Match Report: Wolves 0-3 Liverpool

By guest writer: Jamie McLaughlin

After a very exciting week of cup football for Liverpool, it was back to league business as they travelled to Wolves in their chase for a top four place. Going into the match Liverpool had only won one of their last six league games , so a win was vital for Liverpool. Wolves are struggling at the foot of the league table, but they earned a good away point at Spurs recently and they would be hoping to upset Liverpool with home field advantage.

The Team

Dalglish made five changes from the side that knocked out Manchester United at the weekend, with Adam, Spearing, Johnson, Bellamy and Kuyt returning to the side. Steven Gerrard was rested for this match after playing three games in the last week. Andy Carroll led the attack once again after his good performance at the weekend.

The Match

Liverpool started the game attacking and almost took the lead inside 3 minutes but Kuyt just couldn’t divert the ball home after a good knock down from Carroll who met a Bellamy cross. Wolves had the next chance when Edwards hooked effort brought out a save from Reina. Moments later Edwards headed over the bar from a free-kick as the home side looked for the opener.

But Liverpool was looking dangerous on the attack and Bellamy went close when he poked an effort just wide as Hennessey rushed out of his goal. Then Agger had a header saved by Hennessey from a Bellamy corner as Liverpool pressed. Moments later Adam made a surging run before scuffing his shot wide from the edge of the box.

There were chances at both ends in the latter stages of the half, but no goals as both teams went in at the break level.

Liverpool got a great start to the second half when they took the lead inside the first 7 minutes when Andy Carroll knocked home a dangerous Adam cross. Carroll grew in confidence after netting and was causing the Wolves defence problems.

Bellamy scored a second Liverpool goal by shooting low past Hennessey after a good run from the Welshman. The visitors were in the ascendancy now and looked like adding to their lead, with Adam volleying over and Agger going wide with a header, then Hennessey pulled off a terrific save from a deflected Kuyt shot.

Liverpool put the game out of reach in the 78^th minute when a swift break by the visitors resulted in Kuyt drilling low past Hennessey. It was a good win for Liverpool as they earned their first league win of 2012.

Summary

Dalglish put out a very attacking team and I was expecting a few changes to the team in what has been a hectic week of football for Liverpool. I was surprised to see Gerrard not playing but he is just back in the team and has been playing a lot recently. It was great to see Jay Spearing back and he did play very well alongside Adam who played a big part in two of Liverpool’s goals. Liverpool’s defence was tight once again and good to get another clean sheet. Craig Bellamy was very dangerous again and scored once again. Good to see Kenny play Kuyt again and he has now scored two goals in two games. Andy Carroll was a real handful for the Wolves defence and he took his goal well. A great night for Liverpool, and good to score a few goals too.

Man Of The Match – Andy Carroll – Superb game, he worked his socks off and linked up well. Scored a good goal and you could see his confidence grow from this.

Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News

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Goal Highlights: Wolverhampton 0-3 Liverpool

Liverpool recorded their first Barclays Premier League victory of 2012 with an emphatic 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux on Tuesday night.

After an end-to-end first half, Andy Carroll opened the scoring on 52 minutes when he turned Charlie Adam's cross home at the back post courtesy of a well-taken finish.

Craig Bellamy quickly doubled the Reds' lead when he found the back of the net with a low effort from the edge of the area for his ninth of the season so far.

Dirk Kuyt sealed the win with his 50^th Liverpool league goal when he fired home from a tight angle following a quick-fire counter attack.

Liverpool continued to create chances as they dominated the closing stages, and although they were unable to find a fourth, the result was enough to move them into fifth place in the table.

Read more: Liverpool FC Official

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Liverpool making £15M bid for Barcelona defensive midfielder

Rumours suggest that Javier Mascherano is in Liverpool holding talks with officials regarding a sensational £15 million return to Anfield.

Liverpool are looking to boost their midfield rank in the second half of the season after the inspirational Lucas was ruled out for a year with a cruciate ligament injury.

Mascherano left Liverpool for Barcelona in 2010 for a £22 million. His career hasn’t really gone the way he had hoped, as a ball-winning central midfielder by trade but has not really been given a chance in that position due to the form of Sergio Busquest.

He is keen to get back playing regular first-team football again before his career comes to a close.

He still has a real love for Liverpool and dedicated that Champions League victory over United to the fans that had taken him to their hearts in a fruitful three year spell.

The Barcelona midfielder has a close association with Kia Joorabchian, who is also allegedly keen to get the Argentine back to England as he feel the style of football in Britain suits his player more than it does in Spain.

Liverpool have yet to confirm, or deny, the reports that Mascherano is in Merseyside to discuss a move but if this deal could be completed before Tuesday’s transfer window closes then it would be a huge signing for Liverpool as they look to climb back towards the Champions League qualification places in the Premier League.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: Footy Bunker

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Rumour Mill: Liverpool set to give City’s outcast a lifeline

The transfer activities in the premier league has been set ablaze with just 3 days to go before it shutdown. We all knew Liverpool is trying to sign a new striker to partner Luis Suarez after Andy Carroll failed to find his form.

According to Guardian, Liverpool have made a remarkable bid to swap Andy Carroll with Carlos Tevez. The move demonstrates how Liverpool are now openly looking at offloading Carroll despite the insistence behind the scenes at Anfield that he can still play a prominent part and Kenny Dalglish's praise for the player after the 2-1 FA Cup defeat of Manchester United.

Carroll has scored only six goals in 35 appearances since becoming the eighth most expensive footballer in history and has not even been able to establish himself as a regular starter this season.

His problems adapting on Merseyside have also left Liverpool willing to take a £10 million hit on the player, with Tevez valued at £25 million, though that revelation is hardly surprising considering his difficulties at Anfield, added to the sense that he has not always been fully focused.

Tevez is planning to return to Manchester next week now it has become apparent that Milan are not able to meet City's asking price and, unless anything changes before Tuesday's transfer deadline, his adviser, Kia Joorabchian, says the Argentinian wants to re-establish himself in the team.

Whether that is possible remains to be seen, with Mancini not prepared to entertain the idea unless there is an apology from Tevez for walking out on the club and the string of other offences that have already led to him being found guilty of gross misconduct and losing almost £10 million in wages, fines and lost bonuses since the start of the season.

Tevez is still a formidable striker and finished as the league's joint-top scorer last season, but he will be returning to England with a severely damaged reputation and Liverpool's attempt to take him along the M62 will surprise many people given his propensity for causing dressing-room problems and an apparent dislike of living in England.

There is also the fact that, approaching his 28th birthday, he would not have fitted into Liverpool's usual policy of buying players at a young age who will keep a resale value over the course of their contract. Liverpool, however, were willing to make an exception and City would have been glad to arrange a deal after unsuccessful talks not just with Milan but also Juventus, Internazionale and Paris St-Germain. They remain open to offers for the Argentinian but will not change their mind about Carroll.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: Guardian

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Goal Highlights: Liverpool 2-1 Manchester United

Liverpool stormed into the FA Cup fifth round in the expense of Manchester United. Those who were unable to watch the match live, here’s the goal highlights.

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Match Report: Liverpool 2-2 Manchester City

By guest writer: Jamie McLaughlin

Liverpool went into this Carling Cup second leg tie with a slender one goal advantage after their gritty performance in Manchester a fortnight ago. Liverpool would be hoping to finish of the job at a packed Anfield, as they hoped to return to Wembley for the first time since 1996, and get to their first major final since 2007. Dalglish would be hoping for a response from his team after publicly criticising his players after their poor performance against Bolton at the weekend.

The Team

Dalglish made two changes to the side that lost at Bolton with Dirk Kuyt and Stewart Downing returning to the side in place of Andy Carroll and Maxi. With Jay Spearing still recovering from injury, Gerrard and Adam once again were paired in the middle of midfield. But Liverpool had an attacking looking about their team, especially with a draw being good enough to take them to Wembley.

The Match

Anfield was packed and the atmosphere before kick-off was reminiscent of those famous European nights. Liverpool started the match with intent on adding to their one goal aggregate lead, and inside four minutes they almost scored when Enrique had a shot saved by the right leg of Joe Hart with the rebound smashed wide by Downing.

Moments later Charlie Adam had a right foot rocket well saved by Hart low to his left. City tried to respond to Liverpool’s early onslaught but Nasri’s effort was wayward. The lively Bellamy brought out another save from Hart after scampering past the nervy Savic. With Liverpool on top and looking the more dangerous it was City who scored first when De Jong’s long range effort ended up in the top corner, stunning the Kop.

But Liverpool responded brilliantly after this setback and they soon equalised when Richards’ block on Agger’s shot was handled and referee Dowd pointed to the spot. Steven Gerrard converted the penalty as Anfield erupted with delight. Both teams went in at the half with Liverpool still holding a one goal advantage.

Liverpool started the second half the way they started the first with Kuyt bringing out another save from Hart early on. But then Joe Hart brought out the save of the match with a brilliant fingertip save from a prodded Skrtel effort. Joe Hart was playing a blinder and he made another great save blocking Stewart Downing’s back-post volley.

But just like the first half Liverpool were stunned when Dzeko tapped in tapped in a brilliant Kolarov whipped cross from close range in the 67^th minute. But Liverpool looked hungry to get to Wembley and they equalised in the 74^th minute to gain the aggregate advantage when Bellamy finished off a terrific move involving Kuyt and Johnson.

City tried to respond as they pinned Liverpool back in the closing stages, but Liverpool stood firm and City never really got a clear chance as Liverpool celebrated at the end overjoyed at the thought of ending their long wait to return to Wembley.

Summary

A tremendous night for everyone connected with Liverpool to reach Wembley for the first time since 1996. I was very pleased with Kenny’s team selection by playing Kuyt and Bellamy who give great movement. The hunger shown by the whole team was impressive after such a disappointment at Bolton. Kenny couldn’t have wished for a better response from his players. If it wasn’t for Joe Hart it would have been a lot more comfortable. Some big performances with Charlie Adam having a very good match, as I have felt he has been struggling in recent games. Dirk Kuyt gave so much to the team and great selection by Kenny to play him. Stewart Downing was very good and he looks far better on the left linking up with Enrique. Bellamy was just everywhere, amazing performance. City should have got a penalty when Adam caught Dzeko in the first half, but the referee was behind the incident and never got a good view. Liverpool got lucky with the penalty but so glad we got it. Great for Liverpool to get back to a cup final, and even better with it being at Wembley.

Man Of The Match – Bellamy – one of the best individual performances at Anfield by a Liverpool player in a long time. Brilliantly taken goal too.

Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News

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Video Highlights: Liverpool 2-2 Manchester City

Liverpool are through to the Carling Cup final after a pulsating 2-2 draw with Manchester City at Anfield on Wednesday night gave them a 3-2 aggregate victory.

It was no more than the Reds deserved for a lively performance and they can now look forward to contesting their first major final since 2007 against Cardiff City at Wembley in February.

With Liverpool leading 1-0 from the first leg, Nigel de Jong levelled the aggregate scoreline just after the half-hour mark when he found the back of the net from distance with the visitors' first real effort on goal following a dominant opening from the hosts.

But Liverpool went back ahead in the tie on 41 minutes when Steven Gerrard scored with a penalty after Micah Richards was adjudged to have blocked a Daniel Agger shot inside the box with his hand.

Read more: Liverpool FC Official

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Rumour Mill: Liverpool to bid £15M for Udinese star

Liverpool has been heighten up its chase for new recruits after the initial talks for Esteban Granero has failed to materialized.

La Tercera reported Liverpool have made a £15 million bid for Udinese midfielder Mauricio Isla before the market shuts next week.

The Chile international has been watched extensively by Manchester United chief scout Martin Ferguson.

Many will be questioning whether Liverpool really need to buy a new midfielder, especially since their troubles mainly stem from failures in front of goal.

Isla can play in midfield and on the flank – and has been a major influence in Udinese’s success over the last two seasons.

Does he worth the risk? Leave your thought on the comment box below.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: TFM

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Liverpool transfer target staying put at Madrid

After much speculations, Liverpool open talks with Real Madrid over the possibility of signing Esteban Granero on loan with a view of a permanent move in the summer, ended with a statement from the player’s management camp.

His agent say the midfielder will not be leaving Real Madrid for Liverpool during the January transfer window, instead continue to fight for his place at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The former Getafe star has been struggling to secure regular first team action this term, and has attracted the interest of both Malaga and Liverpool.

The former Spain under-21 international has made just 16 starts in the league in almost three years with Real, and has played only six times in all competitions this season.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: Soccerway

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Liverpool FC enter talks over deals for European double swoop

Liverpool are reportedly in talks over a European transfer double swoop.

Real Madrid playmaker Esteban Granero has been linked with a move to Merseyside before the window closes in exactly seven days in a bid to bolster the Reds' attacking options.

Also said to be in talks is Groningen's highly-rated striker David Texeira.

The Uruguay Under-20 international has been on Liverpool's radar for some time, with the Reds watching the 20-year-old on several occasions over the past twelve months.

Granero has been on Liverpool's radar for several years and Kenny Dalglish appears willing to hand him an escape route from the Real after making just four appearances this season.

But the offer of a loan deal until the end of the season is unlikely to find favour with the La Liga leaders supposedly eager to offload the 24-year-old permanently before the window closes.

Liverpool is closing in on Texeira, with the two clubs entertaining talks over a £8 million deal.

A stumbling block could be the transfer fee, however, with Texeira's former club Defensor Sporting believed to be entitled to 20 per cent of any fee.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: Click Liverpool

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Rumour Mill: Liverpool target Chilean international this transfer window

Liverpool are stepping up their interest in Udinese's full-back Mauricio Isla with a view to a summer transfer, according to talkSport.

Isla, 23, has been impressive for the Italian club and has caught the eye of Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish, who is looking to strengthen his squad in January.

Isla is a versatile player who can do a job in either full-back position, across the midfield and even as an attacking winger. This would provide Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish with an array of options, although he is likely to use the Chilean in an attacking role.

Udinese will be keen to keep their star defender at the club but would consider offers in the region of £10 million.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: talkSPORT

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Video Highlights: Bolton 3-1 Liverpool

This was an arguably the worst away performances from Liverpool since the 4-nil defeat at Tottenham. For those who missed the match late yesterday evening, here the video highlight from the match for you.

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Real Madrid offers €30M to Liverpool for Luis Suarez

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is ready to offer Luis Suarez an escape from his Liverpool nightmare with a €30 million bid for the striker.

Suarez’s future at the club was cast into shadow last night after it was reported that negotiations have begun to take him to Real Madrid.

Liverpool have maintained their support for Suarez however, and will be unwilling to let him leave the club he joined for €26.5 million last year. But a number of Spanish sites yesterday claimed the Madrid club have instructed Fabio Montecalvo from World Football Management to begin talks with Liverpool.

Montecalvo, who has close ties to Florentino Perez, was instrumental in the deal that brought Alberto Aquilani to Liverpool and is said to have maintained a strong working relationship with the Merseyside club and it’s officials.

More to follow.

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Source: LFC_Stats

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Liverpool could earn as much as £300M from Warrior Sports deal

Liverpool say they expect to earn a staggering £300million through their new six-year deal with the US sportswear company Warrior Sports, and have denied accusations that underachievement on the pitch led to the collapse of their current kit deal with Adidas.

Warrior, owned by New Balance, will become the club's kit supplier from June having agreed a £25million-a-year deal to enter the football industry for the first time. The £25million per year is a guaranteed figure for Liverpool, not performance-related, and eclipses the £23.5million-a-year deal that Manchester United have with Nike but are currently renegotiating.

Liverpool’s previous £12 million-a-year agreement with Adidas, which will end in somewhat acrimonious circumstances in the summer, absorbed more of the overseas selling rights of all club merchandise. The deal with Warrior ensures Liverpool regain those rights.

Managing director Ian Ayre claims Liverpool have the potential to cash in, thanks to their worldwide army of fans.

“In our existing deal with Adidas, there have been some restrictions in terms of the other unbranded products we sell,” said Ayre. “In our new deal, we will have complete control.

“We will still work with Warrior, but we will have a much wider opportunity and that area of business represents 50 per cent of everything we generate.”

Liverpool are also happy they will be Warrior’s only football client.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: Guardian

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Rumour Mill: Liverpool will sign a South American striker playing in Holland

Liverpool spent big on a South American player from the Dutch league last January, and history could be about to repeat itself as their goal scoring problems continue into 2012.

Former Liverpool goalkeeper and Kop legend Bruce Grobbelaar claims that Kenny Dalglish will definitely sign a striker during the January transfer window.

In an interview with TalkSport earlier, Grobbelaar tantalisingly hinted that Liverpool are interested in signing two strikers in the January transfer window.

   “There are two strikers [Liverpool are interested in],”

“I know that [Kenny Dalglish] is looking at a South American striker who is playing in Holland and I know that he’s quite close in getting another striker.

“I’m not going to be the one to actually tell you who, but I’m sure that the striker will be arriving soon.”

Twenty-year-old David Texeira only moved to Dutch club FC Groningen – Suarez’s first club in Europe – last August.

Born in the region of Salto – the same area as both Suarez and Napoli hot-shot Edinson Cavani – Texeira has inevitably drawn comparisons with Uruguay’s two hottest properties.

Liverpool picked up Suarez for £22million last January after the forward had left Groningen and enjoyed four successful years at Ajax, but the Reds know that if they act quickly over Texeira then they will be able to save themselves a fortune.

As well as Suarez, Uruguayan defender Sebastian Coates is also at Anfield, and the Reds would expect to shell out a similar £6million fee to the one they paid the centre-back’s club Nacional for Texeira, who they feel can make an immediate impact in the Premier League.

Liverpool’s problems in front of goal – particularly during home games – have been well documented this season, and although Dalglish and director of football Damien Comolli have looked at more established names to fill the goal scoring gap, the club’s policy of recruiting young players has led them to who they hope is Suarez the second.

Texeira certainly fits Liverpool’s ‘buy them young’ transfer policy, and this season, he has a creditable 8 goals in 12 games for Groningen have made the continent sit up and take notice of the Uruguay under-20 international.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: Squeaky Bum Time

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Match Report: Liverpool 0-0 Stoke City

By guest writer: Jamie McLaughlin

After the tremendous result in Manchester midweek in the Carling Cup, it was back to league business at Anfield against Stoke City. Stoke City would be a difficult team to beat, and on a four match unbeaten run. Liverpool has found it tough this season at home drawing six matches at home. So a win was very important if Liverpool were to keep in the race for a top four place.

THE TEAM

Liverpool made five changes to the team that faced Manchester City in the Carling Cup last Wednesday, with Carragher and Coates teaming up with Skrtel in a three man central defence. Kuyt came back into the team as a lone striker in place of Andy Carroll with Dalglish going for a pretty defensive looking 3-4-2-1 formation.

THE MATCH

Liverpool started the match brightly and almost took the lead in the 10^th minute when a Gerrard drilled corner was almost knocked in by Adam, but the Scot couldn’t divert the ball home. Liverpool continued to dominate the early proceedings without creating many chances but in the 24^th minute a Stoke counter-attack resulted in Etherington drilling a shot straight at Reina from the edge of the box.

But it was constant Liverpool possession as Stoke aimed to frustrate the home side, but Skrtel almost opened the defence with a pass across the face of goal which Adam was inches from. Downing had a good run cutting in from the right but he shot just over the bar. Liverpool continued to struggle to create chances in the first half as Stoke remained resolute.

The second half started with Liverpool trying to raise the tempo and rattle Stoke and Johnson had a good effort brilliantly blocked by Huth. But for all their pressure, Liverpool were sustaining, they still struggled to create chances. Dalglish decided to bring on Andy Carroll for Downing in the 58^th minute as Liverpool looked to break the deadlock.

Henderson had a back post volley blocked and Carroll crashed to the ground under a challenge from Shawcross at a corner kick as Liverpool looked for a penalty, but Howard Webb waved the appeals away. Then in the 77^th minute a deflected Enrique cross was headed wide from six yards out by Dirk Kuyt. Moments later Kuyt headed a deep Bellamy cross into the side netting. Liverpool remained frustrated by Stoke and with time running out Skrtel’s downward header bounced over the bar and Stoke managed to hold out for a point and leave Liverpool frustrated once again at home.

SUMMARY

I was very surprised with Kenny’s team selection, it looked far too defensive for me with three centre backs and Kuyt playing as a lone striker at home. Gerrard seemed to be playing too deep all game too as he couldn’t get into position to whip his trademark crosses in. Kuyt lacked support as we never got enough men in the box. But there was a lack of tempo from the start which suited Stoke. Stoke made it difficult but we didn’t help ourselves with the tactics. A couple of shouts for penalties but we should be creating more chances. Disappointed with Carroll, he came on and complained to the referee and went down far too easily instead of using his frame and knocking those defenders into next week. A very frustrating day.

Man Of The Match – Martin Skrtel – Another great match from the big man, and he tried his best in attack too. Unlucky with his header.

Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News

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Rumour Mill: Spanish striker back on Liverpool radar

Liverpool are continuing their hunt for firepower – with Spain striker Fernando Llorente a possible target.

Kop boss Kenny Dalglish and director of football Damien Comolli continue to monitor several options. They are also keeping tabs on other hitmen including Newcastle's Demba Ba but 26-year-old Llorente who would cost at least £20m, is also on their radar after some fine displays for Athletico Bilbao and Spain.

Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina and Maxi Rodriguez have also praised Llorente's performances in La Liga this term to Liverpool's hierarchy.

A move for Serbian wonderkid Lazar Markovic is looking unlikely after his club Partizan Belgrade slapped a £14m price on his head.

People Sport revealed last week that the 17-year-old was a target - but Dalglish will not fork out that kind of cash.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: Sunday People

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Video Highlights: Liverpool 0-0 Stoke City

Liverpool were left frustrated after they were held to a goalless draw by Stoke City at Anfield on Saturday afternoon.

Despite dominating possession for the majority of the contest, the Reds were unable to break down a resolute Potters rearguard.

Dirk Kuyt missed the best opportunity to break the deadlock with just over 10 minutes remaining when he headed wide from a good position, meaning the points were to be shared between the two sides.

Kenny Dalglish made five changes to the side that began against Manchester City in midweek, with Jamie Carragher returning to the starting XI to join Sebastian Coates and Martin Skrtel in a three-man central defence.

Read more: Liverpool FC Official

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Match Report: Manchester City 0-1 Liverpool

By guest writer: Jamie McLaughlin

Liverpool returned to Manchester little more than a week after being humbled by the League leaders for the Carling Cup semi-final first leg at the Etihad Stadium. Since the defeat last week Liverpool despatched Oldham Athletic in the FA Cup, while City lost at home to neighbours Manchester United in the FA Cup. Liverpool knew that a similar 3-0 score line would be disastrous in their quest to reach the new Wembley for the first time.

The Team

Dalglish brought Agger, Johnson, Skrtel, Henderson, Downing and Andy Carroll back into the side, from the side that beat Oldham last Friday night. Gerrard started his second match in a row after his return from injury. A slight surprise to Dalglish’s team selection was the omission of Jose Enrique, with Glen Johnson switching over to the left of defence with Martin Kelly starting at right back. Craig Bellamy also started against his old team after his good recent run of form.

The Match

A travelling support of 6,000 Kopites were buoyed by a bright start by the away side as they took the game to the hosts, and inside 5 minutes Andy Carroll was sent clear by Downing, but the big striker’s effort was brilliantly blocked by Joe Hart. Moments later Hart had to be at his best again, as he saved a curling Gerrard effort from outside the box. From the resulting corner, Gerrard’s cross found Downing on the edge of the box and his deflected volley was superbly saved by Hart once again.

Then in the 13^th minute Agger was fouled in the box by Savic, resulting in referee Mason to point to the spot. Gerrard made no mistake from the spot, shooting low into the bottom corner past the despairing dive from Hart. It was no more than Liverpool deserved as they continued to dominate.

But Liverpool were dealt a blow when Jay Spearing pulled up with an injury in the 23^rd minute, Charlie Adam replaced the midfielder. The change never changed the pattern of play as Liverpool continued to have more of the ball. Andy Carroll had Joe Hart worried with a headed effort that just missed the target after a good cross by Kelly.

The ineffective Balotelli was replaced before the break by Nasri, and it was the substitute that had City’s first real effort on goal just before half-time as his wicked shot forced Reina into a very good save diving low to his left to parry. Then shortly after Richards raced past Johnson before cutting the ball back to Milner, but he failed to hit the target ensuring Liverpool would hold a slender lead at the break.

As expected City came out with intent on getting back into this tie and they forced Liverpool into their own half as they struggled to hold possession. Martin Skrtel had to produce a very good tackle to thwart Aguero as the pressure mounted and then the hosts’ were almost gifted an equaliser when Kelly’s pass back went straight to Aguero, but Pepe Reina did enough to force the striker wide and forcing him to shoot over. Then Reina made a brilliant point blank save from a powerful Richards’ header as the visitors tried to hold onto their advantage.

Dalglish made defensive substitutions as he hoped to hold onto Liverpool’s slender lead, with Enrique and Carragher coming on for Downing and Bellamy. Liverpool defended stubbornly for the remainder of the match with a late Aguero header being the closest City came to drawing level. So Liverpool held on for a 1-0 advantage as they head back to Anfield for the second leg in a fortnight.

Summary

As expected Dalglish fielded a very strong side, although I was surprised to see Johnson play left back instead of Enrique. Liverpool started the match superbly and took the game to City and could have been a couple of goals up before they took the lead. No doubt about the penalty, a stone-waller, with Gerrard as cool as you like with the finish. Liverpool passed the ball very well in the first half and had to be resolute defensively in the second half as City upped their game. Although City had most of the ball in the second half, Liverpool limited them to very few chances, the Reina save from Richards’s header being the nearest they came. Dalglish made a couple of very defensive substitutions which I wasn’t keen on, but his tactics worked and to come away with a 1-0 lead away from home is a superb result. Johnson was a bit lucky to stay on the field at the end with a two footed tackle, but I thought it was ok the first time I saw it, but it looked pretty bad in slow motion. But you can tell when a bad tackle has been made by the reaction of the players, and there was none. Nothing can take away from the superb result and performance.

Man Of The Match – Johnson – played brilliantly in an unorthodox role on the left. Defended brilliantly and looked dangerous going forward.

Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News

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Poll: Is Glen Johnson tackle merit a red card?

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini was involved in an angry tunnel exchange with Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard after his side's 1-0 Carling Cup semi-final first-leg defeat.

The pair clashed twice with Gerrard annoyed at Mancini's response to a Glen Johnson tackle on Joleon Lescott.

Mancini criticised the two-footed tackle by Liverpool defender Johnson that was similar to Vincent Kompany's challenge on Nani in the 3-2 defeat by Manchester United.

Before the match Mancini had voiced his displeasure at Kompany's four-match ban.

Steven Gerrard rejected Mancini's criticisms and compared the incident to when Mancini had insisted Wayne Rooney was to blame for Kompany's red card in Sunday's Manchester derby at Etihad Stadium.

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish maintained he had not seen the incident.

Is this a red card?

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Carling Cup Semi-final First-Leg: Manchester City 0-1 Liverpool

Liverpool took a big step towards the Carling Cup final after they recorded a 1-0 victory over Manchester City in the semi-final, first-leg clash at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.

Steven Gerrard capped a strong opening to the game from the Reds by scoring a 13^th minute penalty after Daniel Agger had been brought down inside the box.

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Match Report: Liverpool 5-1 Oldham Athletic

Liverpool started their quest for a return to the new Wembley in the FA Cup with a home draw against Oldham Athletic. The fixture was shifted to the Friday night because Everton were also playing at home on the Saturday this weekend. A minute’s applause was held before the match in memory for former Liverpool player Gary Ablett who sadly passed away on New Year’s night after a long illness.

THE TEAM

As expected Dalglish made a few changes to the side that lost to Manchester City last Tuesday. The major team news was that Gerrard was making his first start since October. Martin Kelly, Coates, Carragher and Aurelio were the defence in front of Reina, with Gerrard partnering Spearing in the middle of midfield, Maxi, Spearing, Bellamy and Kuyt made up the rest of a strong looking side.

THE MATCH

Oldham started the match brightly but it was Liverpool who almost took the lead in the 5^th minute when Kuyt headed a Bellamy cross wide. But Oldham reacted to this scare with Shefki Kuqi shooting into the side netting after powering past Coates and Carragher.

With Oldham causing Liverpool a few problems, Adeyemi headed a Simpson corner over as Liverpool struggled to find their rhythm. Then Simpson stabbed an effort wide after a good move. But Oldham deservedly took the lead when Simpson turned and lashed an effort from 25 yards into the top corner of Reina’s net with the Spaniard well beat.

With a shock looking on the cards, Liverpool responded within two minutes when Shelvey’s shot was deflected by Bellamy into the Oldham net making the score level. Liverpool were aroused by their goal and Cisak made a good save from close range from Maxi. But Liverpool took the lead on the stroke of half-time when Maxi was bundled by Adeyemi , resulting in a penalty. Gerrard made no mistake from the spot, giving Liverpool a 2-1 lead at the half.

The second half continued in the same theme with end to end action and chances at both ends. But as the game wore on Liverpool started to dominate more and they got the killer third goal in the 68^th minute, when Bellamy’s cross was hooked home from close range by Shelvey. With the game won Dalglish brought on Carroll and Downing for the last few minutes and both players capped a fine night for the home side with Carroll scoring first, before Downing netted his first goal for Liverpool in stoppage time.

SUMMARY

A much changed side for Liverpool with many players short of first team action and it showed in the first half with Oldham causing us a few problems. But after we got the quick equaliser we looked a better side although we took a while to end the game as a contest. Great to see Gerrard start and he grew into the game. Great to see us score a few goals at home and see Carroll and Downing score, this will do wonders for their confidence. Overall a great win and now we can look forward to a home draw against Manchester United, bring it on.

Man Of The Match - Bellamy- dangerous all night, caused so many problems with his pace and industry. Superb performance.

Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News

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Rumour Mill: Liverpool to sign £10M-rated Senegal forward

Amid the Luis Suarez saga, Liverpool has been shortage of fire-power upfront for the next six matches. Report of Darren Bent has been signed for Liverpool still dominating the internet rumour mills.

But there is a new twist and Liverpool has been monitoring the progress of Newcastle’s striker, Demba Ba after it was claimed the Senegal striker has a £10million release clause in his contract.

A £10million bid is needed to allow the Premier League’s in-form striker to speak to other clubs.

Newcastle chiefs were hoping the contract detail would not become public and they now expect top clubs to consider making offers.

However, any transfer will have to wait until the end of the season, as he will be away on Africa Cup of Nations duty.

Newcastle sources insist the player is happy on Tyneside and Pardew has refused to discuss the possibility of him leaving.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

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Loan Watch: Joe Cole hat-trick for Lille

Joe Cole fired a hat-trick as Lille beat Chantilly 6-0 to reach the last 32 of the French Cup on Saturday night.

The on-loan Liverpool midfielder has had a fine season with the French outfit and scored in the 22nd, 59th and 65th minute.

Source: FootyTube

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The Verdict on Stewart Downing

When you sign a proven premier league player worth twenty million pounds, you are expecting him to run riot from the beginning.That is just a natural footballing instinct.Firstly, the market for British players is inflated and a joke to say the least. And secondly,I put ‘overall contribution to the football team’ over goals when it comes to a midfielder. Patrick Viera, Roy Keane, if you get my drift.

The jury has been out on Stewart Downing and will continue to do so for as long as he plays for Liverpool Football Club. The Liverpool fans need to understand that Downing will not get you 10-15 goals a season.That is the empirical truth.He is not a prolific scorer.This is a flaw in his game and from what I have observed,he is not going to get any better.Here are the statistics- Middlesbrough 181 appearances 17 goals, Aston Villa 63 appearances 9 goals. So,on an average he will fetch you a goal every 9 games. He is not the greatest English winger to have graced a football field but he is definitely not as bad as he is brandished to be.

Stewart Downing is a good footballer. He has a great work-ethic. He has the ability to drift past defenders.His positional sense on the pitch is immaculate. He has a lethal left-foot and a decent right foot too. He defends his wing-backs well. How often do you see Glen Johnson getting caught out? Liverpool fans have failed to recognize the defensive aspect of Downing’s game. Downing has moulded himself into the Liverpool set-up very well. Downing is a primarily a winger that will provide you goals. Apart from Luis Suarez there is nobody to finish off those chances. You need a Raul Gonzalez, Robbie Fowler, Henrik Larsson or Ruud Van Nistelrooy to derive the best out of Stewart Downing. Until Liverpool buy that quality striker all of Downing’s good work will go unsung.

I rate Stewart Downing highly and still believe that he will be a brilliant signing.

Final Verdict – Is Juan Mata better than Stewart Downing ? – Yes but Mata is poor defensively if you observe a Chelsea game closely. So apples and oranges.

Written by Mayank Adhye, who blogs at The Musical Escapade and also a Reds supporter.

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FA Cup: Liverpool 5-1 Oldham Athletic

Whoever were unable to watch the match live on TV can watch this goal highlights by sportnetworld at Videa.

The Latics made a plucky start to the contest and having gone close on several occasions, they opened the scoring in the 28^th minute courtesy of Robbie Simpson's dipping volley from distance.

Liverpool comeback from behind to win this tie, goals from Bellamy and Gerrard’s penalty before half-time making sure the Reds are in the driving seat at half-time. In the second half, Liverpool pressed on with goals from Shelvey, Carroll and Downing to capped off a magnificent performance of the night.

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FA Cup 3rd Round Preview: Liverpool v Oldham Athletic

Team news for tonight's FA Cup third-round clash between Liverpool and Oldham Athletic at Anfield (kick-off 8pm).

The visit of the League One outfit affords Dalglish the opportunity to tinker with the side that lost 3-0 to Manchester City midweek and he is likely to recall defenders Jamie Carragher and Sebastian Coates.

Striker Luis Suarez serves the second game of an eight-match ban, but captain Steven Gerrard will probably be given another chance to continue building up his sharpness having made three substitute appearances following his comeback from an ankle infection.

Oldham, though, will sense an occasion to cause an upset and manager Paul Dickov hopes his club, who are currently contesting their 15th consecutive season in the third division, do not suffer from stage fright.

Oldham, meanwhile, are likely to have on-loan trio Luca Scapuzzi, Tom Adeyemi and Nathan Clarke available.

Although their loan deals have expired, manager Paul Dickov is confident he will have wrapped up new deals before the game, while midfielder James Wesolowski could return to the starting line-up after recovering from a dislocated shoulder.

Top scorer Shefki Kuqi could be given the nod ahead of Matt Smith.

Fifty-two places separate Liverpool and Oldham in the Football League and they have not met since 1994 during the latter's last season in the Premier League, which would suggest a comfortable win for the Reds.

But Dalglish's side have struggled at home this season and, despite remaining unbeaten, have drawn six games at Anfield, with a running trend being wasted chances and the inability to kill-off supposedly lesser opposition.

There is then some feeling Oldham could call on the old-fashioned FA Cup magic, but Dalglish is still expected to rotate his squad and the strength in depth at his disposal is an example of the gulf between the two clubs.

Red's Fury™ Prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Oldham

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Liverpool sign England international forward

The news on Liverpool FC transfer deal has been spreading like wildfire on the internet. Coupled with SkyBet have suspended betting on Aston Villa and England international forward, Darren Bent to Liverpool.

The England international, 27, emerged as a surprise target for Liverpool and it appears that a move has already been finalised.

From an unreliable source on Twitter, an user claimed to be Darren Anderson, a columnist for Mirror has tweeted, “An Anfield source says Darren Bent's move to Liverpool is done.”

Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish had previously ruled out a potential switch for Bent in the January window with the forward only joining the club 12-months ago from Sunderland for £18million.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

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LFC: Striker Needed

By guest writer: Jamie McLaughlin

I watched the Liverpool match the other night against Manchester City and although I think they played well enough, they were seriously lacking as an attacking force. The ban on Suarez is going to be a real problem, and you could see that there was a lack of movement or options with Carroll playing a lone striking role.

I am not having a go at Andy Carroll, but if Liverpool want to play the big man up front I believe he needs a playing partner alongside him. Carroll doesn’t have the pace or movement to terrify defenders, so he needs some support, because he is good at holding the ball up and winning headers.

Liverpool have very few options in attack, they have Carroll who has struggled to score so far, Dirk Kuyt is another option, or Bellamy who has a lot of pace which could be their best option. The fit again Gerrard could play just behind a lone striker or Shelvey, who played this role against Aston Villa.

But the options are very few with or without Suarez and Liverpool should be looking to bring another striker in this January, because it is imperative that they finish in the top four this season or they could drift away from being a top four club as the gap could widen.

Liverpool are in a decent position in the League at the moment, within striking distance of the top four, but with a lack of firepower, this could be a serious problem for the rest of the season. To be fair, scoring goals has been a problem all season, with so many chances spurned from the Anfield side, but the problem will be greater, especially with the absence of the influential Suarez.

Out of the attackers Liverpool have at their disposal, Craig Bellamy has looked the most likely to score. Kuyt has been struggling to get a game and hasn’t scored all season after finishing top scorer last season and Andy Carroll has struggled to fit in to the Liverpool style of play. The team can’t depend on the superb defence to limit the opposition all the time as the attackers struggle to score.

January is historically a difficult month to bring new players in, but Liverpool should be scouring the planet for another striker, or this season could drift away after so much promise. We will just have to watch this space for the next month and hope Liverpool can bring a much needed striker in to bring success this season.

Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News

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Rumour Mill: Is Wigan striker answer to Liverpool scoring problem?

Top Premier League clubs including Tottenham, Liverpool and Sunderland have been the alerted to the availability of Wigan's Victor Moses, after the winger's agent revealed that talks over a new contract have stalled.

Liverpool has been courting the Nigerian-born England Under-19 international last season when he was with Crystal Palace.

Moses has been one of the Latics star performers in the last six months, having only previously shown flashes of his ability following a much hyped transfer from Crystal Palace in January 2010.

As his stock has continued to rise, Wigan manager Roberto Martinez opened talks over a new deal just over a month ago, but despite initial contact being made, the negotiations have since stalled, much to the frustration of his agent Tony Finnigan.

   “We talked to Wigan about a contract five weeks ago but still haven't seen anything,”

“My phone goes all the time. Victor's got his admirers out there,” – Finnigan explained.

Wigan would be hopeful they could fend off interest from Sunderland, but should Spurs, Liverpool, or even Chelsea, who have all previously scouted Moses, come calling, it would be a different matter.

A bid of around £8 million would almost certainly convince Martinez to sell, as he plots a January reshuffle of his squad, to aid his sides battle against relegation.

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: Metro

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LFC: Accepting the Wrong Decision

By guest writer: Jamie McLaughlin

Through gritted teeth, and with no admission to guilt Liverpool have now accepted the decision by the FA to ban Luis Suarez for 8 matches. Both Liverpool and Suarez issued statements of resignation to the fact that they have to accept the ban, although in their statements there is no admission of being guilty to the charge.

But deep down they know that it is pointless and a waste of time to challenge the FA in a case involving a Manchester United player whose manager is the “Godfather” of the FA and Suarez was found guilty before the trial on the grounds of one man’s word against another man’s word with no witnesses.

The alleged victim Evra was apparently a more credible witness with his testimony, regardless of his history of troublemaking and even once trying to get a grounds man into trouble at Chelsea.

The FA was obviously just wanting to make an example of someone after showing discontent at Blatter’s comments towards racism recently. Suarez has just been made a scapegoat in this whole political affair.

An 8 game ban seems terribly harsh for the crime when a player can end a player’s career with a reckless challenge on the field and may not even get a ban for his crime. Funnily enough an example that springs to mind involved another Manchester United player, Roy Keane whose career ending tackle on Alf-Inge Haaland resulted in Keane receiving a 3 match ban and a small fine of £5000, OK so he got another ban later when he admitted in his autobiography of deliberately trying to “hurt” Haaland, where he received a 5 match ban for his comments. So in total Keane’s ban resulted in the same as Suarez, but I know what I think was the more serious crime and yet the punishment seems lenient to say the least.

The ban is not the biggest factor in this case, although it will hurt Liverpool’s ambitions this season. The biggest factor is that Suarez has been labelled a “racist” and mud sticks and this will never leave him. Everywhere he plays in England he will be subject to abuse from the opposing supporters and as we saw recently at Fulham he will receive no protection from anybody and he will be under scrutiny as all eyes will be on a reaction from him as he will be expected to show no retaliation, like he showed at Fulham which resulted in another ban for the unfortunate striker.

I also fear Liverpool losing him altogether as I would consider leaving this country if I was him and go to a country that will appreciate his talent. I hope for Liverpool’s sake that he doesn’t feel like me, but life will be so much more difficult for him now in this country.

But one thing that Suarez can be sure of is that he will never walk alone as long as he remains at Liverpool.

Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News

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Video Highlights: Manchester City 3-0 Liverpool

* By pressing play on the video, you’ve agreed with the English FA rules and regulations on its broadcasting. This video is googled and for personal viewing only. Red's Fury™ does not host or upload this material and is not responsible for the content.

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Liverpool FC accept Luis Suarez eight-match ban

Liverpool FC may seems to be wanted to get the case quickly out of their way and focus on the playing field instead. Liverpool announced on Tuesday that they will not appeal the penalty given to Suarez for racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra, but in a strongly worded statement the club maintained the 24-year-old is innocent of the charge.

By accepting the punishment despite not accepting culpability, Suarez is not scheduled to be eligible again until the Feb. 11 match against Manchester United, whose defender, Patrice Evra, was the target of the striker’s insults. Uruguay international Suarez tonight began his suspension, missing Liverpool's match at Manchester City in the Barclays Premier League.

Despite a public outcry, Liverpool continues to back the player who was signed from Ajax a year ago.

Dalglish also defended the decision of the Liverpool players to wear T-shirts in support of Suarez ahead of their game against Wigan last month – and insisted he is not worried that the former Ajax man will be targeted for the rest of his career in England.

Let us know on your thought about Liverpool FC accepting the FA’s verdict on the comment box below.

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Video Preview: Manchester City v Liverpool

Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli could return for their Barclays Premier League clash against Liverpool.

The Italian was not risked in the New Year's Day defeat at Sunderland due to a slight ankle problem suffered in training.

With no fresh injury concerns, manager Roberto Mancini has a full-strength squad - aside from the absent Carlos Tevez - and will consider changes for the second of two games in just over two days.

Liverpool frustrated then unbeaten City as they held them to a 1-1 draw at Anfield in November.

Since then Liverpool have had some disappointing results of their own but they impressed in a 3-1 defeat of Newcastle last Friday.

Striker Luis Suarez is expected to return to Liverpool's squad after suspension.

The Uruguay international served a one-match ban for Friday's win over Newcastle but is likely to be back in the starting line-up for the clash against the Barclays Premier League leaders.

Captain Steven Gerrard, a goalscorer against Newcastle, has made two substitute appearances totalling 52 minutes after two months out with an ankle infection and could be in contention to start.

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish insists super-rich City's super-talented squad hold no fears for his side.

The air of invincibility which has enveloped the Premier League leaders for most of the season has evaporated over the festive period.

City have taken just one point from two matches, during which time they have failed to score against West Brom and Sunderland, who inflicted only their second defeat of the campaign at the Stadium of Light yesterday.

They were second best in their encounter at Anfield in late November but escaped with a 1-1 draw and Dalglish draws confidence from all those factors.

Video credits to EOTK.

Source: ESPN

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Rumour Mill: Liverpool in the market for new striker

Liverpool may be ready to bid for Aston Villa striker Darren Bent, who has become unsettled in Birmingham "following a summer of change and a succession of niggly injuries".

Bent joined Villa from Sunderland for £24 million in the 2011 January transfer window, but he has recently expressed frustration at the lack of service he is receiving at the club.

He has also incurred the wrath of fans by missing Villa’s 2-0 home defeat by Liverpool - opting to go Christmas shopping instead.

Liverpool have also been put on alert following reports that contract talks between Theo Walcott and Arsenal have broken down.

Walcott is one of several players at Arsenal who will have just one year left on their existing deals at the end of the season, and if a new deal is not agreed before the summer, manager Arsene Wenger could be forced to sell rather than risk losing him on a free transfer the following year.

Walcott said in October that he was willing to listen to the Gunners about a new contract following reports linking him with a move away from Emirates Stadium, however his agent later admitted that he did not know if the forward would still be at the club next season.

Who should Liverpool FC buy in January to strengthen the forward line?

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Liverpool FC were told to leave Luis Suarez “walk alone”

Liverpool have been urged to abandon any thoughts of appealing against the eight-match ban and £40,000 fine that Luis Suarez received for racially abusing Manchester United's Patrice Evra, with a leading anti-racism campaigner warning the club that their vehement support of the Uruguayan is damaging their reputation.

The 115-page written verdict, which was released by the Independent Regulatory Panel on behalf of the Football Association on New Year’s Eve, presented Suarez's evidence as “unreliable” and “inconsistent” and painted a sorry picture of the manner in which the Merseyside club handled proceedings.

The Professional Footballers’ Association and anti-racism groups have supported the judgment and called on Liverpool to preserve their reputation and accept the verdict.

This was despite their legal team admitting flaws in their own evidence and failing to offer a satisfactory response when quizzed on the contradictions within the club’s and player’s testimony.

Piara Powar, the executive director of Football Against Racism in Europe, says Liverpool risk damaging their reputation unless they accept the findings.

   “Luis Suarez and Liverpool FC have the right to appeal, however we would call on the club to think again about their public campaign to dispute the charges and contest the principles involved in the case.

“As a club with a good international standing the vehemence of their campaign is unquestionably causing them reputational harm.

“Racial abuse between players on the field of play has been an unspoken taboo for too long, an area that has been unsatisfactorily dealt with by English football despite many cases over the past 10 years.”

Kenny Dalglish, Dirk Kuyt, Damien Comolli and Luis Suarez's legal representative Peter McCormick were all criticised in Football Association report.

Kenny Dalglish
The commission labelled elements of what the Liverpool manager told Marriner in his room immediately after the final whistle “surprising”, as it contradicted various elements of Suarez's own testimony. In his evidence, Phil Dowd, the fourth official at Anfield that day, said Dalglish had remarked “hasn’t he done this before?” in relation to Evra’s allegations, although this was not remarked upon in the report.

Dirk Kuyt
The Liverpool striker claimed that Evra had told Marriner he was being booked because he was black, an allegation rejected out of hand by the commission, who said the claim made “no sense”. The inconsistencies in his account of his conversation with Suárez after the game over what had been said weakened the Uruguayan’s case, according to the commission.

Damien Comolli
Another witness whose account of what Suarez had said to Evra “surprised” the commission. They drew attention to “discrepancies” in what Comolli reported to the referee about what Suarez had claimed to say to Evra in the immediate aftermath of the game and the striker’s evidence. They pointed out these discrepancies had “not been satisfactorily explained”.

Peter McCormick
Suarez's legal representative was highly criticised. His suggestion that Evra made up his claim that Suarez said “I don’t speak with blacks” to gain revenge on the Uruguayan for failing to explain why he had fouled him earlier in the game was deemed “unrealistic”. He also said that Suarez's claim that pinching Evra’s arm was an attempt to “defuse” the situation was due to “bad drafting” of the striker’s statement, a point that was also rejected out of hand by the commission.

Full report from the FA here: Luis Suarez case

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club or Red's Fury™ blog.

Source: Telegraph

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Match Report: Liverpool 3-1 Newcastle United

By guest writer: Jamie McLaughlin

With the games coming thick and fast at this busy time of the year Liverpool were next to face a Newcastle side at Anfield who have had a great start to the season, but have started to struggle a bit in recent times. Liverpool went into the match trying to sort out their home form having drawn far too many for Dalglish’s liken. An added interest in this fixture is former Newcastle favourites’ Enrique and Andy Carroll facing their old team.

THE TEAM

Kenny made two changes to the side that drew with Blackburn on Boxing Day, with Bellamy and Spearing coming in for Maxi and the suspended Suarez. So all eyes were on Andy Carroll in the absence of Luis Suarez to find his goal scoring form against his old team. The defence was unchanged leaving Carragher once again on the bench with Adam and Spearing in the middle of midfield and Bellamy on the left and Downing playing once again on the right. Gerrard started on the bench as he looks to get his match fit.

THE MATCH

Liverpool started on the offensive and Adam miscued an early chance in the first couple of minutes. Then Agger made a surging run from defence only to drag his shot five yards wide. Liverpool kept up the pressure and Downing had the next chance with a near post drive but Krul was equal to it.

But Liverpool was stunned in the 25^th minute when Taylor sent in a dangerous cross which was flicked on by Cabaye only to be diverted past Reina via Agger’s arm. It was a real shock to the home side who had been on the attack for most of the half.

But Liverpool responded quickly and drew level just 4 minutes later when Bellamy fired in a low drive after good work from Adam. The home side continued to press and Martin Skrtel almost made it two but he headed just wide from a corner.

The second half started with Liverpool struggling to get possession as Newcastle found their passing game. There was a feeling inside Anfield that this could be another one of these games that would end up in a draw. Dalglish brought on Gerrard with half an hour to go and he lifted the whole stadium. Suddenly Gerrard was orchestrating Liverpool. Gerrard sent over a superb cross from the right but Carroll just failed to connect and then Gerrard found Carroll inside the box with a superb pass but the big striker’s control let him down when clean through.

Then in the 67^th minute Liverpool were awarded a free-kick 25 yards out, Bellamy’s shot flew past Krul thanks to Carroll making a nuisance of himself in front of Krul, confusing Simpson and Krul. There was relief all around Anfield. But Newcastle almost equalized when Ba got behind the Liverpool defence, but his clipped effort was brilliantly cleared off the goal line by Skrtel who ended up in the net.

Next Gerrard whipped in a dangerous cross which Carroll headed off the crossbar, but Liverpool got their deserved third goal when a good move ended up with Gerrard bursting into the left side of the penalty area before slotting the ball underneath Krul from a tight angle sending the crowd wild in celebration. Liverpool saw out the rest of the match comfortably giving them a much needed home win.

SUMMARY

Great to see Bellamy come back into the side with Carroll up front in the absence of Suarez. I was very worried when we fell behind to a freakish goal as we were struggling to create many chances. Bellamy was superb and took his goals superbly. Jay Spearing was superb and lucky to have both legs intact after being on the end of a horrific tackle. But I felt this is the fewest chances we have created in a match and yet we scored three goals which is very pleasing. But the turning point was the introduction of Gerrard who produced so many quality crosses and passes and what a goal. Great credit to Skrtel who produced an amazing clearance off the line. Great to see us get a much needed win at home.

Man Of The Match – Bellamy – scored 2 goals and was dangerous all night, great energy and pace shown.

Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News

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Video Highlights: Liverpool 3-1 Newcastle

* By pressing play on the video, you’ve agreed with the English FA rules and regulations on its broadcasting. This video is googled and for personal viewing only. Red's Fury™ does not host or upload this material and is not responsible for the content.

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