 'speaks volumes' as the Liverpool striker waits to learn the outcome of a Football Association hearing.

An independent panel spent two days hearing evidence last week into allegations of a racial slur by Suarez towards Manchester United defender Patrice Evra in October.

The FA confirmed on Friday that a decision will not be announced until Tuesday, but Suarez shrugged off any concerns to start Liverpool's 2-0 win over Villa.

The Uruguay international impressed at Villa Park and twice struck the woodwork, with Reds boss Dalglish praising Suarez's display.

"He's had a bad week," said Dalglish." He's been three days sat in a hotel (at the FA hearing) so that's why we had to take him off (after 70 minutes).

"He only trained on Tuesday and Saturday and for him to put in a performance like that was unbelievable.

"It speaks volumes for the man."

With the two clubs waiting to learn the outcome of the charge, Dalglish said: "We can't comment on that. It's not my choice. We'd love to comment.

"I'm afraid we wouldn't like to prejudice anything.

"We've been respectful all the way through and I don't think at this stage we'd want to be accused of losing that respect."

Bellamy - Let's Push On

Craig Bellamy is looking towards 'a very positive season' after Liverpool beat Aston Villa 2-0 on Sunday to move into sixth in the Premier League table.

The Welsh ace returned to the starting line-up and scored the opener on 11 minutes before supplying the corner four minutes later from which Martin Skrtel headed home.

The Reds went on to win the game easily and Bellamy is looking for the Reds to push on - starting at Wigan on Wednesday.

He told the club's official website: "The two early goals helped us and put us in a good position.

"It can always be a tricky scoreline, but I thought we were quite professional and kept the ball.

"We had a couple of opportunities to score on the break in the second half as well, and I thought we were worthy winners."

Bellamy hailed the depth of squad available to Kenny Dalglish, adding: "We're a good team, there are no doubts about that. We are part of an incredible football club. When you go out onto the field, it's not just 11 players - it's 22/23 players.

"Fortunately we do have a lot of Liverpool players here who do deserve to play at this club. Touch wood, we will have a very positive season."

Luis Suarez hit the woodwork twice at Villa Park and Bellamy praised the overall contribution of the skilful No.7.

He said: "I've not seen a forward quite like him ability wise and for luck as well - he constantly either hits the post or bar!

"He could be on a lot more goals than what he is, but performance wise is enough for us. The way he goes about his business, he is a credit to us."

Liverpool Star Luis Suarez Wins Alex McLeish Praise

Alex McLeish was in awe of Luis Suarez after the Liverpool striker tormented his Aston Villa side at Villa Park on Sunday.

The Reds ran out 2-0 winners against the Villains thanks to early strikes from Craig Bellamy and Martin Skrtel, and climbed to sixth in the Barclays Premier League.

It was Suarez, though, who stole the show for Liverpool, with the Uruguayan proving a thorn in the side of the Villa defence for the majority of the afternoon.

Twice the 24-year-old striker was denied by the woodwork - the second attempt an outrageous chip - and his tireless performance deserved a goal.

And, says McLeish, there is little that can be done to stop Suarez when he is in full flight.

"Suarez is perpetual motion, he's a brilliant player," explained the Villa boss. "Suarez can slip into holes that other players leave, he is a very elusive player.

"He is non-stop and has been a fantastic signing for Liverpool."

Downing Shrugs Off Boos

Stewart Downing has brushed off being booed upon his return to Aston Villa and believes Liverpool's 2-0 win justified his decision to move clubs in the summer.

The England winger quit Villa for a £20million switch to Anfield after handing in a transfer request following two seasons in the Midlands.

He returned to Villa Park for the first time on Sunday and was jeered by home fans, but Downing expected as much and feels he answered his critics.

"I knew I would get booed and get some stick but that wasn't a problem for me," Downing told the Liverpool Echo.

"I was just focused on ensuring we got a result and I think they gave up after about 50 or 60 minutes and turned on their own team.

"We were by far the better team. I think it proved a point in terms of showing why I wanted to come to Liverpool. It wasn't to do with money, I've joined a top team.

"Just look at the players we've got on the bench who can't get a game, that shows how strong the squad is. This was the right move for me at the right time.

"I enjoyed my time at Villa, it's a great club with great people, but you move on in football, that's the way it is.

"It wasn't about me coming back, it was about the team winning and this was one of the places we needed to come to get three points."

Liverpool drew level on points with fifth-placed Arsenal and now face Wigan on Wednesday ahead of a busy fortnight.

Downing has found himself in and out of the side in recent weeks and admits no player can be certain of their place in the starting XI, although he appreciates having a strong squad is vital to Liverpool's season.

"We've got a good squad with a lot of people fighting for places," he said. "It's a headache for the manager but that's what you want. Everyone is going to be needed, it's a big period in the season for us.

"We've got some tough games but they are winnable and hopefully we will pick up maximum points."

BBC Football Pundit Lauds Consistency Of Towering Liverpool Star

Football Focus pundit Garth Crooks has praised the performances of Martin Skrtel in light of the towering centre-half's superb individual effort at the weekend.

The Slovakian international scored Liverpool's second goal during the 2-0 win against Aston Villa and the 27-year-old has been one of Kenny Dalglish's most consistent performers.

Alongside Daniel Agger, Skrtel has successfully kept Liverpool hero Jamie Carragher on the substitute's bench and the aforementioned Crooks suggests the Anfield veteran's hiatus from Dalglish's starting 11 is likely to continue given their defensive record this season.

"Last week it was Daniel Agger who made my team (of the week), this week it's Martin Skrtel. It doesn't matter which Liverpool centre-back makes my selection, both players are causing Jamie Carragher a great deal of discomfort." Crooks told the BBC.

"With Skrtel defending so well and coming up with the occasional goal like he did against Aston Villa, there's clearly no room at the inn for Carragher this Christmas. Clean sheets are the order of the day."

Skrtel's prowess from offensive corner-kicks has been a potent weapon for Liverpool this season. The Anfield stalwart has scored three of Liverpool's last five goals from corners in the Premier League as well providing great protection for Pepe Reina's goal at the other end.

The 27-year-old's Liverpool career has been reignited following the arrival of Kenny Dalglish. Since the Scot returned to Anfield in January, the Slovakian international has been a mainstay of the club's recent revival.

Liverpool Join Everton In Race To Sign Exciting Teenage Striker

Cliftonville chairman Gerard Lawlor has revealed that Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has contacted the Irish club about the availability of star striker Rory Donnelly.

The Red's rivals Everton have already held talks with the club but it seems Liverpool are hoping to beat their Merseyside neighbours to the prolific 19-year-old.

Donnelly scored 17 goals in the Irish Premier League last season and has been heralded as a striker with a very bright future. The players representatives were due to talk to both Everton and Swansea in the coming days but Liverpool are hoping to hijack any potential deal.

"It's not every day you get Kenny Dalglish ringing you and asking how the Reds got on at the weekend," Lawlor revealed to the Belfast Telegraph. "He made it clear that Liverpool want to sign him and that they would be back in touch."

It seems Liverpool will have to sign the striker in the January transfer window if they want to bring to the club as Cliftonville have declared that they want his future resolved before the New Year.

"Cliftonville this week announced the acceptance of a transfer offer from Swansea City FC for striker Rory Donnelly," read a club statement.

"The club is also aware of interest in the player from a number of other sources and has responded to a series of tentative enquiries in recent weeks.

"We are, however, keen to bring the issue to a conclusion as soon as possible."

Jonjo Impresses On First Start

Jonjo Shelvey made his first ever Barclays Premier League start for Liverpool at Villa Park and recorded some impressive figures. Here are a selection of interesting statistics from the game courtesy of Opta.

From 29 passes made the No.33 recorded an accuracy level of 82.8%, had the most shots during his 83 minute outing and also had an assist for the first goal which Craig Bellamy slotted home from a corner.

Stewart Downing had 92.6% pass accuracy on his return to Aston Villa with Liverpool on Sunday.

The No.19 made 54 passes in total to record the 92.6% figure.

Jordan Henderson also brought in impressive stats, hitting 57 passes during the 90 minutes to claim a 89.5% accuracy.

Liverpool enjoyed 52.1% of the possession and had 17 shots on goal, compared to Villa's 16.

Of those attempts seven were on target including two against the woodwork.

Kenny Dalglish's side had 12 shots from inside the box compared to just three from Villa. Alex McLeish's side had more shots from outside the box, 13, compared to five from the Reds.

Liverpool won 10 corners compared to Villa's four.

Glen Johnson recorded a 100% accuracy from all four perfect tackles during the 90 minutes.

All in all the Reds recorded a statistic of 84.2% on tackles won compared to Villa's 68.2%.

The Reds made a total of 514 passes during the outing recording an accuracy of 83.3%.

Charlie Adam won 100% of his aerial duels.

Gomez Ready For Reds Test

Jordi Gomez claims Wigan will welcome Liverpool to the DW Stadium on Wednesday confident in their ability to pull off another shock result.

The Latics impressed many observers on Saturday evening as they stunned Chelsea with a dramatic late show on home soil.

Gomez's goal two minutes from the end of that contest saw Wigan take what could be a priceless point from the title-chasing Blues.

Things do not get any easier for Roberto Martinez's side, with top-four hopefuls Liverpool providing another sizeable test in midweek.

Wigan will enter that game inside the Premier League drop zone, but Gomez says recent performances have given everyone connected with the club cause for optimism.

"In the last three or four games, the team has played very well and with confidence, and that allows all the players to show their best form which brings about the results we've been having," the Spanish midfielder told the Wigan Evening Post.

"This result means we go into Wednesday's game against Liverpool with belief, and we don't care who the opposition is when we play like we know we can.

"No-one can deny we deserved at least a point against Chelsea, and the challenge now is to pick up at least the same result on Wednesday night.

"Yes, it is a hard run over Christmas, but you just have to take it game by game and try to do your best in each game.

"We are not thinking about the games we are playing next week or next month - all we are focused on now is Liverpool and we will be trying our best to get another good result."

Match Report: Aston Villa 0 - 2 Liverpool

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish celebrated his first league win as a manager at Villa Park as first-half goals from Craig Bellamy and Martin Skrtel ensured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Aston Villa.

Bellamy and Skrtel struck inside the first 15 minutes to seal the Reds' fifth away win in the Barclays Premier League this season.

But the star of the show was striker Luis Suarez who tormented the Villa defence and hit the bar and the post.

Former Villa winger Stewart Downing was booed by the home fans after his £20million summer move but he and Craig Bellamy caused problems down both flanks.

Villa missed the forward duo of suspended Gabriel Agbonlahor and injured Darren Bent and seldom looked like breaching what is the tightest defence in the Premier League with just 13 goals conceded.

But they were also guilty of frequently giving the ball away and only skipper Stiliyan Petrov had composure in midfield.

Villa started promisingly and Petrov curled a free-kick past the defensive wall and forced Pepe Reina to save away to his right.

Downing managed Liverpool's first effort on goal following a cross-field ball from Bellamy when he forced Brad Guzan to save at the foot of the post.

Then after 11 minutes Downing played a part in Bellamy giving Liverpool the lead.

His corner found Suarez inside the box and a back heel forced a fine instinctive save out of Guzan but Bellamy reacted first to the rebound for a simple tap-in.

Villa winger Charles N'Zogbia was yellow-carded for bringing down Glen Johnson two minutes later.

After 15 minutes Liverpool doubled their lead through Skrtel - and from another corner.

Villa failed to pick up the central defender as he attacked a Bellamy cross and his glancing header flew past Guzan.

The home side tried to counter-attack and Nathan Delfouneso had a 20-yard shot deflected wide and a long-range attempt from N'Zogbia was just off-target.

Delfouneso teed up the over-lapping N'Zogbia whose shot contained plenty of power but flew into the side-netting.

Charlie Adam was booked after 28 minutes for bringing down Emile Heskey.

Two minutes later Bellamy was yellow-carded for fouling Alan Hutton to the right of the Liverpool box.

But Delfouneso could not keep his header down from Albrighton's free-kick.

Villa were trying to get a foothold in the game but Liverpool continued to look more dangerous and Richard Dunne blocked a first-time attempt from Shelvey after he ran on to Suarez's pass.

Liverpool began the second half on the offensive and twice went close to adding to their lead.

Bellamy's pace took him clear of the Villa defence down the left flank and his cross was headed wide by Daniel Agger.

Then Suarez showed sublime skill in evading the challenges of Dunne and James Collins and from 10 yards out he crashed his shot against the bar.

Villa were giving the ball away too easily and a mistake by Stephen Warnock allowed Johnson time to line up a shot which was turned aside by Guzan.

Reina was forced into a rare save in getting his body behind a low effort from N'Zogbia.

But Suarez was denied by the woodwork again after chipping Guzan following a pinpoint 40 yard ball from Downing.

Guzan turned aside Shelvey's cross-shot and Adam had shot deflected wide when Shelvey was unmarked 10 yards out to his left.

Dalglish brought on Andy Carroll after 74 minutes for Suarez who was given a standing ovation by the Liverpool fans.

Villa substitute Barry Bannan appealed in vain for handball when his shot struck Agger and flew out for a corner.

Dalglish Hails Deserved Win

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish believes his team were good value for their 2-0 win at Aston Villa in the Premier League.

First-half goals from Craig Bellamy and Martin Skrtel sealed a comfortable success for Dalglish's team at Villa Park.

Luis Suarez also hit the woodwork twice after the break as the Reds dominated proceedings against a toothless Villa missing strikers Darren Bent and Gabriel Agbonlahor.

The victory, Liverpool's third win in four away games, moved Dalglish's side up to sixth in the table.

The Scot said: "We passed the ball and moved it and hit the bar twice - I think it was a well-deserved three points for us.

"I think the first goal was a little bit fortunate but the second one was a good flick-on from Martin.

"We get pleasure taking three points and that's the greatest reward you can get from the work you do in training."

And Dalglish, whose side boast the top-flight's best defensive record having conceding just 13 goals, was pleased with another tight display at the back.

He told Sky Sports: "We'll go forward as a team and defend as a team. If we don't have the ball the first person is the first defender.

"There is no point having one part of the team good and another rubbish. We do everything together and we'll move forward together."

Reds Chase Newcastle Midfield Star

Liverpool have entered the scramble to sign Newcastle's Cheick Tiote in the January transfer window.

Tiote became an instant hit at St James' Park following his £3.5m move from FC Twente in August 2010.

And the Ivory Coast international - valued at £25million - is wanted by Reds boss Kenny Dalglish to inject some momentum in the Anfield club's season.

Dalglish will face stiff competition however from title-chasers Chelsea, and Manchester United, according to reports in the Sunday Mirror.

The news comes after Tiote went to seek help from a witch doctor in a bid to regain full fitness.

Tiote was given permission by club owner Mike Ashley to fly back to his homeland to seek help to sure his persistent injury.

The 25-year-old has fluid on his right knee which is causing pain and restricting his movement when twisting and turning.

His appearance in the 0-0 draw with Swansea was his first game for the club since they beat Wigan 1-0 in October.

Liverpool & Spurs Both Scouting George Whiteoak

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are keeping tabs on Macclesfield Town’s emerging young talent George Whiteoak, reports the Daily Mirror.

The 16 year-old centre-half is drawing attention from some of Britain’s top clubs having impressed for the League Two side at youth level and is now on the verge of making his senior debut. Town’s youth team boss, John Askey has been responsible for the development of Whiteoak and had this to say,

“He’s already attracting a lot of interest, so we’re delighted to have him here at the football club.”

Liverpool’s interest comes as no surprise. Following the appointment of Damien Comolli, the Red’s have placed an emphasis on scouting the globe for fresh young talent so they can then be nurtured through the ranks at the Melwood Academy. Liverpool’s setup has received some high praise from the football world and none coming higher from that of Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola.

Speaking to Catalan radio he was quoted as saying that Liverpool’s Academy is the only one who can compete with Barca’s ‘La Masia’ setup.

Spurs are another club who have invested heavily in their youth system. First-team player Kyle Walker is one of the success stories brought through the ranks at White Hart Lane and has established himself as the Lily Whites first choice right-back this season.

Tottenham’s involvement in the UEFA Cup has also seen boss, Harry Redknapp, blood many of the Academy’s future prospects giving them an opportunity to gain valuable first-team experience.

Whiteoak’s future at either academy would be well looked after should the teenage prospect decide to move on. Money eventually talks and Macclesfield will cash-in, but at this moment in time it is unclear of how much the Silkmen’s will inherit for their emerging young star.

Liverpool In Shock Move For Real Madrid And Germany Superstar

Liverpool have been alerted to the possible availability of Real Madrid star Mesut Ozil, after the creative midfielder was warned by manager that his performances needed to significantly improve or else he would be sold.

The German international was one of the stars of the 2010 World Cup and was signed by Madrid for €15million from Werder Bremen. Ozil went on to make a total of 53 appearances last season, scoring 10 goals but this year his form has dipped.

Ozil is yet to fins the back of the net in the league and the midfielder took plenty of blame for his performance in the 3-1 defeat to rivals Barcelona last weekend.

The People believes that these inconsistent performances have led Mourinho to hand him a warning that he must improve or else risk being sold in the summer.

The news has certainly caught the attention of Liverpool's director of football Damien Comolli who believes Ozil is the type of player that can further improve the Red's first team and can help fire the club back into the top four.

Liverpool know that they can offer the 23-year-old guaranteed first team football, something he does not always get at Madrid with a host of fellow midfielders, and manager Kenny Dalglish is keen to monitor his situation over the coming months.

It is believed that Madrid would want to make a profit on the midfielder and would demand in the region of £18million for the talented German.

Liverpool Ready Bid For PSV Eindhoven Stars

Liverpool are monitoring PSV Eindhoven pair Kevin Strootman and Georginio Wijnaldum hopeful of a potential £22m bid to sign the duo.

The raid to sign the pair could take place in January or in the summer. Boss Kenny Dalglish has brought in a number of youthful additions to the Liverpool squad over the past year and sees Strootman as a central midfielder with a great deal of potential. A bid for the 21 year old may be made next month as the Merseyside club looks to bring in a replacement for long term injury victim Lucas Leiva.

Wijnaldum is an adaptable attacker who can play either in an advanced floating midfield role or more effectively out on the wing. The 21 year old moved to PSV Eindhoven in the summer, from Feyenoord, and has been a consistent performer in the Eredivisie for the past four seasons.

Both players have only been at PSV Eindhoven for six months but Comolli believes that Liverpool could lure the young duo to Liverpool and the Premier League side is willing to shell out around £22m for two players.

Medics May Have Saved Gerrard's Career

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish believes the club's medical staff may have saved Steven Gerrard's career by quickly identifying the extent of his ankle infection.

Club captain Gerrard has been sidelined for over six weeks as a result of the problem, picked up just a month after he recovered from a groin injury that kept him out of the early part of the season.

Set to resume full training next week ahead of a return to first-team action at the start of next month, Dalglish believes Gerrard could have been out for a lot longer had the club's medical staff not been so sharp in their diagnosis and treatment of a rare problem.

"If it hadn't been dealt with quickly and properly it could have ended up more serious," Dalglish told The People. "But he got fantastic treatment and it's been sorted and solved.

"The credit goes to our medical people who identified it and reacted. It was unknown territory for us."

Dalglish believes Gerrard's mental strength has been a key factor in his ability to recover from such setbacks and resume performing at the highest level.

He added: "When you consider what he has been through he has done unbelievably well. But he has a strong character and that is reflected in coming through what he's been through. He is desperate to play but we need to manage it properly."

Houllier Backs Reds For Success

Former boss Gerard Houllier believes Liverpool will finish in the top four this season and challenge for the title next year.

The Frenchman, who managed Liverpool between 1998 and 2004, feels this year is a season of transition under boss Kenny Dalglish, who returned to the club in January to replace Roy Hodgson.

The Scot invested heavily in the club over the summer in an attempt to rebuild the side, with the likes of Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson signing on at Anfield.

Houllier, who had a spell in charge of Aston Villa last campaign, is impressed from what he has seen so far from the new-look Reds, who are currently seventh in the table, and feels they will soon be capable of challenging for the title.

He told the Sunday Mirror: "Kenny is doing a good job. He is trying to change the team and this is a transitional season for them.

"By that, I don't mean they won't reach the top four - they could do that. When Steven Gerrard comes back, they will be even better, they will get back their leader and an exceptional player. But, in any case, they are making good progress.

"I don't believe they will be able to challenge for the title - not this season. But they have made the right choices regarding players, so, as they gel, then next season should be better.

"When a club has a culture, a history, and a philosophy of winning silverware, which is what everybody aims for. There is no question of being happy with anything else.

"It's a good pressure because players arrive at the club knowing they are expected to perform and to win."

Premier League Preview: Aston Villa vs Liverpool

Liverpool will look to keep their push for European football next season going strong when they visit Aston Villa on Sunday.

With 15 games behind them in 2011/12, Kenny Dalglish's side are in sixth place in the English Premier League on 26 points - three behind Arsenal who are in the automatic Europa League place, but 12 behind leaders Manchester City.

They have lost just three games so far in the league, but their Achilles heel has been too many draws - five of them in total - with four of those coming at Anfield against Manchester United, Norwich, Swansea and Manchester City.

They finally broke that run of dropped points at home by posting a 1-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers on Saturday, with Uruguayan international Luis Suarez scoring the only goal of the game.

Alex McLeish's Aston Villa, meanwhile, is in ninth place in the league standings, seven points behind Liverpool.

The Midlands club made a solid start to the season, with two wins and five draws from their first seven matches.

But after their 4-1 loss to Manchester City on October 15, their first defeat of the season, things have not been so rosy at Villa Park.

They have lost two of their past four matches, although the defeats came against quality sides in Tottenham and Manchester United.

McLeish's men did bounce back in their most recent game, however, by scoring a 2-1 win away from home against bottom side Bolton.

McLeish has some selection headaches ahead of the fixture, with striker Gabriel Agbonlahor suspended for the match after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season against Bolton.

Winger Jermaine Jenas, who Villa had secured on loan from Spurs, is out for the rest of the season after rupturing his Achilles tendon in their 1-0 loss to Manchester United on December 3, and goalkeeper Shay Given is nursing a hamstring injury likely to keep him out until the New Year.

For Dalgish, Jay Spearing will serve the second-match of a three-game suspension for being sent off against Fulham, while Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva is out for the rest of the season after injuring the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

Captain Steven Gerrard is back in training after overcoming an ankle infection, and his hoping to be back in action before the end of the year.

McLeish Expects Downing Stick

Alex McLeish believes Stewart Downing may come in for some stick as he returns to Aston Villa as a Liverpool player.

The ex-Middlesbrough winger left Villa Park last summer after two years at the club in order to join the Reds.

Sunday's game will be Downing's first return since leaving and McLeish knows he is one of a number of visiting players they need to watch.

The Scottish tactician believes the England international was a popular player, although that will not stop fans trying to get under his skin.

Ironically Downing's last Premier League goal came while he was an Aston Villa player in last season's win over Liverpool.

Reception

When asked what sort of reception Downing would receive, McLeish said: "I don't know.

"I think Stewart was a well-liked lad here at Villa but I'm sure the fans will wind up the opposition.

"I'm sure Stewart will maybe not get too much flak because he is a decent lad and he did a decent job

"But maybe the fans will give a wee bit of apprehension-inducing stick shall we say!

"He is a terrific player, and £20million tells you he has got something in his locker.

"We know what he can do. We have to give him close attention and try and make sure he has a quiet return to Villa Park."

Dalglish Eyes Top Four

Kenny Dalglish has hailed the progress made by his Liverpool side but now hopes to push into the UEFA Champions League places.

The Reds have enjoyed a solid start to the Premier League season but have ground to make up on the top four and will hope to stay in contention by beating Aston Villa on Sunday.

Dalglish does not believe Liverpool are far away from challenging the elite group once again and has called on his men to keep working hard.

"We've been delighted with what we have done," said the manager.

"We'd love to progress into the top four and the best way to do that is to do what we do well.

"It is only slight but, then again, some of the smallest steps are the biggest ones to take."

Manchester City and Manchester United currently lead the way in the title race and Dalglish insists they are both extremely strong teams despite being knocked out of the Champions League at the group stage.

The London trio of Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal are also ahead of Liverpool going into the festive period but Dalglish is ready for the challenge.

He added: "Of course it's going to be tough. The teams that are there or thereabouts are really good sides.

"Two of them got put out of the Champions League but there are still really good sides here.

"It's going to be tough but we'll have a good go and see where it takes us.

"We'll look to get the points by playing as well as we have done and getting that wee bit of extra luck.

"We believe we are doing things the right way so we'll continue to do that because we don't know any other."

Liverpool Planning Tottenham Raid For England International Midfielder

Liverpool are rumoured to be considering a January move for out-of-favour Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Tom Huddlestone.

According to reports on Footybunker.com, Liverpool is desperate to sign a replacement for the injured Lucas Leiva, who will miss the rest of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Lucas, who has come under criticism during his time in England, has been one of Liverpool's stand-out players this season, and his injury comes as a major blow as Kenny Dalglish tries to lead his side back into the Premier League's 'big four'.

Despite a plethora of midfield talent, the club lacks an established holding midfielder and has ear-marked Huddlestone as a short-term replacement.

The 24 year-old has fallen down the pecking order at White Hart Lane and is thought to be concerned at his lack of playing time since his return from injury.

The England international is currently valued at around £7 million, a price considered perhaps too high for a player who will have a short term role at Liverpool. However, Liverpool may test Tottenham's resolve with a loan bid for the powerful midfielder.

Liverpool Target Diego Perotti Admits Leaving Sevilla If Club Needed Cash

Liverpool wing wizard target Diego Perotti has admitted he would leave Sevilla if the club needed money.

The 23-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Anfield at the end of last season, with The Sunday People claiming that Kenny Dalglish made an enquiry over the player in March.

Reports surfaced on Sky Sports in April before leading into the summer, leading to Los Rojiblancos president Jose Maria Del Nido claiming that the player would not be sold to clubs in England or Italy.

However, Perotti has admitted that he could leave if the finances are needed at the La Liga outfit, potentially alerting suitors Liverpool, Juventus and Inter Milan.

"Before the end of the League I said that I'd only go if the president came and told me that the club needed the money if we stayed out of the Champions League," said Perotti.

"I would only leave if Sevilla needed money."

Gaston Ramirez, Lucas Rodriguez and Eduardo Vargas have more recently been linked with moves to Liverpool in the British media, leaving Kenny Dalglish with plenty of options over who he could turn too on January 1st.

The Anfield chief has so far been coy over potential additions to the ranks on Merseyside, but the Scot has admitted that Liverpool owners FSG are willing to bankroll some more moves should he wish to make signings in the New Year.

Liverpool Join Race For Dundee Utd Midfielder

Liverpool have entered the race to sign Dundee United midfielder Scott Allen in the January transfer window, according to The Daily Mail.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish is keen to sign the Scotland under 21 international, but will have to fight off interest from Rangers, Celtic and West Brom. Rangers’ boss Ally McCoist believed his side was the favourite for the player, but Liverpool's interest leaves Allen's future up in the air. West Brom have had a £400,000 bid accepted for Allen. Rangers have spoken of their desire to sign the midfielder and McCoist has urged Allen to think of Scottish football before England.

Liverpool is keen to bring the 20 year old down to Merseyside and with Kenny Dalglish's hero status in Scotland, Allen may be eager to link up with Liverpool. Allen has played just six first-team games for Dundee United, but is regarded as one of the best players the club has produced. The midfielder's contract expires in the summer and Allen will speak to interested parties in the January transfer window to try and arrange a deal away from Tannadice.

The Reds are without Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva until the end of the season and have doubts over captain Steven Gerrard's long-term fitness following injury worries. Liverpool boss Dalglish is again looking to young players and sees Allen as one for the future alongside fellow Scotsman Charlie Adam.