Source: FootyTube.com
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Sunday, October 30, 2011
Premier League: West Bromwich Albion 0-2 Liverpool
The towering No.9 struck his third goal of the campaign on the stroke of half-time after Charlie Adam had given the Reds an early lead from the penalty spot.
It put the seal on a superb overall display from Kenny Dalglish's men and means they now lie fifth, just one point behind third placed Chelsea, heading into next weekend's clash at home to Swansea City.
The pre-match rumour mill was spinning into overdrive as Liverpool arrived in the midlands for the tea-time kick-off at the Hawthorns.
The bombshell that the Reds would be without both Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher was greeted with shock by the travelling Kop, though the news that Carling Cup hero Suarez had shaken off a knock to start somewhat tempered the blow.
Back-to-back league draws meant Dalglish's men knew that victory was crucial if they were to maintain sight of the top four and the fact they were once again coming up against former boss Roy Hodgson added extra spice to this Halloween weekend encounter.
The Reds made a fast start too and twice carved out good openings inside 90 seconds.
First Suarez broke free of his man and looked set to race through only to be let down by that rarest of things: a poor first touch.
Read more: Liverpool FC Official
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Friday, October 28, 2011
Stoke City 1-2 Liverpool Match Report
With no European football for Liverpool this season the Carling Cup has taken on extra importance. Drawn away to Stoke was not the kindest draw for Liverpool but they would know what to expect after losing 1-0 to them recently in the league. Kenny has stated how important this competition is for the club and he has proved with his team selections in previous rounds of the competition. The last time Liverpool visited Stoke at this stage of the competition was in 2000-01 when they won 8-0 on their way to lifting the cup.
THE TEAM
Kenny made 8 changes for the visit to Stoke from the team that drew with Norwich at the weekend. But the team Kenny selected certainly wasn’t a weakened side as he has so many more options and strength in depth this season. Dalglish obviously selected a team to cope with the Stoke’s dangerous set-piece tactics. The team read, Reina, Kelly and Agger at full-backs and Carragher and Coates in the middle of defence. The midfield had Maxi on the left and Henderson on the right with Lucas and Spearing in the middle, with Carroll and Suarez up front. There was also a very strong bench with Aurelio, Kuyt, Adam, Doni,Skrtel,Flanagan and Bellamy. There was a big surprise with no mention of Gerrard on the team sheet.
THE MATCH
As ever a tremendous atmosphere for this match at the Brittania Stadium, and it was Liverpool who threatened first when Carroll had a chance with a free header from a left wing corner. Suarez almost beat the Stoke offside trap as he started menacingly.
But Stoke had the next chance when Walters saw a curling effort worry Reina as it flew just over. But Liverpool were on the front foot and dictating the play and Carroll was unlucky with a stinging shot which Sorenson could only parry to the onrushing Suarez but he could only direct his effort wide of the target with the ball rebounding to him so quickly.
Stoke were playing second fiddle to a very sharp looking Liverpool side, but they did have their moments, mostly from the menace of Delap’s long throws.
Liverpool were playing some great football in the first half as Stoke struggled to cope with their movement. A great move involving Lucas and Maxi resulted in a low cross to Suarez but his close range effort was superbly saved by Sorenson as Suarez cursed his luck once again.
Liverpool showed they were not going to be intimidated with Stoke’s physical approach as Carragher showed when he was booked for a strong challenge midway through the first half.
Liverpool once again were not getting their reward in goals for their superb play similar to the match last weekend and they were dealt a blow just before half-time when Stoke took the lead. A mistake by Coates allowed Walters to get down the right flank before crossing to Jones who headed past Reina stunning the visitors. Suarez almost equalised in stoppage time but he dragged his shot wide.
The second half started with Liverpool still creating chances although the second half was contested more evenly. But Liverpool did manage to equalise, and what a way to do it. Suarez collected the ball on the left before producing a sublime nutmeg on Shotton giving himself a sight of goal from the edge of the box, Suarez then spectacularly curled a shot into the far corner of Sorenson’s goal giving the keeper no chance.
Liverpool and their supporters were buoyed by this goal and were now looking for the winner. But with all the enterprising play from the visitors they could not find a winner so Dalglish brought on Bellamy for Maxi with about ten minutes to go to ignite some pace into Liverpool’s attack and he made an immediate impact hitting the post with a shot from 20 yards after good link up play with Carroll.
With extra time looming Liverpool snatched the winner with 5 minutes remaining when Henderson found Suarez at the back post with a volleyed cross and the Uruguay striker headed past Sorenson sending the visiting support wild. Stoke bombarded the Liverpool goal in the latter stages but the visitors held on to book a place in the quarter finals of the Carling Cup.
SUMMARY
A superb performance and result from Liverpool. The desire and work ethic of the players was superb. Stoke is such a difficult place to go, and to go behind after playing so well in the first half was like a kick in the teeth, but the response was brilliant. Dalglish put out a very strong team, but I was worried their would be a lack of creativity in the midfield without Adam and Gerrard, but I was oh so wrong, some of the passing was superb as we created so many chances. Andy Carroll was flying around the park like a man on a mission and his link up play was very good, all that was lacking from the big man was a goal. The defence was superb as they had to withstand many long throws. Coates was very impressive apart from the mistake for Stoke’s goal. But it was great to see us get a win we so greatly deserved after being left frustrated against Norwich. So many great performances from Liverpool players but I think Agger deserves a mention, he was superb on the left side of defence and creative going forward. But Suarez is amazing, unplayable at times and deserved his superb goals, For me, this was the performance of the season so far.
Man Of The Match – Suarez- it just had to be. He is unbelievable right now and got the goals his performance deserved.
Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Carling Cup: Stoke City 1-2 Liverpool
Luis Suarez struck a superb brace as Liverpool swept into the quarter-finals of the Carling Cup with a 2-1 victory over Stoke City on Wednesday night.
The Reds dominated for long spells and created countless chances but fell behind on the stroke of half-time to Kenwyne Jones's thumping header.
It looked like being another day of missed chances for the visitors until the Uruguayan conjured up some magic to drag his team level with a stunning curler just after the restart.
From that moment on there was only one winner in it and it was no surprise when Suarez pounced again four minutes from time with a header that broke Stoke hearts.
It means Kenny Dalglish's side are still fighting for honours on three fronts and will approach Saturday tea-time's showdown with West Brom in buoyant mood.
Heading into the contest in the Potteries, the Scot made eight changes to the team that was held to a frustrating 1-1 draw with Norwich City.
There was no place for captain Steven Gerrard in the travelling party but Lucas Leiva was involved from the start after serving a one-match suspension against the Canaries.
Read more: Liverpool FC Official
Source: FootyTube
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Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Picture of the Day: City humiliated United at their our backyard
Source: TalkSport
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Sunday, October 23, 2011
Video Highlights: Liverpool 1-1 Norwich City
Source: FootyTube
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Video: Liverpool FC will backed Suarez on Evra racism row
Kenny Dalglish insisted that Luis Suarez has the full support of everyone at Liverpool Football Club following allegations made in the aftermath of last weekend's clash with Manchester United.
"The only thing we'll say, and then that is it put to bed, is that this Football club and everyone at the club is totally and utterly behind Luis Suarez.
"There was an allegation after the game about him diving all over the place and then there was an allegation from Patrice Evra.
"Obviously the two things are quite emotive, but we fully support the wee man in both things and everyone at the club does.
"I think the football club came out at the start of the week and made our position known - and apart from what I've said there, we won't be adding to it.
"We fully look forward to a complete, transparent report from the FA and look forward to co-operating 100 per cent fully with what is done." - Dalglish told reporters at Melwood in a pre-match conference.
Source: Liverpool FC Official, FootyTube
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Liverpool 1-1 Norwich City Match Report
Liverpool was hoping to put newly promoted Norwich to the sword in their quest for at least a top 4 place. Liverpool who drew 1-1 with Manchester United last weekend would be hoping to get back to winning ways against Paul Lambert’s charges. Norwich have impressed so far this season with their style of play, they have played an attractive attacking style with tremendous displays without reward at Chelsea and more recently at Old Trafford. Norwich go into the match on the back of great win against Swansea last weekend and will give them great confidence.
THE TEAM
Dalglish made two changes to the side that drew with Manchester United last week with Glen Johnson coming in for Kelly and Craig Bellamy replacing the suspended Lucas. A big night for Dirk Kuyt making his 250th appearance for Liverpool. Liverpool started with a very attacking line-up with Gerrard and Adam in the middle of midfield with Downing on the right and Bellamy on the left of midfield with Kuyt and Suarez up front. Andy Carroll had to be content with starting on the bench once again.
THE MATCH
Liverpool attacked from the start and almost took the lead inside two minutes when Skrtel headed off the bar from an Adam corner, then two minutes later Suarez made a brilliant turn before shooting wide.
Liverpool were dominating the early stages with Suarez and his brilliant best. Then in the 10th minute Bellamy made a great run down the left before crossing low to Suarez and his first time effort was tipped onto the post. Moments later Suarez tried a chip from outside the box but it floated over the bar.
The chances kept coming for Liverpool and another one went a begging when Suarez shot wide after being played in by Johnson. But Norwich showed the threat they had Morrison powered a header straight at Reina from a corner kick. Then moments later Norwich had another effort from long range saved by Reina.
Then on the half hour mark Kuyt had a header blocked from a corner. Liverpool continued to create chances as the half wore on, but just as it looked as Norwich would hold until half-time Liverpool took the lead after tussle for the ball involving Suarez broke to Bellamy who ran into the box before shooting past Ruddy via a deflection.
Norwich started the second half sharply and Pilkington was unlucky with a low shot bringing out a save from Reina. A minute later Kuyt couldn’t direct his header on target from a Downing cross as Liverpool responded.
A few minutes later a piece of brilliance on the edge of the box by Suarez left the Norwich defence bewildered but his shot was deflected onto the post as he cursed his luck. Liverpool was still threatening and Gerrard made one of his trademark runs into the box but he shot weakly.
But Norwich drew level on the hour mark when Adam lost possession looking for a foul and Pilkington’s dangerous was headed into the Liverpool by substitute Holt who beat Reina to the ball.
Shortly after Holt could have scored a second with another header but for a great reaction save from Reina. Norwich were certainly encouraged by the goal and Liverpool were struggling to find their first half fluency.
Dalglish brought on Henderson for Bellamy and Carroll for Downing in the latter stages to try and win the game but it wasn’t until stoppage time when the best chances came first a brilliant cross from Gerrard found the head of Carroll but his header went agonisingly wide from 6 yards out. Then with just about the last kick of the ball Suarez smashed a volley on target but Ruddy pulled off an amazing save to earn Norwich a point and leave Liverpool frustrated.
SUMMARY
I was expecting nothing less than a win here tonight as I feel we have to win these type of games if we are to challenge this season. I liked the look of the team Kenny selected as it had a very attacking look about it. We started on fire and could have been four up inside 20 minutes but couldn’t get one. I just had a bit of a feeling these missed chances could come back to haunt us and unfortunately it did. We had some great attacking play, especially from Downing and Bellamy on the flanks and Suarez was causing all sorts of problems, the only thing lacking from him was he couldn’t find the net. The referee didn’t give Suarez much as I felt he was constantly fouled, leaving the striker frustrated. We did lose a bad goal as Norwich posed more of a threat second half, with Reina getting caught out. But these things can happen. We were very unlucky right at the end with Carroll and then Suarez’s volley. I’m left very disappointed with the result as both Chelsea and Manchester United have struggled against Norwich this season but managed to win, where we failed to. But I’m very encouraged with the performance and the amount of chances we created and I’m sure the goals will come over a very long season.
Man Of The Match – Suarez – once again, unplayable at time, lost count of the number of attempts he had on goal, only a goal was missing from his night.
Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News
Friday, October 21, 2011
Preview: Liverpool FC v Norwich City
Liverpool will be looking to better their home record this weekend following a 1-1 draw with champions Manchester United and begin to make a statement of intent for this season. The Reds have produced a decent run of results as of late, but even first team coach Steve Clarke believes their start is not up to their full potential. The Reds will look to hit that top hear this weekend against Norwich City, who haven’t been in the top flight since the 2004/2005 campaign.
History is on Liverpool’s side in this fixture with the Reds bagging a total of 13 wins at home all-time, however Paul Lambert’s side has put on some strong displays against Manchester United and fellow new-boys Swansea City. Norwich are coming off the back of a 3-1 over Swansea, and will be hoping their form can continue at Anfield, where the Reds are yet to keep a clean sheet.
Luis Suarez is likely to return to the starting line-up after being rested in Tuesday’s 1-0 loss to Rangers, and could start alongside Andy Carroll. Carroll started in Tuesday’s match, and though chances have come slim this season, Dalglish could change up his side again. Liverpool are yet to find a working partnership amongst their quad-set of strikers, but could be feeling the pressure of Carroll’s price-tag yet to be justified.
Liverpool fans will go into the game with a sense of nervousness knowing that recent history has not been kind to them in a game like this. Over the years Liverpool have seemingly out-performed themselves against the big-guns and under-achieved against opponents in the bottom half of the table. Dalglish knows that to get Liverpool back amongst the elite, results must be ground out on all fronts, but if Liverpool are to be taken seriously, a fine display against a rather strong Norwich side could kick start a good string of results for the Reds before a strong November sees them travel to Chelsea and host Manchester City.
Lucas Leiva serves a one-match suspension for Liverpool so Jordan Henderson, dropped to the bench for the last two matches, may regain his starting place.
Defenders Daniel Agger (rib) and Glen Johnson (hamstring) are fully fit again after playing in the midweek friendly defeat to Rangers.
Norwich City, however, will be no pushovers.
Midfielder Anthony Pilkington talked up the Canaries’ confidence and motivation against big-name opponents: "These are the games we need to win. We like to go everywhere believing we can win and believing we can cause an upset," Pilkington said.
Steve Morison has been a constant threat up front for the Canaries alongside Pilkington and Grant Holt, and is integral to Norwich’s attacking play.
Liverpool (probable line-up): Reina, Kelly, Carragher, Skrtel, Enrique, Henderson, Gerrard(c), Adam, Downing, Kuyt, Suarez
Norwich (probable line-up): Ruddy, Naughton, Barnett, Martin, Tierney, Bennett, Fox, Johnson, Pilkington, Hoolahan(c), Morison
Red's Fury™ Prediction: Liverpool 3-0 Norwich
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Thursday, October 20, 2011
Glasgow Rangers 1-0 Liverpool Match Report
It is very unusual for Liverpool to be playing friendly matches at this stage of the season, but with both Liverpool and Rangers not participating in Europe the match was arranged to benefit both clubs, both financially and for match fitness. Dalglish who supported Rangers as a boy would be determined for his side to put on a good show in Glasgow. Obviously the main aim was to get some much needed match fitness, especially for the players that have not been getting a game and for the players returning from injury.
THE TEAM
As promised Dalglish did bring a strong team up to Glasgow for this glamour friendly, although many of the players starting the match have not played recently. Kenny started the match with Doni in goal with former Ranger Wilson at left back, the fit again Johnson at right back, with Coates and Agger in the middle of defence. The midfield consisted of Aurelio on the left with Spearing and captain for the night Lucas in the middle, and Maxi on the right side, with up front Andy Carroll partnering Craig Bellamy.
THE MATCH
It was a decent crowd for a friendly fixture with a nice gesture before the match with supporters from both clubs parading a banner in memory of those who lost their lives in the Hillsborough and Ibrox disasters prior to the match, while a collection was set up with half of the total funds raised going towards the Hillsborough Family Support Group.
The game started with Liverpool almost taking the lead within 90 seconds when Maxi found Carroll with a tremendous pass on the left hand corner of the penalty area, but the big striker’s first time volley went into the crowd.
After this early chance Rangers started to threaten and in the 10th minute Ortiz beat the Liverpool offside trap but the Liverpool defence managed to scramble away his cutback for a corner. Shortly after Ortiz had a drilled effort well saved by Doni as Rangers kept on the offensive.
Then in the 20th minute Doni made a great save from a low Whitaker shot pushing the ball round his left hand post. But from the resulting corner Rangers took the lead when McCulloch’s scuffed effort squirmed beneath the legs of Aurelio on the goal line as Liverpool failed to clear the corner. It was a deserved lead for the hosts.
Rangers were on the ascendancy now and Doni had to make another good stop from McKay’s headed effort from a Lee Wallace centre. Then Davis should have doubled Rangers lead when he got behind the Liverpool defence but his lobbed effort landed on the roof of the net.
Liverpool never troubled McGregor in the Rangers goal during the first half but they did work a fine move with Johnson and Maxi combining down the right but Maxi’s effort was well blocked by Broadfoot to keep Rangers in the lead at half-time.
I think Dalglish had some strong words to his team at the break after watching his side look extremely off the pace in the first half, and within minutes of the re-start Bellamy almost brought Liverpool level with a shot on the turn just missing the upright.
But Rangers thought they had made it 2-0 in the 55th minute when Lafferty smashed his effort off the post from 6 yards out before Doni managed to prevent the ball crossing line when it seemed like a goal was inevitable. The big stopper injured a finger in the process and had to be replaced by Hansen.
As Liverpool looked to get back into the game they should have equalised when Maxi robbed Broadfoot of possession 25 yards out but his cutback towards Carroll was well read by the Rangers defence.
Dalglish brought on Adam, Kuyt, Downing and Flanagan for the last 25 minutes as they tried to salvage the game but it was Rangers that came closest with Lafferty and the veteran David Weir being very unlucky with terrific efforts.
As the game entered its conclusion, Carroll was centimetres away with a powerful header from an Adam corner. Downing also had low strike well saved by McGregor at his near post. The substitutions had the desired impact but Rangers held out to claim a win.
SUMMARY
I took my daughter to the match but unfortunately had to sit with the Rangers supporters as the Liverpool end was full. So I’m afraid it was not as enjoyable an experience as I had hoped. It was a tremendous gesture by the supporters with the banner being paraded before kick-off in respect of both disasters that both clubs have endured. It was good to see so many players starting the match that were in desperate need of match fitness. Good to see Johnson, Aurelio and Agger back to fitness although Johnson and Aurelio looked off the pace. In fact most of the team looked short of match fitness as they struggled against a sharper Rangers side in the first half. If it wasn’t for Doni we could have lost by a lot more as he made some terrific saves but worryingly left exposed too often as the Liverpool defence looked disjointed. I thought Maxi looked lively and Bellamy too without an end product. But Andy Carroll was very disappointing and looked like very lethargic on the night. I was very disappointed that Carragher and Suarez but especially Gerrard never featured as there was a superb travelling support, but I can see the reasons for not playing them in a friendly with so many important games coming up. I can’t hide my disappointment of the night but got to take out the positives and they are the match fitness for many of the squad players.
Man Of The Match - Agger – great to see him back and thought he played well under quite a bit of pressure at times from Rangers. He just shaded it from Doni who made some vital saves.
Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who writes for Anfield News and was at Ibrox Stadium that night.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Liverpool went down at the Gers
Charlie Adam and Danny Wilson were never going to match Paul Gascoigne’s prodigal son performance at the weekend when they made their returns to Ibrox in this friendly match. But then, not many in the Liverpool ranks – only one of whom had started against Manchester United on Saturday – seemed in the mood for living up to lofty reputations. The game was entertaining enough, but clearly one for swelling the Ibrox coffers rather than stirring the Ibrox blood.
Indeed, from the start it was obvious that this would be a contest of distinctly subdued passions, the temperature rising only when Craig Bellamy figured in a move. The bustling, scuttling Bellamy did at least give the impression that he cared about the outcome, a concern reflected by the Rangers supporters who, remembering the Welshman’s brief stint at Celtic a few years ago, roundly booed everything he did.
Bellamy’s subtle manoeuvres across the forward line were almost as distracting for the Rangers defence. In time, they did seem to get the measure of him, although they seemed less able to close down the space Andy Carroll created for himself. Yet Carroll’s finishing was of a lower order and the striker began the first half by lashing a volley well past the left post and ended it with a horribly sliced shot high into the stand.
All of which pleased the Rangers fans no end, but they had more reasons to be pleased with what their own side were doing in front of goal. Rangers held a 1-0 lead at half-time, courtesy of Lee McCulloch’s sharpness when Liverpool made a hash of mopping up a corner in the 19th minute, but they could easily have had a couple more by then. The corner which brought McCulloch’s goal had been won by a lashing shot from Steven Whittaker, well saved by Doni, and Steve Davis had been unlucky with a clever lob in the 35th minute that skimmed the top of the crossbar.
It did nothing to diminish the crowd’s contentment level that Bellamy opened the second half with two wild and wayward shots. At the other end, a fierce effort by Kyle Lafferty was stopped by a combination of Doni and the post, but then seemed to spin just over the line. The despairing Doni grabbed it back – injuring his hand in the process – and the assistant referee gave Liverpool the benefit of the doubt and ruled that it had been kept out.
If anything, what little steam there had been in Liverpool’s early display seemed to evaporate after the break. Rafts of substitutions from both sides broke up the continuity, although there hadn’t been much of that either. When Adam arrived, replacing Lucas in the 65th minute, his first act on the pitch was to shake hands with a couple of old Rangers colleagues.
A few minutes after Lafferty’s goal-that-wasn’t, another sizzling effort from the striker was just inches too high. Not to be outdone by this parade of boldness, club captain David Weir then launched a volley with more grace and athleticism than any 41 year-old should be able to muster, an attempt that seemed to come even closer than Lafferty’s.
But then, it was that sort of night – a game of party tricks rather than biting competitiveness. Overshadowed, of course, by the knowledge that both teams would rather be doing other things in Europe right now.
Source: Telegraph
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Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Liverpool 1-1 Manchester United Match Report
THE TEAM
Kenny made only one change from the side that beat Everton with Steven Gerrard coming in for Andy Carroll. Gerrard was only starting his first match since March which was also against Manchester United. Skrtel and Carragher were again partnered in the middle of defence with Enrique on the left side of defence and Kelly on the right. Downing on the left of midfield with Kuyt on the right and Lucas and Adam once again in the middle. Gerrard supporting Suarez in attack.
THE MATCH
With Anfield at capacity and the atmosphere electric it was Liverpool who had the first attack with Enrique making a great run down the left before whipping in a dangerous cross which evaded everyone.
Then Gerrard had a free-kick headed to safety by Evra as Liverpool tried to gain the initiative. But United came into the game and Evra made a super run to the bye line before crossing to the back post but Jones could only head into the side netting.
On 21 minutes a short corner allowed Gerrard to whip in a cross towards the near post but Suarez glanced his header just wide of the target. Moments later Suarez hit an audacious 45 yard effort wide of goal with De Gea off his line.
Then in the 34th minute Adam hit a long range drive which broke kindly to Suarez who sidestepped Evans before shooting straight at De Gea. Ji- Sung Park shot wide after robbing Enrique of possession as United rarely threatened in the first half. So both teams went in at the half level with not many chances and the game proving to be as tight a contest as predicted.
Liverpool started the second half on the attack and had appeals for a penalty waved away when Kuyt saw a header come off the arm of Evans. United countered from this and Reina had to be alert to save from Young’s low drive.
The match was continuing to be a tight affair but it came to life in the 68th minute when Charlie Adam made a surging run through the middle of the United half and was then brought down by Ferdinand on the edge of the box. Gerrard fired the resulting free-kick through the United defensive wall and into the net sending the Kop wild.
Ferguson brought on Rooney, Nani and Hernandez to salvage the game and his substitutions worked when with 10 minutes remaining a Nani corner was headed into the roof of the net by Hernandez.
But it was Liverpool who looked to regain the lead in the closing minutes with Kuyt going so close after a superb cross by Downing but De Gea thwarted the Dutch man with a great save. The United keeper made another great save clawing away a brilliant dipping effort from Henderson. From the resulting corner Skrtel fired over after mayhem in the six yard box. Then right at the death Henderson headed just over from a Downing cross leaving Liverpool having to settle for a point.
SUMMARY
A typical tight, and tense affair, with United setting a team out to stop Liverpool playing and in my opinion looking for a draw from the start. The game had very few chances in the first half as both teams cancelled each other out. But Liverpool did have more opportunities and were unlucky not to win especially with the chances at the end. United, hardly threatened, with very few attempts on goal. Ferdinand should have been sent off at the free-kick leading up to the goal as he was on a yellow card, Marriner bottled it. The penalty appeal for Kuyt’s header would have been very soft. Great to see Gerrard back and scoring too, although, he did get lucky with the wall breaking, but who cares. Overall I thought Liverpool were the better team and played very well and can take a lot from this performance.
Man Of The Match - Enrique – Superb defensively and was such a threat going forward with some dangerous crosses.
Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who blogs at Anfield NewsMonday, October 17, 2011
Video Post-Match: Liverpool 1-1 Manchester United
Source: FootyTube
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Suarez hit back at racism claim
The war of words between Liverpool and Manchester United’s Patrice Evra escalated on Sunday night as Luis Suárez strongly denied allegations of racism.
Liverpool are standing firmly behind their South American striker following the Manchester United captain’s provocative claims after Saturday’s 1-1 draw.
If it is decided there is no case to answer, Liverpool expect Evra to be subject to disciplinary measures and banned due to the seriousness of his accusations.
Suárez strenuously denies any wrongdoing, and last night released a statement expressing his hurt at being caught up in the controversy.
“I’m upset by the accusations of racism,” Suárez said in a statement released on his Facebook page.
“I can only say that I have always respected and respect everybody. We are all the same. I go to the field with the maximum illusion of a little child who enjoys what he does, not to create conflicts.”
Liverpool have offered their full support to the player and their already frosty relations with Manchester United threaten to deteriorate even further as a consequence of Evra’s statements.
A fresh Anfield statement said: “Luis is adamant that he has not used language of that nature and the club is totally supportive of the player.”
United are making no comment on the affair following the start of the FA investigation.
As a matter of protocol, the FA must first speak to Evra before deciding what action, if any, is required. If the defender repeats the claims he made on a French TV channel to the FA, Suárez will be summoned to provide his version of events.
Match referee Andre Marriner was compelled to report the incident to the authorities after being made aware of the complaints after the full-time whistle.
He was unaware of any inappropriate language during the game itself, but Evra was adamant Suárez was continuously using racist slurs.
The pair could be seen involved in regular verbal and physical altercations during the game, but there was little hint of the extent of the row which was to follow.
Most of Liverpool’s staff and Suarez’s team-mates were completely unaware of any possible racial element to the quarrel until they read about it at the training ground yesterday morning.
“There are cameras, you can see him. He says a certain word to me at least 10 times,” Evra said in his interview with Canal Plus.
“I was very upset. In 2011 you can’t say things like this. He knows what he said, the ref knows it, it will come out.
"I won’t repeat what he said, but it was a racist word, and he said it more than 10 times.
"He tried to wind me up. I won’t make a huge deal out of it, but it’s very upsetting and disappointing.”
Evra is due to fly to Bucharest today with the rest of the Manchester United team for tomorrow’s Champions League tie, and the FA will not impose any timescale to resolve the issue.
They are acutely aware of the sensitivities surrounding the furore, particularly given the rivalry between the clubs involved and the potential for further antagonism.
A statement from the FA said: “Referee Andre Marriner was made aware of an allegation at the end of the fixture and subsequently reported this to the FA. The FA will now begin making enquiries into the matter.”
Liverpool initially released a statement on the player’s behalf on Saturday evening making it clear he rejected Evra’s comments.
“The first thing we did, as you would expect, is ask the player and he has categorically denied using any language of that nature,” it said.
The club’s stance toughened even more over the following 24 hours with the more emphatically supportive statement on Suárez’s behalf.
Evra has been caught up in similar rows before, although he has never made allegations himself.
Three years ago he was at the centre of a race row when Chelsea groundsman Sam Bethel was accused, and later exonerated, after a member of United’s staff said he used racist language against the French full-back.
Five years ago, Liverpool’s Steve Finnan was also subjected to a police investigation, and then cleared, after TV viewers suggested they had lip-read a racist insult aimed at Evra.
The latest incident comes as the anti-discrimination body Kick It Out promotes its weeks of action, which began last Thursday and runs through to October 31.
Indeed, Liverpool’s home Premier League match against Norwich on Saturday was marked in the calendar as offering high profile support for Kick It Out’s 'One Game, One Community’ campaign.
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Source: Telegraph
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Video Highlights: Liverpool 1-1 Manchester United
On his return to the starting XI for the first time since March, the Reds captain netted with a brilliant free-kick on 68 minutes to break the visitors' resistance in a tense contest.
But with 10 minutes left to play, substitute Javier Hernandez rescued a point for United when he headed home from a corner to ensure the spoils were shared in L4.
Gerrard was the main focus of the pre-match chatter after it emerged the captain had been handed his first start since March in what was Kenny Dalglish's 250th league game in charge of Liverpool.
Read more: Liverpool FC Official
Source: FootyTube
Liverpool Ready for United Challenge
With the latest round of international fixtures out of the way, attention turns to Anfield at Saturday lunchtime with Liverpool hosting Champions and bitter rivals Manchester United.
It is a clash which will be a huge test of the title credentials of Kenny Dalglish's side as the Reds look to put down a marker and derail United's own title bid.
Liverpool fans will be looking for a repeat of last seasons Anfield victory over United in a match where Luis Suarez fully announced himself onto the Premier League scene with a fantastic display as he ran the United defence ragged.
As much as Liverpool fans would like to believe they can genuinely challenge for the title, the reality is that Manchester City are likely United's main rivals for the title. However, no matter who is competing with them for the title, their rivalry with Liverpool will always be the biggest, especially now with Sir Alex Ferguson's rival Dalglish - with whom he's never seen eye to eye - back in the hot seat.
All eyes this lunchtime will be on Wayne Rooney who has just been dealt the hammer blow of being ruled out of England's entire Euro 2012 group campaign, a result which may even put his inclusion in the squad in doubt.
With fresh question marks being made about his temperament, it will be very interesting to watch how he handles the intense pressure that is associated with this fixture. Although it could of course work the other way and he could put in the performance of his life.
Despite the financial muscle of Chelsea and Manchester City, these two giants remain England's biggest clubs and between them they sell more football shirts around the world than any other combination of clubs.
It's one of the toughest matches to call between the side in recent years with Liverpool's rather inconsistent form making it difficult to judge which team will turn up. But with Steven Gerrard back in the fold and Andy Carroll's confidence improving after his recent winner at Goodison Park, I'm tipping Liverpool to pull off a narrow 2-1 victory.
It's likely to be a token gesture in the wider title picture this season, but would be a sure-fire sign that Dalglish has his troops marching in the right direction.
Written by Colin Hill, a sports blogger who writes about football gifts.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Preview: Liverpool v Manchester United
That means they have a fully-fit squad, with Glen Johnson, Martin Kelly, Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio all available.
United captain Nemanja Vidic may return from the calf strain he suffered on the opening day of the season.
Young England duo Chris Smalling and Tom Cleverley could also be fit after groin and foot injuries respectively.
A time to celebrate anniversaries - and gnash the teeth over old rivalries - as the two most successful sides in English league history collide at a white-hot atmospheric Anfield.
It's a year since John W Henry bought Liverpool and ended the Hicks-Gillett nightmare. The club is already a fair way down the road to redemption, and they'll be roaring for revenge after seeing their record number of titles surpassed by United - who now have 19.
Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is unbeaten in his last five league games against United at Anfield, ever since Sir Alex's first match in charge against Liverpool there on Boxing Day 1986. And Premier League champions United have lost their last three in front of the Kop.
They've also wobbled in too many big away games of late, losing six of their last seven league visits to "big four" rivals. But they're still unbeaten in 12 games and they've only conceded two away league goals. This is the toughest test for both clubs so far.
The scene is set for Stevie Gerrard to start his first league game since he was injured against United in March and, possibly, to score his 50th Premier League goal at Anfield.
Wouldn't it also be typical of Wayne Rooney to make the right sort of headlines with his first Anfield goal in seven visits - and his 10th for the club so far this campaign?
But what of potential sub-plots? Will Andy Carroll's power in the air settle it? Will Nemanja Vidic return to add experience to United's defence - or will he suffer a fourth sending off against Liverpool? Big questions! Big game! Big rivals! Bring it on!
- United have lost their last three Premier League visits to Anfield, not winning since a 1-0 victory in December 2007 when Carlos Tevez scored. This is the club's longest run of defeats at Liverpool under Sir Alex Ferguson - and the longest since losing seven from 1972-79.
- But United have the edge over Liverpool in terms of overall league victories, by 71 wins to 61. The two clubs first met in 1895 - in the old division two - when the Merseyside club romped to a 7-1 win.
- There have been four red cards in the last four Premier League meetings at Anfield - three for Manchester United, one for Liverpool.
- Draws are rare in this league fixture's recent history. The last one came 12 matches back, a 0-0 encounter at Anfield in September 2005.
Liverpool
- Liverpool have won six of nine matches in all competitions so far this season, drawing once and scoring 15 goals so far.
- They have had more possession than their opponents in six of their seven league matches this season, the exception being the 4-0 loss at Tottenham when they were reduced to nine men.
- Steven Gerrard has scored four Premier League goals in this fixture - the most of any current Liverpool player. He is two short of Robbie Fowler's six-goal record.
- Dirk Kuyt scored only the second-ever Premier League hat-trick by a player against Manchester United in Liverpool's 3-1 victory in March.
Manchester United
- Premier League leaders and reigning champions Manchester United are unbeaten in 11 league and cup games so far this season - scoring 34 goals in the process.
- And United are up to their old tricks again - the period of league matches in which they are most prolific is the last five minutes. So far, they have scored on five occasions during this time period.
- United's Liverpool-born former Everton striker Wayne Rooney has failed to score in his last six league visits to Anfield. His only goal in all nine league visits was in United's 1-0 victory in January 2005.
- England international Rooney is the Premier League's top scorer this season, with nine goals.
Vote now! Can Liverpool beat Manchester United at Anfield?
Source: BBC Sport
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Video: It’s just another game
Kenny Dalglish has downplayed Liverpool's game against rivals Manchester United on Saturday by insisting he has no long-term rivalry with fellow Glaswegian Sir Alex Ferguson.
Source: Telegraphtv
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Thursday, October 13, 2011
Video: Messi moonwalking on PES 2012
One of the coolest things about PES 2012 is its animation system and a return to its PS2 roots.
An Easter egg in Pro Evolution Soccer 2012 allows players to perform Michael Jackson's famous moonwalk as one of their celebration moves. To make your players moonwalk, simply edit one of your players, head over to the movements screen and choose Celebration "91". Your player will perform the famous move whenever he scores a goal.
Source: GameRanx
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Wednesday, October 12, 2011
My Favourite Liverpool Players
I just thought I would write an article on some of the players that have been favourites of mine over the years. There has been so many since I started supporting this great club since about 1982. Everybody has their own favourites and I hope you can relate to some of mine. This is my list of players in no particular order.
Kenny Dalglish – Well I think he is most supporters’ favourite, and he is the reason I started supporting Liverpool. He was just an amazing player, I loved the way he shielded the ball from defenders and his vision and passing was just the best. For not being the quickest he certainly made up for it with his brain thinking quicker than anybody else. A great finisher too, where he never seemed to blast a shot, he always placed his shot, usually in spectacular fashion.
Ian Rush – Probably the greatest finisher our club has seen, amazing goal scoring record. Rush and Dalglish formed a lethal partnership in the 80’s. Rush had great speed which took him into goal scoring positions, but his work rate was unbelievable as he complimented Liverpool’s style of play by defending from the front.
Graeme Souness – A great player and captain of the club who had so much ability with an arrogance about him as he strutted about the midfield like a general marshalling his troops. A terrific passer of the ball and not frightened to put the boot in if things got tough. Nobody got the better of Souness if things got physical. A true Liverpool great.
Mark Lawrenson – I honestly thought he was the best defender in the world at the time when he played with us. He was such a great defender who read the game so well and was a superb tackler. Lawrenson had tremendous speed which helped him retrieve so many situations. He was also very good at springing an attack and venturing forward. I would put Lawrenson as my favourite defender.
Alan Hansen – A terrific defender and servant to the club eventually captaining the team to glory. Hansen always looked so casual and under control of the situation. A brilliant reader of the game and the best defender I have seen at bringing the ball out from defence, he started so many attacks for Liverpool with his great ability. Another Liverpool legend.
Phil Neal – A great servant who won more trophies than any other player in our history. But I thought he was such an under rated defender and was so good at going forward. Hardly ever missed a game, holds the record for most consecutive games for the Reds, Mr. Consistency.
Bruce Grobbelaar – A great keeper who could also entertain, sometimes ending up with an odd mistake. But loved by the Kop and he could save the unsavable with his amazing agility. The first keeper I noticed that could spring an attack with his quick release from hand or foot. Great memories highlighted by his antics in Rome.
John Barnes- Second only to Kenny as my favourite player of all time, in his prime he was amazing with his speed and control tying defenders in knots before scoring spectacular goals. Created so many chances with his creative play from the wing and also when he played more central. Had to change his game later in his career after injury reduced his speed, he enjoyed a new role in the centre of midfield in which he thrived on spraying passes around and rarely losing possession.
Steve McMahon – I know he played with Everton but he turned out to be a great player for us, I loved his energy and drive he showed in the midfield, he could weigh in with a few goals too. He was an important player for us in the engine room of that great side of the eighties.
John Aldridge – A great striker who lived out his dream by signing for Liverpool. Slotted into the side with ease with the likes of Barnes, Beardsley and Houghton signing around the same time. Aldridge thrived on the attacking style of the team and was a fans’ favourite.
Steve McManaman – A tremendously talented player with great dribbling ability. I loved it when he went on one of his dribbles. His goals always seemed spectacular. Sorry when he left us, but I was still pleased for him with the success he enjoyed at Madrid.
Robbie Fowler – I’m sure he is on every supporters list. One of the greatest finishers ever. He such an ability for scoring goals, he could score goals from anywhere. Should have won many more England caps. It was great to see him return to us for a second spell. He will always be remembered fondly at Liverpool.
Sami Hyypia – A classy defender who was a great servant. A great reader of the game, not the quickest but great positional sense. Sami was also dominant in the air and could weigh in with a few goals.
Gary McAllister – Came to the club in the twilight of his career, and what an impact he made. In my view he was the player of the season in our famous treble winning season of 2001. He was so instrumental and what about that goal against Everton . Wish we had him here longer.
Jamie Carragher – I just love him for his attitude and desire to win. Jamie has been a great servant to the club and long may he continue. He has been so important for us playing in various positions over the years, but always gives 100% and puts his body on the line for the team.
Steven Gerrard – A superb player, all time great. Has carried this team for years. Who can forget his rallying cry after scoring in Istanbul, then the amazing FA Cup final against West Ham which once again dragged us from the clutches of defeat. Gerrard showed his commitment to the club when Chelsea looked to sign him. I only put Kenny and John Barnes ahead of him.
Luis Suarez – I have to put him on my list already, such an impact he has made in such a short space of time. Such ability and his work rate is unbelievable. Suarez is loved already by the Kop. Such an exciting player.
These are the players that have stood out for me over the years. I’m sure I’ll add to this list in the future as the future is looking bright.
Written by Jamie McLaughlin, who blogs at The Liverword
Rumour Mill: Blackpool keen on Liverpool defender
Manager Ian Holloway has already brought in midfielder Jonjo Shelvey from Anfield in a similar deal and signed Gerardo Bruna and Thomas Ince from Liverpool over the summer.
The former Rangers defender has barely figured for Liverpool since moving to Anfield in 2010 and only has one appearance to his name this campaign.
Lack of game time saw the youngster dropped from the senior Scotland squad for this month's crunch Euro 2012 qualifiers and he is determined to get things back on track.
Scotland international Wilson, 19, is also being chased by Leeds and Nottingham Forest.
Now, manager Ian Holloway is keen on defender Wilson and Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish will be more than happy to see his fellow Scot pick up some playing time at Bloomfield Road.
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Source: The Daily Mail
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Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Liverpool lining up January bid for City midfielder
However the former Middlesbrough man is still struggling to get regular first team football. Last term the 24 year old started 15 Premier League games whilst making another 16 appearances from the bench and this season has made three top tier starts and managed just 14 minutes of Champions League football.
Given that Roberto Mancini has a plethora of wide options, including David Silva, Samir Nasri, Mario Balotelli and James Milner to name just four top internationals, the Italian would probably not stand in the way of Adam Johnson if he pushed for to leave the club.
However Johnson may feel he has the ability to beat off competition to become a regular at Man City but clearly if Liverpool were to show their return to form by pushing for a top four spot themselves, then perhaps the intelligent winger would consider a move to Anfield.
Liverpool have brought in a number of midfield additions over the summer, with Stewart Downing, Johnson’s former team-mate at the Riverside, making the left side role his own. Jordan Henderson and Charlie Adam were brought in to add more options for Kenny Dalglish who then lost Raul Meireles to Chelsea and then loaned out Alberto Aquilani to AC Milan.
The right hand side of his midfield is now being primarily taken by Henderson but the England Under 21 international is also very effective in the centre of the park. Dirk Kuyt has found himself pushed out of the first team and the Dutchman may well be considering his future.
Johnson would cost Liverpool at least £15million and clearly Man City have no financial need to sell the player so a lot would depend on the player’s intentions to fight to prove himself to Mancini, knowing that regular first team football may be needed in order to maintain his spot in Fabio Capello’s England plans ahead of the Euro 2012 finals next summer.
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Source: FootyBunker, CaughtOffside
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Get off Jamie ‘The Stalwart’ Carragher’s back
Since the last three years,Jamie has been getting a lot of stick for his lack of defending. As a Liverpool fan, my reflex is to defend one of the greatest players to have ever played for the club. But it’s not only about the bias.
Every defender has a bad game. Footballers go through lean spells but world-class footballers put in that one performance that silences their critics. And Jamie did just that in the Merseyside derby.
Jamie Carragher undoubtedly has lost some pace but his astute reading of the game has not deteriorated one bit. On a sunny, pressure-packed afternoon, Jamie Carragher stamped his class at Goodison Park. Tim Cahill has an effective aerial prowess and scores headers with ease in the league. Carragher won almost every aerial ball against Cahill. Everton were a depleted side after the sending-off but it’s always harder playing against 10 men and Carragher effectively killed off, the unpredictable Luis Saha’s game with his incisive tackling. He did not put a single foot wrong.
Carragher’s verbose organizing skills often go unsung. You rarely see a mix-up between the goalkeeper and the defence. Carragher plays every game with his heart on his sleeve and is still one of the first names on that team sheet.
Within the England setup, Jamie Carragher is under-rated. He is no less than John Terry and as effective as Rio Ferdinand (if not better). In my opinion, he did not get enough games to prove his mettle. This fact being emphasized by Fabio Capello persuading him to come out of retirement. What has instigated me is the fact that even Liverpool fans have been questioning his abilities. His last-ditch tackles have saved countless games for Liverpool.
Lets rewind Liverpool fans , If Jamie Carragher can out-wit and out-fight Andriy Shevchenko in a European Final with a strained muscle, he deserves more than ‘Carra’s getting old’. He has been found wanting in a lot of games, he drops too deep,he doesn’t get forward too often, doesn’t score too many goals but he had Fernando Torres in his pocket at Stamford Bridge , the same Fernando Torres who walked all over Nemanja Vidic (arguably, the best defender in the league) at Old Trafford.
Do not write him off yet.
Jamie Carragher can defend, just ask Rigobert Song and the AC Milan squad of 2005/2006.
Written by Mayank Adhye, who blogs at The Musical Escapade and also a Reds supporter.
Rumour Mill: Liverpool targets US whiz kid
The FC Dallas ace is regarded as one of the best young talents in America and is already an established member of Jurgen Klinsmann's USA side.
The likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool have all been credited with an interest in the attacker who can play out wide or up front.
Liverpool and Manchester City are both believed to have watched Shea in action over the weekend as he created the only goal in the USA's 1-0 win over Honduras.
Shea's representative, Barry MacLean, admits a number of teams are interested in the attacker and that the American starlet would be interested in a move to England in the future.
"I do know people are asking me about Brek as he is the premier talent in America," MacLean told skysports.com.
"There is a real buzz around Brek as he is a real quality player.
"He has a contract with the MLS and FC Dallas for another three years so at this point it is premature to talk about a move."
Asked if Shea would be interested in a move to the Premier League, MacLean said: "It's on his radar. He is a young player with high aspirations and every player wants to play at the highest level.
"I think England would be an interesting option for Brek, but we will wait and see what happens."
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Source: Sky Sports
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Liverpool defender pondering life away from Anfield
Teenager hungry for action after falling out of favour on Merseyside. Out-of-favour Liverpool youngster Danny Wilson is open to spending time out on loan if it means playing regular first-team football.
The 19-year-old defender notched up eight appearances for the Reds in all competitions after making his debut in the Carling Cup last September.
But action has been limited so far this term, with former Rangers
man Wilsonhaving made just one outing back in August.
"There's nothing worse than not being able to go out on the pitch on a Saturday and play," Wilson told Sky Sports News.
"But I need to just keep my head down and hopefully I'll either get some game time at Liverpool or get the chance to go somewhere else and try and prove myself."
Liverpool's fortunes have turned around drastically over the past 12 months and they currently sit fifth in the Premier League, marking them as possible contenders for a UEFA Champions League spot.
But Wilson insists they are not getting ahead of themselves, adding: "It just depends how the next couple of months go.
"You can be realistic, you can change your aims and where you want to be, but obviously the higher we finish the better.
"We want to get back in the Champions League, obviously, but first and foremost we need to make sure we're in a good position to do that."
While Wilson is not involved in Scotland's final qualifier in Spain on Tuesday night, he believes Craig Levein's men have every chance of causing an upset to clinch the final play-off spot in Group I.
"We beat France twice a couple of years ago and nobody gave us a chance of doing that," he said.
"Spain, being European and world champions, means it's a big, big ask of the players. But I feel if we go out and we can implement what we want to do on the park then I think Scotland have got a great chance."
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Source: Sky Sports
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Monday, October 10, 2011
Liverpool goalkeeper almost joins the Gunners
But in his searingly honest autobiography, published this week, Reina also admits that three times he came close to leaving all that behind.
“I have been through three dark nights of the soul at Liverpool and on all three occasions I have questioned whether I should stay at the club that I have come to love,” he declares.
“On each occasion I could have walked away.
“I had opportunities to continue my career elsewhere, but I never took that final, decisive step that would have severed my ties with Liverpool forever. Thankfully.”
The first occasion, in 2006, came as a personal crisis of confidence.
Doubts that had festered after an unconvincing FA Cup final appearance, were magnified by an error in the Reds first home league game and reached crisis proportions in the Goodison derby match.
“Everyone – especially the Evertonians – remembers the day we lost the Merseyside derby 3-0 at Goodison Park on September 9, 2006,” he explains.
“The moment that stands out the most for me was when Andy Johnson scored Everton’s third. It all started when Lee Carsley had a shot from outside the area in the 94th minute. I parried it away, but as the ball went into the air, it headed back towards the goal. I turned to get it but in a split second opted to try and catch it, realising too late that I would carry it over the line. I tried to push it over the bar but could only direct it into the path of Johnson, who had an easy task to head it into the roof of the net.
“When things like that happen you feel like you have let everyone down, especially when it happens against your local rivals in a game that the supporters are desperate to win. But that wasn’t even the worst of it for me because that mistake wasn’t a one-off. If anything, it summed up my form as I struggled to get out of one of the most testing slumps of my career.”
It was manager Rafael Benitez who talked Reina round.
“Like every other player when things go wrong you need the help of the people around you and in this case it was the support of Rafa Benitez that made the biggest difference,” he said. “He gave me such strong backing at the time, and showed he believed in me.
“I knew that Valencia were there and their interest was in the back of my mind. Rafa changed everything and put all those fears to rest. He made me forget about the possibility of leaving Liverpool before I had even proved myself here. With the help of the boss and Jose Ochotorena, the goalkeeping coach, I came through it.
“From the middle of January to the beginning of May 2007, we conceded only 12 goals and managed 11 clean sheets – including one against Everton in the return league fixture at Anfield.
“I had been strong enough to cope with a difficult situation with their support, and I ended up having a good season.”
Read more: Liverpool Echo
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
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Friday, October 7, 2011
Rumour Mill: Liverpool tracking Dutch striker
Liverpool FC has earmarked a future move to sign Dutch international striker Luuk de Jong after a series of scouting missions. The 21-year-old has been a consistent performer for FC Twente and his displays have earned him a series of international call ups and a growing list of prospective suitors.
The powerfully built striker helped his side to a Dutch Eredivisie title in his first season at the club and this term he has matured into a more effective attacking weapon, notching up six goals in eight matches. The 6ft 2in Swiss born forward has been linked with interest from several clubs across Europe and is seen as a prospect with a bright future.
Though Liverpool have a formidable first choice strike pairing in Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll they do lack strength in depth in this department, especially after the sale of David N’Gog to Bolton. Kenny Dalglish brought in a short term solution to this problem by signing 32-year-old Craig Bellamy.
De Jong is valued at around £10million and clearly having spent upwards of £100million in 2011 on new additions, such a price tag will not cause any problems for the Merseyside outfit. The young FC Twente man will no doubt be tempted by a high profile move where he would link up with his international colleague Dirk Kuyt.
If Liverpool is to follows suit with a bid in January transfer window, we will not be surprised that Daniel Pacheco’s future at Anfield has been numbered. Pacheco currently on a season long loan to Atletico Madrid.
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Source: CaughtOffside
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Liverpool takes on Glasgow Rangers on a friendly match
The game will take place on the 18th October at 7.30pm UK time. Charlie Adam and Danny Wilson are the two Reds who played for Rangers.
“They are a fantastic club and their squad is packed with world class players so I have no doubt this game will capture the imagination of our supporters.
“We look forward to welcoming Charlie Adam and Danny Wilson back to Ibrox and I am sure the fans will turn out in huge numbers once again to watch us in action against such a high-profile English Premiership side.” - Rangers boss Ally McCoist
The two teams last met in a pre-season friendly in August 2008, with Liverpool running out 4-0 winners in Scotland. Liverpool have been allocated 3,500 tickets for this fixture.
Source: Liverpool FC Official
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Jamie Carragher career may ends soon
Liverpool's vice-captain Jamie Carragher has admitted his career could be over in a year's time.
Carragher has made 676 appearances for Liverpool since coming through the youth ranks and making his debut 14 years ago.
He has been a regular in the Reds defence since coming on as a substitute in Liverpool's League Cup game against Middlesbrough in 1997, but the 33-year-old concedes his long and glittering career may be nearing its end.
"You want to try to get as much out of your career and play as long as possible.
"The time will come in the next 12, 18 months, maybe two years.
"That won't be down to myself. It will be down to the people around me, the staff, the manager. They will decide."
Carragher's full-blooded displays at the heart of the Liverpool defence have earned him many plaudits during his career and his leadership skills have seen him touted as a future Reds boss.
The defender admits he would love to go in to coaching after hanging up his boots.
"Do I want to go in to coaching or management? Yes, I think so," Carragher said.
"I've taken my first steps to coaching and the B licence.
"We all love the game, you want to stay involved in the game."
Carragher made morning headlines when he claimed that England are "cheating" by employing a foreign coach as their national manager.
The defender insisted this evening that his claim should not be viewed as an attack on England boss Fabio Capello, but more of a plea for placing trust in home-grown coaches, and he even claimed that every part of the national football set-up should be English.
"It's nothing against Capello or anybody who comes in in the future," Carragher added.
"It's nothing against foreign players or coaches. I just think that's what international football should be about.
"For me we shouldn't have a foreign member of staff. The best doctor in the country should be the England doctor or the bus driver. That's what international football is.
"If we're not up to it in certain areas we have to improve."
Carragher also thinks the presence of foreigners is impeding the development of young English players.
The defender has hit out at the Premier League for not protecting the home-grown youngsters coming through the ranks.
"Everyone wants to play in the Premier League now. Players at our academy don't get a chance," he said.
"Our academies are not just full of local players. They are full of foreign players too.
"That's a bit of a problem for me.
"I think no foreign players should leave their country until 18 or maybe 21 and I think I think the academies should be for local players.
Former England and Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes claimed recently that the England camp had been divided into Manchester United and Liverpool cliques during his time on the international scene.
Carragher, who was a member of the squad at the same time as the retired Red Devils player, agreed, saying: "I saw that.
"I don't think it was Man United and Liverpool. It was more Man United and the rest.
"They'd all grown up together those Man United players. They had been in youth teams together. They would always sit together at meal times.
"It was just like the five best mates together.
"They'd all come through together. It was a tight-knit thing. They were best mates. They had a great youth team. It was more of a case of that.
"There were that many of them. They had such a good team. They probably had seven or eight in the squad at the same time.
"It was probably difficult for anyone to break into that little group and get to know them."
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Source: ESPN Star
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Sunday, October 2, 2011
Video Highlights: Everton 0-2 Liverpool
Source: FootyTube.com
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Premier League: Everton 0-2 Liverpool
Andy Carroll scored his first Barclays Premier League goal of the season as Liverpool recorded a 2-0 victory over Everton in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
Everton's cause wasn't helped by the controversial sending off of Jack Rodwell midway through the first half after a challenge on Luis Suarez, but Dirk Kuyt missed the opportunity to give the Reds a half-time lead when he later saw his penalty was saved by Tim Howard.
However, Carroll found the back of the net with a little under 20 minutes remaining, hooking in a cross from Jose Enrique from close-range.
Suarez then settled the contest with a neat finish after a mix-up between two Everton defenders inside the box to ensure Liverpool claimed local bragging rights in the 216th meeting between the sides.
A little more than 20 years had elapsed since Kenny Dalglish last led a Reds team across Stanley Park into battle with the neighbours.
On that occasion, a pulsating FA Cup tie ended in a 4-4 draw and in the build up to the game the boss quipped another four for his side wouldn't go amiss this time around - minus a quartet of goals for the opposition, of course.
Kuyt, so often the talisman on these occasions, earned a recall to the starting XI, with the Dutchman replacing Jordan Henderson in the only change made to the side that began against Wolves last weekend meaning Liverpool fielded five derby debutants.
Read more: Liverpool FC Official
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Saturday, October 1, 2011
Preview: Everton v Liverpool
Saturday October 1st
Everton v Liverpool
Goodison Park
Kick-off: 12.45 BST
TV: Sky Sport 2, Highlights BBC1 Match of the Day.
Probable line-ups:
Everton (Probable, 4-1-4-1): Howard; Hibbert, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Neville; Coleman, Fellaini, Rodwell, Osman; Cahill.
Out: Anichebe (groin).
Liverpool (Probable, 4-4-2): Reina; Kelly, Carragher, Skrtel, Jose Enrqiue; Henderson, Adam, Lucas, Downing; Suarez, Carroll.
Out: Agger (ribs), Johnson (hamstring).
Test: Gerrard (match fitness).
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard may have to settle for a place on the bench again the 216th Merseyside derby.
The England midfielder has played just 25 minutes after a six-month lay-off from a groin operation.
Defenders Glen Johnson (hamstring) and Daniel Agger (rib) will not feature – although the latter has returned to training – while forward Dirk Kuyt is pushing for a recall at the expense of Jordan Henderson.
With Tim Cahill recovering from the bruised shin he suffered during last week's 2-0 defeat by Manchester City, Victor Anichebe is Everton's only long-term casualty with a groin injury.
Everton will be looking to repeat last season’s embarrassingly one-sided Goodison derby win, but must be wary of the Dalglish factor.
In 23 Mersey derbies as Liverpool manager, Dalglish has only ever lost three, winning an impressive 13.
Tim Cahill’s recovery from a shin injury will buoy the blue half of the city, but with Steven Gerrard itching to get off the bench, Dalglish will have the aces to call upon when required.
Chris Bascombe’s prediction: Everton 1 Liverpool 1
Red's Fury™ prediction: Everton 2 Liverpool 3
Yours’ prediction: Everton ? Liverpool ?
Leave your score prediction in the comment box below.
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Source: Telegraph
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Liverpool owner hurt in boat accident
Henry, who also owns the Boston Red Sox baseball team, was seen leaving the $32m (£25.5m) yacht wearing a neck brace and was treated by paramedics at the scene before being put on a stretcher and taken to Massachusetts General Hospital in an ambulance.
"He walked down the gangplank and he pretty much walked on his own and he was then taken off on a stretcher," an eye witness told the Boston Herald.
Boston Red Sox president, Larry Lucchino, told the radio station WBZ-AM that Henry was injured but was able to walk off the boat wearing a neck brace.
The accident occurred less than 24 hours before Liverpool play Merseyside rivals Everton at Anfield on Saturday and on the day Boston Red Sox announced the departure of Terry Francona, the manager who led the team to two World Series victories, after the team failed to make the play-offs.
This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.
Source: Guardian
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