Liverpool played themselves back into Premier League contention with a resounding 4-1 win at Old Trafford in Saturday's early game. Although Manchester United remain four points clear with a game in hand and superior goal difference, they are now under slightly more pressure in one of the three remaining competitions they are seeking to win.

United shaded a relatively open quarter and took the lead on 23 minutes. Carlos Tevez threaded a pass through to Ji-Sung Park, deep into the Liverpool penalty area, and Park's touch took him beyond goalkeeper Jose Reina, although away from goal. Committed to the tackle, Reina brought Park down and was beaten to his right from Cristiano Ronaldo's subsequent penalty.

United sought to press home their advantage, but Fernando Torres took advantage of a glaring error by Nemanja Vidic and equalised with 28 minutes gone. In the penultimate minute of the first half, Liverpool were ahead, Patrice Evra misjudging a crossfield ball, pulling down the passing Steven Gerrard who converted the resultant penalty.

Although United were on top for the first half of the second period they rarely threatened to score, and the game was effectively ended after 77 minutes. Vidic, enduring the definitive nightmare afternoon, hacked down Gerrard who would have been clear on goal and after receiving a red card had to watch as Fabio Aurelio whacked in a free kick for 3-1. There was still time for United to be caught again as they chased the game with ten men, and Andrea Dossena compounded their misery with a deft chip over Van der Sar after a long, straight punt from Reina had inexcusably evaded their entire back four.

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9:56 AM
Categories: Aurelio, Dossena, Fernando Torres, Liverpool, Manchester United, MU, steven gerard, The Reds. Author: nik

Liverpool produced a magnificent performance to reach the Champions League quarter-finals with a 5-0 aggregate defeat of Real Madrid.In a remarkable first half, Real Madrid were torn to shreds by a breathtaking attacking display led by Fernando Torres, their arch-enemy from his Atletico Madrid days.Torres scored early on, before Steven Gerrard fired home from the spot.

And had it not been for an outstanding display from Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas, Liverpool would have had a hatful in that first 45 minutes alone.

Gerrard scored a spectacular third seconds after the break to deflate Madrid further and substitute Andrea Dossena added a fourth with three minutes to go. Gerrard struck twice on his 100th European appearance for Liverpool to secure a quite breathtaking victory, Real were humbled for the second time in a fortnight by their old boy Rafael Benitez.It inspired a stunning start from Liverpool, with Casillas making two world-class saves in the opening minutes.
Torres, back after an ankle injury, had already embarked on one surging run into the box, before he dumbfounded Fabio Cannavaro with a brilliant turn to control a Gerrard pass, only for Casillas to save with his right foot.Ryan Babel and Javier Mascherano both had shots deflected wide before Casillas rescued Madrid again, stretching to his left to touch a Mascherano 20-yard effort onto the bar and over.After 16 minutes Liverpool were ahead.

Jamie Carragher's long ball had Real on the turn with Torres and Dirk Kuyt baring down on Pepe.Torres looked to nudge Pepe from behind, and the Portuguese defender fell, leaving Kuyt to square the ball for Torres to beat Casillas from six yards, only his second goal against Real having managed just one against them for Atletico.

Real were furious with referee Frank De Bleeckere, the official who sent off Marco Materazzi when Inter Milan were beaten at Anfield at this same stage last season. But the Belgian was unmoved.Pepe was soon booked for dissent before Casillas needed to be at his best to stop a towering Martin Skrtel header, before he somehow beat away a Gerrard shot following more brilliance from Torres on the left.

Gerrard was booked for a foul on Sergio Ramos before more misfortune befell Madrid. A linesman's flag signalled to De Bleeckere after 27 minutes that Gabriel Heinze had handled in the box.Replays showed the ball hit the former Manchester United man on the shoulder, and he was booked for making his point. But Gerrard was nerveless, driving home the spot-kick.
Real were fuming.

Heinze hurled himself feet first into Torres and it needed De Bleeckere and Gerrard to calm the situation, before Jose Reina produced his first saves of the night to turn away a Wesley Sneijder free-kick and hold Raul's header.

Another instinctive save from Reina stopped Sneijder from close range before Mascherano found himself booked after Xabi Alonso had tripped Pepe.That will rule him out of the next European match, but it was unclear whether the yellow card was mistaken identity or because the ball was kicked away from the free-kick.Real needed to do something, and they sent on Brazilian forward Marcelo for the anonymous Arjen Robben at the break.

But any plans for a fightback were destroyed just 65 seconds into the second period. Babel got away on the left and laid the ball back for Gerrard to volley superbly high into the net with Casillas helpless.Real were in pieces, and had it not again been for Casillas - punching the ball away to his right - Gerrard would have had another after 54 minutes.On the hour Lucas was sent on to replace Alonso, with Saturday's likely epic no doubt in Benitez's mind.

Belatedly Real took off a defender, Cannavaro, and sent on an extra forward in Rafael van der Vaart. But Madrid had been bereft of attacking ideas, and it was far too late by now.Raul and Fernando Gago both had chances, but Liverpool were cruising at this stage and next to be given a rest was Torres with eight minutes to go, Dossena taking over, only to be booked within seconds.
Liverpool were able to indulge themselves by bringing on local teenager Jay Spearing in midfield for Gerrard, an Anfield debut for the former FA Youth Cup-winning captain.With three minutes to go, the Italian defender appeared in the box to fire home the fourth goal of the night after a fine build-up involving Babel and Mascherano. (ESPN)

If manager Benitez feels he does not get enough respect for his Champions League achievements at Anfield, this fourth appearance in the last eight in five years will go a long way to gaining him the credit he craves.

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10:15 AM
Categories: ECL, Fernando Torres, Liverpool, nfield, Real Madrid, steven gerard. Author: nik

Liverpool survived a test of character at Bolton to maintain their challenge at the top of the Premier League with a 2-0 win at the Reebok Stadium.

• Megson furious with ref Styles

The disappointment of the Carling Cup defeat at Tottenham in midweek was swept away by what eventually turned out to be a convincing victory.

Liverpool have never enjoyed Bolton's physical approach but this time they stuck to their gameplan and won with fine goals from Dirk Kuyt and Steven Gerrard.

Kuyt opened the scoring from Fabio Aurelio's cross before Gary Cahill's header was controversially ruled out by referee Rob Styles.

Despite some more nervous moments, the Reds eventually sealed victory when Gerrard headed in substitute Fernando Torres' cross.

Bolton recalled captain Kevin Nolan following suspension, with Ricardo Gardner dropping to the bench.

Liverpool decided against including 20-year-old Stephen Darby for his league debut at right-back and switched Jamie Carragher from the centre of defence. Sami Hyypia retained his place alongside Daniel Agger.

Torres, who was taken off after 55 minutes at White Hart Lane and criticised by manager Rafael Benitez for his display, was left on the bench as Liverpool made nine changes.

The visitors found out quickly that they would have to match Bolton's industry and willpower. Tackles by Gavin McCann and Fabrice Muamba on Steven Gerrard and Javier Mascherano showed that.

But Liverpool soon had Bolton pinned back, with only Kevin Davies up front as they got defenders Hyypia, Agger and Carragher into dangerous wide positions.

Likewise Albert Riera, but he twice wasted excellent openings on the right with poor delivery early on.

Liverpool's patient build-up was starting to stretch Bolton. Mascherano and Gerrard both saw long shots go close before Dirk Kuyt saw an effort crash against the bar after 24 minutes from a Gerrard pass.

The Reds forged ahead when Aurelio crossed from the left after 29 minutes and Kuyt rose to send a looping header into the top corner for the lead.

Liverpool then started to power forward and somehow Robbie Keane managed to miss an open goal from two yards before Agger flashed a 25-yard effort just wide of the far post.

Bolton had an effort from Cahill disallowed seconds before the break when he headed in a corner, with referee Styles insisting that Reina had been fouled seconds earlier.

Styles was booed off by the home fans at the break and almost from the restart Bolton were awarded a string of free-kicks which allowed them to mount the sort of intense aerial pressure they excel at.

Gardner came on for Muamba at the break and when he broke clear on the left after 52 minutes he almost equalised, as Reina's rush from his line forced a shot into the side-netting. Agger, hurling himself towards the post, collided with the woodwork.

Liverpool then brought on Torres for Keane and from a right-wing cross from the Spanish striker, Gerrard almost got the second goal from a yard out.

Liverpool were hanging on to their lead as Bolton hammered away in search of an equaliser.

But the danger was always clear for the home side with Torres now on the pitch.

And after 73 minutes he created a superb second goal for Liverpool, clipping in a cross with the outside of his foot for Gerrard to send past Jaaskelainen with a diving header.

It could have been three for Liverpool in the closing stages, the Bolton goalkeeper saving superbly from Torres and then Xabi Alonso.

Torres could also have scored after 88 minutes but he struck the post from Lucas' lay-off.

Megson furious with ref StylesReferee Rob Styles was at the centre of more controversy. Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez praised Styles for protecting his goalkeeper and insisted that goalkeepers have "priority'' in the six-yard box.Megson was nonplussed, saying: "We saw the TV pictures within a minute of it being disallowed and again at half-time. But our thoughts are that we did not see a huge amount wrong."If anyone is going to find an infringement - although it would have been harsh - it is that we should have had a penalty when Reina pushed Nolan in the back."There is nothing else that happens. Kevin does not do anything but stand his ground and there's nothing wrong with that. Also there was nothing wrong with the act of scoring from Gary Cahill."I wasn't surprised to see Rob Styles refereeing, it never occurred to me. He gave a ridiculous decision against us at Old Trafford, that was a mistake. We spoke on the phone on the Monday and we didn't make a lot of it, regardless of the Respect campaign."Now there has been another one. We seem to be on the wrong end of him making mistakes.''He added: "Have I heard of a rule that says goalkeepers have priority in the six-yard box? I have to say that one has passed me by."What is the priority, can you go and belt someone like Nolan was? I'm sure there is a priority if someone is fouled, but standing your ground like Kevin was is not a foul."If Nolan shoves the goalkeeper it is a free-kick, so if the goalkeeper does it then it should be the same punishment. But I am not expecting a phone call (from the referee).''Benitez had a different view.He said: "The rules are very clear. They say that the six-yard box is for the 'keeper, if you have three players in front of him and he cannot go for the ball, then it is simple, it is a free-kick."It is clear. Sometimes you see five or six attacking players in the six-yard box, that is wrong. The rules say it is for the 'keeper, he has priority. If he has three players blocking him and he cannot do anything, he cannot go for the ball, it is a foul."The international rules are very clear. I always say the same, the first time I came here (to the Reebok) I said the same. Three players around the 'keeper is a free-kick. If he wants to go for the ball, he is being obstructed."Yes, those goals are given in England sometimes. But the international rules are for everybody, the referees know the rules, it has to be like this.''

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4:29 PM
Categories: Bolton, EPL Anfield, Fernando Torres, steven gerard. Author: nik

Steven Gerrard drove home a controversial penalty four minutes into injury time to salvage a dramatic Champions League point for Liverpool.Atletico will believe they were robbed of a place in the last 16 by referee Martin Hansson's hotly disputed penalty award for a debatable foul on Gerrard by Mariano Pernia.
They had led from the 37th minute following a cleverly constructed Maxi Rodriguez goal and frustrated Liverpool at every turn.

But Gerrard never gave up and his penalty eventually spared Liverpool's blushes and both sides should advance to the last 16.>
Fernando Torres failed to even make the bench, missing his sixth match since picking up a hamstring injury while on international duty last month.

He cut a disconsolate figure in the directors' box having also missed the chance to play at his former club a fortnight ago.

From that match Liverpool left out Andrea Dossena and Yossi Benayoun, bringing in Fabio Aurelio and Dirk Kuyt, while Luis Garcia and Florent Sinama-Pongolle were also left on the bench by Atletico boss Javier Aguirre.

Liverpool started with pace and desire and could have scored in the first minute when Kuyt's close-range effort was grabbed by Leo Franco.

Another chance went begging when Xabi Alonso's stunning 40-yard pass found Robbie Keane arriving at pace on the edge of the box, but the Irishman's fierce drive thudded into the side netting.

Madrid were not slow to hit back and should have scored four minutes later. Pernia got to the byline and pulled back a cross but Simao hooked it over the bar from six yards.

Two more Liverpool chances then went begging, Riera's touch into the box almost set-up Gerrard as he surged into the area and Keane denied by Franco when he tried to round the Argentinian goalkeeper.

Atletico were also producing some quality football and scored an outstanding goal after 37 minutes.

Antonio Lopez broke down the right, taking a long pass with a superb first touch to confound Daniel Agger.

His pass into the box found Rodriguez moving into space away from Jamie Carragher before firing a shot across Jose Reina and inside the far post.

Atletico had looked calm and controlled in the first period, but came out for the second half having to defend in front of the Kop.

Liverpool were instantly at their throats. After just 60 seconds Luis Perea flicked the ball away from Keane with his right hand in the box, but Swedish referee Martin Hansson ignored the appeals.

Agger saw a header drop onto the roof of the net as Liverpool cranked up the pressure.
Ryan Babel was now on for Riera, Liverpool almost camped in Madrid's half with Atletico looking for the break to settle it. Surging runs from Simao and Diego Forlan emphasised the dangers.

Liverpool almost grabbed the equaliser after 70 minutes when Arbeloa and Keane combined to set up Gerrard, but the captain's shot just cleared the angle.

Maniche was booked for a foul on Arbeloa before Liverpool sent on David N'Gog for Keane. But at the same time Madrid sent on their brilliant Argentinian striker, Sergio Aguero in place of Forlan.

Lucas replaced Javier Mascherano but the danger of a devastating Madrid break was there every time Aguero got the ball.

N'Gog's control let him down a couple of times, but he forced Franco into a near-post save that produced a corner from which Agger saw another header go agonisingly wide.

Carragher got in on the act with a run and drive that Franco touched over, before a minute from time Luis Garcia came on, to a great reception, for Simao.

Still Liverpool looked unable to break through, until the fourth minute of injury time when Gerrard went down in the box under an aerial challenge from Pernia.

He made no contact with the ball but it was a debatable decision and Gerrard picked himself up to drive home the penalty and ruin Madrid's night.

Luis Perea, Aguero and John Heitinga Lopez were all booked in the uproar that followed but Liverpool had their fortunate draw.

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1:25 PM
Categories: athletico madrid, European Champion League group D, steven gerard. Author: nik

Steven Gerrard scored a superb goal and made another one as he helped England to a 3-1 World Cup qualifying win in Belarus.

The Reds inspirational captain opened the scoring with a superb strike from over 30-yards out, and then created a goal for Wayne Rooney in the second half with an exquisite pass. Gerrard also hit the post.
It was also a great night for Robbie Keane who scored the only goal of the game as Republic of Ireland beat Cyprus 1-0 in Dublin. The Reds number seven captained his country and played the full 90 minutes. Keane's close range header was his 35th in the green of Ireland.

Yossi Benayoun was also on the mark as Israel drew 1-1 in Latvia. Israel were all set for a victory but the home side levelled with two minutes left.

Fernando Torres was forced to leave the field after just 17 minutes during Spain's dramatic 2-1 win in Belgium. Xabi Alonso came on as a 64th minute replacement for Santiago Gonzalez and David Villa scored the winner two minutes from time. Pepe Reina and Alvaro Arbeloa were unused substitutes.

Dirk Kuyt played the full 90 minutes as Holland beat Norway 1-0 in Oslo, but Ryan Babel was substituted after 27 minutes. Former Reds ace John Arne Riise played for Norway.

Andrea Dossena started for Italy and played for an hour during the 2-1 win over Montenegro.

It was a disappointing night for Sami Hyypia as Finland lost 3-0 to Russia in Group Four. The Reds number four played the full 90 minutes.

Stay logged on to .tv for further international news.

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12:21 PM
Categories: Belarus, England, steven gerard, World Cup qualifier. Author: nik

Steven Gerrard played a captain's role by taking his Liverpool goals tally to 99 as the Merseysiders opened their Champions League group campaign with a crucial 2-1 win in Marseille.

The Stade Velodrome had been the venue for Liverpool's European salvation last season, and Gerrard made sure it was a welcome return to the south of France.

Marseille had taken the lead through their skipper Lorik Cana, but Gerrard - already Liverpool's record scorer in Europe - grabbed a fine equaliser with an outstanding 25-yard curler.

Then six minutes later he cracked home a twice-taken penalty to give Liverpool something to hang on to.

And they needed to fight hard as the French side battled bravely in the second period, but Liverpool clinched their victory with a defiant rearguard action.

The Reds included both Gerrard and Fernando Torres in their starting line-up for the opening group D clash.

Both key players have been recovering from injury and their inclusion was a major boost for the Anfield club.

Andreas Dossena came into the side in place of calf-injury victim Fabio Arbeloa, while Lucas took over in midfield from Xabi Alonso.

Marseille, who won 1-0 in the Champions League last term at Anfield before losing the return 4-0, included Hatem Ben Arfa, their £10m signing from Lyon, who had recovered from an ankle problem.

Skipper Cana also returned, having been rested at the weekend in the draw at Bordeaux.

Liverpool had opted for caution with Robbie Keane and Albert Riera both on the bench. Gerrard was being used in the attacking midfield role that worked to such good effect last season, and several times early on Liverpool could have scored.

After just seven minutes, Steve Mandanda tipped over a Lucas header and soon afterwards Dirk Kuyt's pass set-up Ryan Babel.

The Dutchman created the space with his first touch but blasted a good opening high over. Then Gerrard forced Mandanda into a diving save before Torres saw a header clear the far angle.

Marseille had chances of their own. Mamadou Niang was clear on the left but wasted the opportunity, shooting high over. Martin Skrtel was booked for a late tackle on Niang after 20 minutes as the game became surprisingly open.

But after 23 minutes the French side were ahead when they caught Liverpool square and punished them with a fine goal.

Rarely are Liverpool exposed straight through the middle, but when Benoit Cheyrou's first-time ball sent Cana clear, his quality side-footed finish sent the Velodrome fans wild.

Liverpool's response was emphatic.

Two minutes later Torres won possession on the halfway line and presented Kuyt with a pass on the right that was instantly played into Gerrard's path.

The Liverpool skipper struck a first-time, curling effort from 25-yards that soared over Mandanda into the far corner for the equaliser.

And after 31 minutes Liverpool were ahead. Babel's sharp turn in the box ended with Ronald Zubar's trip and a penalty. Zubar was booked before Gerrard struck the ball past Mandanda off the post.

But Austrian referee Konrad Plautz ordered a re-take because Kuyt had encroached into the box. Gerrard kept his nerve and clinically netted a second time to put Liverpool ahead.

The double strike extended Gerrard's European goals record for the club. Last season, in the Anfield side's 4-0 win in Marseille, Gerrard's goal that night broke Michael Owen's benchmark of 23.

He extended that tally later in the competition to 25, and two more here in the opening half for the captain stretched his tally to 27, and 99 for the club in all competitions.

Marseille were stunned and soon sent on Mathieu Valbuena for the injured Modeste M'Bami after 41 minutes.

Ben Arfa lasted until the 56th minute before his ankle problem forced him off, Karim Ziani taking over.

The game was still very open. Babel almost forced the ball around Mandanda at one end, while Liverpool were making too many defensive errors at the other for Benitez to rest easy.

Marseille could easily have been level when Vitorino Hilton met a corner with a fierce downward header that Jose Reina managed to hold on to.

Liverpool sent on Riera after 64 minutes for Torres, who had looked short of pace after his spell out, before Ziani struck a 12-yarder over the bar as Marseille searched for parity.

The Reds then withdrew Gerrard after 68 minutes, sending on Yossi Benayoun with Babel now the lone striker.

Liverpool had got the most possible out of their recently-injured stars, and it was now left to their colleagues to withstand a mounting Marseille onslaught.

Ziani fired over again before Mamadou Samassa replaced Bakari Kone.

Babel saw a golden chance to finish the contest go to waste after 74 minutes when Riera and Benayoun set him up close in, only for Mandanda to save the point-blank effort.

The youngster then struck the post after 78 minutes as he surged through on the left. But still Marseille came forward searching for the equaliser as Liverpool sought to punish them on the break.

With five minutes left, Kuyt was replaced by Keane, fresh legs to the cause as Liverpool continued to hang on.

Niang saw a diving header go wide from a right-wing cross, Marseille still fighting for an equaliser.

Reina saved superbly in injury-time from Niang and Liverpool had their victory.

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1:01 PM
Categories: European Champion League group D, liverpool captain, Marseilles, steven gerard. Author: nik

Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard have both been passed fit to face Manchester United at Anfield this weekend. Both players completed a light training session at Melwood this morning and have been included in the squad to take on Alex Ferguson's men tomorrow. "They are both much better," confirmed Benitez. "They came through a full training session this morning. It wasn't a very hard session, but they will both be in the squad. If they are in the squad then they can play. "It's important for us to have these two players of quality who can change a game. I'm not surprised they are available because the medical staff have done a good job and the players have been working really hard with the physios to get fit." Benitez has no fresh injury concerns ahead of the showdown with United, although midfielder Lucas won't be involved after arriving back late from international action during the week.

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10:43 AM
Categories: Fernando Torres, Manchester United, steven gerard. Author: nik

Liverpool will give Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard every chance to prove their fitness for Saturday's clash with Manchester United. Hopeful manager Rafael Benitez, still awaiting his first league win over the Reds' arch-rivals, says both of his leading lights are 'improving' as they battle back from their respective injuries.

Gerrard is the bigger doubt for the lunchtime clash after groin surgery but the Anfield club's medical staff are reportedly encouraged by Torres' progress in recovering from a hamstring injury.

Last weekend Gerrard said the United match would come too soon for him, and he was targeting the Champions League match against Marseille next Tuesday.

"It is always more difficult to prepare for the match with injuries because you know that if they are fit we will use them, but in this case you never know," Benitez said.

"It is better to avoid saying whether they can be available - it is difficult to say if they can play or not because they may have not played for 10 or 15 days.

"But they are both working hard with the physios and are improving, so there's still some time to decide."

Benitez remains optimistic about Gerrard, although he has confidence in the rest of the squad should his captain not make it.

"You never know, he is still progressing. The key is the fitness of the player - it makes a massive difference if he has confidence. That is the main thing for him," the Spaniard told the club's website.

"Clearly we have enough quality in the squad, so it is always important to look to the other players and sometimes they can give more to you than the big names.

"They can have the same quality and passion and they also have a lot to prove to the supporters."

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12:43 PM
Categories: Manchester United, Marseilles, Rafa Benitez, Soccernet, steven gerard. Author: nik

Steven Gerrard has admitted there is nothing he would like more in football than to lead Liverpool to the Barclays Premier League title. While lifting the European Cup after the epic Champions League victory over AC Milan is his career highlight to date, the Reds skipper said winning the league would surpass that. "The memories of Istanbul will go to the grave with me," said Gerrard. "There isn't a day goes by that I don't think about it, but I want more memories. I want to get on another open-top bus and see another million people on the streets of Liverpool, acclaiming the league title. "The city will explode if we win the league, and I don't want it to happen when I'm retired. I'm 28 and realise the years are flying by. In November I'll have been a first-teamer for 10 years and yet it seems like I only made my debut two or three months ago, I've enjoyed it that much. I want from 28 to 35 to be even better, and I feel my best years are ahead of me. "I don't want to retire and have just Istanbul and a couple of FA Cups to remember. It will be a disaster, personally, if I don't win the league here." The Reds number eight believes there is a lot more to come from him and the team this season after admitting early performances have been below par. "The performances so far haven't been that good, we're still only in second or third gear," he said. "A few of the lads haven't been 100 per cent and I've been nowhere near it myself. "We played well in pre-season, but come the real deal we weren't at the level we wanted. The promising thing is that the results have been good."

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11:28 AM
Categories: EPL, steven gerard. Author: nik

Rafa Benitez is backing his side to shift through the gears during what is set to be a crucial month in the club's season.

The Anfield boss knows the Reds have not totally convinced in their opening five matches despite an unbeaten run which has taken them to joint top of the league.

But with massive games against Manchester United and Everton looming in the next month, not to mention the start of our Champions League campaign, Benitez expects his side to start reaching full potential.

"Javier Mascherano, Lucas and Ryan Babel arrived late and I am sure that in a few weeks' time it will be better," the gaffer told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"We need to have better possession and work on having a higher tempo."

Liverpool's last outing brought a credible point at Villa Park without Steven Gerrard and, for the most part, Fernando Torres.

Benitez added: "Getting a draw without them showed the quality in the squad – but it could have been better.

"Having watched the videos, I thought we could have won. We had four chances – Alonso, Kuyt, Ngog and Keane. They had two and some set-pieces. So, the point was good but it could have been better.

"We changed the system to play 4-3-3 and give Xabi Alonso freedom, then when he was being pressed we changed to 4-2-3-1. People said, 'Oh, Robbie Keane wasn't playing well on the left.' But we had to think about winning the game, not just one player."

Gerrard is currently recovering from a groin operation due to keep him out 10-15 days.

On the skipper's race to face United on September 13, Benitez said: "Steven is okay. He's started with bicycle work and will start jogging, so I think he will be ready soon."

Meanwhile, the Liverpool boss is backing Daniel Agger to rise to the challenge of extra competition at centre-back.

The Dane has been absent from the starting XI since the first leg of our Champions League qualifier in Liege.

Benitez said: "Martin Skrtel is a good centre-back, Jamie Carragher is very consistent and Sami Hyypia is a good option also, so Daniel needs to work hard if he wants to play and he knows that.

"We want two players for each position but Daniel has a very good mentality and he will be ready."

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1:48 PM
Categories: Daniel agger, Manchester United, MU, Rafa Benitez, steven gerard. Author: nik

Steven Gerrard has urged his teammates not to blow the chance to play in a fairytale final in Rome next May
Liverpool tonight bid to qualify for a Champions League which reaches its finale in the stadium where Emlyn Hughes lifted our first European Cup back in 1977.

After a goalless draw in Liege two weeks ago, Gerrard isn't taking entry into the group stages for granted - but the skipper hopes the prospect of a dream final in nine months' time will inspire the Reds into the competition proper and beyond.

"We want to go one further than last year and we're confident we can do it," Gerrard told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"They were the better team on the night two weeks ago and you have to give them credit. It was a massive wake-up call that they can't be underestimated. They have some big, physical boys who can also play a bit.

"We need to make sure we improve from Saturday and see that we're on it – if not, we'll come unstuck.

"It's a massive game and we need to play very well. But we know we're at home and we're at a better level than two weeks ago, so we're very confident we'll win the game.

"The squad's even stronger this year and we know how good we can be in Europe over two legs. To go to Rome and get to another final would be an unbelievable achievement but that's the target we've set for ourselves."

Defeat or a score draw tonight would see Liverpool fail to qualify for the Champions League for the first time under Rafa Benitez.

Despite his confidence, Gerrard knows the pressure is on.

"An away goal would throw a spanner in the works so we have to defend properly," he added. "But we're capable of keeping clean sheets and we know we have match winners in the team.

"There certainly is respect for the opposition. We can't afford to start slowly and go a goal down – that would be a disaster.

"There is a bit of pressure but we have to play our own game. A first goal will help us settle but, you know, on paper we should win this game.

"It's easy to say that, though; now we've got to go out there and do it on the pitch."

Gerrard admits Liverpool have yet to leave "second gear" this season, but with six Barclays Premier League points already on the board, the 28-year-old is concentrating on the positives.

He explained: "It looked like we were going to lose points at home but now it's very nice to see six points on the board already. But we're not happy with how we're playing at the minute – we need to raise it a bit.

"When we were losing 1-0 we'd have taken a point because Middlesbrough were defending well and we weren't playing well at all. If you look at our games last season, that's where we came unstuck – drawing and losing at home.

"To win the league you need to win when you're playing badly and that's what happened on Saturday.

"The pleasing thing at the moment is that we've won two out of two and yet we're still in second gear. We know we can step it up."

The remarkable comeback against Middlesbrough was secured thanks to an injury-time hit from Gerrard five minutes after Jamie Carragher equalised with a deflected strike which some credited as an Emanuel Pogatetz own goal.

Ever a good friend, the club captain is adamant the leveller should go down as Carra's fifth career goal.

He said: "You've got to give him it. If he hadn't had a shot from there then we wouldn't have got the goal. He deserves the credit and deserves the goal."

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4:55 PM
Categories: Champions League, steven gerard. Author: nik

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard fired a stunning stoppage-time winner to floor Middlesbrough 2-1 after they threatened an Anfield shock.

Empics
Steven Gerrard slides in on Tuncay Sanli
England head coach Fabio Capello suggested in midweek that Gerrard is not fully fit, but he was still going strong late in the game against Boro as Liverpool came from behind to claim three points.

• Benitez lauds skipper Gerrard
Boro had not won in the league at Anfield since 1976 and when Mido came off the bench to put them ahead with 20 minutes left, that record looked likely to be consigned to history.

But Jamie Carragher saw a 20-yard cross-shot deflect home off Emanuel Pogatetz for an own goal with five minutes of regulation time remaining and then Gerrard rifled home a 20-yard winner deep into injury-time.

Liverpool replaced the injured Sami Hyypia with Martin Skrtel in defence for the match, while Gerrard shrugged off worries over a groin problem to start in a match which saw Robbie Keane and Andrea Dossena make their home league debuts.

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate initially named the side which beat Tottenham last week, with new signing Justin Hoyte on the bench.

But a pre-match injury to goalkeeper Brad Jones meant Ross Turnbull was thrust into action at the last moment.

He was put under immediate pressure by Liverpool. After three minutes Fernando Torres surged towards the penalty area and fed Dirk Kuyt, whose fierce drive was turned aside at full stretch by Turnbull.

Then Dossena fired over a swirling cross-shot which Turnbull pushed behind.

Torres saw a flicked header go wide, before there was a lengthy delay when Dossena and Jeremie Aliadiere clashed heads, both leaving the field.

Boro's French forward returned with his head heavily bandaged, while Dossena needed a stitch before being allowed back into the fray.

It then took a fine flying save from Jose Reina to touch over an 18-yard shot from from Boro's Andrew Taylor.

Tuncay and Afonso Alves gave Liverpool central defenders Carragher and Skrtel plenty to think about before Gerrard almost scored at the other end when his dipping drive flashed just over, following neat build-up play between Torres and Kuyt.

Middlesbrough's England winger Stewart Downing, a possible target for Liverpool, cut inside two defenders from the left before sending a shot just wide of the far post.

The pace barely dropped and only fine defending by David Wheater twice stopped Torres in the box, the second time after the Spaniard had been put clear by Kuyt.

Torres should then have given Liverpool a half-time lead, but his shot was deflected wide by Emanuel Pogatetz.

Boro sent out Turnbull for a half-time warm-up in front of the Kop, the goal the visitors were due to defend in the second period.

But despite having the majority of possession, Liverpool were not making clear chances.

All the effort in the world was there from Keane and Kuyt, but Boro's defence was standing firm.

Liverpool's set-plays were weak and ineffective, and corners in particular were repeatedly wasted.

Boro sent on Mido for Alves on the hour mark, the Teesside club clearly believing they could get something out of the game.

And they almost took the lead after 62 minutes when Mido crossed from the left and Tuncay produced a clever turn and flick before forcing Reina into a sharp save.

Liverpool sent on Ryan Babel, fresh from his Olympic campaign with Holland, in place of Yossi Benayoun after 65 minutes.

Torres immediately went close with a 25-yard strike, but it was Boro who grabbed the lead after 70 minutes.

Xabi Alonso conceded possession and the ball was switched from Aliadiere to Mido, some 30 yards out. His fierce, low drive beat Reina and found the bottom right corner.

Liverpool replaced Dossena with Fabio Aurelio, with Boro sending on Hoyte for Taylor.

Keane was booked for dissent after Liverpool were denied a penalty when Gerrard's fierce drive was deflected wide, seemingly off a Middlesbrough player's arm.

Then Mido found his way into referee Mike Riley's book for time-wasting.

Liverpool sent on Nabil El Zhar for Arbeloa with seven minutes left and they finally managed to pile on the pressure.

They drew level when Carragher made the most of Riley playing an advantage after a shot from Alonso hit Gary O'Neil's arm.

Amid loud appeals for a spot-kick, Carragher unleashed a shot which looked to be going off target but deflected past the unlucky Turnbull off Pogatetz.

Turnbull made a fine save from a Gerrard free-kick in injury-time. But in the fourth minute of added time, Liverpool's talisman smashed home the winner, driving the ball into the right corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area after Wheater's poor defensive header.

Benitez lauds skipper Gerrard
Rafael Benitez hailed the winning mentality of his skipper Steven Gerrard after Liverpool stole the points with two late goals against Middlesbrough.
Boro took the lead in the 70th minute with a Mido strike before Jamie Carragher's drive was deflected home by Emanuel Pogatetz with five minutes of normal time left.

Liverpool looked relieved to have saved a point, but Gerrard crashed home the winner four minutes into added time.

Benitez said: 'I was very pleased with the first 15 minutes or so, we created a lot of chances and could have scored a couple.

'But after that we did not play well, and we allowed them to control our attacks. They did not create too much themselves, but it was not a good performance from our team.

'Then in the second-half they scored a good goal and we had to throw people forward to get ourselves back in the game.

'I am sure that Jamie Carragher will be claiming that goal, despite the deflection, but afterwards he was only really concerned that we had got ourselves level.

'But it was Gerrard who showed the winning mentality, he has done that so many times from a similar position. Many other players would have put it high over the bar, but you know Gerrard will hit the target.

'Last season we drew far too many games at Anfield, but this time we have sent out a message that in such situations we can win the game. We have winners here.'

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate admitted his side were bitterly disappointed to have lost the game.

He said: 'That was hard to take. The players are heartbroken in the dressing room.

'We deserved more, we certainly deserved a point. We produced a disciplined performance and the two matches we have played so far have given me plenty of confidence.

'We beat Spurs last weekend and now we have very nearly beaten a side who can win the title.

'Their equaliser was a freak, and we should have been able to see out the game even at 1-1.

'But I have told them that they can leave Anfield with their heads high.'

Southgate revealed that goalkeeper Brad Jones dislocated a finger in the warm-up.

He said: 'It was just one of those things, but Ross Turnbull came in and did very well, he can be pleased with his performance.'

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10:08 AM
Categories: Middlesbrough, steven gerard. Author: nik

The Reds boss has been pleased by what he has seen from the duo during their brief time together in pre-season and expects them to prove their quality in the forthcoming campaign - with the Spaniard hopeful that Standard Liege will be first on their hit-list. "I think the two strikers are top class and on the same level as anyone," he told reporters at a press conference ahead of Wednesday night's Champions League qualifier with Standard Liege at the Stade Maurice Dufrasne. "If they play together a lot I think they can go on and get better and better. "If you ask me, I would prefer them to have played together more in pre-season, but Torres came back late and we only signed Keane recently so it wasn't ideal. "Both players are clever and it is clear that if they play together for a long time, it will be easier for them to develop an understanding. I think they will be okay and can show their quality. "In the time they have had together they have played well and we have been scoring goals. They need time but we have confidence in them and I think we played well in the last game against Lazio." Standing in the way of Torres and co's progress to the Group stages of Europe's elite competition are Belgian champions Standard Liege. Benitez admits his side must be wary of any opponent they go head-to-head with in the Champions League but is confident his side will not fall to the same fate that saw last's season's UEFA Cup finalists, Rangers, come unstuck. "I have confidence in my players and you must always be careful of any team you come up against in Europe," he said. "I know Liege lost to St Etienne in a friendly but they also won the Belgian Super Cup the other day so we need to be careful. "Any top side competing in this competition must be aware of the quality of the teams involved. We must be focused every game and make sure we do not make any mistakes. "We know it's important to qualify every year and hopefully it will be the same this year." He continued: "We have been trying to learn a lot about Liege and have been watching the games they have been playing recently and of course analysing last season too. We have some information. "My staff have been watching games from last season but they have changed coach from then so to see them now is more important." Benitez also revealed that he would assess Steven Gerrard in tonight's training session at the Sclessin before making a decision on whether to field him in tomorrow's first-leg encounter. "He will train today so hopefully he will be okay for the match," he said. While the Reds captain looks likely to win his fitness battle, one player who won't feature is full-back Steve Finnan, who Benitez feels is still short of match practice. "He is not on the bench and has not travelled but we have Arbeloa in that position," said the Anfield manager. "He was injured at the beginning of pre-season and had an operation and although he is now training with the team, he is still a bit behind in fitness."

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8:30 PM
Categories: Rafa Benitez, Robbie Keane, steven gerard, Torress. Author: nik

APPEARANCES
Most first team appearances Ian Callaghan (857)
Most League appearances Ian Callaghan (640)
Most FA Cup appearances Ian Callaghan (79)
Most League Cup appearances Ian Rush (78)
Most European appearances Jamie Carragher (91)
Oldest player Ted Doig, 41 yrs & 165 days v Newcastle United (A), 11 April 1908
Youngest player Max Thompson, 17 yrs & 129 days v Tottenham Hotspur (a) 8 May 1974
Most seasons as an ever-present Phil Neal (9)
Most consecutive appearances Phil Neal (417) 23 October 1976 to 24 September 1983
Longest serving player Elisha Scott – 21 yrs & 52 days: 1913 to 1934
Oldest debutant Ted Doig, 37 yrs & 307 days v Burton U (H) 1 September 1904

GOALS
Most first team goals Ian Rush (346)
Most League goals Roger Hunt (245)
Most FA Cup goals Ian Rush (39)
Most League Cup goals Ian Rush (48)
Most European goals Steven Gerrard (23)
Highest scoring substitute David Fairclough (18)
Most hat-tricks Gordon Hodgson (17)
Most hat-tricks in a season Roger Hunt (5 in 1961-62)
Most penalties scored Jan Molby (42)
Most games without scoring Ephraim Longworth (371)
Youngest goalscorer Michael Owen, 17 yrs & 144 days v Wimbledon (a) 6 May 1997
Oldest goalscorer Billy Liddell, 38 yrs & 55 days V Stoke City (h) 5 March 1960

INTERNATIONALS
Most capped player Ian Rush (67) with Wales
Most international goals Ian Rush (26)

HONOURS
Most medals Phil Neal (20)

MATCHES
Record victory 11-0 v Strømsgodset
Record defeat 1-9 v Birmingham City

TRANSFER FEES
Record transfer fee paid Fernando Torres
Record transfer fee received £12.5 million for Robbie Fowler

ATTENDANCES
Highest League attendance: 58,757 v Chelsea, 1949/50
Highest FA Cup attendance 61,905 v Wolves, 1951/52 fifth round
Highest League Cup attendance 50,880 v Nottingham Forest, 1979/80 semi-final 2nd leg
Highest European attendance 55,104 v Barcelona, 1975/76 UEFA Cup semi-final 2nd leg
Lowest League attendance 1,000 v Loughborough Town on 7 December 1895
Lowest League attendance (post-war) 11,976 against Scunthorpe United for a Division 2 game on 22 April 1959
Lowest FA Cup attendance 4,000 v Newton on 29 October 1892 2nd Qualifying Round
Lowest FA Cup attendance (post-war) 11,207 v Chester City, 1945-46 3rd rd 2nd leg
Lowest League Cup attendance 9,902 v Brentford, 1983/84 2nd rd, 2nd leg
Lowest European attendance 12,021 v Dundalk, 1982/83 European Cup 1st rd, 1st leg
Record highest attendance 61,905 v Wolves, 1951/52 FA Cup fifth round
Record lowest attendance 1,000 against Loughborough Town on 7 December 1895

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3:39 PM
Categories: Calaghan, fowler, liverpool captain, record, Rush, steven gerard, Torres. Author: nik

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3:14 PM
Categories: john moores university, liverpool captain, mbe, steven gerard. Author: nik