IBRAHIMOVIC COMING TO ANFIELD

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez acknowledges that the Champions League last-16 tie against Inter Milan will be ‘very, very difficult’ but at the same time believes the Italian champions will be 'worried for sure.'

The Anfield club are aiming for a third Champions League final appearance in the space of four years and the Spaniard insists his side will relish taking on a team of the calibre of the reigning Italian champions and current Serie A leaders.

The Reds had overcome European giants Barcelona, who were the reigning champions, last season and Benitez suggested the Merseysiders were prepared to face another major side in the knock-out this time after they could only finish second in their group campaign.

The Spaniard said on the club’s official website: "Everyone was expecting a difficult draw and Inter Milan are top of the table in Italy, so it will be very, very difficult."


He added: "They will be worried for sure. They know we are a good team and I remember talking about Barcelona being a tough draw last year. In two months time you don't know what could happen so we will see if we can go into the match playing a little bit better."

Benitez believes his team can beat anyone in Europe and, given their recent experience in the competition, which saw them come from 3-0 down against Milan in the 2005 final, feels that Inter have reason to be nervous ahead of the two-leg clash. He also analysed the task in front of him as he had faced Roberto Mancini's side when he was in charge at Valencia.

"I know them from playing against them with Valencia. They have good players and experience in Europe so it will be a very, very difficult job, but we were expecting that," he said.

"If you want to progress in the competition you have to beat the top sides and Inter is one of them. Hopefully we will meet another one in the next round."



Inter Milan chief executive Ernesto Paolillo insists his side will make life as difficult as possible for Benitez's team.

"We feel Liverpool are the strongest team, what better team to have as an opponent?" he said.

"I think Liverpool will make it difficult for us and I hope it will be difficult for them as well."

Inter's key players include Hernan Crespo, Luis Figo, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Patrick Vieira.

The first leg will take place at Anfield on Tuesday 19 February with the return leg at the San Siro on 11 March.
Draw for the first knockout round of the Champions League made by UEFA at their headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland :

Celtic (Scotland) v Barcelona (Spain)
Olympique Lyon (France) v Manchester United (England)
Schalke 04 (Germany) v Porto (Portugal)
Liverpool (England) v Inter Milan (Italy)
AS Roma (Italy) v Real Madrid (Spain)
Arsenal (England) v AC Milan (Italy)
Olympiakos Piraeus (Greece) v Chelsea (England)
Fenerbahce (Turkey) v Sevilla (Spain)


Editor's Notes

Yes, current Champions League joint top-scorer, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, is finally making his way to Anfield but for the wrong reasons. Along with a star-studded line up of Gunner's former general, Patrick Vieira and once Red's wanted list Luis Figo, Inter Milan are set to sample the hostile European nights at Anfield.

It is believed that Liverpool initially had hoped for a draw against a Spanish club, be it Real Madrid, Barcelona or Sevilla due to Rafa's familiarity with the Spanish players. Unfortunately, they is not a single Spanish player with Inter. On the other hand, Inter's team is littered with Argentinians, seven altogether (the likes of captain Javier Zanetti, Hernan Crespo and Walter Samuel to name but few) and Rafa is well informed on Argentinians. Familiarity breeds confidence, they say. That's where this draw might just sway into Liverpool's favour. Not that they are not any good though but tactically I reckon Rafa would be spot on with his plan.



Liverpool will be hosting the Serie A leaders in the first-leg and it is important that they get into a comfortable lead to take to San Siro. A 2-0 win would not be too much to ask for but a 1-0 could just suffice. Come February there would hopefully be some QUALITY new faces to beef up the squad. Its time to stand up and be counted for.

STADIUM SACRIFICED FOR TRANSFERS

Liverpool's American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks have scaled down plans for their new stadium to divert money into a transfer kitty for boss Rafa Benitez.



The Mirror are reporting that the American duo decided to reduce the spending on the stadium to provide Benitez with the funds required to secure the services of Javier Mascherano and to also add a new striker and two new wide players.



Chief executive Rick Parry has pledged that Liverpool WILL be active when the transfer window opens next month.

The club's chief executive has quashed speculation that Liverpool boss Benitez would not have any money to spend to new players in January.

Parry said: "We will be active in the transfer market next month, as we always are. There has never been any suggestion of a ban, I don't know where that has come from. Our priority is to do as well as we can on the field, and, as always, we will be active."

He added: "It is nonsense to say that there will be an embargo on transfers for the manager - the owners are committed to supporting him as much as possible.

"The objective on day one in building the new stadium was to generate more cash to fund the team and we must never get away from that objective. We will still produce a stadium for the fans to be proud of, and the owners will be able to support the manager in the way that he wants."

Editor's Notes

Liverpool fans have allegedly taken this news with mixed-reactions. On one hand, they would want Liverpool's new home ground to be the yardstick for future stadiums, a pride of the Reds. But on the other hand, the fans would want to support Rafa over his battle to get some extra funds for new recruitment come the January transfer window.

Its sad that the design of the stadium had to be down-scaled in order to filter out some fundings. But on the contrary, only some of the high-tech state of the art design have been omitted. And apparently the initial plan for a capacity of 70,000 is still in place.

Perhaps its an amicable trade off. With Rafa hopefully getting to strengthen the squad with a new centre half and a winger who can cross. The downside could be that the sensor auto-flush of the stadium's toilets have been now made to manuals.

RAFA PREPARE LOSING JAVIER

Rafa Benitez has kept a close eye on Sulley Muntari, 23, and will move for him in the January transfer window if Javier Mascherano's £17million fee is not sanctioned.

The Liverpool manager remains on frosty terms with co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett over the availability of transfer funds and Muntari is seen as a cheaper option to Mascherano.

The Ghana international has played a key role in Pompey's rise up the Premier League table since signing for a club-record £7m from Udinese.

Muntari said: "I want to end up at one of the biggest clubs - that is every player's dream. Of course I will try my best here and help Portsmouth win many things, and maybe qualify for Europe, but eventually I would like to play for a bigger club."

Pompey boss Harry Redknapp would be a reluctant seller but could be tempted by a deal involving cash and Peter Crouch.

Editor's Notes

It would be unimaginable not having Javier Mascherano prowling across the middle of the park. And all that just to save £10m ? Worse still if Masch ended up donning the color of the Devils instead. That would be deem as a "Cardinal Sin".

No doubt Muntari has impressed the press and a lot of pundits, he is a different player to that of Mascherano. Though Muntari has been described to be as good as international teammate Michael Essien by some quarters, Muntari, I feel, is more a box-to-box type of player.

Presently, I reckon that Mascherano is the best midfield destroyer in the EPL if not Europe. He is the tank in Liverpool's engine room and he is the main reason as to why Steven Gerrard is getting back to his best. With Javier around, Gerrard can afford to relinquish a little of his defensive duty giving him more impetus to lead the assault.

Losing Mascherano should not even be discussed. If its transfer embargo directed by the owner, by all means, sell off a few fringe players, like Scott Carson, Momo Sissoko or even the misfiring Dirk Kuyt. Just do whatever is necessary to ensure that the Liverbird remains on Javier's chest come next season.

RAFA EYES ARGENTINIAN YOUNGSTER

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is confident of sealing a deal for Racing Santander defender Ezequiel Marcelo Garay.

The People says Benitez has settled on a fee of £10 million for the Argentine youngster, though whether he will move to Anfield in January will depend on the club's American owners.

However, the aftermath of the three-hour meeting, though amicable, suggested that Benitez is having to come to terms with the news that he will have to sell before he can spend significantly when the transfer window opens in January.

Editor's Notes

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to identify that Liverpool are thin in cover in centre-half. Although Sami Hyypia should be applauded for his good positioning and quick thinking, there would be times when his legs would be unable to carry where his head wants him to go. He is nonetheless still a great player to have but he can no longer cope with ninety-minutes of breakneck speed.

Highly-rated 21-year-old Argentine Ezequiel Garay, has been getting some rave reviews performing admirably for Spanish outfit Racing Santander, earning an international cap along the way. Garay is notable for a good ability to score especially by spot-kicks or freekicks. He has been linked to almost every top European sides notably the Mancs. After seeing his pursue of Nemanja Vidic being scuppered by Alex F, I reckon that Rafa would want to make a sweep right from the offing.

Having said that, Rafa had the believed previously that he had got a top-drawer deal when he signed Gabriel Paletta and we all know what happened next. Personally, I have not seen him in action before but still coughing out £10 million for a youngster could be consider as a risk for the American owners. Perhaps, a defender who has been plying his trade in the EPL would be a better option, someone in the mould of Newcastle's Steven Taylor or Man City's Micah Richards.

About the issue of having to sell-off to buy, I feel that Momo Sissoko is fighting a losing battle over his compatriots, Steven Gerrard, Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano and wonderboy Lucas Leiva. Liverpool could definitely recoup back the money they spent to get him.
The other could be John Arne Riise, who is fast losing the faith of the manager and fans alike with his lack of contribution.

Aside from signing a centre-half, Rafa's main priority would still be making Mascherano's move a permanent one at £17 million. The American owners would definitely face the wrath of the Kop if they decide to turn on a deaf ear.

BABEL : " I'M NO SUPERSUB "

Ryan Babel does not want to become labelled a new Liverpool supersub.

The young Dutch striker came off the bench to score again in Marseille on Tuesday night, his fifth goal as a substitute in just over a month.

But he is keen not to become typecast as an impact player only capable of influencing matches when defenders are tired.

“When you join a club you have to get used to the way they play and to the manager’s rotation policy. And in the beginning I had to deal with that,” he said.

“But as the season has gone on I have started more, but I am not yet at the best level I can play. I know now which level I am at, but I can get better, definitely.

“But coming off the bench and scoring goals gives me more confidence for when I do start.”

David Fairclough was Liverpool’s original supersub, scoring an incredible 18 times as a substitute during his Anfield career.

But in recent weeks Babel has scored twice against Besiktas, again against Newcastle, in the home match against Bolton and in France on Tuesday – in a total playing time of exactly 90 minutes!

The only time he has started in that spell was against Porto, when he played on the left.

Boss Rafa Benitez is aware of Babel’s rich potential.

“Ryan is a good player. He prefers to play in the middle, but he knows he must play wide on the right or left for the good of the team.”

Babel came on as a central striker in the Stade Velodrome for Fernando Torres, and he is aware the sensational Spaniard offers a huge obstacle to his hopes of holding down a striking role at Anfield.

GER-ROBBED

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has become the sixth player in the past 18 months to be the victim of burglary.

Gerrard’s wife, Alex Curran, was confronted by four burglars at the couple’s mansion last night while Gerrard played in his side’s Champions League match in Marseille.

Curran was shaken but not harmed when the incident occurred at the property in Formby, Merseyside.

A Merseyside Police spokeswoman said:”We are investigating a confrontational burglary which took place at around 9.30pm last night.

“Four men, wearing dark clothing, hoods and balaclavas, entered the property and stole items of jewelery.

“We cannot confirm the nature of the confrontation.

“The female resident, and another woman who was in the house at the time, were left shaken but uninjured.”

The spokeswoman went on to say that forensic examination of the property was taking place today, and house-to-house inquiries have begun.

Dirk Kuyt was burgled three weeks ago while on international duty, while Jerzy Dudek, Pepe Reina, Daniel Agger and Peter Crouch have also been targeted by thieves.

BENITEZ : MIDFIELD MAESTRO WILL STAY

Benitez:”Midfield maestro will stay”

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is confident Javier Mascherano will sign a permanent deal to stay with the club.

The on-loan midfielder has been linked with a £17m move to Manchester City but Benitez is upbeat that the Argentine will remain at Anfield.

“He said to me that he wants to stay here, so I have confidence,” he said.

Liverpool would have to negotiate with Media Sports Investments, the consortium which “owns” Mascherano, to agree a permanent contract.

Benitez’s attempts to buy the player were recently blocked by Liverpool’s American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks.

But the Liverpool manager remains optimistic of securing a longer-term agreement, beyond the 18-month loan period which expires this summer.

“Clearly, I hope Mascherano stays here,” he said. “I am confident he can be persuaded to stay.

“He is playing well and everyone knows he is a good player and there are not too many world-class holding midfielders around.

“He wants to stay, our supporters like him and we will try to keep him.”

Mascherano and his advisers are believed to want to tie up a deal as quickly as possible.

Liverpool risk the midfielder signing a pre-contract agreement elsewhere if they do not offer him permanent terms by next month.

In October, Mascherano said he hoped he can do enough to turn his loan deal with Liverpool into a permanent move at the end of the season.

“I’d love to stay and I will do everything I can to do so. It depends on what everyone decides at the end of the season,” he said.

“I have just got to make sure everyone is happy with my performances and they want me to stay. I want to be here to play in the new stadium.

“We are already one of the greatest clubs in the world, but with the plans for the future we could become the world’s greatest team.”

Mascherano, rested for last weekend’s 4-0 win over Bolton, is now set to play a key part in a critical week that could define Liverpool’s season.

Reds monitoring Silva

Reds monitoring Silva


Adrien Silva could be the latest young talent to come off the Sporting Lisbon production line and join the Premier League.

The talented 19-year-old is beginning to make a name for himself in Portugal, having impressed in the centre of midfield.

Silva, who captains Portugal’s Under-19 side, is thought to be a £3million target for Tottenham boss Juande Ramos.

Nani and in particular Cristiano Ronaldo have shown Portuguese imports can thrive in English football - and Silva admits he would one day like to follow the same path as his compatriots.

Liverpool and Sevilla have also been mooted as possible rivals for his signature, with Silva aware that English clubs have been monitoring his progress.

“I know English scouts have watched me. The Premier League is one of the biggest in the world.”

Capello reveals Liverpool approach

Capello reveals Liverpool approach


Fabio Capello has been ‘tapped up’ twice by Liverpool as Rafael Benitez battles to stay in control at Anfield.

Capello claims he was contacted before last week’s Champions League clash with Porto as Benitez’s relationship with Liverpool owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks reached crisis point.

This will alarm the FA who see Capello as a possible England manager and Newcastle, if reports in the Daily Star are to be believed that they want him to replace Sam Allardyce.

Capello’s Liverpool link is revealed in the Daily Mirror who add that although Benitez and the Americans have agreed a ceasefire, they may not yet qualify for the latter stages of the Champions League - and that could spell the end for Benitez.

Man City planning £17m bid for Mascherano

Man City planning £17m bid for Mascherano


Manchester City have held talks with the advisors of Javier Mascherano over a £17m move from Liverpool.

City boss Sven Goran Eriksson has targeted the Argentina star after learning his future at Anfield is uncertain because the club are stalling over making his deal at the club a permanent one.

Liverpool chief Rafa Benitez has been desperate to convince American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks to stump up the cash for Mascherano.

But he faces losing one of his most prized assets because no deal has been offered – and now Mascherano’s men are exploring other options according to reports in the Daily Star.

They claim a meeting took place in a London hotel last week between one of the midfielder’s advisors and a close associate of City owner Thaksin Shinawatra.

Mascherano is owned by a consortium headed by Kia Joorabchian, the same group who look after Manchester United star Carlos Tevez.

The deal that took the midfielder to Anfield from West Ham was basically a loan agreement which is due to run out at the end of this season – at which point Liverpool would have to cough up £17m to keep him at the club.

City have been quick to make their interest known – and could even attempt to conclude a deal which would see him move to Eastlands in January.

O`NEILL : ”NO CARSON DEAL, YET"

Martin O’Neill has insisted there is no deal with Liverpool to turn keeper Scott Carson’s loan into a permanent move.

There has been speculation the two clubs have already agreed a deal, which would be worth around £10million, to make Carson’s year-long loan a permanent transfer.

But Villa boss O’Neill insisted that was “mere hearsay” although he is a big fan of Carson who hit the headlines for the wrong reasons after his costly blunder as England lost their Euro 2008 qualifier with Croatia.

O’Neill said: “Is the Scott Carson deal going through? He is here for the season and we have heard nothing from Liverpool at all.

“Of course, that doesn’t mean that you couldn’t start talking about something beforehand (the end of the season) and I’m aware Rafael Benitez mentioned something about it a week or so ago.

“But Liverpool haven’t spoken to us - and haven’t spoken since Scott was capped for England.”

O’Neill added: “I will look at the situation and Liverpool will be very much in the driving seat because they can dictate what the player is going to cost.

“But there is no agreement on a fee. It is as simple as that. The rest of it is hearsay.”

TORRES : " YOU GO, I GO"

Fernando Torres has warned Liverpool owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett the top players at the club will quit if Rafa Benitez is sacked.

Benitez is under pressure at Anfield after speaking out against the American owners’ transfer policy.

However, the manager is still loved by the fans and players and Torres warned: ‘He cannot leave.

‘The fans have given their verdict and it was clear. Benitez has created a team of people who are indebted to him. It’s certain if he goes many players will think about their futures.

‘Benitez is not just another manager. He created a team and put his faith in players that owe him a lot,’ added Torres, who opened the scoring in yesterday’s 4-0 win over Bolton at Anfield.

http://kop-tv.com/go/headlines/torres-you-go-i-go/

LIVERPOOL vs PORTO

Watch the match on scv channel 24 ( star sports ). Liverpool has to win the rest of the matches to qualify for the Champions League. Porto just need a draw. The game was quite interesting. Fernando Torres made an opening goal in the 13th min. Then Porto equalize in the 33rd min.

Game became more interesting in the 2nd half. Liverpool got so many chances. Then in the 78th min Torres struck again with a goal. 4 mins later Liverpool was given a penalty kick when a Porto player touch a ball in the box. It was captain Gerard who has the honour of taking the penalty. Last of all, substitute Crouch sealed the match with a goal.

LIVERPOOL 4 PORTO 1

GO LIVERPOOL GO !!!!!!

YOU"LL NEVER WALK ALONE

An Open Letter to George Gillett and Tom Hicks, 26.11.07

Dear George and Tom,

I'd just like to express how depressed and upset I am at the continuing uncertainty surrounding the club, and say that I'd love to hear some reassurances that the differences will be settled ASAP - and that Rafa Benítez has your full support and backing.

While I do think there are two sides to any story, and I appreciate the difficulties of running any club (balancing the books, keeping fans happy, and dealing with opinionated, strong-minded individuals), what I've heard these past few days leads me increasingly to believe you might be missing the point regarding football transfers, and in so doing, undermining the manager, whether you meant to or not.

You may not have realised, perhaps through cultural differences, that telling a manager of an English football team to 'just coach the side' is a kind of insult.

I am not about to make accusations, or go on some personal tirade against you both. Particularly with a welter of hearsay and little actual hard evidence (as yet) fuelling the media frenzy. Clearly all is not well, but at the same time, is it all 'lost'?

I just want to know that the club I love is in safe hands; I feel that is the case on the pitch, but that's something relatively easy to assess; assessing how a club is being run behind the scenes from our side of the fence is much more difficult, because we don't get to see what happens, and only hear snippets of information which is often wrapped up in rumour and hearsay.

I felt Rafa's tone after the Newcastle game was fairly conciliatory, in saying you had the best interests of the club at heart, and that as you were new you needed time to settle into the roles, like he'd expect with a new player. You are no strangers to running sports teams, but you cannot match Rafa's knowledge when it comes to football. Few men can. In this sense, you are the rookies, and you would surely acknowledge that.

And if it is indeed true that you don't (yet) fully understand how the transfer system in Europe works, then it seems to me that this needs to be remedied as soon as possible. This is a fundamental basic of the game. I would like to think it's a misunderstanding, and that there's been some transatlantic miscommunication. I hope I'm not being naive in holding out some hope that this is the case.

Also, I understood that Foster Gillett was going to be acting as your eyes, ears and the in-house go-between in Liverpool, but reports suggest that he is not in place?

For the record, I can't think of one successful English club who has chopped and changed its managers, and which hasn't given the man in charge of the team full control. A club like Newcastle has become a laughing stock because of this short-sighted approach. Continuity and stability are paramount to football success.

There have been some woeful attempts at Director of Football-type affairs, and the only time I know that this type of arrangement has worked was when David Dein bought players at Arsenal, but ­ crucially - at Arsene Wenger's behest.

Across North London, Spurs ­ whose net spend this summer was greater than Liverpool's (as was Manchester United and Manchester City's) - were spectacularly undone by the appointment of a Technical Director whose views differed from the manager's. Too many cooks...

I understand a natural fear you might have - that of sensing the head of the team possesses too much power - but English football works this way. You need one man with one vision to hold the wheel and steer the ship; not rule by committee. And he needs to be so much more than just a coach.

And any manager worth his salt a) will be wary of working for a club that does not give him full power in all football matters, and b) will likely be as difficult a character as Benítez, if not more so.

Top managers are not easy men to work with. Ferguson, Mourinho, Shankly - none made life easy for the board, and none took kindly to being told what to do, but each delivered the goods in the end. Arsene Wenger is the same, although he was able to build his Arsenal empire with the full backing of David Dein. Had he been told otherwise, he would not have hung around.

Stability is key for any successful club. Rafa Benítez is doing far, far, far better at this stage of his tenure than Alex Ferguson was at United. You cannot imagine how much better he is doing. Ferguson failed to win a trophy until the end of his 4th season, and his average league position after five seasons was a woeful 9th. His finishes were 11th, 13th, 2nd, 13th and 6th. Compare this with 5th, 3rd, 3rd, plus an FA Cup and two Champions League Finals, one of which was so famously won, and you can see the chasm.

Replacing Rafa now, when he has assembled his best squad and had his best league start, really would make no sense to me - win the game in hand and the Reds would be 2nd, and still unbeaten. The team is set up to work in his methods. The players fit his mould. And from what I can tell, they have the utmost respect for him. This is crucial.

And while I do think there are perhaps a handful of managers in football who are in the same league as Rafa, I do not think their methods are necessarily suited to Liverpool FC, while I definitely don't think they could make as much of this particular squad as Rafa can. They would want to bring in their own new players, which will be costly, and introduce new systems, which will put things back.

In terms of money spent, Benítez's overall transfer record is outstanding. All managers make mistakes, but most of his have been cheap ones who were quickly traded. What he has got for his money has been top-rate. The squads of United and Chelsea cost at least twice as much as Liverpool's, and are full of £15m-£30m players, yet is there really much of a gap in class? Meanwhile, Arsenal are making use of young players they procured many years ago.

Fan opinion is almost exclusively siding with Rafa. While there has also been some unhelpful, xenophobic anti-American rhetoric, which just clouds the issue, you need to understand how unpopular this situation is making you amongst the Anfield faithful, and how high spirits are running.

When you took over the club there was a surprising amount of goodwill. I don't mean surprising in that I felt at the time that you deserved anything less, but surprising in that any new owners could perhaps have expected a rougher ride. As fans it seems our patience had been worn down with almost three years without a solution to the investment issue, and a series of desperately unsuitable suitors chancing their arms. Compared with Thaksin Shinawatra, you seemed a good bet.

Maybe there are very valid reasons, and I will try to keep as open a mind as possible, but I am struggling to know why the matter cannot be discussed and an attempt at resolving it made before the 16th December.

I have to admit that such a delay worries me. The issues at hand - be it laying the foundations for transfers well ahead of the window (as all teams do), or repairing the relationship with Rafa - seem rather too pressing for that. I don't see how it can wait.

If failure to get through the league stage of the Champions League is crucial to the financial planning for the transfer window, I can understand that part of your thinking. On the other hand, if it is crucial as to whether or not Benítez is fired, I cannot understand that for one minute. Before Rafa was here, we weren't even qualifying for the competition, let alone reaching two finals.

Rafa spoke out after Athens, but you seemed to understand his frustrations. You went on to help the club secure some fantastic players over the summer, although the net spend - while healthy - was not remarkable. One further £7m target - Gabriel Heinze - was missed very late in the day, so it's clear from the summer that such a defender was needed, while any manager will always be assessing his squad as to how he can strengthen it.

Having spent the past three years studiously observing Rafa's methods, I've come to realise just how good he is. I believe he is a football visionary, and what he is building at Liverpool will be something really special.

For instance, it's now seven months since we conceded a goal from a corner or free-kick delivered into the box (excluding the 'reserve' team fielded in the Carling Cup). Zonal marking was widely mocked in 2004, and now we see other teams conceding lame goals with man-to-man marking every week. It's just one area where Rafa made a controversial change, stuck with it, and now is reaping the rewards.

My instincts tell me that you are too smart to dispense with a man like Rafa, and that for all the tension you do really respect him. My instincts tell me you have too much to lose, both in terms of talent, squad morale, financial resources and fan backing, by making such a drastic move - if, indeed, that is what you are considering.

If one good thing has come of this, it's that it's made the fans unite behind the manager and his team. The fear of losing Rafa, which may be just paper talk but all the same seems very real, has made many realize just what it is we have to be grateful for.

So, please reassure me, and all other nervous Reds, that it's all one big (unfortunate) misunderstanding, and that yourselves, Rick Parry and Rafa can get together for a group hug sooner rather than later. I'll even buy the coffee and donuts.

Yours faithfully,

PAUL TOMKINS

NEWCASTLE 0 - 3 LIVERPOOL

View Goals



Credits to Amar

Newcastle 0 - 1 Liverpool -- Gerrard
http://www.4shared.com/file/30264709/ee0ce84b/Gerrard_0-1_vs_Newcastle.html

Newcastle 0 - 2 Liverpool -- Kuyt
http://www.4shared.com/file/30265091/8ce6aad0/Kuyt_0-2_vs_Newcastle.html

Newcastle 0 - 3 Liverpool -- Babel
http://www.4shared.com/file/30265997/6a54346a/Babel_0-3_vs_Newcastle.html

Fifth Liverpool player is burgled

Dirk Kuyt has become the fifth Liverpool footballer to be burgled in less than 18 months.
The 27-year-old striker's luxury home in Woolton was targeted on Thursday while he was away on international duty with home country Holland.

Merseyside Police confirmed they were investigating a burglary in Woolton.

The Merseyside home of Jerzy Dudek, Liverpool's goalkeeper from the 2005 Champions League final penalty shoot-out, was burgled in June 2006.

The raid at Kuyt's house is the latest to see a footballer's home targeted in the city while the players are away at a match.

Burnt-out Porsche

Dudek, who now plays for Real Madrid, was on holiday in Poland when thieves took his Porsche car, jewelery and a large haul of football memorabilia from across his career, including his European Cup medal.

Pepe Reina was burgled while he played for Liverpool in last May's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.

He also had his Porsche taken during the raid, among other things, with the car later found burnt-out in West Derby.

Reds defender Daniel Agger had his Wirral home burgled in September last year and striker Peter Crouch's house in Alderley Edge was targeted in the same month while he was on England duty.

Five interesting stat facts from the season so far

For the past few days I've been mulling over data from the obscure to the obvious for a number of reasons. I really want to get an idea of the contributions each player makes to the whole, who's the most efficient at which position, and most specifically, what players work best with one another. It also reveals some trends that are more than likely coincidental, but interesting nonetheless. Here's five of them:

1. youth + height = win
Though it rarely happens, when Rafa puts out a side that is younger yet taller than the opposition, we win. Four times so far this season it's occurred: Toulouse (2nd leg), Derby County, Cardiff City, and Fulham. Of course this means little considering the opponent and the fact that they were all played at Anfield.

2. Goals are scarce at Anfield?
If you take away Toulouse, Derby, and Besitkas, we've only scored 8 goals in 7 matches at home this season. Not that we've been much better on the road. Take away the Reading match and we've only managed 10 goals in 9 matches away from Anfield.

3. Our most dominating performance of the season was a scoreless draw at home
You read that right, our most dominating performance was the 0-0 draw against Birmingham at Anfield. In that match we had our highest possession percentage at 71.5%, and both our second highest pass success rate (81.9%) and territorial advantage (56.8%). We also had our most corners won at 11. So why didn't we win nor score? Our shooting was piss poor. We had 4 shots on goal the entire match, 3 right in front of the net.

4. Statistically our worst performance was a draw on the road
You know, I didn't think we played that bad at Porto, but the numbers tell a whole different story. In fact, we had no right even taking a point. How bad were we? Try one shot on goal, a single corner kick won, a possession percentage of 43.5%, and a passing rate of 64.2%. All four of those stats were season lows. Pennant's red card didn't help either. The amazing part is that Porto needed a penalty just to get the draw.

5. The Riise factor
This is one of those odd stats where there's much more at play than just one simple movement, but it is sort of eye-opening. In the 5 matches that John Arne Riise has had to move to left-back due to substitution reasons, we've scored 8 goals... in 130 minutes. If Rafa could somehow tap into this trend, we could average more than three goals a match, rather than 2 as we do now. Of course, there are two other factors that play into this that aren't present at the beginning or during an entire match. First, fresh players are brought in to revitalize the attack and second, the opposition has tired out a bit.

These are just some odd bits I've come across so far and I have a ton of more work to do, but I hope to have a better feel for our side when it's all said and done. Expect more interesting tidbits in the near future. Cheers.

Posted by steven gerrard's smarter older brother>>>www.walkon.com

BENITEZ : CARSON CAN LEAVE FOR VILLA IN JANUARY

Liverpool say England goalkeeper Scott Carson can make his loan move to Aston Villa permanent in the January transfer window.

Carson's form for Villa looks set to earn him a first England cap in Friday's friendly with Austria but, with Pepe Reina blocking his path to the Liverpool first team, Reds boss Rafa Benitez says he would not stand in the player's way if he wants to leave.

'Scott is a good professional and a nice boy. This is a crucial time in his career and he needs to play,' he said.

'At the moment we are concentrating on our own team and our own competitions, but Villa can decide if they want to keep the player.

'You can understand that he wants to play. He knows Pepe Reina is top class and that it will be difficult for him to play here,' he said.

Carson joined Liverpool from Leeds in January 2005 but has spent much of the time since out on loan, first to Sheffield Wednesday, then Charlton and now Villa.

He has made just nine appearances for Liverpool and Benitez feels it would be wrong to ask him to play second fiddle to Reina.

'At the moment we have Pepe, Charles Itandje and David Martin as goalkeepers so we can manage the situation ok,' he added.

RAFA : HARRY'S ALMOST READY

Rafael Benitez has revealed Harry Kewell is close to being available to start a Premier League game after completing 90 minutes for his country at the weekend.
Kewell - who hasn't started a club match this season since recovering from injury - was given a full run-out by Australia on Saturday afternoon as they defeated Nigeria 1-0 in a friendly at Craven Cottage.

After a series of impressive substitute appearances for the Reds over recent weeks, Benitez is delighted to see his left sided midfielder closing in on a long awaited comeback.

"It was good to see Harry get 90 minutes," said Rafa. "I was talking with him and he said it wasn't a high tempo game so he was able to get through it.

"Physically he probably still needs to improve his pace and stamina but he is getting there.

"When you talk about Harry then you talk about a player of quality and ability who can make a big difference to our team. He can give different things to us, especially against teams who play deep and compact."

BENITEZ RUMOURS

Rafa Benitez today laughed off rumours that he may consider a move to Bayern Munich.
Speculation at the weekend suggested the German giants were ready to launch an audacious move for the Spaniard.

However, the Liverpool boss insists he plans to be at Anfield for many years to come – regardless of who comes in for his services.

"I heard about the rumors at the weekend and it is always flattering to be linked with other big clubs because it must mean you are doing something right," he said.

"But even if I was approached I would tell whichever club it was that I am really happy with my club, my squad, my supporters and my city.

"There are still many things which I want to do here so I am planning on being here for a long time."

ARSE - HOLES FOOLS

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw against arsenal.

goals from the reds captain marvel, steven gerrard in the first half was cancelled out by arse's cesc fabregas in the second half... well at least both teams remain unbeaten in the premiership at the moment...wrrakakakakakaka...

Y.N.W.A..!!!!!

Torres - A Poem on the Recent Form of the Reds

(To the tune of Bon Jovi's Always)

This Liverpool is bleeding
But you can't see its blood
It's nothing but some feelings
Of this poor old Rafa

We've been losing since you left me
Now we're drowning at the goal
You see we've always been a fighter
But without you we can't score

Now I can't sing a Red song
Like the way it's meant to be
Well I guess we're not that good anymore
But baby that's just me

(Chorus)
Yeah I will love you
Baby, Torres
And I'll be there forever and a day
Torres
I'll be there till the Cups don't shine
Till we win the league, for the 50th time
I know when I die, Red'll be on my mind
And I love you, Torres

Now the players that you've left behind
Look like Calamity James on the goal-line
Something made us laugh, something made us cry
At Besiktas, made us say goodbye

Our Euro hopes vanish to thin air
Sami's own goal brought us there
When you see it again, try to understand
He makes mistakes, he's just a man

Rafa thought he was close, when the season was here
When he said the words we've been wanting to him
"The title is ours, 'cos this boy is mine,"
Didn't know I'd sing this song after three months' time...

(Repeat Chorus)

If you told me to cry for you, I could
If you told me to die for you, I would
Take a look at our face, there's no price we won't pay
For the title to come to Pool

Though there ain't no hope in this lonely time
We're always gonna give you that one more try
We can just say we don't care and resume our lives
But the Kop's the place where the sun still shines

(Repeat Chorus)

RAFA ADMITS FAULT

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez accepts it is up to him to sort out his side's tactical problems and get their Barclays Premier League title challenge back on track.

Many critics have pointed to the Spaniard's infamous rotation policy for having caused a number of disjointed performances, while an international break immediately after that Derby victory certainly cost them momentum.

And while it has been noted Liverpool's difficult period appears to have coincided with the departure of fitness coach and assistant manager Pako Ayesteran, Benitez stressed the only person responsible was himself.

The Spanish tactician accepts that tactics are very much his domain and he is more than willing to accept responsibility for his side's recent demise.

"The problem is a tactical problem and it is my problem," said Benitez, who after this recent international break now has to get his side ready for a Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Saturday.

"Confidence (of the squad) is also an issue but not the physical condition of the players. We are running more and faster than before."

Benitez feels that the criticism aimed at club captain is unfair and that the whole team are not on top of their game, not just captain Steven Gerrard.

"I am really worried about the team over the past few games, because we are not playing at our level," he explained on liverpoolfc.tv. "You can talk about Steven Gerrard, because he is the captain, but you can talk about the other players also.

"I was disappointed when people were talking about Sissoko and Leto after the Marseille game. So I say the team is not playing well and you cannot pick out one player. It is the same situation with Steve. He needs to keep working and you could see the other day during the game that he was working hard. The team is working hard so we need to improve tactically and we need to improve our confidence."

"I think all of the players want to play. Some have injuries but when I see them in the dressing room or in the corridor all of them say, 'I am ready if you want'. You know they want to play," he added.

Meanwhile Peter Beardsley has spoken of his respect for the way Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez goes about his business.

The former Kop idol, who scored 60 goals in 177 appearances between 1987 and 1991, believes the Spaniard's style is becoming all too rare in modern football.

"Rafael Benitez is doing a good job," said Beardsley. "People are always asking him about his changes even though he's proved he's a winner.

"I love his style, he never makes excuses and he'll say if he gets something wrong."
Editor's Notes

Liverpool's recent slump in form seems to be the talk of the town. The media has linked it to Rafa's consistent probing and shuffling of his line-up.

It doesn't help that his assistant, Pako Ayesteran's departure coincide with the loss in confidence of the team. However one must note that this is not a new practice by the gaffer.

Did anyone make a fuss when his tinkering brought Liverpool their fifth European Champions silverware? Maybe they claim it was with some help from ladyluck but getting to the finals twice in three years requires more then just luck.

Rafa's coming out to admit his tactical errors was perhaps more than not is to shield his players from further criticisms from the public. Pako's departure hasn't certainly help as I reckon Rafa has been carrying more workloads than he should.

If anyone is to be blame, it should be the players. They are professionals ridiculously paid to do a job regardless of what tactical methods instructed on the field of play. Just putting on the colors of Liverpool should be a motivation for them, wearing the Liver upon their chest.

Having said all that, Liverpool are usually slow starters but it can be said as an improvement this time round, with the team still unbeaten in the Premiere League.

The media has been questioning Rafa's priority over the last few seasons. Maybe this season he is in fact gunning for the EPL. Who's to bet that Liverpool might even go through the whole season unbeaten?

Its encouraging also that some of the past players are pledging their support to Rafa. Its still early days yet and Rafa is just preparing his squad for the long marathon.

REDS TO PLUG DEFENSIVE WOES

According to two top British papers, Liverpool will make an approach for the Newcastle centre-half, Steven Taylor and the out of favour, Real Madrid full-back Gabriel Heinze.

Liverpool's failed attempt, during the Summer transfer window, of signing the Argentinian from Man Utd, has not stopped the Merseysider's hope of securing his signature. It is expected the new American owners will have to write a cheque for about €6.5 million to persuade the La Liga champions to let Heinze go.


It is also reported that England U-21 captain Steven Taylor, could also be on his way to Anfield this January after rejecting a contract from current club Newcastle. This is thought to be for a fee of around about €8.25 million, but Liverpool will face competition from Tottenham and West Ham to snap-up the Geordie.

The possible introduction of these players could also make way for the departure of the experienced Red's favourite Sami Hyypia, who Wigan could target in the upcoming transfer window.

Editor's Notes

One bad performance and the rumours starts flying in. That seems to be the thin line of being a success and a failure.

Liverpool's torrid defensive displays against Tottenham have gotten the media to hammer the final nail onto Sami Hyypia's Liverpool career. Its true that Hyypia was outfoxed and outmanoeuvred not once but twice by the same player in that match.

But having said that defending should be done as a team and Jamie Carragher should shoulder as much blame as he was caught ball watching.

Its true that Hyypia has lost much of his pace and strength but he makes up for it with his excellent positioning and reading of the game. With only Daniel Agger being the other proven centre-half, Liverpool really need to have quality competition to keep Carragher and Agger on their toes.

Steven Taylor is as good as it comes and speculations started to rife when he rejected a new contract. But being a Geordie through and through, I somehow do not see him crossing over to Anfield. Gabriel Heinze, on the other hand, is well adapt to play on the left as well as the middle. With Rafa's close relatioinship with Real, there were even talks that there has been a conspiracy. Again I do not feel so, and I doubt if Heinze would leave so soon after joining the Spanish giant.

I believe that Rafa would once again dipped into his La-Liga knowledge and contacts and I can see another la-Liga signing come January. 25 year old Deportivo's Fabricio Collicini looks a probability.

Regarding Hyypia, Rafa has publicly stated previously that he wants him to stay and carry on to contribute to Liverpool Football Club at a different capacity. Ageing Sami may be Finnish but he's far from done yet!

CROUCH TO STAY?

By Chris McMullan, liverpool.rivals.net
Date: 17/10/2007

Rafa Benitez has contradicted recent media speculation by stating that Liverpool do not want to sell Peter Crouch. With the England international striker being relegated to the subs bench for much of this season the press had decided that he must be on his way out soon. Not so says Rafa.

Explaining the players absence from starting line-ups as 'competition for places' may be little consolation for the player but at least throws him a lifeline for getting back in the side:

"People have been talking about Peter Crouch for two months, but he is our player and we don't want to sell him. He is a nice boy, a good professional, a good player.

"It is clear that this team now with four strikers creates more competition for places, but I don't have any problems because Crouch is a good player."

Editor's Notes

When Rafa first decided to recruit the 'unknown' Peter Crouch to Anfield for £7 million in 2005, the whole soccer-nation was having a laugh.

Soon enough after contributing to Rafa-lution, amidst a long goalless streak, he has been labelled as the 'poor man's Fernando Torres' which could be say as an admirable comparison nonetheless.

But what now that El-Nino has finally made his way to Anfield? Does Rafa want to keep him just for the sake of a cover to Torres?

Crouch has suffered immensely and has been nowhere near his best when called upon. But he is still a top striker in the eyes of many teams and already Liverpool have rejected £9 million offers for his services.


Man City are the latest team that has been linked with him. It has been rumoured that Liverpool are actually waiting for the bidding to go to £12 million.

Personally I feel that it will benefit both player and team for him to move on. No doubt Crouch is a top-class striker and has proven it at International level. But I reckon its about time that Liverpool go into 'upgrading' and get Worldclass striker rather than just top-class. At the moment, sadly enough, only Torres falls into that category.

If Liverpool were to hold on Crouch, his value might just dip over the years. Rafa should just cash in while he's still in demand and could top-up the money received to get another Worldclass striker, perhaps someone in the mould of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

KAKA EYES MOVE TO PREMIERSHIP

Kaka has nominated England as one of the two destinations which could tempt him if he ever decides to call time on his AC Milan career.

The 25-year-old Brazil midfielder is at pains, in an interview with Esquire magazine, to stress he expects to remain happy with the European champions.

But should he ever change his mind, Kaka admits clubs such as Manchester United and Arsenal would enter the equation - probably ahead of Chelsea or Liverpool.

'I'm very happy at Milan - and I don't expect that situation to change,' he said. 'But if you want to talk hypothetically, if I were ever to leave it would have to be for a club of equal stature - and I think I would only find that in England or Spain.

'Manchester United are a wonderful side ... I like Arsenal too.

'As for Chelsea and Liverpool, they are more tactically-oriented; they base themselves on solidity and organisation. They are maybe less creative, but they have good managers. I especially admire (Rafael) Benitez.'

ROTATION THE SAGA

Another week of dismay, the same old debate of the rotation policy currently running in the heart and veins of Liverpool. The media are preying on every negative results of Liverpool and scrapping every chance to criticise the system and, of course, the man in-charge, Rafael Benitez. But, should us, the proud supporters of Liverpool FC, do the same?

Frustrated, pointing fingers at the squad-rotation has become all too often, it's very nearly a habit now. The system does not, proven, always look that well in short-term, but in the longer term, it works out well, also proven. 3 cups finals in the last 3 years is no mean feat. The game itself has evolved and the way of playing it has to adapt. Gone are the days of playing the same old 11 from day-1 to day-365. Have absolute faith in the system and it would pay off.

However, under Benitez, not even the captain are exempted from the policy, which is one thing that I could never understand. Look at the rivals, Fabregas and van Persie for Arsenal, Lampard and Terry for Chelsea and Ronaldo, Giggs and Scholes for Man Utd. These players play whenever available and stay in the team. Does that mean those teams don't care or couldn't see the final picture? Anyone?

The answer is NO, to me. It is necessary to rest players when needed, but it has to be done by retaining the core of the team. The rivals' key players are their respective core, and they don't get benched very often even if it is against inferior oppositions. It is very important to have a good spine of players, which we definitely have and a great bunch, namely Reina-Carragher-Alonso-Gerrard

-Kuyt and of course, Fernando Torres. The new number 9 has exceeded every expectation and he's done it with style. Talk about easing in a new player coming to a new league, this man is settling in as if he's the Liverpool academy graduate.

Well, this is my shallow opinion, at least. I would be very happy whenever the aforementioned players made the starting lineup and frustrated when they don't. Hey, I'm just a fan, alright. Fans are not supposed to be objective. But I really do believe that Rafael Benitez is the man to bring back the 19th title. So wait till then.

YNWA!

THE REDS 0 - 1 MARSEILLE

A dissapointing display of tactics and style by the Lord Rafa..maybe this should give him a wake-up call to place all his best 11 and not to rotate players anymore..

Desperate for goals led him to made changes to his tactics..

Come on Rafa..we expect better play than this..

YNWA

LIVERPOOL - MARSEILLE : REDS BEATEN BY LATE STUNNER

The Reds endured a frustrating night in front of goal as a sensational late effort from Mathieu Valbuena earned Marseille a surprise 1-0 win at Anfield.

Rafa Benitez's men struggled to test Steve Mendanda in the visitors' goal throughout the match and but for some fine goalkeeping by Pepe Reina the away side could have returned to France with a bigger margin of victory.

In a frustrating first-half the Reds took a while to get into their stride and Marseille should have taken the lead after just 12 minutes.

Karim Ziani won the ball off Fabio Aurelio on the halfway line before releasing Mamdou Niang, whose effort on the run was well blocked by Pepe Reina.

Rafael Benitez's men struggled to build any momentum and the visitors continued to create the better chances on the counter attack.

Lorik Cana contrived to head over despite being unmarked in the box before the home crowd breathed a huge sigh of relief when Karim Ziani's effort was ruled out for offside just after the half hour mark.

After the interval the home side stepped up a gear and could have broken the deadlock on 52 minutes but Peter Crouch misjudged his volley after a fine run and cross from Steve Finnan.

Both sides then had efforts from distance with Niang firing a free-kick straight at Reina before Gerrard curled a superb 25-yard effort just wide over the right-hand post.

With 20 minutes to go Marseille took off the dangerous Niang and replaced him with former Reds striker Djibril Cisse, whose first piece of action was to flash a 25-yard effort well wide of Reina's goal.

The away side continued to cause the Liverpool rearguard problems and 13 minutes from the end they struck the winning goal.

Momo Sissoko lost the ball in midfield allowing Mathieu Valbuena to turn and exchange a one-two before curling a magnificent 25-yard effort in off the crossbar.

It was a goal worthy of winning any match and despite late chances for Yossi Benayoun, Sami Hyypia and Fernando Torres, it leaves the Reds with it all to do in their remaining Group A fixtures.

Teams

Liverpool: Reina, Aurelio, Hyypia, Carragher, Finnan, Leto, Gerrard (captain), Sissoko, Benayoun, Crouch, Torres. Subs - Riise, Mascherano, Arbeloa, Babel, Kuyt, Voronin, Itandje

Olympique Marseille: Mandanda, Taiwo, Rodriguez, Givet, Bonnart, Zenden, Cana (captain), Cheyrou, Valbuena, Ziani, Niang. Subs - Zubar, Oruma, Arrache, Moussilou, Hamel, Cisse, M'Bami

Referee: Plautz, Conrad

Conditions: Raining

Attendance: 41,355

TRANSFER RUMOUR UPDATES

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is keen on cementing a deal for Republic of Ireland teenage star Jamie McCarthy sooner rather than later.

Sixteen-year-old McCarthy turned down a move to Anfield in the summer in order to spent one more season with Scottish First Division side Hamilton Academical.

McCarthy had trials at Liverpool last season and the Mirror says Reds boss Rafa Benitez is now ready to follow up with a firm bid for the 16 year-old.

But according to a report in Monday’s Daily Mirror, Benitez is anxious to complete a move for the Accies ace, who scored the opening goal as his side defeated Kilmarnock last week en route to the last eight of the CIS Insurance Cup.

McCarthy was also the subject of attention from Chelsea, Reading, Celtic and Rangers earlier this year but Liverpool look favourites to land his signature, probably at the end of the season.

Liverpool are also believed to be keeping tabs on Charlton Athletic midfielder Joshua Wright.

Wright is currently on loan at League Two outfit Barnet, where he has made 5 appearance this season.

Liverpool scouts have spotted the youngster in action and have sent glowing reports to boss Rafa Benitez who could add the youngster to his growing number of prospects at Anfield.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is reportedly to be on pole position to sign Burnley youngster John Cofie.

The Merseyside club appear to have stolen a march on their Premiership rivals Manchester United and Chelsea by finding out that Cofie's family are all mad Liverpool fans.

A deal taking Cofie to one of the three clubs for a fee in the region of £1 million is likely to be tied up in January.

And finally,Liverpool have entered the race to sign £10 million rated French star Samir Nasri.

20 year old Marseille midfielder Nasri was voted as the player of the year in France last season and has been hailed as 'the new Zidane'.

According to reports over the weekend Liverpool are set to make a £10 million move for Nasri in January but could face stiff competition for his signature from Premiership rivals Arsenal.

In Liverpool's favour is their strong relationship with Marseille having sold them Djibril Cisse at a bargain price in the summer however Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has a £70 million transfer kitty to play with due to the club's recent financial success.

Editor's Note

Rafa Benitez, it seems, is having his scouts on overtime to scour the land for the 'wonderkids'. Liverpool has been under a lot of criticism for their policy of signing up young talents from abroad mainly South American and Spain. Perhaps by signing the British trio would take away some heat.

Nonetheless, Liverpool have been pursuing Jamie McCarthy more than a season back only for him to decide against leaving his homeland just yet. McCarthy, being Irish, has been described by many as a future heir to the legendary Roy Keane.

His tigerish displays at such a tender age have also drawn comparison with a younger Steven Gerrard. But again, he is not yet the 'finished article' and still has a long way to go.

The other two Brits, Joshua Wright, an England U-17, and John Cofie have recently gone into the radar of the big clubs as well.

Last but not least, the battle for Samir Nasri to be continued from last season as well. Already a French International at a young age. His skills and talents has been liken to that of Zinedine Zidane. But Liverpool fans might be apprehensive on the French as they haven't had much success at Anfield. Bruno Cheyrou (also once touted as 'the new Zidane'), Djibril Cisse, Sinama Pongolle and Anthony Le-tallec had all failed to light up at Anfield.

Regardless of Liverpool's good rapport with Marseille, I reckon that Arsenal would have the upperhand for Nasri with Arsene Wenger's impeccable success with young frenchmen.

Ultimately, with so many talented youngsters making their way to Anfield, only time will tell if any will make it into the big time.

WIGAN 0 - 1 LIVERPOOL

A brilliant individual goal from substitute Yossi Benayoun gave Liverpool a hard-earned victory against Wigan at the JJB Stadium.

The Israeli latched onto a through ball from Jermaine Pennant and dribbled past Titus Bramble before finding the net from 10 yards in the 75th minute.

Striker Fernando Torres was guilty of wasting good chances for the Reds.

Wigan should have levelled the score in stoppage time but striker Julius Aghahowa missed a close-range header.

Rafael Benitez's team were made to work for their three points by a resilient second-half resurgence from Wigan.

Torres, fresh from his Carling Cup hat-trick heroics, kept his place up front, but Rafael Benitez continued his with his rotation policy.

Benitez made seven changes to the side that beat Reading in midweek, taking his season's tally of changes to an astonishing 57 from just 11 games.

Wigan, who have yet to score a league goal against Liverpool, gave Nigerian international striker Aghahowa his first start up front in place of the injured Antoine Sibierski.

Despite pressing Chris Kirkland into action in the first minute with a stinging 30-yard drive from Steven Gerrard, Liverpool failed to capitalise on their dominance in the first half.

Torres was guilty of wasting the majority of the opportunities - the Spaniard could have bagged his second hat-trick of the week, but his prowess in front of goal had deserted him.

His first chance fell in the 16th minute when Dirk Kuyt threaded a pinpoint through-ball, but the striker was denied by a fine sprawling save from Kirkland.

Torres' most painful miss came in the 32nd minute when Fabio Aurelio's cross found the striker unmarked in the box.

The striker had time to control the ball, but instead opted for the spectacular with an overhead kick, firing wide of Kirkland's left-hand post.

Devoid of any attacking impetus in the first 45 minutes, Wigan's approach at the beginning of the second half was in complete contrast.

They should have taken the lead when Marcus Bent fired past a static Pepe Reina, who had stopped after a late offside flag.

However replays indicated strike partner Aghahowa had been wrongly adjudged offside even though he was returning onside and not interfering with play.

Jason Koumas began to exert more influence in midfield and the Wales international forced Reina into his first save of the game in the 51st minute.

Liverpool eventually broke free of their second half shackles and Wigan had Josip Skoko to thank when he threw himself at a Dirk Kuyt shot from 12 yards with Kirkland committed.

A typically robust Gerrard shot from distance on 68 minutes had the goalkeeper beaten but, agonisingly, the ball rolled past the post.

It took a moment of individual brilliance from Benayoun to break the deadlock 15 minutes from full time.

The midfielder created space with a wonderful first touch from Pennant's ball and evaded Bramble's challenge on the edge of the box before firing past the onrushing Kirkland.

The goal rocked Wigan but they continued to press forward in search of an equaliser, and should have had one in the dying moments.

Koumas' cross found Aghahowa three yards from goal, but the striker somehow managed to head wide with an open goal to aim at.

# Wigan manager Chris Hutchings on Julius Aghahowa's stoppage time miss:

"I don't know how it didn't go in, so in the end while I am pleased with the performance and the lads were great, I am very disappointed with the result.

"I thought the way we defended and how we passed the ball around was pleasing. That's how we are trying to do things now.

"We can take positives out of the game with the way they changed things in order to hold on to their three points, and all credit to them for doing that."

# Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez on Yossi Benayoun's introduction:

"When you are trying to find a solution, you need players of creativity and quality, and Yossi gives us that. I am not saying he will start every game on the bench, it's just that in this instance I wanted to do different things.

"Yossi played the other night (in the Carling Cup against Reading) and I needed fresh legs, so I started with (Jermaine) Pennant.

"Because we didn't we needed to bring on players with different skills and Yossi was good, it was perfect."

Wigan: Kirkland, Melchiot, Boyce, Bramble, Kilbane, Scharner (Taylor 82), Skoko, Brown, Koumas, Aghahowa, Bent.
Subs Not Used: Pollitt, Granqvist, Hall, Olembe.

Booked: Brown, Melchiot.

Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Hyypia, Carragher, Aurelio (Benayoun 56), Pennant (Voronin 82), Gerrard, Mascherano, Riise, Torres (Sissoko 89), Kuyt.
Subs Not Used: Itandje, Finnan.

Booked: Mascherano.

Goals: Benayoun 75.

Att: 24,311.

ROBBIE"S COMING HOME

Robbie Fowler will return to Anfield with new club Cardiff City after The Bluebirds were drawn away at Liverpool in the fourth round of the Carling Cup.

The Reds legend, nicknamed ‘God’ by his adoring fans on the Kop, made the step down to The Championship at the end of last season but will be warmly welcomed back to his spiritual home when the ties take place around the country in the week commencing October 29.

The Premier League’s biggest sides were all kept apart in the draw made on Saturday afternoon, with holders Chelsea playing at home to Leicester City and last season’s beaten finalists Arsenal being drawn away at Sheffield United.

Coventry City’s reward for seeing off Manchester United at Old Trafford is a home tie against manager Iain Dowie’s former side West Ham, whilst two all-Premier League ties see Portsmouth host Blackburn and Manchester City visit Bolton in a North West derby.

League One Luton Town, the lowest ranked side left in the competition, have been drawn to face Everton at Kenilworth Road and Simon Grayson’s Blackpool will also be eyeing a shock when they visit Tottenham.

Carling Cup fourth round draw in full:
Luton Town v Everton
Portsmouth v Blackburn Rovers
Chelsea v Leicester City
Sheffield United v Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur v Blackpool
Bolton Wanderers v Manchester City
Coventry City v West Ham
Liverpool v Cardiff City

Editor's Notes

Robbie Fowler previously unceremoniuosly 'forced out' by former Assistant Manager Phil Thompson was given a reprieve by Rafa Benitez to bid his goodbyes to the Kop with his second spell which he was grateful for.

The Carling Cup fourth round tie provides Liverpool's mercurial son with an unexpected early comeback, It seems that most of Liverpool's outgoing players usually gets a quick comeback. Last season it was Jan Kromkamp and Vladimir Smicer with PSV and Bordeaux respectively. And this its Robbie with Cardiff City, Bolo Zenden and Djibril Cisse with Olympic Marseille in the Champions League midweek.

Nonetheless, Liverpool will not be hoping for any favours from the trio and likewise these players would usually have something to prove to the gaffer.

Having said that, I believe that Liverpool are well equipped to get through these teams. Fowler and Zenden would definitely be receiving a grandstand by the Anfield faithfuls but the same could not be said about Cisse.