Birmingham 2 - 2 LiverpooL

Yossi Benayoun's deflected equaliser clinched Champions League football for Liverpool but dealt a massive blow to Birmingham's hopes of Barclays Premier League survival.

Alex McLeish's side had appeared to be coasting to victory after goals from Mikael Forssell and Sebastian Larsson had put them in total command.

But a lethargic Liverpool suddenly came to life and, after Peter Crouch had reduced the arrears, Benayoun's deflected header rescued a point and dealt a massive blow to the home side.

Blues will be wondering how they surrendered two priceless points after appearing to be cruising to only a second win in the last eight matches.

Larsson and James McFadden were a handful throughout for the Reds and Birmingham were also hard to break down - a sharp contrast to the 5-1 mauling at Aston Villa last weekend.

But a failure to keep clean sheets has been an Achilles heel for City all season and they were forced to defend desperately for the final half hour.

Liverpool's inspiration was former Blues winger Jermaine Pennant and he was one of the few players in Rafael Benitez's 'shadow' side to stake a claim to start in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final with Chelsea.

Benitez's line-up, showing nine changes from the starting XI against Chelsea in the Champions League, had plenty of possession in the early stages and were content to knock the ball around and probe for an opening.

Lucas had the first effort on target from a cross by Andriy Voronin but Blues goalkeeper Maik Taylor was able to save comfortably away to his left as he failed to make full contact.

Forssell showed good skill on the edge of the Liverpool box to manufacture half a chance for himself but his volley flew straight at Jose Reina.

Forssell was looking the most threatening for Blues when the ball was played into his feet and good skills by the Finnish international found Olivier Kapo in space on the left of the Liverpool box.

But the former Juventus player opted to strike the ball first time and his shot flew into the side netting.

Kapo did better when turning past Steve Finnan and getting to the byline but he over-hit his cross with Forssell waiting in the centre.

Then after 34 minutes the home side went ahead through Forssell's ninth goal of the season.

McFadden was the creator with a teasing cross from the right flank which seemed to glance off the head of Martin Skrtel before finding Forssell unmarked at the far post.

He had time to bring the ball down before hammering it past Reina.

Liverpool tried to retaliate and Taylor was called into meaningful action for the first time to turn aside a dipping powerful 25-yard drive from Crouch.

Voronin became the first player to be yellow-carded after 42 minutes for a touch-line challenge on City skipper Liam Ridgewell.

Then home defender David Murphy was booked in first half injury-time for chopping down Pennant but, fortunately for Blues, John Arne Riise was inches too high with his 30 yard free-kick.

Benitez would have wanted a more committed performance from his side and Liverpool had most of the possession in the early stages of the second period.

But after 54 minutes St Andrews erupted after a stunning free-kick from Larsson doubled Birmingham's lead.

McFadden was brought down by Skrtel some 25 yards out and before the free-kick was taken both Riise and Hyypia complained that Jaidi was obstructing Reina.

But the keeper had no chance as Larsson's curling effort beat his dive and hit the top corner of the net.

Ridgewell got up well to meet a corner from Larsson but he directed his header past the post when he should have at least hit the target.

But Liverpool gave themselves a life-line after 62 minutes when Crouch made no mistake with a first time drive from the edge of the box after a mazy run by Pennant had created the chance.

It means City have now gone 17 games since last keeping a clean sheet against Middlesbrough on Boxing Day.

Jaidi had a chance to restore City's two-goal advantage but headed Larsson's free-kick wide from close range before Nafti was booked for bringing down Pennant.

But Liverpool were now in the ascendancy and Voronin and Benayoun both wasted decent opportunities.

The visitors were not to be denied and after 77 minutes Benayoun's deflected header brought them back on level terms.

Lucas sent over a teasing cross which Benayoun was first to react to but his header hit Jaidi and wrong-footed Taylor as it trickled into the corner of the net.

The Five Players Rumoured To Be On Rafael Benitez's Shopping List

The Daily Mirror today claimed to know the five players on Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez's summer shopping list.

The Spanish boss yesterday revealed he had a productive meeting with Reds co-owner Tom Hicks in which he was promised backing in the transfer market.

The Mirror believes Benitez identified the players he'd like to sign as:

Wigan winger Antonio Valencia
England international Gareth Barry
Swiss full-back Philipp Degen
Spanish defender Fernando Amorebieta and...
Former Manchester City winger Albert Riera

Anyone who reads this blog regularly will know I take all speculation with a rather large dose of salt. Indeed, my mantle is very much that I'll believe it when I see it. But, I have to say, I am hopeful that the journalist David Maddock has got this wrong.

According to Maddock, Valencia is top of the list with Benitez having already tested the water with a £6million enquiry. However, the 22-year-old Ecuador international, who can play on either wing, is also interesting Manchester United and therefore his price tag would be closer to £10million. In my opinion, Sir Alex is welcome to him. He's a quick, clever player but he's not going to bring us a Premier League title.

The only thing I've seen of Amorebieta is a wild 40-yard effort which sailed high into the Madrid skyline, but Benitez is known to be a long-term admirer of the 23-year-old Bilbao centre back. With Daniel Agger, Sami Hyypia, Jamie Carragher and the super impressive Martin Skrtel already competing for two first-team places do we really need to add an inexperienced La Liga man few have heard of?

Philipp Degen is another I know little about. However, Maddock believes the 25-year-old Borussia Dortmund star may be the player to have already agreed in principle to join the Anfield ranks.

As for Riera, I'm just not sure he possesses the quality a Liverpool player should. At 26, he should be about to hit his peak years, but a stuttering career which has included a loan spell at a then poor Manchester City side hardly inspires confidence. Currently performing well for Espanyol, Riera has forced his way into the Spain squad but I think he would have his work cut out to win over the majority of Reds fans.

The one player from Maddock's list I would welcome with open arms is Barry. Where would he play? In the centre. Yes, we already have Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano, Steven Gerrard and Lucas. But Gerrard is a marauder and Lucas is young. Manchester United and Chelsea have shown in recent years that to compete in the Premier League you need to stock up on world-class midfielders - and Barry isn't far off that.

So, Rafa, if Maddock's right, bring us Barry. Then burn the list.

Liverpool FC Reveals New Home Strip For Next Season

Liverpool FC revealed the club’s new home strip for next season today.

The new adidas kit is a classic Liverpool red. An embroidered Liver Bird is carried on the back of the shirt and the inner neck has a red chequered area inspired by the flags of The Kop.

The kit has been designed and produced by adidas, official sponsor and sportswear supplier to the Reds, and incorporates a new shirt collar, ribbed with a v-neck.

The shirt also carries a "This is Anfield" inscription, inspired by the famous Anfield sign.

The replica kit goes on sale on May 22.

Recommended retail prices remain the same for season 08/09 - £45 adults, £35 children.

Rafa Slams Drogba

This week Liverpool, driven by a powerful sense of injustice over the antics of the Chelsea striker, fancy their chances as underdogs to reach their third Champions League final in four years.

If nursing a sense of injustice can help a club into a Champions League final then Liverpool should start embroidering the jerseys for their third in four years. If you judged Chelsea to be a tad fortunate to escape Anfield with a 1-1 draw or were unimpressed by Austrian referee Konrad Plautz's handling of Didier Drogba, Liverpool would like you to multiply those thoughts by 10.

Take Ryan Babel's reaction to the injury-time moment of idiocy with which John Arne Riise transmuted an almost stereotypically efficient Liverpool performance into Chelsea's away-goal advantage. The Dutch winger strode across the technical area to his countryman Henk ten Cate, Chelsea's assistant coach. 'I told him that they are lucky,' said Babel. 'He didn't agree - but then he never agrees.'

Ten Cate would doubtless dispute Rafa Benítez's re-assessment of the first leg. Reviewing the game on video and sleeping on the result had done nought to temper his anger towards Plautz: 'We knew before: six games, just one victory for the home team. Now seven.' As for Drogba, Benítez labelled him a diver in every way possible without using football's taboo word. 'Drogba was given seven fouls and Fernando Torres three. Torres has bruises all around his body. From the first minute I was disappointed by the performance of the referee.

'With Drogba it's important to have a good referee. You can't do anything [to stop him going down], but I will say it because it was so clear. He is amazing because he is massive [yet he goes down]. It's very impressive. I have a lot of clips of him from over the years and he surprises me. After four years I expected it. It's very impressive.'

This may sound like trash-talking bravado from Liverpool, who have yet to register a goal at Stamford Bridge under Benítez's stewardship and who have enjoyed their own share of luck in big Champions League matches in recent years. But this Liverpool side are structured, settled and confident. Since February's home victory over Internazionale there have been consistent three-point Premier League hauls; Arsenal have been thrice out-thought and eventually eliminated from this competition and now Chelsea have been outplayed on home turf. The sole defeat - away to Manchester United - was cheekily explained away by Javier Mascherano's ref-rage red card.

Less than six months ago Steven Gerrard was filling the pages of the club magazine with carefully phrased doubt over Benítez's championship-winning credentials: now there is a new unanimity of belief in their ability to better England's best. 'If they didn't have Petr Cech in goal then we might already be through,' was Gerrard's analysis of an evening on which the Czech goalkeeper had been Chelsea's best player.

'It is the game of the year for us,' said Dirk Kuyt, the one man to find a way past Cech. 'We have a strong belief we can do something out there. We know we haven't scored there for a long time, but we also know we can score anywhere.' Babel argued that 'this Liverpool is a different team than the Liverpool of other years' - to his manager's approval.

'After four years and three times in the semi-finals and twice in the final in Europe we have a big name again, and the top players want to come here,' said Benítez in a message with as much relevance to the club's warring owners as to their Champions League campaign. 'I received some messages from the Spanish press and they told me that in the semi-finals we were the best of the four teams. The players know we are contenders and they know we have good players and can beat anyone. I think we are different now.

'I feel positive. In some sports the best team always wins, but in football you never know. But we were much better than them. I think they need to attack. You know what it is like with supporters, when you are waiting and playing counter-attack at home, and you concede a goal and lose ... supporters will kill you.'

While Avram Grant is perhaps the only man who would argue that Chelsea are a more powerful, effective or better prepared outfit than the one that narrowly ceded two previous Champions League semi-finals to Liverpool, all parties concur that a Benítez side with Torres at the point of its attack is a considerable step up on earlier incarnations.

'They are a stronger team this year and I think that's mainly down to the one man,' said Chelsea's Frank Lampard after the Anfield game. 'Torres is an absolutely fantastic, world-class goalscorer, and that's something they've been crying out.'

Yet Torres, as much as Cech and Riise, was responsible for Tuesday ending in stalemate instead of a decisive Liverpool win. Though the intelligence and pace of the young Spaniard's running was a constant problem for John Terry, when twice propelled free on Cech he failed to apply a top marksman's finish. Torres's first season in English football has been remarkable, but there is still promise that requires fulfillment. Of his 30 goals this campaign, only seven have come away from home - and three of those were in the League Cup at Reading. Delivering Benítez's first Stamford Bridge goal would underpin his manager's message that 'Torres is very strong, mentally, don't worry'.

Torres's performance is less of a concern to Liverpool than Drogba's is to Chelsea. Few within the Chelsea camp were more angered by the manner of José Mourinho's dismissal than the Ivorian, and the season of a footballer who could have been voted England's finest last year has reflected that discontent ever since.

From October to November Drogba reprised his best form, scoring eight times in eight matches. Then came further knee trouble and a fight with Chelsea to be operated on in time to captain Ivory Coast at the African Cup of Nations. On his return from Ghana, the physical problems returned, the goals dried up and Drogba's desire to exit Stamford Bridge became increasingly manifest.

Benítez, though, still recognises the African's ability to perform majestically when the moment takes him - and unhinge defences with a 'studied' application of physique. Hence the propaganda campaign of this week. 'We've played against Chelsea 15 games and every time I have collected some clips of Drogba,' Benitez explained. 'I have shown them to some of the players. I think that [Martin] Skrtel and Carra [Jamie Carragher] were really good against him the other day, the only problem was the referee was giving fouls. And it was not the same with Torres.'

Also noted was the anti-Drogba strategy employed by Roberto Ayala in Benítez's final game as Valencia coach - the 2004 Uefa Cup final against Marseille. The Argentina defender applied a quick, hard kick to the striker. 'With Ayala you don't need to say anything. He knew what to do,' said Benítez.

All this talk of luck and malpractice does Chelsea a disservice, especially on the evidence of yesterday's performance in the 2-1 defeat of Manchester United at Stamford Bridge which will put them in good heart for the run-in. If ever a club deserved a stroke of Anfield fortune it was Chelsea, who had succumbed to Luis García's infamous 'ghost goal' in 2005 and José Reina's penalty shoot-out excellence two years later. Moreover, the fact that they will go into May still in contention for the two main prizes is a testament to the qualities of a group who have spent most of the season working under a manager for whom they have limited respect.

So far only Tal Ben-Haim has publicly spoken out against Grant, saying of his former national team coach: 'I knew that nothing good would come with Grant as Chelsea coach.' The defender was told to train with the reserves, only for the punishment to be rescinded.

On Wednesday at least, though, the Israeli will benefit from the resilience of the squad he inherited from Mourinho, the self-belief his predecessor instilled in them, and the fundamentals of playing shape and style that Steve Clarke has worked to preserve on the training ground. That may well prove enough to take Chelsea to the Champions League final that eluded Mourinho in his three years at the Bridge. If it does the lucky one will be Avram Grant.

Cheyrou Backs Reds For Final

Bruno Cheyrou has backed his former club Liverpool to defeat Chelsea this Wednesday and progress to the Champions League final.

Cheyrou is not remembered as a fan favourite at Anfield, it is safe to say.

The French midfielder played 31 games in his four years on the Liverpool books, scoring all of two goals in the process, firmly cementing himself among Gerard Houllier's infamous flops.

However, one of those goals came at Stamford Bridge in 2004, and remains the last goal registered by a Liverpool player at Chelsea’s stronghold.

But the 29-year-old, who has fallen some way short of living up to his billing as ‘the new Zinedine Zidane’, is backing his former club to break their hoodoo and earn a final berth in Moscow against either Barcelona or Manchester United.

"When I heard I was the last Liverpool scorer at Stamford Bridge I felt proud," said the Rennes man. "Playing for Liverpool remains a great source of satisfaction.

"I'll be glued to my television on Wednesday.

"I was devastated when John Arne Riise scored the own goal. But John's a strong man. I wouldn't put it past him to score the winner at Chelsea.

"My advice to Liverpool is to keep believing. They've probably got a better side now than four years ago; I'm sure they can get a result."

Kuyt Eager To Bring Chelsea Back To Earth

Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt is hoping to serve Chelsea a big slice of humble pie.

The Dutch forward is still smarting from having victory snatched from their grasps deep into injury time last week, but he will not be lacking for motivation to set things right on Wednesday.

"When the final whistle blew I think some of them were thinking they had already reached the final," said Kuyt of the unrestrained manner in which the Chelsea players celebrated despite the equalizer on the night having arrived by a John Arne Riise's own-goal, which was a huge dose of luck which most would agree that they didn't deserve on the night.

"People talk about us not having scored at Stamford Bridge for so many years, but you can also look at it in a more positive way. We have scored in every away game so far this season in the Champions League.

Kuyt added: "We know we played well in the first leg and we know we have made it difficult for ourselves in the second match. But we always believe we can score and if we do that it will put a whole new complexion on the tie."

Chelsea will be brimming with confidence for the rematch at Stamford Bridge next week, following their massively important 2-1 win against Manchester United yesterday.

Premier League Preview: Birmingham City vs. LiverpooL

Sandwiched in between Liverpool's Champions League semi-final tie with the Blues of Chelsea comes this clash against the relegation-threatened Blues at St. Andrew's.

The home side were on the side of a derby hammering last week last week as they showed their defensive vulnerability against free scoring second city neighbours Aston Villa.

That derby consigned Birmingham to the relegation zone for the first time since February, but they have impressed in front of their own fans this season and boss Alex McLeish has a couple of aces up his sleeve in the form of talented forwards James McFadden and Mauro Zarate.

Having drawn with Arsenal and beaten Manchester City and Tottenham already this season, Birmingham will be confident of producing another good performance in front of their passionate home crowd against a Liverpool side that will surely have one eye on their perfectly poised Champions League return leg at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.

Alex McLeish earned a reputation for causing upsets when he was manager of Scotland, who twice defeated France under his guidance. He expects a reaction from his side following what he described as "the worst derby defeat I have had as a manager". McLeish expects a reaction from his side tomorrow, "What has been evident in this team is that we are capable of bouncing back and we can do it again."

An improvement at the back will be needed to negate the threat of a Liverpool attack that is likely to include Peter Crouch and Jermaine Pennant, both on the scoresheet away to Fulham last week, as well as Andriy Voronin and Yossi Benayoun - all players who can trouble Blues.

Liverpool are likely to rest a number of their main players, just as they did at Craven Cottage last week, but even that weakened side contained 10 internationals. Whatever side Benitez chooses, he will expect to have too much for a newly-promoted outfit who have only won one of their seven. In any case, the previous three meetings between the clubshave ended in a draw, a result that may suit both teams again on Saturday evening.

It will be interesting to see if John Arne Riise is selected after his last-minute own goal handed Chelsea a crucial away goal at Anfield on Tuesday. The Norwegian left footer will have been rocked by his error, but with first choice left back Fabio Aureliio missing, Benitez may use this game as a confidence booster for Riise ahead of the return leg against Chelsea. Alternatively, Benitez may blood Argentine youngster Emiliano Insua, who has been impressing in the reserves all season.

FORM GUIDE

Birmingham

Aston Villa - Birmingham 5 - 1 20/04/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Birmingham - Everton 1 - 1 12/04/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Wigan Athletic - Birmingham 2 - 0 05/04/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Birmingham - Manchester City 3 - 1 29/03/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Reading - Birmingham 2 - 1 22/03/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Birmingham - Newcastle 1 - 1 17/03/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE

Liverpool

Liverpool - Chelsea 1 - 1 22/04/2008 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Fulham - Liverpool 0 - 2 19/04/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Liverpool - Blackburn 3 - 1 13/04/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Liverpool - Arsenal 4 - 2 08/04/2008 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Arsenal - Liverpool 1 - 1 05/04/2008 PREMIER LEAGUE
Arsenal - Liverpool 1 - 1 02/04/2008 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

TEAM NEWS

Birmingham

Sebastien Larsson is set to return from a knee injury to provide Birmingham with some more creativity in midfield. Captain Damien Johnson is serving a three match ban.

Last Starting XI (4-4-2 v Aston Villa): Maik Taylor - Kelly, Jaidi, Ridgewell, Murphy - Jerome (Kapo 58), Nafti, Muamba, McSheffrey, Zarate (Forssell 58), McFadden.

Liverpool

With fourth place all but sewn up, expect Benitez to rest a few key figures ahead of the Champions League return leg against Chelsea on Wednesday. Fabio Aurelio misses out with the groin injury he picked up in midweek, Daniel Agger is still missing with a foot knock, and Harry Kewell is unlikely to play for the club again as he has a hamstring injury that should keep him out until his contract runs out this summer.

Last Starting XI (4-2-3-1 v Chelsea): Reina - Arbeloa, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio (Riise 61) - Mascherano, Alonso - Kuyt, Gerrard, Babel (Benayoun 75) - Torres.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Birmingham - Mauro Zarate - The skillful Argentine has produced flashes of brilliance since he joined Blues on loan in January. The 20 year old forward has scored four goals already, and his goals have been key in the win over Manchester City and the draw with Everton that could end up preserving Birmingham's Premier League status. Showed his inexperience with a petulant reaction to being subbed at Villa last week, but if picked, he will be the best chance Birmingham have of upsetting the Reds.

Liverpool - Jermaine Pennant - Pennant returns to St. Andrews on the back of a goal last week at Fulham. The former Blues loan signing has lost his place in Liverpool's first team this season, so he will have a point to prove to both sets of fans on Saturday. Has crossing to the excellent Peter Crouch could be vital in sending his former club back to the Championship.

MPs To Investigate Liverpool Power Struggle

Liverpool's power struggle between the club's American owners will be part of a new inquiry into football by MPs.

The All Party Parliamentary Football Group is to launch a new inquiry into English football and its governance, and the Liverpool crisis is one of the areas it will target.

The club's progress to the Champions League semi-finals has been overshadowed by a row between co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

Alan Keen MP, chairman of the group, said: 'English club football is enjoying great success in Europe at the moment.

'Yet many questions remain about the standard of corporate governance and whether it is best equipped to deal, at every level, with the long-term challenges of the game's future. This is the focus of the group's new inquiry.

'The group will examine case studies on governance, including Liverpool FC where the role of the owners has raised significant public concerns and overshadowed achievements on the field.'

The MPs, who published a comprehensive report into the game four years ago, plan to produce the new report in the autumn.

The takeover of Liverpool by Hicks and Gillett has thrown the issue of foreign ownership into the spotlight. Despite insisting they would not do so, the Americans tried to load the debt from the takeover on to the club and have since fallen out completely.

With the power split, the club is locked in a stalemate with Hicks demanding the resignation of chief executive Rick Parry and Gillett insisting he must stay.

The group's last report recommended a radical re-distribution of football's riches coupled with tougher corporate governance standards throughout the game.

Keen said there had been some improvements within the game since then but no, or slow, progress on the majority of their recommendations.

"Much of the game's corporate governance structure is opaque, to say the least, and does not reflect the best examples of British business," he added.

Rafa Won't Take Any Risks

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez admits he is wary about risking his big-name players in Saturday's game at Birmingham City.

The trip to St Andrews is sandwiched between the club's UEFA Champions League semi-final tussle with Chelsea, with the first leg having finished 1-1 at Anfield on Tuesday.

Benitez will send his team out at Birmingham this weekend mindful of the implications of any of his key players picking up injuries ahead of next Wednesday's jaunt to Stamford Bridge.

Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard have both asked to play against Birmingham, but Benitez is not keen to gamble with his squad.

"Everybody wants to play every game, I was talking with two or three big names and they said 'I want to play, I want to play', but I will have to analyse each one and then decide," said Benitez.

"The most important thing is the team and the club, so I cannot say 'yes' to everyone. It will mean I am taking risks, and I do not want to take risks.

"But the players want to play as much as possible, it shows the character and the mentality of the team."

The Reds sent out a shadow side to beat Fulham 2-0 in the Premier League last weekend and Benitez feels this Saturday's match with Birmingham is a chance for his fringe players to stake a claim for a possible Champions League final appearance.

He added: "I have told the players that it is important for everyone to play well, show quality and be ready, you never know when you will be needed.

"So whoever plays against Birmingham, or the weekend after against Manchester City, they have to play well. They may even have a chance to play in the final.

"We showed at Fulham that we have a squad strong enough to win games like this. We will try, more or less, to do the same this time.

"We will use different players and try to win because we want to make sure of fourth position.

"We will again use our full squad, but also pick a side to win at Birmingham. We did the same thing at Fulham, and won. People can complain, but everyone really needs to think about his own team."

Liverpool Close In On Swiss Defender Transfer Target

Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Swiss international right-back Philipp Degen – as Rafael Benitez revealed that he discussed summer transfer targets with co-owner Tom Hicks at Melwood this week.

Hicks visited Liverpool’s training ground on Wednesday to meet Benitez and both parties have described the talks as being positive.

The Spaniard claims that the main topic of discussion was identifying potential new signings to bolster his squad for next season and one of the first of them should be Borussia Dortmund’s Degen, 25, who is out of contract with the German club at the end of the current campaign.

Benitez remained tight-lipped yesterday as to how close Liverpool are to sealing the move, confirming that talks are “progressing” for at least one of his targets but it is believed that many of the crucial elements of the deal are already in place.

Degen has made more than 70 Bundesliga appearances since his move from Basel, where his twin brother David still plays, in 2005.

Liverpool are also running the rule over Athletic Bilbao centre-back Fernando Amorebieta having sent one of their scouts to watch him in Sunday’s 5-1 thrashing of Benitez’s former club Valencia.

The 6ft3in 23-year-old has been attracting interest from several Premier League clubs including Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle United.

Amorebieta was born in Venezuela but he moved to the Basque country, where both his parents originate from, as a youngster.

Benitez claims that ownership issues of the club did not crop up during his talks with Hicks at Melwood but confirmed that transfer discussions were top of the agenda. He said: “It was a very positive meeting. We were talking about some targets, everybody knows the names and how we have to progress.

“I think everyone agrees, we are progressing and I am satisfied. I have two owners, a chief executive and as manager I have a responsibility to improve the squad for next season.”

Benitez added: “We have a scouting department that is doing a fantastic job. The key is to inform everyone, so that everyone knows what the situation is.

“I don’t think we will need too much. The squad is much better now. We know what we need to sign, maybe four or five players. I don’t think we will need to spend big, big money, it is just doing the deals at the right moment.”

Benitez also revealed that the situation regarding the Anfield hierarchy speaking to Jurgen Klinsmann had also been clarified.

Liverpool’s owners disclosed that they had spoken to the former German national team coach late last year after a fall-out with Benitez over his role regarding transfers.

However, with the Spaniard hoping to remain at Anfield and now supposedly backed by Hicks, the situation has been resolved.

Benitez said: “I clarified everything. (regarding Klinsmann). We were talking about our targets. I think everyone will agree with the targets we want to sign and that is important for me.”

Meanwhile, Benitez confirmed that left-back Fabio Aurelio, who was stretchered off during Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea in their Champions League semi-final first leg on Tuesday will be out for three weeks.

The Brazilian suffered a tear to his adductor muscle and will miss the remainder of the Premier League campaign but could return for the Champions League final should Liverpool reach Moscow.

Liverpool Stadium Plan To Be Approved Next Week

Liverpool FC’s third stadium plan is set to get the go-ahead next week.

City planners have recommended the £350m proposal for a 60,000-seater ground is approved by councillors..

However, progress on the stadium is likely to remain in doubt as long as the ownership stand-off continues.

Liverpool’s original building plan for Stanley Park was backed by the council as far back as 2004.

American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett ordered a massive redesign when they took over the club last year and their plan was approved last summer.

But it was shelved and redrawn a second time by Dallas-based architects HKS earlier this year when the tycoons decided it was too expensive.

Next month, councillors will have their say on a scheme showing a number of crucial changes, including:

The future capacity of New Anfield, after any expansion, has been reduced from 76,000 to 73,000.

The underground car park beneath the stadium has been halved in size.

A three-storey car park will be located under tennis courts and a games area in Stanley Park, shielded from Priory Road by a “green wall”.

The width, length and height of the stadium has been reduced by several metres.

The roof opening is smaller and designed differently to keep the crowd dry and help the pitch grow.

Plans for public viewing areas, a “skywalk” and roof terrace restaurant in the new Kop stand have been scrapped.

The redesign does not affect the restoration of the remainder of Stanley Park, which is underway and expected to finish in December.

A council report says: “The overall form of the stadium, with the Kop as the main generator of the building form will add to the city skyline, and create a positive landmark and a focus for further investment.

“The changes introduced in March do little to dilute the architectural quality of the proposed stadium.”

Planners said the scheme should be agreed if Liverpool agreed to meet certain conditions.

The club must make sure spectators leaving their cars in the stadium’s 970 parking spaces arrive an hour before kick-off and wait an hour after the final whistle to leave.

It must also pay for a yearly review of the residents-only parking zone around Anfield for five years after the ground opens – and fund any expansion of it.

Several community groups have objected to the plan, including Priory Area Residents Association (Para), Friends of Stanley Park and Stanley Park Preservation Society.

The council’s planning committee meets on May 6.

Rafa Benitez Urges Fringe Liverpool Men To Step Up

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez will warn his shadow squad that they must be ready to step into the Champions League.

Benitez will send out another second-string side at relegation-threatened Birmingham tomorrow as he prepares for next Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final second leg at Chelsea.

The Spaniard has proved in the past that he has no qualms about fielding youngsters and squad players ahead of big European nights.

And whatever the managers of Birmingham’s relegation rivals say on the issue, Benitez will not be moved.

But he also sees a genuine need for the players who will perform at St Andrews to prove to him they can be used in the Champions League if needed.

Benitez said: "I have told the players that it is important for everyone to play well, show quality and be ready, you never know when you will be needed.

"So whoever plays against Birmingham, or the weekend after against Manchester City, they have to play well. They may even have a chance to play in the final."

Already John Arne Riise, scorer of the own-goal that has given Chelsea a priceless 1-1 draw from the first leg, finds himself thrust into possible action at Stamford Bridge.

Riise was in the ’weakened’ side that won 2-0 at Fulham last week - another team selection that drew howls of protest beforehand.

But with Fabio Aurelio out for three weeks with a torn abductor muscle, Riise now finds himself a contender for the left-back role at Stamford Bridge.

And famously, Benitez recalls how Vladimir Smicer, who knew his contract was not going to be renewed, came off the bench in Istanbul in 2005 to score one of Liverpool’s crucial comeback goals in the final against AC Milan.

Benitez said: "Fabio Aurelio will be out for three weeks, so Riise knows he has to be ready and give everything for us, he knows he will get his opportunities now."

The Reds boss revealed that he has been badgered by senior men who want to play at St Andrews.

Goalkeeper Jose Reina is desperate to maintain his record of playing in every league game this season, while Fernando Torres wants to play to get his scoring boots back on after unusually missing three great chances against Chelsea in midweek.

Captain Steven Gerrard has also expressed a wish to play. But Benitez says: "Everybody wants to play every game, I was talking with two or three big names and they said ’I want to play, I want to play’ but I will have to analyse each one and then decide.

"The most important thing is the team and the club, so I cannot say ’yes’ to everyone. It will mean I am taking risks, and I do not want to take risks.

"But the players want to play as much as possible, it shows the character and the mentality of the team."

He added: "We showed at Fulham that we have a squad strong enough to win games like this. We will try, more or less, to do the same this time.

"We will use different players and try to win because we want to make sure of fourth position.

"We have not had too many good experiences at Birmingham in the league, they are a difficult side to play against.

"We will again use our full squad, but also pick a side to win at Birmingham. We did the same thing at Fulham, and won. People can complain but everyone really needs to think about his own team.

"We still need a point to be fourth. I cannot see Everton winning all three of their final games, but we need to make sure for ourselves as quickly as possible.

"Birmingham need to win and the game will be tough and physical. They will be playing under pressure because there are so many teams around the relegation zone. You win one game and jump a few places, lose one and fall back again. It is very tough for them."

Benitez will also have one eye ahead of the Birmingham game on Chelsea’s lunchtime clash with Manchester United that could decide the title race.

Such a game could drain Chelsea, but Benitez says: "I am not sure that we have an advantage with Chelsea playing Manchester United on Saturday.

"We both will have four days to prepare for the second leg, and with us playing at Birmingham both clubs will face a physical, competitive match.

"Chelsea’s game will be intense, yes, but then I expect it to be the same at St Andrews because Birmingham are fighting to avoid relegation. In the end I do not see either of us having an advantage."

Atletico Not To Sell Reported Liverpool-Target Maxi

Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has underlined their aim of keeping winger Maxi Rodriguez, who is reportedly a target for Liverpool, for the next season.

Reports in England on Thursday claimed that Reds boss Rafa Benitez is interested to sign the 27-year-old Argentina international, who could once again combine with Fernando Torres, who had moved to Anfield last summer from Vicente Calderon.

"We've still had no offer for him, but our idea is to have him with us next season," he told Spanish newspaper Marca.

"You'll have to ask them (Liverpool), but Atletico have no plans to sell Maxi."

Chelsea & Liverpool Battling For Bentley

Champions League semi-final adversaries Chelsea and Liverpool are reportedly in competition for England winger David Bentley.

£15 million-rated Blackburn Rovers winger David Bentley is likely to be the subject of a tug-of-war between Champions League and Premier League rivals Chelsea and Liverpool.

According to The Times, Bentley has attracted attention from several leading clubs, including Newcastle United, but Chelsea are thought to be best placed for the ex-Arsenal man's signature, having the financial resources to out-bid their rivals should they choose to follow up their initial interest.

Chelsea would not be deterred by Blackburn's £15 million valuation and could treble the player's wages to £60,000 a week.

Matching that could be a problem for Liverpool, given their budgetary restraints and the current uncertainty surrounding the club's ownership.

Riise Fears For Anfield Future

Liverpool defender John Arne Riise fears he is heading for the Anfield exit in the summer.

The Norway international has one-year remaining on his present contract, but he has yet to hear from the club regarding an extension to that deal after falling out of favour on Merseyside this season.

Riise scored an injury-time own goal in Liverpool's 1-1 first leg draw with Chelsea at Anfield in the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday to leave the Reds facing an uphill battle to reach their third final in four years.

And Riise - who is believed to be an end of season transfer target of Newcastle and Aston Villa - is keen to stay at Anfield, but the 27-year-old is concerned that his midweek howler could prove to be one of his last acts in a Liverpool shirt.

"I hope and still believe in a new contract with Liverpool," said Riise.

"But I cannot say definitely that I have a future here when I only have one year left of my deal and haven't heard anything from the club yet."

Liverpool Boss Benitez Intends To Burst Chelsea Bubble

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is aiming to ‘change the history’ by getting a result at Chelsea that will enable the Reds make it to the Champions League finals.

The Reds were jolted when the Blues got a crucial away goal last night in the semi-finals first leg at Anfield that ended in 1-1 draw, courtesy of a John Arne Riise own-goal deep into the stoppage time.

However, Benitez is confident his side has enough wherewithal to score at Stamford Bridge – a feat which the Reds have not achieved under the Spaniard’s management.

"It is not about tactics or changing our system, it is about taking the chances we create," Benitez said on the club’s official website.

"Chelsea don't lose at Stamford Bridge, but there's a time for everything. We can change history.

"People may say I should change the system to give them something else to think about. But we created four very clear chances in the first-leg, which is high for one of these games against Chelsea.

"Torres had two chances, Gerrard one, and Chelsea hardly had any, and we were winning until the last seconds. We know we can do it.

"We know that at Stamford Bridge it will be very difficult. A tough game, as always there, with little between the sides again."

"We know we have not scored in a game at Chelsea under my management, and we know they have such a good record there," he added.

"They also have a very long unbeaten run on their own ground, but there is a time for everything, maybe we can change the history of these matches by winning and scoring at Stamford Bridge.

"Stamford Bridge is a difficult stadium for everyone. Nobody has won there for two years and we know it will be difficult.

"This is the Champions League and we are very capable of scoring and winning at Stamford Bridge.

"It has been a long time since they lost at home, but someone has to do it soon and we want it to be us.”

The Blues have lost only once at home for over four years, that against Barcelona in February 2006.

Rafael Benitez Demands End To Anfield Turmoil

Rafael Benitez has urged Liverpool's warring parties to "work together" for the benefit of the club.

The Liverpool manager, who is in a position of strength while the ownership battle continues, warned his employers of the dangers of missing out on their summer transfer targets.

Benitez outlined what is needed for the club to progress in an important meeting with Tom Hicks, the co-owner, and his son Tom Jr, a director, at the club's Melwood training complex yesterday.

Hicks' fellow owner, George Gillett Jr, has also been made aware of the manager's position. Benitez knows that, in the current climate, neither Hicks nor Gillett will dare risk losing his support. It helps the manager that Dubai International Capital, who are still trying to buy into the club, have made it clear that Benitez has their support, too.

Benitez has drawn up a transfer wish list that reportedly includes Gareth Barry and David Bentley. "We have two owners and a chief executive," he said. "I need to progress, I have a responsibility as manager to prepare the squad for the future, to improve the squad.

"I had to talk to them [the owners]. It was a good, positive meeting. We have talked about targets in the transfer market and how this club must progress.

"I have not spoken to them about the ongoing situation, only how to improve and how to progress. It is important to sign the right players for the future, that was what I wanted to talk about.

"Now we have started to progress with some of our targets. It is okay, last week and this week it is the same. We are progressing so I believe we will be stronger next season. You need to keep going if you want to improve, that is what is really important."

Benitez was put in an uncomfortable position recently when Hicks attempted to use him as an ally against Gillett and Rick Parry, the chief executive. But the Spaniard has tried hard to limit his contact with Hicks to discussions on transfers.

Benitez added: "We need to work together, and he [Hicks] agreed with me that we must talk together. If we want to go forward and sign players, we have to all work together. Everything is positive. We have talked about targets to sign, that is my aim.

"I do not doubt we will achieve those targets. I have a scouting department that is working and progressing. Now I have told the owners how we need to progress.

"Rick Parry will be working too, and if everyone works hard and we work together, it will be easier. Clearly I expect agreement on recruiting players for the summer. We are ready now for going forward.

"Now we have had a meeting, we are in a better position. George knows about what was said, everybody knows. Everyone has the same information."

Riise Breaks His Silence On The Moment Of Madness That Shattered Liverpool

Liverpool's John Arne Riise has spoken for the first time about his last-gasp own goal against Chelsea.

The Norwegian full-back headed into his own net in the 95th minute of Tuesday night's semi-final first leg at Anfield, handing the Blues a priceless 1-1 draw.

"What can I say? I decided to stoop and head the ball in the direction it came from," said Riise.

But it was a swerving cross, the ball was wet, and it slid right off my forehead. It was a shock to see it lying in the goal.

"These things happen for defenders from time to time. I know how strong I am mentally and I will handle this and I will come back from an own goal like that.

"I have been involved in tougher things in my life than this and I know that I will handle this in a good way. I will try to turn this around to something positive."

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez said: "I have talked with John, and told him not to keep thinking about the own goal all of the time. He must come back and be ready."

Benitez also confirmed left-back Fabio Aurelio will be out injured for three weeks.

Riise came on as a second-half substitute for Aurelio on Tuesday and has now virtually been told he will play at Stamford Bridge next Wednesday.

Aurelio has a torn abductor muscle, and Benitez said: "He will be back in time for the final!"

"Fabio will be out for three weeks, so Riise knows he has to be ready and give everything for us. The best solution would be for him to score at Stamford Bridge... in the right goal.

"If Riise scores the winning goal then that will be perfect for us."

Netting at Stamford Bridge will be no mean feat for Riise, whose reputation for scoring spectacular goals has been hit by a drought going back more than a year.

Benitez added: "He is really down, but the only way to change the situation is to score in the right net at Stamford Bridge. He knows that Fabio is injured, so he knows he will get his opportunities to play.

"He has scored lots of goals over a long time, and played a lot of matches for this club, so I am really disappointed for anyone but especially for him.

"He has played so well for this club, so for that to happen in the last seconds is the worst thing possible."

Liverpool’s Fabio Aurelio To Miss Remainder Of Premiership Season

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has admitted that defender Fabio Aurelio may not be able to play for the remainder of the season after he was diagnosed with a torn abductor muscle.

Aurelio had to be carried off the field in Tuesday’s Champions League Semi-Final draw against Chelsea after a mild challenge from Joe Cole.

Rafa Benitez said: "I have been talking with the doctor and with this kind of injury it usually takes a minimum of three weeks for the player to recover, so it will be very difficult for Fabio to play again this season.

"It is very disappointing because Fabio has been doing a good job for the team."

Benitez Challenges Riise

John Arne Riise has been challenged to erase the memory of his shattering Champions League own goal against Chelsea by firing Liverpool into the Moscow final.

The Norwegian full-back headed into his own net in the 95th minute of Tuesday night's semi-final first leg at Anfield, handing the Blues a priceless 1-1 draw.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez, who confirmed fellow left-back Fabio Aurelio will be out injured for three weeks, urged Riise to make amends for his mistake.

Riise came on as a second-half substitute for Aurelio on Tuesday and has now virtually been told he will play at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.

Aurelio has a torn abductor muscle, and Benitez said: "He will be out for three weeks, but back in time for the final!"

Riise spoke for the first time about his last-ditch howler on Thursday, saying: "What can I say? I decided to stoop and head the ball in the direction it came from.

"But it was a swerving cross, the ball was wet, and it slid right off my forehead. It was a shock to see it lying in the goal.

"These things happen for defenders from time to time. I know how strong I am mentally and I will handle this and I will come back from an own goal like that.

"I have been involved in tougher things in my life than this and I know that I will handle this in a good way. I will try to turn this around to something positive."

Benitez also confirmed he had spoken to Riise about the incident.

"I have talked with John, and told him not to keep thinking about the own goal all of the time. He must come- back and be ready," the Spaniard said.

"Fabio will be out for three weeks, so Riise knows he has to be ready and give everything for us. The best solution would be for him to score at Stamford Bridge... in the right goal.

"If Riise scores the winning goal then that will be perfect for us."

Netting at Stamford Bridge will be no mean feat for Riise, whose reputation for scoring spectacular goals has been hit by a drought going back more than a year.

Benitez added: "He is really down, but the only way to change the situation is to score in the right net at Stamford Bridge. He knows that Fabio is injured, so he knows he will get his opportunities to play.

"He has scored lots of goals over a long time, and played a lot of matches for this club, so I am really disappointed for anyone but especially for him.

"He has played so well for this club, so for that to happen in the last seconds is the worst thing possible.

"We have tried to analyse what happened. (Javier) Mascherano and Aurelio could have stopped the cross, but when you are left-footed like John, the problem was whether he used his right foot to clear.

"That was the problem."