Koeman declares interest in Dudek

Benfica look set to make a move for Jerzy Dudek. The Benfica manager, Ronald Koeman, has stated he needs a new keeper and Jerzy is one of the names in the frame.

"It is true that one of the main problems of our team is in goal," he told RTL5.
"Lobont is one of the names that we have [in mind], but also Dudek."

Dudek has lost his place since the arrival of Reina and doesn't look like regaining it as the Reds have kept six successive clean sheets. Dudek is concerned that he will need regular football to ensure he makes the Poland World Cup squad and is likely to request a transfer if the situation doesn't change.
As Benfica are open to negotiations for the transfer of Simao, Dudek could be offered in part-exchange.

Rafa predicting great things from Kewell

Rafa has spoken positively about the return of Harry Kewell. He is happy with the progress of his recovery and believes we will be seeing the best of Harry in a few months time:

"He played well the other day," said Benitez. "Now I hope we can see him training every day and playing more games in a row.
"If he plays every week for the next two or three months and continues working, I am sure we will see a very, very good player. He can score goals, make key passes and make the difference in games.
"He is fitter now than before, but you need to play games to be more fit. Maybe he will play tomorrow or this weekend.
"He needs to play as well as possible for us and for himself. He is focused now on training and I am sure that we will see the best of Harry this season."
"I am not the kind of manager that says 'I have given you confidence, now give me something'.
"Harry is a professional and he knows we need to do the best for our supporters, but the most important thing is that he does the best for himself. If you like your profession then you must do your best. Harry must be the same, like all our players."

Although Rafa knows the World Cup will prevent some players resting fully in the summer he believes that the players will have an extra incentive to perform this season to force their way into their respective World Cup Squads:

"Some players are looking at the end of the season towards the World Cup, and players like Harry needs to do well and do the right things for the future," he added. "It is good news for us.
"The World Cup will be a distraction at the end of the season. At the moment, it is a positive for us because these players will be trying to impress their national managers."

Harry has been playing with more confidence since his return. Last season he wasn't able to play freely as the injury problems affected him both physically and mentally. This will be Harry's last chance to prove himself to the Liverpool fans. I'm confident he will will take it.

Please post your views.

Rafa wants more of the same against Sunderland

Rafa has been happy with our recent defensive performances that have led to six consecutive clean sheets. He has urged the team to continue taking things game by game and to forget about the bigger picture:
"I didn't know that statistic, but I think it is important we carry on doing the same things because if you start thinking about statistics you forget the basics," he explained.
"The most important thing for me is to continue doing the same things, keep going the same way and then other people can talk about the statistics. My idea is simply to win every game.
"The only target I have set is to stay here for maybe 10 years. After that my only target is to win the next game."
"Always when you are a manager you start by thinking how you can improve the defence, because it is easier.
"Then afterwards you work with the strikers, because it is easier to improve the defenders.
"If you want to score it is a much smaller space, but if you want to clear the ball it is much bigger."

It looks like Rafa is close to completing the task of organising a top class defence. Hopefully he will get similar results when he starts concentrating on our attack.

Please post your views.

Simao Liverpool switch looking more likely

Benfica president Luis Vieira has confirmed that they will be selling Simao:

"We know that we will have to sell him, it is just a question of price," said Vieira.
"If Liverpool had come up with £12 million, then he would already have gone."

The quotations suggest that Benfica will be willing to negotiate as it is understood that Rafa will not pay more than £ 8 million.
A deal for Simao collapsed on transfer deadline day when news leaked to Benfica supporters that their idol was leaving. Since then Simao has broken club rules by appearing on television stating his intentions to leave hinting that Liverpool would be his preferred destination. This has made his position at the club difficult.
Rick Parry has confirmed our interest in the player and a deal in the January transfer window now seems very likely especially now Rafa has denied our interest in Joaquin.

Please post comments.

Gerrard misses out on Ballon d'Or

Ronaldinho has been crowned European Footballer of the Year. The 25 year old Brazilian was clearly ahead of the other leading contenders. Frank Lampard was runner up with Stevie Gerrard in third position. The award is decided by France Football magazine. Ronaldinho, the current World Player of the Year, has been in sensational form this year as he won La Liga with Barcelona.

Unfortunately Steve Gerrard was unable to emulate Michael Owen's achievement in 2001 by winning the Ballon d'Or but he will surely have more chances to win this prestigious award in the future. However no one can begrudge Ronaldinho the award as he has shown his extraordinary ability and has been consistently fantastic this year.

Rafa hoping to emulate Valencia success

Rafa has spoken about what he wishes to achieve in the next few years at Liverpool. He is hoping to replicate his achievements at Valencia where he delivered two league Championships:

"In Valencia I knew the league, the players and the referees. Here, I knew I needed more time."The Premiership is as difficult not more difficult than La Liga. In Spain Real Madrid and Barcelona are the big clubs and they spend a lot of money. Here you have Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United."I had some advantages at Valencia and could manage in a different way. Here we are improving and I know we can improve more. As a team we are a little bit better."In five or six years, we will see if I've done as well here as I did in Spain. I hope so."And Benitez quipped: "I'd like to be here for at least ten years and then maybe Steven Gerrard can take over."

The last few weeks have shown signs that the Rafa regime is beginning to pay dividends. We don't look like conceding and make things very difficult for our opponents. This is similar to how Valencia used to perform. Another parallel with Valencia is the distribution of goals across the team. The strikers aren't scoring too many however the midfielders are chipping in with more than their fair share.

Please post your views.

Rafa's actions hint at Cisse exit

When Djib was surprisingly substituted six minutes after half time yesterday the look on his face revealed that he was having great trouble understanding Rafa's decision to withdraw him. It seems that Djib receives the least amount of backing from Rafa despite the fact that he is our top scorer. Rafa is always happy to keep Peter Crouch on the field, although his contributions have recently justified Rafa's faith in him, surely if Djib was given more playing time he would do the same. And when Nando was misfiring Rafa gave him every chance necessary to break his drought and establish himself.
Djib always finds himself the favourite to be withdrawn when things aren't going well. Surely, as in the situation yesterday, when you need a goal, your top scorer should be kept on the field. Although, in this instance, Rafa's decision was vindicated as we scored less than ten minutes after the change. Also Djib's pace is far more effective towards the end of games when there is more space and teams are chasing the game. There was one incident when it looked like Kewell was through until he was outpaced by Danny Mills. This type of situation would have been tailor made for Cisse.
The comments made by Rafa last week, stating that he expects more from Cisse, the early substitution yesterday, and the repeated lack of support suggest that Rafa will be looking to offload him in the January transfer window. I'm sure these factors also have a negative effect on Cisse's confidence thereby compounding the situation further. In my opinion letting Cisse go would leave us with a large void in our attacking options as he is our only striker with the type of electric pace that can pose any defence problems.

Please post your views.

Bolo Blow

Unfortunately Bolo Zenden has been ruled out for a month with a sprained ligament in his right knee. The injury was sustained in the Champions League clash with Betis. A period of rest should be sufficient to heal the problem.
It's a shame for Bolo to get injured just when he was finding some form. Although at least Harry Kewell may now get a chance to prove himself.

Liverpool bid £4.5m for Serb International Defender

Liverpool have made offer of £4.5m for Nemanja Vidic.
This comes a few days after news emerged that Vidic was on the verge of moving to Fiorentina.
The offer should be sufficient as Vidic reportedly has a release clause in his contract of around £ 4.5 million. Vidic's agent describes the player as a superb talent:

"Vidic is a rare talent, a young defender who is unbeatable in the air, has great technique and can start moves. He does seem slow but he is almost impossible to get past. "

Rafa wants to be sure that Vidic is 100% committed to Liverpool before the deal is concluded. If he is a deal should be arranged in the next week and hopefully Rafa's search for a quality central defender will be over.

Rafa expecting consistency

Rafa is hoping that the confidence gained from our recent good run will propel us to victory against Man City tomorrow. He feels that we now have the squad to cope with both the Premiership and Europe:

"We are winning more games now with confidence in the league, as well as doing well in the Champions League. The team is stronger, playing well and that give us confidence.
"The most important thing this season is how we have started to play better in more than one competition at the same time.
"We have had good results, but I now want to see how we play at Manchester City, we have to keep going the way we are because talking about things means nothing if you can't do it on the pitch.
"This is a good run we are in, three successive league wins, but we must keep doing the same in the future. Consistency is the most important thing, the players have more confidence but that only stays if you keep winning. The European result in midweek will have further boosted our confidence.
"And that achievement of furthering our involvement in Europe with another clean sheet will send us to Manchester City in the right frame of mind.
"We are better now, stronger with more players and we can handle, I believe, big games in two big tournaments at the same time."

The win against Villa proved that we are able to produce a decent performance on the back of European success. All of our players are now in good form and we are looking like a decent team with a solid backline and a creative attack. The only thing currently below expectations is our finishing. Hopefully this will change once Peter Crouch gets a goal as most chances seem to be falling to him at present.

Please post your comments

Malbranque linked with Liverpool move

Reports today have suggested that Liverpool will make a move for Steed Malbranque in the January transfer window. The Frenchman has been in fine form this season. Man City have also been linked with the right sided midfielder as they have yet to find a replacement for Shaun Wright-Phillips.
Malbranque believes a move to a larger club will help his International prospects:
"I am living with two big ambitions, to play for France and maybe one day with a bigger club in England."

Steed Malbranque is a good example of a foreign flair player who has adapted well to the intensity of the Premiership. When Houiller was manager Malbranque was a target and Rafa also seems to be an admirer of his talents. We could do a lot worse than signing Malbranque for our problem right wing position.

Please post your views.

Rafa hints at fielding weakened team against Chelsea

Rafa doesn't seem to be overly bothered about topping the Champions League group and has hinted that he may rest some players in the final group game against Chelsea:

"I am a much more relaxed manager now, we have qualified and the Chelsea game does not have the same significance.
"It is an interesting situation. They have to beat us to finish top of the group, but that isn't always the most important thing.
"Sometimes winning the group gives you a very difficult second-placed side to play next. Or you can finish second and get a group winner you are happy with.
"It is not important now for me, I am only concerned that we now have time to concentrate on other things and working on our league form."
"It would be nice for us to top the group but the most important thing is to enjoy this result and prepare the players for the next game at Manchester City."

Finishing second in the group didn't matter last season. Although it would be great to beat Chelsea.

Red's target set to leave Ajax

South African International midfielder Steven Pienaar is likely to leave Ajax according to his agent Rob Moore as he explained in the Herald:
"We will probably wrap up everything by the end of the month.
"There has been interest from all the major leagues - England, Italy, Spain and Germany."

We have been linked with Pienaar along with Tottenham and Man City. The 23 year old is primarily a central midfielder but he can also operate on the right. His contract is in its final year and he would be able to negotiate with other clubs in January and leave on a free at the end of the season.

Liverpool Player Ratings against Betis

Although it was a 0-0 draw the performance last night was quite impressive below are marks out of ten for the players performances:

Reina 6 Was hardly called upon to make any saves.
Finnan 7 Gave a solid performance allowing Gerrard to attack with freedom.
Sami 8 An excellent defensive display. Seemed to always be in the right place to make key interceptions.
Carra 7 Typical determined display, marshaled the defence well as Betis got caught offside repeatedly.
Riise 7 Only got skinned a couple of times by Joaquin. Linked up well with Zenden.
Zenden 7 Got a few dangerous crosses into the box and helped keep balance of the team.
Didi 7 Helped break up a number of potentially dangerous counter attacks. Hardly gave the ball away.
Momo 7 Had a shaky start but recovered well showing good skills on the ball and didn't allow the Betis players any time in possession.
Gerrard 9 Another superb performance from the captain. A constant attacking threat and was unlucky not to score.
Crouch 9 Did everything but score. Repeatedly got into goalscoring positions and caused panic in the Betis defence.
Nando 7 Showed good skills when holding up the ball but didn't have his shooting boots on.

The subs 6 Both Cisse and Kewell didn't have much time to make an impact.

Please post your views on our performance last night.

Tony Le T can't understand his Premiership problems

Antony Le Tallec is at a loss to explain his difference in goalscoring records in the Premiership and for France Under 21's. Le Tallec has never scored a Premiership goal for Liverpool and has scored just two domestic goals for Sunderland this season:

"It might be our fault, I don't know, but I have confidence in my ability to score goals at this level. I've scored two goals for Sunderland and 10 for France (Under-21s). I know I can score a lot of goals for Sunderland, but I need a run of games in the side.
"In France, strikers are different. In England, strikers like to tackle, but we are not brought up that way. But I know I have to work hard if I am going to be a success at Sunderland."
"People keep saying I'm a young player and there are a lot of young players in the team, but we can't use that as an excuse.
"We are going to have to grow up quickly if we are going to stay in the Premier League."
"It's difficult for the strikers because we have only won one game,"

Le Tallec reminded everyone of the quality he possesses in France's recent under 21 games against England. He is still only 21 and now plays with more confidence. Hopefully his experience at Sunderland, provided he plays, will allow him to return to Anfield as a player good enough for our 1st team.

Please post your views on Tony Le T.

Rafa expects improved performances from Djib

Despite the fact that Djib is our top scorer Rafa has told him to improve his allround game. He feels that Djib is struggling to adapt to the fact that he no longer is the main man:

"All strikers are a little bit selfish," Benitez said. "They try and play for themselves.
"Cisse was playing at Auxerre as the main striker, with only the responsibility of scoring goals.
"He didn't have to bother with tackling or playing defensively.
"It is very difficult to have been the star and then go to a club where you have five or six players of the same level or higher.
"But if you want to win trophies, you need stars and workers."

Cisse believes his future will be at Anfield and is unperturbed by any speculation linking him with a transfer. He is happy to use Henry's example to help him settle:

"Am I worried about being linked with a move away from Liverpool? No, not at all," stated Cisse.
"It's good to hear some clubs want you, but my intention is not to leave Liverpool.
"I know I can do more. I'm not at my top level at the moment, but I think I can do more for the fans, the club, the manager and myself.
"I talk to Thierry (Henry) when we meet up with France. He tells me to be strong.
"It was difficult for him when he first came to England, but look at him now."

Rafa clearly feels that Cisse isn't his preferred type of player. I believe that Cisse's unpredictability makes him a very dangerous player. Although it can count against him because his team mates will find it difficult to know what's coming next from his aswell.

Please post your views on Djib.

Rafa again denies interest in Joaquin

Rafa has found himself again denying stories linking the Reds with a January swoop for Joaquin. Some reports have suggested that Rafa called Real Betis to let them know that he has no intention of signing the Spanish International winger to try and end the speculation. This is what Rafa said about the situation:

"The last time we spoke about Joaquin people were saying I was trying to sign him.
"I denied it but two days later they said it again, and threw in Cisse, but it is not true."

I will no longer be posting any stories about Joaquin because he clearly won't be coming to Liverpool. Although it is sad to see that no move will be made as he is the ideal player for our problem position. Anyway we have Luis Garcia and he is keeping Joaquin out of the Spain team at present.

Please post your views.

Djib ready to battle for domestic & European double

Djib has demonstrated the confidence in the camp at present by stating that we can challenge both for the Premiership and in Europe:

"It will be difficult and would involve a lot of games. But we have a good squad and I believe we can do well in both competitions. "One thing is for certain though and that is that we'll fight to the end. The team is in good form right now. We've won a few games in succession. Confidence is high and the spirit is good."

We only need a draw to qualify for the knockout stage but Djib insists that we will be playing for a win:

"We won't play for a draw," he adds. "We'll be going for the win. True, one point will be enough but we want to win on our own pitch and in front of our own fans. "Likewise, Betis will come to win and we are expecting a good game against them. They'll be confident after their win over Chelsea and we will have to be careful. It could be a dangerous game for us but with the right mentality I am sure we can go through with the three points."

Our playing style and Champions League performances this season suggest we do have a reasonable chance of defending our crown. We are on a good run in the league at present but I feel we are too far adrift to mount a title challenge this season. Though nothing will please me more than being proven wrong.

Please post your comments.

Marseille still chasing Djib

The chairman of Marseille, Pape Diouf, has not given up hope of signing Djibril Cisse in January:
"Cisse would suit Marseille and he says Marseille would suit him," said Diouf.
"However, he goes on playing at Liverpool and scoring.
"But before winter transfer window, things can change. Anyway for us he can be the perfect reinforcement."

Djib is our top scorer this season and now appears to be part of Rafa's first choice XI. It would surprise me greatly if he is sold in the transfer window. However Rafa is reported to be after another striker and may need to raise some further funds for his planned spending spree.

Please post your comments.

Pompey say Red's target is not for sale

Milan Mandaric has said that he expects Gary O'neil to stay at Portsmouth:
"There have been three or four enquiries from top Premiership clubs, but O'Neil's a Portsmouth boy and I want him to stay here," confirmed Mandaric. "There are big clubs hovering around, but I want him to stay. I want his future to be nowhere else but Portsmouth. "We have to build a team here and it would send out the wrong message to sell him."

Liverpool have been interested in the England under 21 midfielder for a while. There are a number of clubs, including Wigan, who are also watching the situation as O'neil has been producing excellent Premiership performances despite Portsmouth's plight.

Reina: Beware of Betis counter attacks

Betis need to win tomorrow however Pep Reina believes they will sit back and try to catch us on the counter attack:
"The game in Seville was Betis' first ever Champions League game," said the 23-year-old. "We caught them cold with two early goals, but they have experience now. I think they will be different and they showed against Chelsea what they can do.
"We are a similar team to Chelsea so we have to respect Betis."

Reina was delighted with his performance in Seville when he made a number of important saves:

"I don't know if it was my best performance for Liverpool in the first game but I was busier for sure. It is an important game for both teams. A draw and we are through and Betis know they must win. For me Betis are more dangerous away than at home.
"They are without Oliviera through injury. He is a very intelligent player. I don't think they will go out all attack. I think they will look to play on the counter attack. They are a very good team on the break and a very fast team."

Although we dominated the first half in Seville by the end of the second half we were hanging on to get the three points. There is no doubt that Betis have some quality, however we are currently in good form and we should have no reason not to expect another victory and qualification to the next stage.

Please post comments.

Gerrard ready for title challenge

Stevie Gerrard believes we will feature in the title race this season alongside Man U, Arsenal and Chelsea. We are currently fifteen points behind Chelsea but with two games in hand. Gerrard also feels that our excellent displays in Europe can only have a positive impact on the team as he explained to Sky Sports News:

"Chelsea, of late, have had a little bit of a blip so hopefully they'll keep dropping points and we can capitalise on it." "All we've got to do is concentrate on what we're doing, keep on winning, keep moving up the table and we're all confident this season can be a success - hopefully we'll be delivering a trophy and getting involved in the title race."
"You get a good run in Europe and that gives you confidence and you can take that into league games," continued the England international. "I think our wins in Europe have been bringing confidence to the team."

Gerrard is expecting Rafa to bring in new signings in the transfer window to add to the strength and depth of the squad:

"The manager has brought in some tremendous players and the squad is looking really strong. I'm sure he will strengthen even more in January and we can be a good force this season."
"Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal will still be there, the main challengers, but it's great to see other teams doing really well.
"The Premier League is looking really strong.
"No one wants to see Chelsea run away with it, obviously Chelsea do, but everyone else wants to see an exciting title race and that is what we have to aim for."

With four victories on the trot things are looking encouraging at present. If we can win another four in a row then we really will be able to start thinking about a title challenge.

Please post your views.

Rafa reiterates support for Crouch

Rafa has once again praised Peter Crouch. He was delighted with his contribution to the team in the win against Pompey Despite missing the penalty, he courageously opted to take, he was a constant threat to the Portsmouth defence:

"We always decide on two or three players and they can choose. It depends on the player that has the most confidence and in this case Steve said to me 'Peter wants to shoot'.
"I think he had confidence, if he decided to kick it he must have had confidence. The problem is that he is playing really well, but when he is close to the six-yard box people cheer him and try to support him, and then maybe he can hear their support and it is more difficult.
"But I think when he scores the first goal it will be totally different. Maybe there is a little bit of anxiety, but I've said before that if he plays well it doesn't matter if Peter or Carra scores. The most important thing is to win and we are winning.
"At the end of the day we scored, but next time it will maybe be better that another player should score."
He added: "I will support him. I can see him training every day and he can score goals.
"If you analyse this game, he was good in the air, good on the ground, dribbling, passing, keeping the ball.
"I think that all players are trying to support him, he is a nice boy and all of them are desperate for the first goal.
"When I speak to him he never says anything to me that would suggest he is really worried.
"I will support him because he is playing well."

As long as others in the team are scoring there won't be a huge problem if Peter Crouch's goalscoring drought continues. Happily Crouch is remaining positive and his performances have been satisfactory.

Please post your views.

Xabi faces race to be fit for Betis game

Xabi suffered a knee injury after making a sub appearance in the win against Portsmouth. Although the problem is not serious it is questionable whether he will recover in time for for the game on Wednesday.
On a more positive note Luis Garcia has recovered for a hip injury.
Betis also have an injury problem as dangerous attacked Dani has been ruled out with a knee injury.

Liverpool after Depor defender

Reports this morning have stated the Reds are interested in Spanish central defender Cesar. Tottenham have been long time admirers and Newcastle are also in the frame. Cesar's contract will run out at the end of the season and he will be able to leave on a bosman. However Depor president, Augusto Lendoiro, would like a deal to be arranged in the January transfer window:

"If there is a club that is interested in Cesar and they make their intention known then we will try to come to an agreement," Lendoiro said.
"Cesar wants to play, and we want him to play, so if he receives an offer then we will try to look for a solution that suits all parties."

Cesar, who has 12 International caps, would like to remain in Spain however he is unlikely to turn down a move to the European Champions:

"My priority would be to stay in the Spanish league," the 28-year-old explained. "But, like any professional, I cannot close any doors.
"I am sure that if any firm offers arrive than I will look at them."

Cesar would be an ideal stopgap purchase if Rafa is unable to acquire his main targets in the transfer window.

Reds set to miss out on Vidic

According to a report in the Gazzetta dello sport Fiorentina are set to beat Liverpool to the signing of Nemanja Vidic. Apparently the Fiorentina director of sport is on his way to Moscow, with a special meeting arranged, to clinch the deal. The fee is set to be in the region of £ 5 million. Vidic is pleased by the interest of Fiorentina and their contract offer of £ 2 million a year. The Serbian International would join Fiorentina during the January transfer window.

Unfortunately it appears Rafa has again seen a target move elsewhere. Although I'm sure Rafa has many other options lined up.

Crouch confident despite lengthy goal drought

Peter Crouch has stated that he opted to take the penalty yesterday as he was confident he would open his account for the season:

"I made the decision to take the penalty. I am so desperate to score I will take any chance I can that comes along. I am certainly not going to hide.
"I picked up the ball and felt confident. But it was a fine save and I was just happy Bolo was there to finish it off.
"Maybe the lads won't let me take another one now but I will always be confident and always want the opportunity.
"I wanted it, and I have taken a few before and put it in that corner, but this time I changed my mind at the last minute over what I was going to do. But I have contributed to a good win and that is what is most important, but obviously I am desperate to score at the moment."

Despite the chances he is missing it's very encouraging that Crouch keeps coming back for more. I'm sure his first goal is imminent now the team are creating so many chances. At present he is suffering from bad luck. The ball is not running for him. With more fortune he could have scored a hatrick yesterday.

Please post your views.

Rafa happy with all-round performance

Rafa was pleased with the 3-0 win against Pompey. He was happy with the amount of chances we created and another defensive shut out:

"As a manager I am delighted because for part of the game we played really well at times, kept another clean sheet and scored three good goals. The team is improving and we created so many chances today. The most important thing is to play as well as possible and always to win each game."

Rafa once again praised Peter Crouch who was unlucky not to score after bravely electing to take our first half penalty:

"It's a shame Crouch didn't score because he played really well. He held the ball up, he took on defenders and won headers. It was a pity because he is a very good player but I think he will score soon. As long as he continues to play well and the team win then I happy with that. "We have two or three players who can take a penalty and Crouch wanted to take it. Okay he missed it but Bolo Zenden scored from the rebound. Maybe if we are winning 2-0 in the next game then Crouch can take another penalty."

It's four games won in a row now the best run under Rafa. Things will look even better if we make it five on Wednesday as it will mean qualification to the Champions League knockout stages.

Rafa will have board backing for January spending spree

We all know that Rafa is already busy trying to find new signings for the upcoming transfer window. He will certainly be buying a central defender, a right winger and reports have suggested he is also after a new striker. The good news is that Rafa has confirmed he will receive the required funding for the new acquisitions:

Benitez said today: "The board has told me they know we must try to improve the squad and sign more players and it's good we are all thinking the same way.

"We are going to move forward because we want to win trophies. I'm happy with the scouting department and we are thinking about the right players to sign, not how much they will cost.
"We have a lot of confidence we will bring in the players good enough for us."

Rafa has hinted that we may be raiding the continent's top clubs for talent suggesting that he will have no hesitation buying players who are cup tied for Europe.

He explained: "We need players to improve the team. If a centre-half can't play in the Champions League, okay, we have Sami and Carra."

I think there will be some major signings on the way. Rafa may also raise some more money by showing the door to some of our underperforming players.

Please post your opinions on who Rafa should sign.

Nando believes title challenge is possible

In a show of confidence Fernando Morientes thinks that we will be able to prevent Chelsea from successfully defending their title:

"We do have two games in hand on Chelsea and if we win those we'll be within nine points of them, which is only three results," he told Icons.com. "I believe we can catch them and that we will do. We will win the title. "We didn't begin the season too well but that's not the most important thing. It's how we do from now on that counts and we're looking forward to finishing the season strongly. It's taken longer than we'd hoped to find our best form but we are arriving there now. "We have to win at home to Portsmouth, it's as simple as that. It won't be an easy match, though, because I see them as a dangerous side. Portsmouth may not be enjoying a good season so far but on their day they can be very dangerous."

I think Nando is being a bit optimistic. Obviously we all hope he is right but I think a serious title challenge for next season is more realistic.

Please post your views.

Rafa wants players to follow captain's example

Rafa is delighted with the way Steve Gerrard has happily changed his position for the benefit of the team:

"The players know that the most important thing is the team. If the captain changes his position for the team then it's a great example for the others. "Steven has given us balance playing down the right hand side and we are stronger when everyone works hard as a team, and the captain has led the way."

Since Gerrard has moved to the right we have played like a team. The team is now well balanced and it makes a huge difference being able to pose a threat from both flanks. With Harry Kewell showing signs of returning to his best we will pose a very dangerous attacking threat for opposition defences.

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Happy Rafa hoping reds extend winning run

Rafa has been delighted with the team's recent performances and is expecting us to surge up the table:

"There was talk of us being in crisis when we went out of the Carling Cup, but we proved that in the space of a week things can change for the better and the players deserve to be congratulated for getting back to winning ways with three straight victories.
"And defensively we are looking very strong again. We know we conceded a lot of goals against Chelsea and also two at Fulham, but recently we have got back into the habit of keeping clean sheets and that is important for our confidence.
"The style of football in the wins over West Ham, Anderlecht and Aston Villa impressed me. We controlled all three games, created lots of scoring opportunities and didn't really look like conceding a goal."
The Spaniard added: "We've won a couple of league games in a row now since the defeat to Fulham and we know we could soon be much higher in the table if we keep playing well and getting the results.
"As I have said before, the league table has a false look about it at present because we've played two games less than many teams. I can't look at the Premiership without thinking that our position isn't a true reflection of the season so far."

We should be able to make it four wins in a row tomorrow against Portsmouth, who are struggling at present. This is likely to give the League table a far more realistic look.

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Riise fitness boost

Jon Arne Riise has made a quick recovery from his head injury and has been passed fit to play against Portsmouth tomorrow.
This is great news as Riise is in good form at present.

Liverpool linked with £ 4.8 million bid for Serb International

According to reports we are interested in Serbian International defender Nemanja Vidic.
There are a number of clubs across Europe interested in the highly rated defender who plays for Spartak Moscow.
A central defender is on Rafa's transfer window shopping list and Vidic has a buyout clause of £ 4.8 million so he should be in Rafa's price range. Vidic used to play for Red Star Belgrade and has already been scouted by Villa however they do not have the funds to make a bid at present.
A number of Italian clubs are also chasing his signature. Both Inter Milan and Palermo were keen in the summer, but Fiorentina are likely to provide the strongest competition for his signature as they have the required transfer funds.

Crouch ponders first goal celebration

Unfortunately we have yet to see Peter Crouch score any goals so he has had a while to think about how he will celebrate:

"I'm really looking forward to that moment and the sooner it comes the better," he said. "How will I celebrate? I'll want to jump into the Kop I think. "There's been a lot said about me of late but a lot of people have supported me as well. The manager here, the England coach, Wayne Rooney and Kenny Dalglish have said nice things, so when you hear positive comments from people you respect then it makes it easier to ignore the other rubbish from people whose opinions don't really matter as much. "The Liverpool fans have been great with me. Everyone knows how loud they are but when they're singing your name it's a really amazing experience. Hopefully I can score for them this weekend."

It's good to see that Peter Crouch is in a positive frame of mind. Hopefully, once he scores his first goal, we will see an improved player who will justify his transfer fee.

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Riise ruled out of Pompey game

Unfortunately Jon Arne Riise has sustained a head injury and will need to rest according to the Norwegian team doctor:

"It can take some time before he can play," Norway team doctor Thor Einar Andersen told Dagbladet.
"It is not a serious injury, but he needs to rest."

It's a shame Riise is likely to miss the next couple of games as he was in the process of cementing his place as our number one leftback.

Reds set to be well represented at the World Cup

Liverpool could have fourteen players going to the World Cup in Germany next summer.
Spain should have four Liverpool players in the squad with Reina as the backup goalkeeper, Xabi and Garcia as midfielders and Nando up front.
Stevie Gerrard and Carra are certainties for the England squad. Hopefully Sven will also pick Peter Crouch as he offers something different to our other attackers. Chris Kirkland should travel as a backup goalkeeper. Steve Warnock has an outside chance of making the squad but this is likely to depend upon injuries to other squad members.
Jerzy Dudek will be traveling to Germany with Poland and Harry Kewell will be realising his dream by playing in a World Cup for Australia.
Djib will be looking to get a starting spot for France.
Hopefully Didi Hamann will be able to force himself back into the host nations squad.
Bolo Zenden will also be hoping to regain his place in the Dutch squad.

Unfortunately Mali, Norway, Ireland and Finland did not qualify. Therefore Jon Arne Riise, Sami Hyypia, Steve Finnan, Momo Sissoko and Djimi Traore will be staying at home. At least they will be able to rest up after what will hopefully be a very long season.

Kewell delighted to be enjoying his football again

After producing a superb performance to help Australia qualify for the World Cup Harry Kewell has stated he is now playing again with confidence:

"I'm just enjoying it now," Kewell told Channel Nine television.
"It's back to playing the football that I love playing I'm actually going out there and enjoying it. I wanted the ball, I wanted to go out there, I wanted to do what I could do ... it must have been the crowd that was getting me up there."

Kewell received high praise for his performance from International team mate Mark Viduka:

"He was unbelievable," Viduka said. "I mean 'H' (Kewell) came on and made a big difference straight away -- he was quality."

Harry, who played on the left wing, gave the Uruguayan defence a torrid time. Hopefully this time he really is back and can start producing these performances for Liverpool on a consistent basis.

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Parry wants to use Japan trip as shop window

Rick Parry is hoping our exposure to a world audience, when we visit Japan for the World Club Championships, will offer encouragement to potential investors:

He said: "Everyone knows we have been looking for investment for some time. We're not talking about a quick fix but about securing the future of the club and helping to take us to the next level. "The more success we achieve on the field then the more success we'll enjoy off it. It's self-fulfilling. "Going to Japan will be a great platform for us. We'll be there as European Champions, playing in front of full houses and to a wide TV audience. "Our stated goal has always been the same and will remain the same - to win trophies regularly and to be successful."

Talk of investment in the club has been ongoing for over 18 months now. The Kraft family have the money and interest required. Hopefully Rick Parry can agree a deal for the club before the January transfer window to enable Rafa to go on a spending spree.

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Gerrard wants to be a World Champion

Stevie Gerrard is looking forward to our trip to Japan for the World Club Championship. After our pre-season tour of Japan was cancelled Gerrard is delighted we will now be able to play in front of our Japanese fans. He has stated we our going there to bring back the trophy and become the World Champions:

"Our job as players is to deliver results and we will be going to Japan with the intention of bringing the trophy home. "We have a great fan base in Japan and I'm sure they're looking forward to seeing us play. It's also an opportunity for us to get a winners medal and this competition gives us a unique opportunity to become World Champions. "There are two ways of looking at this tournament. The first is to see it as a negative and say that it comes at a bad time in the middle of the season. We can also look at it as a positive and say that if we come back as winners with the trophy then it can give us a boost for the rest of the season.

Gerrard believes the best way to prevent any possible tiredness, caused by the volume of games, is to carry on winning:

"People talk about fatigue and the fact that we'll be playing a lot of games but, trust me, fatigue is much worse when you are losing games. That's why we'll be going there determined to win."
"We have games to play before Japan though and hopefully we'll be going there having already qualified for the last sixteen of the Champions League. "We want to do that in our next game because we have home advantage against Real Betis. We don't want to have to go to Chelsea in our last game needing a result because, as everyone knows, that is very difficult."

Kewell helps Aussies gain World Cup place

Harry Kewell will be going to the World Cup after Australia won their playoff on penalties. They won the second leg 1-0 to bring the aggregate score to 1-1. Kewell came of the bench in the 1st half and made an immediate impact helping to create Bresciano's goal. He also converted his penalty as Australia won the shoot out 4-2. By all accounts Harry produced a superb performance and caused Uruguayan defence all types of problems.

Harry's fitness will have benefited from these games and it looks like he is on the way to regaining his best form.