Match Report: Oldham 3 - 2 Liverpool

Striker Matt Smith chose the perfect occasion to score his first goals at Boundary Park as his first-half double helped npower League One Oldham produce an FA Cup upset in beating Liverpool.

The 23-year-old, who 18 months ago was playing non-league football with Solihull Moors, had the best day of his fragmented professional career after giving the Reds' defence a torrid time.

He scored either side of Luis Suarez's 21st of the season in the first half before Reece Wabara's header put the Latics into the last 16 despite Joe Allen's goal 11 minutes from time.

It was the first time Liverpool had been beaten away from home in the FA Cup by a team at least two divisions below them since defeat at non-league Worcester City in 1959.

Smith had given up on professional football after being released by Cheltenham aged 18 and went on to gain a degree in International Management with American Studies from the University of Manchester.

While studying he played for the likes of Redditch United, Droylsden and Solihull Moors - where he was spotted by Oldham.

Prior to this game he had scored only scored seven times in 60 appearances for the Latics but none will have been as enjoyable as his two in the first half against the seven-time FA Cup winners from the Barclays Premier League.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers' decision to alter three of the back four among six changes proved calamitous as infrequent starter Sebastian Coates had a game to forget.

Oldham, with only one win in their last nine games, had beaten progressively higher-ranked opposition in Kidderminster, Doncaster and Nottingham Forest to reach the fourth round for the first time in five years.

But it was not fate which got them through as the Latics' no-nonsense, battling approach deservedly put them ahead.

Smith gave indication of his threat in just the third minute with the sort of goal you associate with a player of his physical stature.

Youssouf M'Changama swung over a cross from the left and the 23-year-old used every inch of his 6ft 6in frame to out-muscle Coates and head past Brad Jones.

The first half had an edge to it as Oldham, having taken one point from a possible 24 in the league, tried to close the gap of 56 places with endeavour and exuberance.

However, it was Liverpool youngster Raheem Sterling who was first to be booked for challenge on M'Changama which ultimately forced the Oldham midfielder off after just 10 minutes.

Robbie Simpson, a scorer at Anfield in Oldham's 5-1 third-round defeat last season, was also cautioned for going in on Jones after the goalkeeper had failed to hold the ball - which turned out to be a pre-cursor of what was to come.

Former Everton midfielder Jose Baxter did his best to make life difficult for the red half of Merseyside, twice shooting wide from distance, but it was Suarez who was next to feature and significantly so.

The Uruguay international, captaining the side, set off on a driving run from deep and looked to pass but got a lucky rebound off defender Cliff Byrne and reacted quickly to hammer the ball inside Dean Bouzanis' left-hand post.

It was his fifth goal in six FA Cup appearances and his eighth strike in as many games.

His touch to Jordan Henderson's inswinging free-kick then diverted the ball into the net only to be denied by an offside flag.

Sterling should have scored after Suarez's pass was backheeled into his path by Fabio Borini but he shot straight at the keeper.

But Oldham remained unbowed as they took great heart from the physical battles they were winning and were rewarded with a second goal moments before the interval.

Smith, who had already had a header tipped over by Jones in added time, converted the simplest of chances after a howler by the Liverpool goalkeeper who fumbled Wabara's cross to allow Simpson to square a pass for the striker to poke home.

Borini had the chance to equalize from Jack Robinson's cross with the second half less than a minute old but he side-footed over and it proved costly.

The visitors' defensive fallibility in the air was exposed again as Carl Winchester swung a cross to the far post and Wabara rose above Robinson to head over Jones into the far corner.

Steven Gerrard's introduction from the bench was not long in coming and the England captain soon had a shot blocked from which Daniel Sturridge blazed over.

Allen pulled one back with 11 minutes to go to with a shot which deflected in off Baxter but Oldham held on to reach the fifth round for the first time in 19 years.

Rodgers Disappointed By Liverpool Youngsters

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers expressed disappointment with his young players following the Reds' shock FA Cup defeat to Oldham Athletic.

The Northern Irishman gave the likes of Jack Robinson, Andre Wisdom and Sebastian Coates an opportunity to start at Boundary Park but saw his side end up on the wrong end of a 3-2 result.

"We were coming here in good form and obviously we are bitterly disappointed," Rodgers told BBC Sport.

"I was bitterly disappointed with the young players as they had a chance to show they can play for Liverpool and compete for a club that has to challenge for trophies.

"We lost our concentration, and only had spells in the last 35 minutes when we were at the right level. Congratulations to Oldham, though.

"Our mentality was poor and it ended up costing us.

"We are trying to give [young players] experience and let them see what it's like to play for Liverpool, but you've got to be able to be competitive and part of a group that is going to challenge for trophies.

"If you are going to win trophies and go far, then you need to come to places like Oldham and win. We were not good enough.

"Gerrard has come on with Stewart Downing and, for 35 minutes we were terrific, but it was too late then. We were 3-1 down and it was not good enough.

"But I can't rely on Steven for 70 games. He's been incredible, but he shouldn't be expected to have to come and win games on his own.

"You can't be comfortable at Liverpool. The youngsters are never allowed to be. This is a different type of football to the Premier League and you have to stand up and be counted."

Inter President Urges Coutinho To Make Liverpool Switch

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has urged Coutinho to take the opportunity to move to the Premier League, as Liverpool attempt to bring the young Brazilian to Anfield before the transfer window closes.

Brendan Rodgers has been hopeful of making the attacking midfielder his second signing of the January transfer window following the arrival of Daniel Sturridge at the beginning of the month. The club has already made two bids for the 20-year-old in recent weeks, and it is thought that the two clubs are close to coming to an agreement on a fee for the player, boosted by Moratti’s latest comments.

"There are certain opportunities that should be taken," Moratti said, ESPN report. "Sometimes players are able to get more playing time, and so I think it could be a great opportunity for Coutinho and a deal that might work out well for us."

Southampton has previously been in the running for Coutinho, with Saints reportedly ready to outbid Liverpool for the Brazilian. A €13.7 million bid could be enough for the Merseyside outfit to get their man, with Inter keen to secure the funds needed to push through a move for Corinthians midfielder Paulinho.

Liverpool Taking A Look At Christian Benteke

Aston Villa fear that a selection of the top Premier League clubs want to sign their prized asset Christian Benteke.

The Belgian has already scored 11 goals for a struggling Aston Villa side and the Daily Mail believe that Champions Manchester City, Tottenham, Liverpool and Arsenal have all expressed their interest in signing him.

Benteke was signed for £7.5 million in the summer from Genk and they feel that despite the interest they will be able to keep hold of him until the summer but they could struggle to keep him, especially if they were to get relegated.

Villa fans will be concerned given the history of owner Randy Lerner when it comes to the club’s top players. He has cashed in on the likes of Ashley Young, Stewart Downing, James Milner and Gareth Barry in recent years.

Chelsea & Liverpool Scramble For Vitesse Arnhem Star

Vitesse Arnhem are ready to sell Wilfried Bony before the end of the transfer window and this has caught the attention of Premier League duo Chelsea and Liverpool.

The 24 year old is contracted at the Dutch club until 2015 and is currently away at the African Cup of Nations, but Vitesse general manager Erwin Kasakowski has said that they will not stand in his way if a big club comes in.

"We have promised Wilfried that we will consider any serious offers from him that would take him a step higher," he told AD. "But it must be good for both parties.

"Currently we have received no bids, and frankly we would rather Wilfried stays."

Russian side CSKA Moscow is also tracking the forward and could ramp up their interest before the close of the transfer window.

Bony has scored 16 goals in 18 league outings this term after striking 17 times last season.

Liverpool & Everton Close In On Chesterfield Youngster

Chesterfield chief executive Chris Turner says the club is willing to listen to offers from Liverpool and Everton for midfield sensation Tendayi Darikwa.

Both Merseyside clubs are reportedly poised to launch a £2million bid for the 21-year-old winger, who scooped the League Two Young Player of the Month award for December.

Numerous Premier League sides have been tracking Darikwa and Turner has confirmed that Liverpool and Everton have sent scouts to watch the youngster.

"Tendayi is a fantastic talent and we would never stand in the way of a player from moving to a Premier League club," Turner said.

"A lot of top clubs have been tracking him for quite a while and it is no surprise - Tendayi is a player with exceptional potential who deserves to play at the very top.

"We had this situation with Jordan Bowery in the summer when he moved to Aston Villa - Chesterfield is a great place for young players to improve and show people what they can do.

"If a bid were to come we would of course sit down and discuss it."

Darikwa graduated from the Chesterfield youth set-up and signed a three-year contract in November.

Liverpool Eye Move For Tottenham Starlet

Liverpool fans have been kept busy with rumours all transfer window inside the Football Transfer Tavern, and Tom Collomosse of the Evening Standard has another for them concerning a young Tottenham midfielder.

Highly rated Alex Pritchard is reportedly Brendan Rodgers’ latest target, after catching the eye during Spurs’ development matches this year, notably in their remarkable 4-1 win at Barcelona in the NextGen Series.

However, Pritchard is yet to break into Andre Villas-Boas’ first team squad, and Rodgers who has used a host of young players for Liverpool this season has begun plotting his move.

Pritchard turns 20 in May, and with his contract running down he is thought to be considering his options.

Alex Inglethorpe coached Pritchard during his six year spell as a Tottenham youth coach, and having moved to become reserve team coach at Liverpool, retains a strong interest in the attacking midfielder.

Tottenham are set to offer the player a new deal, although it is understood he is keen to keep his options open.

Any move away from the club would entitle Spurs to compensation with the North London club having developed the player, although Liverpool feel any fee they would have to pay would turn out to be a bargain in the long run.

Gremio Deny Coates Interest

Gremio have rejected claims that they are poised to sign Liverpool defender Sebastian Coates before the transfer window closes on Thursday.

There had been suggestions that the Uruguay international could be on his way back to South America, with the Brazilian side reported to be ready to offer £7million for his services.

Coates has struggled to make any real impact at Anfield since his arrival from Nacional back in August 2011, starting just five Premier League games in that time.

He had an opportunity to impress during Sunday's FA Cup fourth round clash with Oldham at Boundary Park, but endured a miserable afternoon as the Reds were beaten 3-2 by the League One outfit.

That had led to suggestions that Brendan Rodgers could be ready to part company with the centre-back and use any funds generated to bolster his squad.

But Gremio director Rui Costa has flatly denied that they are looking to sign the 22-year-old from the Premier League club.

Costa told UOL: "You can forget that, just forget it."

Borini and Sturridge Re-ignite Rivalry

As promising young strikers at Chelsea, Fabio Borini and Daniel Sturridge were fighting for a first-team place.

Now, with Sturridge's transfer to Liverpool and Borini returning to fitness, the rivalry is set to reignite a battle for a start alongside controversial goal machine Luis Suarez.

England international Sturridge has already made an impressive start for Liverpool, hinting at good things to come from the partnership fans have dubbed 'Suarridge'. Italian forward Borini, on the other hand, hasn't had much of a chance to make his presence felt at Anfield, having spent the last three months out of action with a broken foot since his move from Roma in the summer.

Borini is keen to settle and become a core player at Liverpool, having had an unstable few years which have seen him join Swansea on loan whilst at Chelsea, then sold to Roma before being reacquired by Brendan Rodgers' former club.

Sturridge, while used fairly frequently at Chelsea, never quite cemented himself as a key starter, having been behind Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka and Fernando Torres in the pecking order, and is keen to become a first-team regular at the Merseyside club.

Borini told The Sun: "There was some rivalry for the position, like every team has, but we are good friends too.

"You have to fight for your place all the time, even in life.

"It is a big chance for us because we always waited for this chance to be part of a big project at a big club."

Both strikers started in the FA Cup loss to Oldham, but while Borini was substituted ten minutes into the second half, neither player could stop the Anfield outfit from exiting the competition.

U18s Ready For Al Kass Cup

Liverpool U18s are preparing for their opening game on Monday in the prestigious Al Kass Cup in Qatar, in which they'll be competing against the likes of Real Madrid and Inter Milan.

Steve Cooper's lads face local side Aspire Qatar in their opening group clash and the tournament promises to be a fantastic experience for the Academy youngsters.

Academy technical director and head of coaching Rodolfo Borrell told Liverpoolfc.com: "It's a great experience fort the lads as we will face teams with different philosophies and mentalities and this will make the players grow 100 per cent.

"This is a great competition and it is fantastic for the lads to play against teams of this high quality.

"The most important thing for our Academy director Frank McParland and myself is we are trying to get as many of our players as possible playing against teams from all over the world. The likes of Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Fluminese and Boca Juniors are also out here and it will be a great tournament.

"The conditions are a lot different from what the players are used to do but they will benefit greatly from that.

"We have brought a very young side out to Qatar as this is a tournament for players born in 1995, and we have lads born in 1996 and 1997, so it will be a good test and one we are really looking forward to it."

After taking on Aspire Qatar in their opening game on Monday the young Reds then face Esperance on Tuesday, with the top two teams in each group progressing to the knockout stages.

The quarter-finals get underway next Friday, with the final set to be held on Thursday, February 7. PSG were crowned the inaugural champions in 2012 after beating Juventus on penalties.

FA Cup Preview: Oldham vs Liverpool

Liverpool’s attempt to reach the FA Cup Final two years in a row continues this weekend with a trip to League One side Oldham Athletic.

The Lancashire club is relishing the opportunity to play the Reds, but who were humiliated in the third round of the competition last season 5-1 at Anfield.

There were five different scorers for Liverpool that day – Craig Bellamy, Steven Gerrard, debut goals for Jonjo Shelvey and Stuart Downing, and Andy Carroll.

The Latics had, however, taken the lead just before the half hour mark, before Kenny Dalglish‘s Liverpool turned fortunes around.

This weekend sees a stronger Liverpool side goes looking to progress in the tournament after seeing off non-league Mansfield Town 2-1 in the third round.

The Reds are likely to start new signing Daneil Sturridge, but as The Guardian are reporting this week, attempts to sign Philippe Countinho from Inter are ongoing.

Pepe Reina may be rested again after missing last Saturday’s 5-0 victory at home to Norwich with a thigh strain. Brad Jones will deputize in his place.

The game may be taken by manager Brendan Rodgers as an opportunity to rest and rotate his growing squad of players – expect to see the likes of Suso and Jonjo Shelvey return to action after recent games watching from the subs bench.

Liverpool's Improved Form Puts Europe Back In Sight

A little over a month ago, Liverpool were on terrible form. The club was stuck in the bottom half, averaging a distressing 1.29 points per game under Brendan Rodgers and struggling to find consistency as they dropped points against both ends of the table. Dreams of a return to the Champions League were dead, and even a return to the Europa League seemed highly unlikely.

Now, after a series of encouraging performances and improved results, things don't look nearly so bleak. Champions League action still appears an unrealistic goal, perhaps, but on current form a top half finish seems secure and qualification for the Europa League at least appears possible.

It can be dangerous to judge a side based on a win here and a loss there, but looking back over the past ten games finds a much improved 1.8 points per game average—enough to raise the season total to a more respectable 1.48 points per game. It's not the title challenging form it would have taken to get back into contention for the top four given how poorly Liverpool started, but across an entire campaign it would mean 68 points. And over the past ten years, 68 points is the average haul for the side that finishes fourth.

In fact, Tottenham—currently standing fourth in the table—are on pace to finish the season with exactly that many points. That the current fourth place side is likely to end the year on, or at least very near, the average for fourth place finishers over the past ten seasons is encouraging for anybody interested in using past results to predict future outcomes. It's rather less encouraging for Liverpool's lingering Champions League dreams.

That there are only seven points between Tottenham in fourth and Liverpool in seventh may not look a lot on paper, but with only 15 games remaining it means that if Tottenham maintain their current pace, Liverpool would need 2.27 points per game to equal them and hit that 68 point mark. They would also have to leapfrog Everton and Arsenal along the way, hoping neither side found a similarly rich vein of form.

It's not an impossible task, perhaps, but aiming for fourth seems almost certain to end in disappointment, no matter that Liverpool's improved form of late has been encouraging and that the players and manager deserve commendation for finding their feet following a difficult start. What may no longer be quite so far fetched, however, is the idea of landing a Europa League spot, especially if Chelsea go on to win the League Cup.

Chelsea would need to overcome a two goal deficit after losing the first leg of their semi-final to Swansea just to make it to the final, but if they were to win it, it would provide Liverpool with their easiest route back into Europe. That's because if Chelsea were to win the League Cup and subsequently qualify for the Champions League based on league standing, the Europa League spot awarded for winning England's second cup competition would pass to the Premier League's sixth place finisher.

And if Liverpool can maintain their current form of 1.8 points per game, history says they will finish at least sixth in the table when everything is said and done. On the other hand, for Liverpool finish in fifth and qualify for the Europa League should Chelsea fail to win the League Cup would take closer to two points per game the rest of the way—a difficult task, though one that might just about be possible if the squad continues to improve under Rodgers and is perhaps bolstered by another signing or two.

Liverpool's improved form may not quite be enough to get back to the top four this season, and it may have taken a long time in coming, but it can't be ignored that both performances and results have improved noticeably in recent weeks. Now, so long as the club doesn't stumble, a season that ends with at least some cause for hope and optimism doesn't seem beyond the realm of possibility. And, oddly enough, it would improve Liverpool's chances of a successful season greatly if the club's ex-manager could now lead Chelsea to victory in the League Cup.

Henderson Hopes To Give Rodgers Selection Headache

Jordan Henderson insists the selection headache Brendan Rodgers has every week can only be a good thing for Liverpool's prospects this season.

The midfielder has made 26 appearances in all competitions for the Reds, despite battling for a spot with club captain Steven Gerrard, Joe Allen, Jonjo Shelvey, Lucas Leiva and Nuri Sahin, who departed for Borussia Dortmund earlier this month.

And the 22-year-old, who arrived from Sunderland for £16 million in the summer of 2011, believes the stiff competition for places at Anfield has driven him on to improve as a player.

“I think we’ve got a lot of good players in the team so it’s a headache every week for him – and that’s a good thing!” he told the club's official website.

“It makes everyone push on in training and try to improve, so if we keep playing like that we’ll be alright.”

Henderson has been in good form recently, and admits that having attackers of the calibre of Luis Suarez, Raheem Sterling and new signing Daniel Sturridge makes life as a midfielder a lot easier.

“They’re world-class players and there’s a lot of movement in front of me,” he added. “They’re always available to give the ball to so it makes it easier for the midfielders.

“Daniel is a really talented player. He’s scored a few goals and played well too. He’s a big plus for us and he just needs to keep working hard and keep going forward."

Liverpool now find themselves level on points with Arsenal having played a game more, and Henderson is convinced they can still mount a late charge for the Champions League places.

“The top four is a realistic aim, but we just have to take each game as it comes, keep chipping away as we have been and hopefully get a good finish to the season,” he concluded.

Gerrard Eyeing Up Beckham’s England Record

England captain Steven Gerrard insists he is determined to break David Beckham’s international appearance record.

The 32-year-old Liverpool midfielder was honoured by the Football Writers’ Association at a gala tribute dinner at the Savoy hotel in London on Sunday night, with current England boss Roy Hodgson among those in attendance.

Gerrard, 32, won his 100th England cap in the friendly against Sweden in November, taking him a step nearer to Beckham’s landmark of 115, which is the most-ever for an outfield player.

Gerrard, who made his England debut against Ukraine back in 2000, and played in both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, believes that Beckham’s total is now within reach.

‘My personal ambitions are to get as many caps as I can,’ Gerrard said.

‘I have got David Beckham’s record in my sights, so I am going to try to beat that because he is a special player.’

Liverpool Youngster Up For Starting Place Fight

The competition for places at Liverpool has increased after the signing on Daniel Sturridge coupled with Fabio Borini's return from injury and youngster Suso has said that he is ready to fight for his place in the staring XI.

However, Suso has not figured since the FA Cup third round win at Mansfield on 6th January and he has admitted that he will have to be at his best at training if he wants to get back into the side.

He told the official LFC website, "With Daniel Sturridge coming in and Fabio Borini back from injury there is going to be extra competition for places. Playing for Liverpool's first team is going to be difficult and it should be because it is one of the best teams in Europe.

"The competition is good for me because it makes me determined to work even harder and to get better. But the most important thing is always the team."

He added, "I'm really happy with the way this season has been going. I think I can still do better but it is my first year and I am getting experience with every game.

"The Premier League is really difficult and I am only 19 years old so I need to keep working to improve and try to learn from all the great players that we have here with lots of experience.

"The biggest thing is that you cannot fall asleep in this team. You always have to work hard every day and show the boss and everyone here that you are playing well. There are a lot of good players and not everyone can play every week but if you don't, the next week you need to show that you are doing well."

Southampton Ready To Hijack Liverpool’s Move For Coutinho

Liverpool’s move for Inter Milan midfielder Philippe Coutinho is in danger of being hijacked by ambitious Southampton.

The Saints new boss Mauricio Pochettino is a big fan of the Brazillian schemer and, according to reports in Italy, is ready to meet Inter’s £10million asking price.

Liverpool were in pole position to land the 20-year-old and are thought to be prepared to pay £8million to get their man, after an initial offer of around £5million was turned down.

However, with chairman Nicola Cortese keen to flex his financial muscle following Pochettino’s appointment last week, Southampton are set to gazump the Reds by going straight in with the asking price.

If the Saints are successful it would be the second time in two weeks that they beat Liverpool to the punch after they stole Norwegian defender Vegard Forren from under the Merseysider’s noses.

Coutinho has caught the eye after making 15 appearances for the Nerazzurri this season, scoring two goals.

Liverpool Fly Out To Italy To Negotiate Coutinho Transfer

A Liverpool delegation flew out to Italy on Wednesday to negotiate the transfer of Inter playmaker Philippe Coutinho, Goal.com understands.

The Anfield officials, led by managing director Ian Ayre, are hopeful of agreeing a deal for the 20-year-old Brazilian.

Liverpool had a bid of around €7.7 million rejected for Coutinho last week but are confident an improved offer will be accepted by the Serie A giants.

Inter have placed a valuation of €11-13m on the attacking midfielder, who has played a single full international for Brazil.

Coutinho’s public stance is that he is happy to stay at Inter but Liverpool has been given encouragement that a deal is possible this month, given the state of finances at the Italian club.

The player signed for Inter from Vasco da Gama when he was 16, though he spent a further two years at the Brazilian club before moving to Italy. Coutinho had a productive spell on loan at Espanyol in the second half of last season before returning in the summer to Inter.

Despite starting only three of the club’s Serie A matches this season – and making 10 league appearances in total – Coutinho is regarded as an emerging star.

Speaking to Sky Italia earlier this week about Liverpool’s interest, he said: “The Liverpool offer? I'm happy with these offers, because it means I am doing my job well.

"But I think Inter have faith in me and I want to show my value here. I don't feel that I'm on my way out. I hope to stay at Inter. The young players feel the faith of the coach and of the club."

Chelsea & Liverpool Target Leaves Aulas Sweating

Lyon is being forced to play a waiting game over the future of Chelsea and Liverpool striker target Bafetimbi Gomis.

The 27-year-old has helped fire his club to second in the Ligue 1 table this term, but is out of contract at the Stade Gerland at the end of the season.

And, if the former Saint-Etienne starlet does not pen a new deal with Les Gones in the coming days, then he can expect to be on his way before the end of the month.

"Lyon does not want a player of such quality to become a free agent in six months," chairman Jean-Michel Aulas told L'Equipe.

"The objective is either to prolong his contract or transfer him out."

Speculation has linked the French international with a move to the Premier League, with both the Blues and Reds reported to be keen on the player.

And, with just over a week left in the transfer window, Aulas appears to be getting frustrated at the situation, having predicted a quick resolution just under a fortnight ago.

"Of course, all the talk is about him moving to England, but there are other European clubs interested in him too. I'm sure things will begin to accelerate in the next couple of weeks and we expect things to be sorted soon," he was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

Chelsea interim manager Rafa Benitez has already made one addition in the transfer window, with Demba Ba moving to Stamford Bridge from Newcastle United.

However, the west London outfit is far from flush in the position, with mis-firing Spaniard Fernando Torres the only other senior option available at Stamford Bridge.

Gomis would add an extra dimension to the Chelsea attack if they were to bring him to west London, although competition is likely to be fierce for the signature.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have also made a signing in the position this January, with Daniel Sturridge arriving at Anfield.

But, much like the Blues, manager Brendan Rodgers is short of senior options, with Luis Suarez the only other out-and-out striker currently available on Merseyside.

Were Liverpool to sign Gomis, he'd also add to their side in a number of ways, but it appears the ball is currently in the player's court as he decides on his Ligue 1 future.

Manchester United Consider Move For Reina

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina has emerged as a transfer target for Manchester United as the Red Devils considering offloading David de Gea, according to the Daily Star.

Reina, it is claimed, is set to leave Anfield at the end of the season, but Liverpool will inform Manchester United that they must pay in the region of £15 million to secure the signature of the 30-year-old.

The Spain international has been linked with a return to Barcelona, where he started his career, and Reina's father has encouraged the Liverpool custodian to return to the Camp Nou.

Barcelona are on the lookout for potential replacements for Victor Valdes, who has informed the Catalans that he will not sign a contract, although Tito Vilanova could seemingly be contested by Sir Alex Ferguson in pursuit of Reina.

The Manchester United manager is reportedly considering allowing De Dea to leave OId Trafford - the young Spaniard has also been linked with Barcelona - and Reina would certainly be a more than adequate replacement.

Given his strong bond with Liverpool, however, Reina could be forgiven for vetoing a transfer to Manchester United, even if Brendan Rodgers has reportedly started looking for his long-term successor.

Reina’s Agent To Discuss Barcelona Talk

Pepe Reina’s representatives are set to sit down with Liverpool in the next few days to discuss the goalkeeper’s future at the club.

The Spaniard’s father recently expressed his desire to see his son replace Victor Valdes at Barcelona, and Reina’s agent, Manuel Garcia Quilon, will now hold talks with the Reds in order to establish where the 30-year-old figures in Brendan Rodgers’ plans.

Reina has three years remaining on his current deal at Anfield, but his father, Miguel Reina, said: ‘I am absolutely convinced Pepe would be more than delighted to return to his Barcelona, where they made him into an upstanding man from the time he arrived at the age of 12 until he left.

‘I say it publicly: I would be delighted to see Pepe back at Barca, of course I would. What father would not like to see his son at Barca? He has already been there but to return would be extraordinary.

‘Pepe has shown sufficient proof of the calibre of goalkeeper he is and right now – and sorry for the lack of modesty – he would be up to the task and the ideal keeper for FC Barcelona.’

Arsenal & Liverpool Facing Fight Over Argentine International

Arsenal and Liverpool face competition from Premier League rivals Southampton in the race to sign Lucas Biglia, according to reports.

The Daily Mirror claims new Saints boss Mauricio Pochettino has set his sights on the seven-cap Argentine international, and is eager to bring his compatriot to St. Mary’s in the January transfer window.

Pochettino tried to sign the player whilst in La Liga, and is again chasing the Anderlecht star now his home is on the south coast in the Premier League.

However, the former Espanyol chief faces competition for the £8million-rated midfielder, with both the Gunners and Reds also keen on the 26-year-old.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has been heavily linked with a move for the player for years, with Sky Sports reporting in August that he was first keen on Biglia back in 2006.

His pursuit of the former Independiete star failed in the summer though, as Alex Song departed the Emirates Stadium for pastures new in Barcelona.

Six months later, the link to Arsenal has returned, and Biglia would certainly add more bite to the Arsenal midfield if he were to move to north London.

Liverpool, meanwhile, is another club to have been linked with the holding-midfielder for several months.

Indeed, The Daily Mail claimed in December that Anfield chief Brendan Rodgers had been put on alert over the player after Anderlecht told Biglia he could leave in January.

If Liverpool do want to add the Argentine on Merseyside, they know that there is plenty of competitors standing in their way though, and a transfer battle could ensue over the coming week.

Liverpool & Juventus Scout A-League Star

Liverpool and Juventus are set to send scouts to watch Melbourne Victory star Marco Rojas this weekend, according to Sky Sports.

The 21-year-old forward is the Australian A-League's most exciting talent, and local reports claim Liverpool and Juventus scouts will be in attendance for Melbourne Victory's match against Sydney FC this Saturday.

The New Zealand international has a contract with the Victory that expires in three months' time, and both clubs are likely to make bids in the region of £500,000 if Rojas makes a position impression at the weekend.

The Kiwi forward is of Chilean descent, and having bagged 10 goals in just 15 league games for his side this season, is one of the hottest properties Down Under.

Melbourne Victory are keen to keep hold of Rojas, and head coach Ange Postecoglou has claimed he is unaware of any interest in the player from abroad.

Still, he conceded that Rojas could be sold for the right price.

"I'm in contact with his dad very regularly and at this stage we're confident he'll stay with us until the end of the season," Postecoglou told the Herald Sun.

"At this stage we're comfortable with how he's going and where things are at."

Liverpool made the first major move of the January transfer window when they snapped up Danny Sturridge from Chelsea for a fee in the region of £12m.

Sturridge has gone on to make an immediate impact for the Reds, scoring in each of his first three appearances for his new club.

But Rojas would be more one for the future. The Melbourne Victory attacker joined the club from Wellington Phoenix in 2011, and the New Zealand international has made 13 appearances for his country, scoring one goal.

£5m Liverpool Keeper Link Dismissed

The agent of Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has played down speculation linking his client to Liverpool.

Jorge Berlanga insists that, whilst many clubs are interested in the 27-year-old stopper, transfer talk is nothing more than rumour at this stage.

"Many clubs are interested in Memo, and they have been watching him, but we are still at the stage of rumours," Berlanga told So Foot.

A 50-cap international, the Ajaccio star has been linked with both Manchester United and Arsenal in the past, according to Goal.com, and was recently tipped as a player to potentially replace Pepe Reina at Anfield.

Indeed, talkSPORT reported yesterday (Monday) that Brendan Rodgers was considering a £5million move for the player amidst talk that Reina could leave Liverpool for Spanish giants Barcelona at the end of the season.

A move for Ochoa would be seen as something of a gamble by the Anfield outfit however, with the Ligue 1 star yet to play in European cup competition during his career.

And, whilst his form has been impressive for the French strugglers, a move to Liverpool would represent a significant move up the football ladder for the former Club America keeper.

Liverpool Confident Of Securing Move For Coutinho

Liverpool is confident of making Inter Milan attacking midfielder Phillipe Coutinho their second signing of the January transfer window this week, reports suggest.

The Liverpool Echo report that the Reds had an opening offer in the region of £5 million rejected by the Nerazzurri, who told Brendan Rodgers’ side to increase their offer for the Brazilian. According to the Echo, Liverpool are expected to do just that sooner rather than later.

Former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez was the man to originally bring the 20-year-old to European football, signing the youngster from Vasco De Gama in 2010 for £3 million. Coutinho, who has been capped once at senior level for his nation and made 27 appearances for Inter since his arrival at the San Siro, also spending a hugely successful half a season out on loan to La Liga outfit Espanyol this time last year.

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert was keen on bringing the attacking midfielder to the Premier League earlier in the transfer window, but a loan move to the relegation-threatened side failed to transpire.

Liverpool is confident of securing their second incoming transfer following the £12 million acquisition of Daniel Sturridge at the start of the month.

Reina Snr Urges Son To Trade Liverpool For Barcelona

Miguel Reina, father of Liverpool shot stopper Pepe Reina, is certain that his son would jump at the opportunity to replace Victor Valdes at Barcelona.

Valdes, who has been Barca’s number one custodian for the past decade revealed last week that he has no plans to renew his contract at the club when his current deal expires in the summer of 2014.

Miguel, who made 111 appearances for the Catalan giants between 1966 and 1973 before moving to Atletico Madrid, strongly believes that his son would be willing to call time on his career at Anfield if the opportunity to become Valdes’ replacement arose.

"I am absolutely convinced that Pepe would be more than delighted to return to his Barcelona, where they made him into an upstanding man from the time he arrived at the age of 12 until he left,” Reina Snr said, Spanish newspaper Marca report.

"I say it publicly: I would be delighted to see Pepe back at Barca, of course I would. What father would not like to see his son at Barca?

"He has already been there but to return would be extraordinary.

Hearts Eye Liverpool Striker Michael Ngoo

Liverpool’s Michael Ngoo is one of several strikers being monitored by Hearts as they consider whether to reinforce their attack with another loan move. The Evening News has learned that Ngoo’s name is on a shortlist of potential targets from south of the Border.

The 20-year-old has been watched several times by the Hearts manager John McGlynn and director of football John Murray in recent months. He is an England Under-19 and Under-20 internationalist, 6ft 4in tall and is known for his lightning pace and physical presence up front.

He is able to play as a lone striker or as part of a two or three-man attack. Hearts have yet to decide whether to move for Ngoo or go for one of the other options on their list.

As revealed recently, McGlynn is keen to recruit a new striker if possible. Hearts are restricted by the SPL to signing under-21 players on a one-in-one-out basis.

Having replaced Ryan McGowan with Danny Wilson from Liverpool, they could return to Anfield to broker 
another loan agreement with Peter Enckelman’s place in the squad still open.

Ngoo joined Liverpool in September 2009 from Southend United for a fee potentially worth up to £250,000. He scored 15 goals in 21 games for Liverpool’s under-18s in season 2010/11, which earned him promotion to the club’s reserve squad. He was also part of the England’s squad for the Under-20 World Cup in Colombia in 2011.

McGlynn’s dealings with the Liverpool manager, Brendan Rodgers, over Wilson were smooth and uncomplicated, and today he praised the Northern Irishman for allowing the centre-back to move north until the end of the season.

“I have to thank Liverpool and Brendan for being so co-operative and allowing Danny to come here,” he said.

“We’d earmarked Danny for some time and had been down watching some games, but it was just coincidence that the transfer ban was lifted.

“Fortunately for us, Danny falls into that under-21 category.”

Wigan Interested In Coates

Wigan have gained a reputation for giving their best performances after putting themselves at risk of relegation.

As the Latics sit in 19th place after 23 games this season, manager Roberto Martinez is planning a few loan signings with Premier League experience under their belt to help pull off their signature escape yet again.

The Telegraph quoted Martinez as saying, “I’ll have to address this in the transfer market. It is difficult for a foreign player to come in January and make an impact.”

The Wigan manager has already taken young Man United forward Angelo Henriquez on loan and he is now reportedly looking at defensive reinforcements in the form of Liverpool’s Sebastian Coates.

The young Uruguayan has failed to make an impact at Anfield and with Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger playing for Liverpool on a regular basis, he could move to the DW Stadium for the rest of the season.

Liverpool Legend Unsure Over New Contract

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has revealed his frustration at the lack of first team opportunities afforded to him by manager Brendan Rodgers, and admits the Anfield veteran admits he is unsure if a new contract will be forthcoming at the end of the season.

Carragher has started only twice in the Premier League for Liverpool this term, with his most recent appearance coming in the 5-0 trouncing of Norwich on Saturday.

With 720 games played for Liverpool over the course of a career spanning 17 years, Carragher is behind only Ian Callaghan on the club's list of appearance makers, but the 34-year-old is having to become used to lack of regular action.

Despite being in the twilight of his professional years at 34-years-old, Carragher is as hungry to play for Liverpool as he has ever been, and is finding it difficult to accept being a peripheral figure.

"The manager has been great with me. He has tried to keep me involved," Carragher said, as reported by ESPN. "But listen, I want to start. I’m no different to any other player.

"[Norwich] was only my second start in the league this season, which is disappointing from my point of view, but I said I wouldn't complain and I’m just trying to get more starts and be involved between now and the end of the season.

"I've played a lot in Europe, the FA Cup and League Cup, but the Premier League is the most important thing for the club and the players. We all want to play in that, and I’m no different.

"I won't lie, it's been a difficult season for me in terms of starting games."

Carragher's current deal with Liverpool expires at the end of the season, and although the centre-back would prefer to stay at Anfield, he does not know what the future holds.

"I'll chat to the manager at the end of the season," Carragher added. "I'm open-minded and I'm sure the club is. It's not about what I’m going to do, that's something we can sort out one way or another.

"It's up to the manager and the club to make a decision about a new contract. It's down to them. I'm pleased I got a game at the weekend and I'll hope to get a few more games now."

Wilson Doesn't Regret Reds Move

New Hearts loan signing Danny Wilson admits his long-term future is likely to be away from Liverpool - but he believes he has improved as a player since moving to Anfield.

Wilson has made only nine first-team appearances for Liverpool since his multi-million pound move from Rangers in July 2010.

Then 18, Wilson had played 25 times for the Ibrox club, including in the Champions League, and won Scottish Premier League and League Cup winners' medals in his only season in the first team.

But he has no regrets about making the switch despite admitting his Anfield career looks likely to end when his contract expires in the summer.

"I wouldn't say it backfired," said Wilson, who made his Hearts debut in Saturday's 4-1 defeat by Celtic 24 hours after signing until the end of the campaign.

"I didn't play as much as I hoped when I went down there. But it served its purpose.

"I left Rangers with the intention to become a better football player. I feel I have done that so I don't think it backfired.

"I don't regret anything. I made the decision at the time and I have to stand by my decision.

"I've learned things that I don't know if I would have learned.

"I was playing against better players in training, the likes of (Luis) Suarez. You can only learn from that. I just want to put what I had into practice in games now."

Wilson, who has five full caps for Scotland, has not played under Brendan Rodgers and does not expect to.

"It's going to be difficult for me to have a future at Liverpool," the 21-year-old said.

"They have four centre-backs there who are fighting for two positions really.

"You see players who played in past seasons not playing as much now.

"I have not really managed to force my way in. My only thinking now is to get out and play and what happens, happens.

"But that's not for me to decide, if Brendan Rodgers wants me. If not I will do what's best for me, and what's best for me now is to be playing football."

Wilson only played a few minutes in his recent loan move to Bristol City, although a minor hamstring problem cut short his stay.

And he is just concentrating on playing first-team games rather than looking further ahead, with Saturday's Scottish Communities League Cup semi-final against Inverness next up.

"I'm not really thinking too much into the future, I'm just thinking about the here and now," Wilson said.

"I've not played much football recently so the most important thing is to get out and play.

"I'm at Hearts now and I am focusing on doing as well as I can for them.

"I'm a footballer who just wants to play football. I'm going to be out of contract and it's better for me to be playing.

"Whichever way it looks, whether it's a shop window or to do well at Hearts, I'm here to do both and hopefully they marry together."

Wilson would not rule out a longer-term stay at Hearts, but the club could struggle to put together a deal given they are set to further cut their playing budget in the summer.

"I don't see why not," when asked about the possibility of staying at Tynecastle.

"Time will tell. I need to do well first and foremost, I can't just assume I will be here for a few years. I need to earn that right.

"Anything that happens, happens, but the next few weeks and months are the most important thing for me right now."