EMPIRE OF ANFIELD HAS MOVED TO IT'S OWN DOMAIN ADDRESS, AND ALSO COMPLETELY REDESIGNED THE WEBSITE.
YOU CAN FIND US HERE: HTTP://WWW.EMPIREOFANFIELD.CO.UK/
YNWA
ALL THE LATEST LIVERPOOL FC NEWS, VIDEOS, AND HIGHLIGHTS, UPDATED DAILY!
Facebook And Twitter Buttons
Wednesday, 23 February 2011
Thursday, 17 February 2011
Sparta Prague 0-0 Liverpool: Match Report
Liverpool will take a creditable goalless draw back to Anfield following a laboured Europa League last 32 first leg clash with Sparta Prague.
Article from LFCTV.
Kenny Dalglish's first ever continental match in charge of the Reds will not live long in the memory - but it was the visitors who were the happier come the final whistle.
The contest will now be decided on Merseyside in one week's time to see who will face Braga or Lech in the last 16.
All the pre-match hype centred around the inclusion of four Youth Cup stars in the squad, though only England U19 skipper Conor Coady would be in with a chance of taking part after being named on the bench.
Instead it was an experienced Reds side that took to the Generali Stadium pitch on a freezing night in Prague - the one exception being 19-year-old Danny Wilson operating at left-back in a 4-4-2.
Liverpool set about controlling the early possession but it was 13 minutes before either side created an opening worth writing about.
It was Jozef Chovanec's men who broke through following a mix-up between Fabio Aurelio and Raul Meireles in midfield. Their blushes were spared by Keric's inability to direct his shot on target.
Still, the hosts were roused. Matejovsky was next to probe with a 25-yard drive that spiralled wide of Pepe Reina's goal. Minutes later Pamic powered an angled shot towards our No.25, who dirtied his knees with a diving palm away.
At the other end David Ngog was becoming isolated up front, something supporters have not been used to seeing from Dalglish's Liverpool. In fact it took those in white 29 minutes to muster a shot - and even then Aurelio's bouncing effort was never going to trouble Blazek in between the sticks.
Pamic tried to volley the home side in front on 35 minutes, while it took a superb block from Sotirios Kyrgiakos to deny a goalbound smack from Matejovsky.
It was turning out to be a tepid affair - and one of Liverpool's players would not be sticking around to endure it as injury apparently forced Aurelio from the pitch to be replaced by Joe Cole as half-time approached.
It made little immediate difference to the football on offer, with the Reds carving out just one more chance before the break, Ngog nodding on a Meireles corner kick only for Dirk Kuyt to make insufficient contact with the ball.
The second half started with equal slumber, though entertainment could at least be had in counting the number of Liverpool's outfield players wearing gloves. Two was the answer: Meireles and the assured Lucas Leiva.
One change was the sight of Glen Johnson charging up and down the wing with far more abandon, though no one was getting on the end of his crosses.
Again it was an age before either goal came under threat: 17 minutes to be precise. Kweuke was the architect with a decent header which he strained to reach without reward.
On 70 minutes Johnson decided to take matters into his own ungloved hands by cutting inside from the right, navigating several defenders and poking oh so close but not close enough.
Further excitement emanated from the stands when a smoke bomb was set off in the Sparta end, sending a cloud over the pitch and requiring the referee to temporarily pause the action. Sighs of relief could be heard in the press gantry, though Liverpool would not complain about the lack of spice if the result remained goalless heading back to Anfield in a week's time.
Kweuke came reasonably close to denying them that outcome but Reina again stood firm against his shot. Matejovsky struck a long-range effort which almost curled into the top corner on 82 minutes, while Vacek also fired wide from outside the box, but it wasn't to be.
YNWA
Article from LFCTV.
Kenny Dalglish's first ever continental match in charge of the Reds will not live long in the memory - but it was the visitors who were the happier come the final whistle.
The contest will now be decided on Merseyside in one week's time to see who will face Braga or Lech in the last 16.
All the pre-match hype centred around the inclusion of four Youth Cup stars in the squad, though only England U19 skipper Conor Coady would be in with a chance of taking part after being named on the bench.
Instead it was an experienced Reds side that took to the Generali Stadium pitch on a freezing night in Prague - the one exception being 19-year-old Danny Wilson operating at left-back in a 4-4-2.
Liverpool set about controlling the early possession but it was 13 minutes before either side created an opening worth writing about.
It was Jozef Chovanec's men who broke through following a mix-up between Fabio Aurelio and Raul Meireles in midfield. Their blushes were spared by Keric's inability to direct his shot on target.
Still, the hosts were roused. Matejovsky was next to probe with a 25-yard drive that spiralled wide of Pepe Reina's goal. Minutes later Pamic powered an angled shot towards our No.25, who dirtied his knees with a diving palm away.
At the other end David Ngog was becoming isolated up front, something supporters have not been used to seeing from Dalglish's Liverpool. In fact it took those in white 29 minutes to muster a shot - and even then Aurelio's bouncing effort was never going to trouble Blazek in between the sticks.
Pamic tried to volley the home side in front on 35 minutes, while it took a superb block from Sotirios Kyrgiakos to deny a goalbound smack from Matejovsky.
It was turning out to be a tepid affair - and one of Liverpool's players would not be sticking around to endure it as injury apparently forced Aurelio from the pitch to be replaced by Joe Cole as half-time approached.
It made little immediate difference to the football on offer, with the Reds carving out just one more chance before the break, Ngog nodding on a Meireles corner kick only for Dirk Kuyt to make insufficient contact with the ball.
The second half started with equal slumber, though entertainment could at least be had in counting the number of Liverpool's outfield players wearing gloves. Two was the answer: Meireles and the assured Lucas Leiva.
One change was the sight of Glen Johnson charging up and down the wing with far more abandon, though no one was getting on the end of his crosses.
Again it was an age before either goal came under threat: 17 minutes to be precise. Kweuke was the architect with a decent header which he strained to reach without reward.
On 70 minutes Johnson decided to take matters into his own ungloved hands by cutting inside from the right, navigating several defenders and poking oh so close but not close enough.
Further excitement emanated from the stands when a smoke bomb was set off in the Sparta end, sending a cloud over the pitch and requiring the referee to temporarily pause the action. Sighs of relief could be heard in the press gantry, though Liverpool would not complain about the lack of spice if the result remained goalless heading back to Anfield in a week's time.
Kweuke came reasonably close to denying them that outcome but Reina again stood firm against his shot. Matejovsky struck a long-range effort which almost curled into the top corner on 82 minutes, while Vacek also fired wide from outside the box, but it wasn't to be.
YNWA
Liverpool Lineup Announced
The lineup for tonight's Europe League clash with Sparta Prague has been announced and is as follows:
Reina
Johnson, Carragher, Kyrgiakos, Wilson
Maxi, Lucas, Meireles, Aurelio
Kuyt, Ngog
Subs: Gulacsi, Skrtel, Kelly, Cole, Jovanovic, Pacheco, Coady.
Click here for a free £25 bet on the game!
YNWA
Reina
Johnson, Carragher, Kyrgiakos, Wilson
Maxi, Lucas, Meireles, Aurelio
Kuyt, Ngog
Subs: Gulacsi, Skrtel, Kelly, Cole, Jovanovic, Pacheco, Coady.
Click here for a free £25 bet on the game!
YNWA
Pictures: Liverpool Training In Prague
As Liverpool prepare for tonights clash with Sparta Prague, we have some great photo's of our lads in training yesterday night.
YNWA
Wednesday, 16 February 2011
Liverpool Squad For Prague Trip
Our 23 man squad for the trip to Prague has been named, but Steven Gerrard and Daniel Agger are absent through injuries.
Neither has recovered from the injuries that kept them out of Saturday's draw with Wigan and will not be risked by Dalglish.
Christian Poulsen also misses the clash after his wife went into labour.
Joe Cole is set for a return after tweaking his knee and Meireles has recovered from the bug that saw him withdrawn early in the second-half against Wigan.
Dalglish said: "There's no point being irresponsible with any of the players at this moment. If it causes them a bit of a problem we are as well nursing them through."
When quizzed on Andy Carroll he said: "He won't be considered for the game but will travel just to get in and amongst the lads. It'll help him to feel a part of it."
There are also places on the plane for youngsters Conor Coady, John Flanagan, Jack Robinson, Raheem Sterling, and Tom Ince, although it is unknown if any will play a part in the game.
The boss added: "The lads were all going. Most of them were going anyway. There's nothing any of the boys did on Monday night (Liverpool Youth 9-0 Southend United Youth) that surprised us."
The full squad is as follows:
Reina, Jones, Gulacsi, Johnson, Flanagan, Aurelio, Robinson, Kyrgiakos, Wilson, Carragher, Kelly, Skrtel, Meireles, Cole, Maxi, Jovanovic, Lucas, Coady, Ince, Sterling, Pacheco, Kuyt, Ngog.
YNWA
Neither has recovered from the injuries that kept them out of Saturday's draw with Wigan and will not be risked by Dalglish.
Christian Poulsen also misses the clash after his wife went into labour.
Joe Cole is set for a return after tweaking his knee and Meireles has recovered from the bug that saw him withdrawn early in the second-half against Wigan.
Dalglish said: "There's no point being irresponsible with any of the players at this moment. If it causes them a bit of a problem we are as well nursing them through."
When quizzed on Andy Carroll he said: "He won't be considered for the game but will travel just to get in and amongst the lads. It'll help him to feel a part of it."
There are also places on the plane for youngsters Conor Coady, John Flanagan, Jack Robinson, Raheem Sterling, and Tom Ince, although it is unknown if any will play a part in the game.
The boss added: "The lads were all going. Most of them were going anyway. There's nothing any of the boys did on Monday night (Liverpool Youth 9-0 Southend United Youth) that surprised us."
The full squad is as follows:
Reina, Jones, Gulacsi, Johnson, Flanagan, Aurelio, Robinson, Kyrgiakos, Wilson, Carragher, Kelly, Skrtel, Meireles, Cole, Maxi, Jovanovic, Lucas, Coady, Ince, Sterling, Pacheco, Kuyt, Ngog.
YNWA
Monday, 14 February 2011
Liverpool Youth 9-0 Southend United Youth
Raheem Sterling scored five times as Liverpool U18s stormed into the quarter-finals of the FA Youth Cup with a 9-0 win over Southend United at Anfield.
Match report from LFCTV.
Three strikes in six first-half minutes put the Reds into an unassailable lead, with Sterling bagging a brace and Conor Coady firing home from the penalty spot all before the midway point of the opening period.
Sterling completed his hat-trick on 35 minutes and Stephen Sama and Adam Morgan headers made it six for Liverpool before half-time.
The winger added his fourth and the Reds' seventh on 56 minutes with another jinking run and finish.
Sterling bagged a fifth with a cool finish on 85 minutes and Toni Silva wrapped up the scoring as Rodolfo Borrell's side booked their place in the last eight in emphatic fashion.
The U18s had comprehensively dispatched Notts County and Crystal Palace en route to the fifth round - two results that contributed to the seven-match unbeaten run they took into their showdown with Southend.
Borrell's men kicked-off aiming to set up a mouth-watering last eight clash with either Manchester United or Newcastle as they continued their bid to reach a fourth Youth Cup final in just six years.
The Spanish tactician named the same starting XI that had taken to the field against Palace in early January, while Southend included two players with first-team experience in their team in the shape of Alex Woodyard and Julian Okai.
The hosts nearly made a dream start when Jack Robinson almost somewhat inadvertently steered Suso's corner onto the base of the post inside the opening 60 seconds.
Sterling went closest next, cutting in from the left and curling an effort over the bar on 15 minutes.
But the Shrimpers were in no mood to lie down in the opening exchanges and they almost broke the deadlock themselves moments later. Woodyard's cross was misjudged by Duane Ofori-Acheampong, but the ball dropped invitingly for James Stevens.
The Southend skipper scuffed his attempt goalwards, but the ball was creeping into the bottom corner until Sama cleared off the line.
It was a real let off for Liverpool - but the visitors were soon made to pay for their profligacy.
It was Sterling who put the Reds into an 18th minute lead. Tyrell Belford's long goalkick was allowed to bounce through and find the winger's run, and he made no mistake with a composed finish beyond Daniel Bentley.
If there was a slight suggestion of fortune in Liverpool's opener, then Sterling's second on 21 minutes was all down to sheer talent.
Collecting the ball on the left wing, the diminutive No.7 surged into the area, dancing beyond three Southend defenders, before dispatching an effort into the Kop end goal.
Three minutes later and Borrell's side added a third. Morgan was brought down inside the area by Dominic Iorfa, allowing Coady the chance to crash a penalty into the roof of the net.
Liverpool were totally dominant - and Sterling duly completed his hat-trick on 34 minutes.
Craig Roddan's challenge on Stevens 25 yards from goal allowed the ball to break for Sterling inside the Southend box. The end result was never in doubt as he finished with aplomb.
The Reds were showing no signs of letting up and Sama headed home Krisztian Adorjan's corner to make it 5-0 eight minutes before the break.
There was still time for another before the break and Morgan nodded home Adorjan's free-kick to extend the Reds' advantage even further in stoppage time.
The hosts' onslaught continued after half-time and after Sterling's swerving effort had narrowly evaded the post, substitute Toni Silva saw an effort deflected onto the crossbar by Bentley.
But Sterling was not to be denied his fourth and on 56 minutes, he again burst beyond three Southend defenders before slipping a low shot out of Bentley's reach and into the top corner. It was simply sublime stuff from the former QPR teenager.
Substitutes Joshua Sumner and Jason Banton combined well on 67 minutes, resulting in the former rolling a strike against the post, while Ofori-Acheampong looped over on a rare sortie forward from the guests.
With five minutes left on the clock, Sterling guided a low shot across Bentley and into the bottom corner to claim his fifth of the night before Silva wrapped up the scoring on 90 minutes.
It proved to be the final act on a night that will live long in the memory for Liverpool fans, and Borrell's troops can now look forward to an Anfield quarter-final date with either Manchester United or Newcastle.
On this form, neither of those two sides will be looking forward to the clash with the Reds.
YNWA
Match report from LFCTV.
Three strikes in six first-half minutes put the Reds into an unassailable lead, with Sterling bagging a brace and Conor Coady firing home from the penalty spot all before the midway point of the opening period.
Sterling completed his hat-trick on 35 minutes and Stephen Sama and Adam Morgan headers made it six for Liverpool before half-time.
The winger added his fourth and the Reds' seventh on 56 minutes with another jinking run and finish.
Sterling bagged a fifth with a cool finish on 85 minutes and Toni Silva wrapped up the scoring as Rodolfo Borrell's side booked their place in the last eight in emphatic fashion.
The U18s had comprehensively dispatched Notts County and Crystal Palace en route to the fifth round - two results that contributed to the seven-match unbeaten run they took into their showdown with Southend.
Borrell's men kicked-off aiming to set up a mouth-watering last eight clash with either Manchester United or Newcastle as they continued their bid to reach a fourth Youth Cup final in just six years.
The Spanish tactician named the same starting XI that had taken to the field against Palace in early January, while Southend included two players with first-team experience in their team in the shape of Alex Woodyard and Julian Okai.
The hosts nearly made a dream start when Jack Robinson almost somewhat inadvertently steered Suso's corner onto the base of the post inside the opening 60 seconds.
Sterling went closest next, cutting in from the left and curling an effort over the bar on 15 minutes.
But the Shrimpers were in no mood to lie down in the opening exchanges and they almost broke the deadlock themselves moments later. Woodyard's cross was misjudged by Duane Ofori-Acheampong, but the ball dropped invitingly for James Stevens.
The Southend skipper scuffed his attempt goalwards, but the ball was creeping into the bottom corner until Sama cleared off the line.
It was a real let off for Liverpool - but the visitors were soon made to pay for their profligacy.
It was Sterling who put the Reds into an 18th minute lead. Tyrell Belford's long goalkick was allowed to bounce through and find the winger's run, and he made no mistake with a composed finish beyond Daniel Bentley.
If there was a slight suggestion of fortune in Liverpool's opener, then Sterling's second on 21 minutes was all down to sheer talent.
Collecting the ball on the left wing, the diminutive No.7 surged into the area, dancing beyond three Southend defenders, before dispatching an effort into the Kop end goal.
Three minutes later and Borrell's side added a third. Morgan was brought down inside the area by Dominic Iorfa, allowing Coady the chance to crash a penalty into the roof of the net.
Liverpool were totally dominant - and Sterling duly completed his hat-trick on 34 minutes.
Craig Roddan's challenge on Stevens 25 yards from goal allowed the ball to break for Sterling inside the Southend box. The end result was never in doubt as he finished with aplomb.
The Reds were showing no signs of letting up and Sama headed home Krisztian Adorjan's corner to make it 5-0 eight minutes before the break.
There was still time for another before the break and Morgan nodded home Adorjan's free-kick to extend the Reds' advantage even further in stoppage time.
The hosts' onslaught continued after half-time and after Sterling's swerving effort had narrowly evaded the post, substitute Toni Silva saw an effort deflected onto the crossbar by Bentley.
But Sterling was not to be denied his fourth and on 56 minutes, he again burst beyond three Southend defenders before slipping a low shot out of Bentley's reach and into the top corner. It was simply sublime stuff from the former QPR teenager.
Substitutes Joshua Sumner and Jason Banton combined well on 67 minutes, resulting in the former rolling a strike against the post, while Ofori-Acheampong looped over on a rare sortie forward from the guests.
With five minutes left on the clock, Sterling guided a low shot across Bentley and into the bottom corner to claim his fifth of the night before Silva wrapped up the scoring on 90 minutes.
It proved to be the final act on a night that will live long in the memory for Liverpool fans, and Borrell's troops can now look forward to an Anfield quarter-final date with either Manchester United or Newcastle.
On this form, neither of those two sides will be looking forward to the clash with the Reds.
YNWA
Saturday, 12 February 2011
Liverpool Lineup Announced - Suarez Starts!
The lineup for today's big game against Chelsea has been announced and is as follows:
Reina
Kelly, Carragher, Skrtel, Johnson
Maxi, Meireles, Lucas, Aurelio
Kuyt, Suarez
Subs: Gulacsi, Kyrgiakos, Wilson, Poulsen, Pacheco, Jovanovic, Ngog.
Click here for a free £25 bet on the game!
YNWA
Reina
Kelly, Carragher, Skrtel, Johnson
Maxi, Meireles, Lucas, Aurelio
Kuyt, Suarez
Subs: Gulacsi, Kyrgiakos, Wilson, Poulsen, Pacheco, Jovanovic, Ngog.
Click here for a free £25 bet on the game!
YNWA
Kenny Praises Lucas
Today Kenny Dalglish paid tribute to Lucas as the Liverpool midfielder prepares to make his 100th league appearance for Liverpool Football Club.
Despite enduring a difficult start to his Liverpool career, the Brazilian midfielder has now established himself as an integral member of the Liverpool side, and is also making strides at international level after playing for Brazil against France in midweek when he wore the number five shirt made famous by Dunga.
Dalglish said: "It was interesting to see him playing for Brazil on Wednesday, they have had some fantastic players in his position and the best known was was Dunga, who won World Cups and went on to manage the national side".
"I've always said Lucas is highly thought of in Brazil, probably more than in Britain, but certainly not at Liverpool".
"I don't know why he has started playing so well. Maybe he just needed time to settle. Whatever the reason, we're just grateful for the job that he's doing".
"We have always appreciated what he can do. Last Sunday he was as good as anyone on the pitch at Chelsea. So to see him playing for Brazil wasn't really a surprise for me".
"I don't think Lucas is going to be the one who beats five or six players and puts it into the back of the net. But he may be the one who stops the guy going past the first fella then sets us on our way".
"He's an important member of the team. Most teams have someone like that in the ranks and we are no different".
"The fact he started on Wednesday for Brazil tells you they must be very pleased with him as well, and the performances he's put in for us mean he's deserved it".
YNWA
Despite enduring a difficult start to his Liverpool career, the Brazilian midfielder has now established himself as an integral member of the Liverpool side, and is also making strides at international level after playing for Brazil against France in midweek when he wore the number five shirt made famous by Dunga.
Dalglish said: "It was interesting to see him playing for Brazil on Wednesday, they have had some fantastic players in his position and the best known was was Dunga, who won World Cups and went on to manage the national side".
"I've always said Lucas is highly thought of in Brazil, probably more than in Britain, but certainly not at Liverpool".
"I don't know why he has started playing so well. Maybe he just needed time to settle. Whatever the reason, we're just grateful for the job that he's doing".
"We have always appreciated what he can do. Last Sunday he was as good as anyone on the pitch at Chelsea. So to see him playing for Brazil wasn't really a surprise for me".
"I don't think Lucas is going to be the one who beats five or six players and puts it into the back of the net. But he may be the one who stops the guy going past the first fella then sets us on our way".
"He's an important member of the team. Most teams have someone like that in the ranks and we are no different".
"The fact he started on Wednesday for Brazil tells you they must be very pleased with him as well, and the performances he's put in for us mean he's deserved it".
YNWA
Friday, 11 February 2011
Reina Not For Sale
Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has crushed rumours linking Pepe Reina with a move away from the club, insisting he is not for sale.
Rumours intensified that Reina could leave Anfield this summer after hinting in an interview in his native Spain that he might have to consider his future if the Reds are not playing in the UEFA Champions League.
Manchester United and Arsenal have both been mentioned as possible candidates to sign the talented shot-stopper should he seek to leave Merseyside.
However, Dalglish is confident Reina will stay at Liverpool for the foreseeable future and that everyone at the club wants to return to the European football's top table.
"We have a fantastic goalkeeper and he will be here for a long, long time," said Dalglish".
"The Champions League is what everyone here wants to get to. For us it's only been a year where we've not had it and that's what we want to get back".
"It should be the same for every player, we should all be aiming for that".
YNWA
Rumours intensified that Reina could leave Anfield this summer after hinting in an interview in his native Spain that he might have to consider his future if the Reds are not playing in the UEFA Champions League.
Manchester United and Arsenal have both been mentioned as possible candidates to sign the talented shot-stopper should he seek to leave Merseyside.
However, Dalglish is confident Reina will stay at Liverpool for the foreseeable future and that everyone at the club wants to return to the European football's top table.
"We have a fantastic goalkeeper and he will be here for a long, long time," said Dalglish".
"The Champions League is what everyone here wants to get to. For us it's only been a year where we've not had it and that's what we want to get back".
"It should be the same for every player, we should all be aiming for that".
YNWA
Liverpool Linked With World Class Bojan
Liverpool are set to launch a summer approach for Barcelona's striker Bojan Krkic, regarded at one of the worlds top young strikers, according to reports from Spain.
Publication Sport comments that despite the Merseyside club adding two strikers in the January transfer window in the form of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez, they remain on the hunt for attacking talent.
As a result, they have identified the Blaugrana product as a potential addition, and are willing to spend up to €20 million to prise the 20-year-old from the Camp Nou.
It is unlikely that current coach Pep Guardiola will want to part with a player that he sees playing a key role in the long-term future of the Catalan giants.
However, despite signing a new contract until 2015 and being given the number nine jersey, he has failed to impress on his rare first-team outings this season, scoring just three goals in eighteen appearances this season.
YNWA
Publication Sport comments that despite the Merseyside club adding two strikers in the January transfer window in the form of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez, they remain on the hunt for attacking talent.
As a result, they have identified the Blaugrana product as a potential addition, and are willing to spend up to €20 million to prise the 20-year-old from the Camp Nou.
It is unlikely that current coach Pep Guardiola will want to part with a player that he sees playing a key role in the long-term future of the Catalan giants.
However, despite signing a new contract until 2015 and being given the number nine jersey, he has failed to impress on his rare first-team outings this season, scoring just three goals in eighteen appearances this season.
YNWA
Thursday, 10 February 2011
Shelvey Out For 12 Weeks
Liverpool have been dealt a big blow with the news that Jonjo Shelvey will be out of action for 12 weeks with a tendon problem in his knee.
The Liverpool & England U19 midfielder will now begin a lengthy rehabilitation programme with the club's medical staff at Melwood.
Earlier today Shelvey said: "I'm a bit down at the moment but I'm just hoping now I can come back stronger".
"I am now going to take a 12 week rehabilitation and hopefully I'll be back soon".
YNWA
The Liverpool & England U19 midfielder will now begin a lengthy rehabilitation programme with the club's medical staff at Melwood.
Earlier today Shelvey said: "I'm a bit down at the moment but I'm just hoping now I can come back stronger".
"I am now going to take a 12 week rehabilitation and hopefully I'll be back soon".
YNWA
Wednesday, 9 February 2011
Agger On The Scoresheet
Daniel Agger scored a great headed goal in Denmark's 2-1 defeat to England earlier this evening.
The goal game courtesy of a fine header in the 7th minute by the Liverpool center back, who looked very happy to bag a rare goal.
Later on in the game, with the score then at 1-1, Liverpool right back Glen Johnson set up what turned out to be the winning goal in the 68th minute, when he ran through the Denmark half from right-back before setting up Ashley Young who found the back of the net net.
Christian Poulsen also captained Denmark, as all three Liverpool players played the full 90 minutes.
YNWA
The goal game courtesy of a fine header in the 7th minute by the Liverpool center back, who looked very happy to bag a rare goal.
Later on in the game, with the score then at 1-1, Liverpool right back Glen Johnson set up what turned out to be the winning goal in the 68th minute, when he ran through the Denmark half from right-back before setting up Ashley Young who found the back of the net net.
Christian Poulsen also captained Denmark, as all three Liverpool players played the full 90 minutes.
YNWA
Steve Clarke Interview
Earlier today Liverpool's First Team Coach Steve Clarke gave an interview, here's how it went down:
--- Start Of Interview ---
Well Steve I guess Melwood must be a pretty happy place at the moment especially after Sunday's fantastic victory?
It was a good win for us and it keeps the momentum going. We are in a good moment and the longer we can keep that good moment going the better.
You got a great welcome as well before the game, that was a nice touch by Chelsea...
I had some fantastic times at Chelsea both as a player and as a coach so it's always nice when you go back and get that kind of reception. It shows that your work there was appreciated and I'm always grateful for the reception I get when I go back there.
What pleased you, Kenny and Sammy most about the performance on Sunday?
I think the confidence the players showed and the resilience. It's a difficult place to go and get a result. We handled it very well and I thought we played some good stuff and created the better chances. If you look at the match statistics I think Chelsea only had two shots on target in 90 minutes which is very unusual for them in a home game.
Four clean sheets in a row now, how pleasing has that been?
Your success is always based on how you defend. If you defend well as a team and don't concede goals then you will always give yourself a chance to win the game. I know it sounds like an old cliché and it's really simple but the basis of any good team is built on a strong defence. It has been good for us in the last few games not to have let any goals in. It's good for Pepe, it's good for the confidence of everybody and hopefully we can continue that.
Jamie Carragher has been out since November but you wouldn't have thought it with that display would you?
When you put a player like Jamie back into your team you know what you are going to get. Obviously it was a big game and difficult for him because he's been out for so long but you knew the occasion, the adrenaline of the game would get Jamie through it. His experience and his quality told.
In the last three games you have gone with three at the back using two wing backs, and it has been very effective hasn't it?
It has and it's something we wanted to do against Stoke to get another big player in the team to nullify their threat in the air, and it worked very well. We decided to go again with it on Sunday and it worked really well again, so it's good when you have got two or three different systems that you can play. If your players are adaptable and can fit into any system then it's obviously great going forward.
Is this system something you could continue with?
Yes and we will look at it game by game. You have to look at the opposition and you have to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the opposition. It's good for us because it means we can be more flexible and it means we are not as easy to read for the opposition. We can change the system to suit how we want to play so it's good to have different systems.
How rewarding is that for you as coaching staff when you see the hard work on the training ground come to fruition where it matters on a match day?
It's good for the manager and the coaching staff when you are getting results. It's good when you've changed the formation a bit and you win. Most of the credit has to go to the players. They are the people that go on the pitch and they have to put that into practice and they've done that very well recently.
Have you been impressed by the players work on the training ground?
I have been impressed with their attitude since I first came to the club. Even at the start when it was more difficult to get a result and we didn't get the result we wanted, on the training ground you could see the players were working and they were hungry. They wanted to take on board what we trying to tell them and hopefully the recent results are a reflection on how they have trained.
How much are you enjoying working alongside Kenny and Sammy?
It has been great. I've been here about four weeks now and it feels a lot longer than that because there has been a lot of games and a lot of training sessions. It's great to be involved again. I had a long time out of the game and every day is a pleasure.
How important it is to continue the good run against Wigan on Saturday?
It's very important. The club when we came here were in a false position and not a good position. It was important to put that right and get us as high up the league as possible. The only way you do that is by winning games. We have shown that when you string together a good couple of wins then you quickly go up the table. We are in a better position now but we are certainly not in a position that Liverpool Football Club should be at. We want to be higher.
Wigan are in the bottom three and fighting for their lives - does that make them a dangerous opponent?
I think you only have to look at recent results in the Barclays Premier League to know that everybody is dangerous. The top team went to the bottom team last weekend and lost. That shows you that anybody can beat anybody else in the league. We have to be on our guard but we also have to be confident and sure of ourselves and think we are looking like a good side again. We want to continue that and pick up another three points and keep looking at the teams above us.
You went with Kenny and Sammy to watch the reserves beat Tranmere Rovers 4-0 in a friendly yesterday - was that a good exercise for the squad players?
It was a lovely morning and we had three or four players who haven't played recently and needed a game. For them it was a good exercise and for myself it was good because I don't know a lot of the younger players so I could go and see what is coming through.
A player you know very well Glen Johnson has switched positions to play on the left but he has been terrific hasn't he?
Glen is a quality player and a top international for England. You don't become an international regular for England if you are not a good player. I worked with Glen at Chelsea and he is always a pleasure to work with. I think he has been re-energised with the change and he has switched to the left and proved he can play just as well there as he can on the right. It's always good to have adaptable players and when you have people like that who do well for you every week no matter what position they are in then it's a great position for the manager and the coaching staff.
How is Joe Cole after missing the last two games with a knee injury?
He's working again on the training pitch. He's not joined in with the group yet but he is on his way back and hopefully before the end of the season we will get a glimpse of the real Joe Cole. If Joe can get himself fit and focused on the pitch then he will certainly be a big asset to this squad.
Eight of your players are on international duty this week, is it a case of you all keeping your fingers crossed hoping they come back unscathed for Saturday?
It's not ideal having the international friendlies at a time when you want all of your players together, and especially when you are on a good run. We are hoping the international break doesn't break the momentum a little bit because we have players going to different parts of the world and we hope they will come back fit and healthy. We will have a head count on Thursday and probably the only real preparation session for the game will be on Friday, but I'm sure the lads will be ready for Saturday.
For young lads like Danny Wilson who has been called up again by Scotland it's a good opportunity for him isn't it?
It's a fantastic honour to get picked by your country especially for somebody like Danny who hasn't had too many games here. He has shown a terrific attitude in training and he is a really valuable member of the squad. It's nice for him to get that little reward and hopefully he will get a game.
Are you hopeful the likes of Steven Gerrard and Martin Kelly will be available for Wigan on Saturday?
We hope so but if not we have got other players in the squad that can come in and do a similar job.
--- End Of Interview ---
YNWA
--- Start Of Interview ---
Well Steve I guess Melwood must be a pretty happy place at the moment especially after Sunday's fantastic victory?
It was a good win for us and it keeps the momentum going. We are in a good moment and the longer we can keep that good moment going the better.
You got a great welcome as well before the game, that was a nice touch by Chelsea...
I had some fantastic times at Chelsea both as a player and as a coach so it's always nice when you go back and get that kind of reception. It shows that your work there was appreciated and I'm always grateful for the reception I get when I go back there.
What pleased you, Kenny and Sammy most about the performance on Sunday?
I think the confidence the players showed and the resilience. It's a difficult place to go and get a result. We handled it very well and I thought we played some good stuff and created the better chances. If you look at the match statistics I think Chelsea only had two shots on target in 90 minutes which is very unusual for them in a home game.
Four clean sheets in a row now, how pleasing has that been?
Your success is always based on how you defend. If you defend well as a team and don't concede goals then you will always give yourself a chance to win the game. I know it sounds like an old cliché and it's really simple but the basis of any good team is built on a strong defence. It has been good for us in the last few games not to have let any goals in. It's good for Pepe, it's good for the confidence of everybody and hopefully we can continue that.
Jamie Carragher has been out since November but you wouldn't have thought it with that display would you?
When you put a player like Jamie back into your team you know what you are going to get. Obviously it was a big game and difficult for him because he's been out for so long but you knew the occasion, the adrenaline of the game would get Jamie through it. His experience and his quality told.
In the last three games you have gone with three at the back using two wing backs, and it has been very effective hasn't it?
It has and it's something we wanted to do against Stoke to get another big player in the team to nullify their threat in the air, and it worked very well. We decided to go again with it on Sunday and it worked really well again, so it's good when you have got two or three different systems that you can play. If your players are adaptable and can fit into any system then it's obviously great going forward.
Is this system something you could continue with?
Yes and we will look at it game by game. You have to look at the opposition and you have to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the opposition. It's good for us because it means we can be more flexible and it means we are not as easy to read for the opposition. We can change the system to suit how we want to play so it's good to have different systems.
How rewarding is that for you as coaching staff when you see the hard work on the training ground come to fruition where it matters on a match day?
It's good for the manager and the coaching staff when you are getting results. It's good when you've changed the formation a bit and you win. Most of the credit has to go to the players. They are the people that go on the pitch and they have to put that into practice and they've done that very well recently.
Have you been impressed by the players work on the training ground?
I have been impressed with their attitude since I first came to the club. Even at the start when it was more difficult to get a result and we didn't get the result we wanted, on the training ground you could see the players were working and they were hungry. They wanted to take on board what we trying to tell them and hopefully the recent results are a reflection on how they have trained.
How much are you enjoying working alongside Kenny and Sammy?
It has been great. I've been here about four weeks now and it feels a lot longer than that because there has been a lot of games and a lot of training sessions. It's great to be involved again. I had a long time out of the game and every day is a pleasure.
How important it is to continue the good run against Wigan on Saturday?
It's very important. The club when we came here were in a false position and not a good position. It was important to put that right and get us as high up the league as possible. The only way you do that is by winning games. We have shown that when you string together a good couple of wins then you quickly go up the table. We are in a better position now but we are certainly not in a position that Liverpool Football Club should be at. We want to be higher.
Wigan are in the bottom three and fighting for their lives - does that make them a dangerous opponent?
I think you only have to look at recent results in the Barclays Premier League to know that everybody is dangerous. The top team went to the bottom team last weekend and lost. That shows you that anybody can beat anybody else in the league. We have to be on our guard but we also have to be confident and sure of ourselves and think we are looking like a good side again. We want to continue that and pick up another three points and keep looking at the teams above us.
You went with Kenny and Sammy to watch the reserves beat Tranmere Rovers 4-0 in a friendly yesterday - was that a good exercise for the squad players?
It was a lovely morning and we had three or four players who haven't played recently and needed a game. For them it was a good exercise and for myself it was good because I don't know a lot of the younger players so I could go and see what is coming through.
A player you know very well Glen Johnson has switched positions to play on the left but he has been terrific hasn't he?
Glen is a quality player and a top international for England. You don't become an international regular for England if you are not a good player. I worked with Glen at Chelsea and he is always a pleasure to work with. I think he has been re-energised with the change and he has switched to the left and proved he can play just as well there as he can on the right. It's always good to have adaptable players and when you have people like that who do well for you every week no matter what position they are in then it's a great position for the manager and the coaching staff.
How is Joe Cole after missing the last two games with a knee injury?
He's working again on the training pitch. He's not joined in with the group yet but he is on his way back and hopefully before the end of the season we will get a glimpse of the real Joe Cole. If Joe can get himself fit and focused on the pitch then he will certainly be a big asset to this squad.
Eight of your players are on international duty this week, is it a case of you all keeping your fingers crossed hoping they come back unscathed for Saturday?
It's not ideal having the international friendlies at a time when you want all of your players together, and especially when you are on a good run. We are hoping the international break doesn't break the momentum a little bit because we have players going to different parts of the world and we hope they will come back fit and healthy. We will have a head count on Thursday and probably the only real preparation session for the game will be on Friday, but I'm sure the lads will be ready for Saturday.
For young lads like Danny Wilson who has been called up again by Scotland it's a good opportunity for him isn't it?
It's a fantastic honour to get picked by your country especially for somebody like Danny who hasn't had too many games here. He has shown a terrific attitude in training and he is a really valuable member of the squad. It's nice for him to get that little reward and hopefully he will get a game.
Are you hopeful the likes of Steven Gerrard and Martin Kelly will be available for Wigan on Saturday?
We hope so but if not we have got other players in the squad that can come in and do a similar job.
--- End Of Interview ---
YNWA
Tuesday, 8 February 2011
David Villa Praises Anfield Strike Due
David Villa has tipped Liverpool's new strike force to be a huge hit at Anfield.
The Barcelona striker is convinced the additions of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez was money well spent by boss Kenny Dalglish and he thinks the duo will become instant favourites with the supporters.
He said: "Liverpool needed to reinforce after the sale of Fernando (Torres). They (Suarez & Carroll) are two great players who are worth every penny. I'm sure they'll be a hit with the fans".
YNWA
The Barcelona striker is convinced the additions of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez was money well spent by boss Kenny Dalglish and he thinks the duo will become instant favourites with the supporters.
He said: "Liverpool needed to reinforce after the sale of Fernando (Torres). They (Suarez & Carroll) are two great players who are worth every penny. I'm sure they'll be a hit with the fans".
YNWA
Dirk Kuys Joins Twitter
Dirk Kuyt is the latest football player to join Twitter.
He is now tweeting under @Dirk_18_Kuyt.
The identity was confirmed by Ryan Babel yesterday evening and within an hour he had over 13,000 followers.
One of his first Tweets in English spoke about his charity.
"I Will not only keep you up to date about my career but also about the dirk kuyt foundation".
While on the subject if Twitter, you can follow us for all the latest Liverpool FC news, match updates, vidoes and highlights on @EmpireOfAnfield or by clicking HERE.
YNWA
He is now tweeting under @Dirk_18_Kuyt.
The identity was confirmed by Ryan Babel yesterday evening and within an hour he had over 13,000 followers.
One of his first Tweets in English spoke about his charity.
"I Will not only keep you up to date about my career but also about the dirk kuyt foundation".
While on the subject if Twitter, you can follow us for all the latest Liverpool FC news, match updates, vidoes and highlights on @EmpireOfAnfield or by clicking HERE.
YNWA
Monday, 7 February 2011
Kelly Withdrawn From England Squad
Martin Kelly has been withdrawn from the England U21 squad after suffering a sprained ankle during Sunday's 1-0 victory at Chelsea.
The right-back was set to feature as right back for Stuart Pearce's side in their friendly with Italy on Tuesday, but will now remain in Liverpool.
Our Head of Sports Medicine and Sports Science, Dr Peter Brukner has said: "Martin suffered a sprained ankle during yesterday's game. He was treated at half time and able to continue but it was very sore after the game".
In my opinion I think it is fantastic that Kelly, who is a fantastic young talent, seems to be regarded as England's best young right back.
YNWA
In my opinion I think it is fantastic that Kelly, who is a fantastic young talent, seems to be regarded as England's best young right back.
YNWA
Sunday, 6 February 2011
Meireles Gives Liverpool All 3 Points Against Chelsea
In a game that was expected to be centred around Fernando Torres and Luis Suarez, is was Raul Meireles who stole the headlines as Liverpool claimed a 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge today.
The Portugese midfielder scored the only goal on what was a fantastic day for Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
The result completes a league double for the Reds over their rivals and makes it four successive victories for Kenny Dalglish, a sequence which has lifted his side to sixth in the Barclays Premier League.
While all eyes were on Torres, he was disapointing and didn't even last the 90 minutes, being substituted for Kalou with over 20 minutes remaining.
Dalglish once again decided to begin with Luis Suarez on the bench, who remained there for the full 90 minutes, whereas Carragher came back into the starting 11 after over 2 months out through injury.
Torres had chances on both 2 minutes, and 31 minutes, but failed to trouble Reina on both occasions, the highlight of his game.
On the 33rd minute, Steven Gerrard whipped a powerful cross through the face of goal only for Maxi to hit against the crossbar from 3 yards out.
The first half ended with more drama in the Chelsea penalty area when a Martin Kelly centre caused confusion between Petr Cech and Ivanovic, which almost ended in a fight between the pair of Chelsea players.
As the sides re-emerged for the second half, Torres appeared to gravitate towards his old teammates before realising his mistake and rejoining those in blue. It was yet another bizarre footprint on the 26 year old's journey from Merseyside to the capital.
It was Liverpool who probed first once the whistle had blown, a right-foot smack from Glen Johnson coming close to opening the scores. Drogba and Nicolas Anelka both had chances from there but the visiting defence was holding firm in its quest for a fourth consecutive clean sheet.
They did look vulnerable on 66 minutes having backed off Anelka before watching his well-struck effort whizz narrowly the wrong side of the post.
Carlo Ancelotti had seen enough and made the decision to withdraw Torres, who having swapped red for blue looked distinctly off colour.
The change almost paid immediate dividends when Michael Essien drove forward before lashing over the crossbar - and instead it was Liverpool who took the lead.
The goal arrived on 68 minutes when Chelsea's defenders failed to clear a Gerrard cross and allowed Meireles to hook into the net with his left foot at the back post.
His 4th goal in 5 games made him the only currently Liverpool player to have scored in the league at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues retaliated with an Anelka throughball to substitute Florent Malouda only for the France international to be thwarted by Reina.
It might have been 2-0 on 81 minutes when another substitute, Aurelio, turned John Terry in the box before having a rare right-foot hit palmed away by Cech.
In the end one goal proved enough to secure what was only Liverpool's third Stamford Bridge win of the Premier League era.
YNWA
The Portugese midfielder scored the only goal on what was a fantastic day for Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
The result completes a league double for the Reds over their rivals and makes it four successive victories for Kenny Dalglish, a sequence which has lifted his side to sixth in the Barclays Premier League.
While all eyes were on Torres, he was disapointing and didn't even last the 90 minutes, being substituted for Kalou with over 20 minutes remaining.
Dalglish once again decided to begin with Luis Suarez on the bench, who remained there for the full 90 minutes, whereas Carragher came back into the starting 11 after over 2 months out through injury.
Torres had chances on both 2 minutes, and 31 minutes, but failed to trouble Reina on both occasions, the highlight of his game.
On the 33rd minute, Steven Gerrard whipped a powerful cross through the face of goal only for Maxi to hit against the crossbar from 3 yards out.
The first half ended with more drama in the Chelsea penalty area when a Martin Kelly centre caused confusion between Petr Cech and Ivanovic, which almost ended in a fight between the pair of Chelsea players.
As the sides re-emerged for the second half, Torres appeared to gravitate towards his old teammates before realising his mistake and rejoining those in blue. It was yet another bizarre footprint on the 26 year old's journey from Merseyside to the capital.
It was Liverpool who probed first once the whistle had blown, a right-foot smack from Glen Johnson coming close to opening the scores. Drogba and Nicolas Anelka both had chances from there but the visiting defence was holding firm in its quest for a fourth consecutive clean sheet.
They did look vulnerable on 66 minutes having backed off Anelka before watching his well-struck effort whizz narrowly the wrong side of the post.
Carlo Ancelotti had seen enough and made the decision to withdraw Torres, who having swapped red for blue looked distinctly off colour.
The change almost paid immediate dividends when Michael Essien drove forward before lashing over the crossbar - and instead it was Liverpool who took the lead.
The goal arrived on 68 minutes when Chelsea's defenders failed to clear a Gerrard cross and allowed Meireles to hook into the net with his left foot at the back post.
His 4th goal in 5 games made him the only currently Liverpool player to have scored in the league at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues retaliated with an Anelka throughball to substitute Florent Malouda only for the France international to be thwarted by Reina.
It might have been 2-0 on 81 minutes when another substitute, Aurelio, turned John Terry in the box before having a rare right-foot hit palmed away by Cech.
In the end one goal proved enough to secure what was only Liverpool's third Stamford Bridge win of the Premier League era.
YNWA
Liverpool Lineup Announced
The lineup for today's big game against Chelsea has been announced and is as follows:
Reina
Kelly, Carragher, Skrtel, Agger
Johnson, Gerrard, Lucas, Maxi
Meireles
Kuyt
Subs: Gulacsi, Aurelio, Suarez, Jovanovic, Kyrgiakos, Ngog, Poulsen.
Chelsea are firm favourited for the game, with William Hill offering massive odds of 5/1 (6.00) on Liverpool winning the game, definitely worth a bet if you ask me!
Click here for a free £25 bet on the game!
YNWA
Reina
Kelly, Carragher, Skrtel, Agger
Johnson, Gerrard, Lucas, Maxi
Meireles
Kuyt
Subs: Gulacsi, Aurelio, Suarez, Jovanovic, Kyrgiakos, Ngog, Poulsen.
Chelsea are firm favourited for the game, with William Hill offering massive odds of 5/1 (6.00) on Liverpool winning the game, definitely worth a bet if you ask me!
Click here for a free £25 bet on the game!
YNWA
Saturday, 5 February 2011
Reina Believes Liverpool Can Attract Anyone
Pepe Reina believes the deadline day arrivals of Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll proves that Liverpool will always attract football's top talent.
The Reds swooped to sign the strike pair on Monday, with Suarez already marking his debut as a second half substitute against Stoke City with a goal, after being on the pitch around 15 minutes.
Reina feels the acquisition of the duo underlines the fact that Anfield remains an attractive destination to the best players on the planet.
He said "Liverpool will always attract good players because it's an historic club. It's one of the big four teams in England".
"The people will always want to come here, that's clear".
"I hope for many more of the goals that Luis scored within 30 minutes of coming on on Wednesday. We have to welcome him, and Carroll as well".
"It was important to keep that momentum, we knew they were winnable games, although in the Premier League you cannot say that too often".
"We had respect for the three teams we played but we won them all. And we're a lot better now".
YNWA
The Reds swooped to sign the strike pair on Monday, with Suarez already marking his debut as a second half substitute against Stoke City with a goal, after being on the pitch around 15 minutes.
Reina feels the acquisition of the duo underlines the fact that Anfield remains an attractive destination to the best players on the planet.
He said "Liverpool will always attract good players because it's an historic club. It's one of the big four teams in England".
"The people will always want to come here, that's clear".
"I hope for many more of the goals that Luis scored within 30 minutes of coming on on Wednesday. We have to welcome him, and Carroll as well".
"It was important to keep that momentum, we knew they were winnable games, although in the Premier League you cannot say that too often".
"We had respect for the three teams we played but we won them all. And we're a lot better now".
YNWA
Poulson On Agger And Clarke
Christian Poulsen has hailed Daniel Agger as a major asset to Liverpool.
The Danish international has had his injury problems this season but he's been a regular fixture at centre back under Kenny Dalglish, and Poulsen insists Agger's best in a red shirt is still yet to come.
He said "We all know the quality Daniel has and he is a really good player".
"I know he had problems with injuries at the start of the season but I hope he can now have some luck and stay injury free".
"He is doing well for us at the moment and I'm pretty sure he will be an important player for us for the rest of the season".
When quized about Steve Clarke he said "Training is different and when a new manager and new coach comes in everybody has to be focused and it's really good".
"We are enjoying adapting to a different style and Steve is a really good coach. We are using the ball a lot more in the training sessions and it's good".
"We have been doing some pretty hard sessions but that is a good thing because everyone can see in the games we are playing that we are working hard".
"The atmosphere around the club is good so hopefully we can take that into the games and climb higher up the table".
YNWA
The Danish international has had his injury problems this season but he's been a regular fixture at centre back under Kenny Dalglish, and Poulsen insists Agger's best in a red shirt is still yet to come.
He said "We all know the quality Daniel has and he is a really good player".
"I know he had problems with injuries at the start of the season but I hope he can now have some luck and stay injury free".
"He is doing well for us at the moment and I'm pretty sure he will be an important player for us for the rest of the season".
When quized about Steve Clarke he said "Training is different and when a new manager and new coach comes in everybody has to be focused and it's really good".
"We are enjoying adapting to a different style and Steve is a really good coach. We are using the ball a lot more in the training sessions and it's good".
"We have been doing some pretty hard sessions but that is a good thing because everyone can see in the games we are playing that we are working hard".
"The atmosphere around the club is good so hopefully we can take that into the games and climb higher up the table".
YNWA
Meireles: Win Is All We're Thinking Of
In an interview Raul Meireles has claimed that the presence of Fernando Torres will not distract Liverpool from their bid to record a fourth successive Barclays Premier League win on Sunday.
Torres could make his Chelsea debut against the Reds at Stamford Bridge, but that is of no concern to the on form midfielder.
Instead he is focused on making it 12 points from 12 following wins against Fulham, Wolves and Stoke.
Here's what January's player of the month had to say:
"Everybody will speak about Fernando but the team will only think about the game, we'll work hard to make it a great game".
"We're starting to play with more joy and confidence and we'll work to continue this. We won the first game against Chelsea at Anfield and that felt great to beat Chelsea 2-0".
"It's normal in football, players change clubs. I've played against Fernando before for Portugal vs Spain. We've got to respect his choice".
"He helped me lots when I came to Liverpool and I wish him the best, though not on Sunday".
He then continued by chatting on about Liverpool's current form:
"I think we're playing good football, we've put in good performances in the last games and we're happy".
"The main thing for me is the belief in the team. The team believes we have enough quality to beat other teams and be in a better position".
"It's going well now and we're happy. The manager has shown confidence in us as a group. We're playing with more joy".
He was then asked about his own form:
"It's a good moment for me but the most important thing is the victories. I have started to score goals but I don't live for goals, I live to win. I want to win every game, that's the most important thing for me".
"I feel great to play at this level. I like English football, the supporters are fantastic and I'm happy to play here".
As well as a potential bow for Torres in a blue shirt, Sunday could be an opportunity for Luis Suarez to make his first start for Liverpool following his £22,800,000 move from Ajax.
Supporters have already had a glimpse of the talent which made him a World Cup star in 2010, with him bagging a debut goal against Stoke at the Kop End, after being on the pitch for around 15 minutes.
This impressed Meireles, who finished off his interview with "He's a very good player and has scored a lot of goals in Holland. We're trying to help him because he speaks Spanish, we're helping him with the language. But he's a good transfer for us".
YNWA
Agger Believes Dalglish Is The Difference
In an interview earlier today, Daniel Agger praised to the impact Kenny Dalglish has made since returning to Liverpool, revealing how he has restored confidence and morale in the dressing room.
Dalglish has helped us to a 3 match winning streak in the Premier League, which has moved us up to 7th in the table and brought the feel good factor back to Anfield.
Agger believes the manager deserves praise for his role in turning Liverpool's season around, and he is optimistic the side can maintain their excellent form.
When quizzed on what Dalglish had brought to the team, here's what Agger had to say:
"The easiest answer is the confidence and mentality of working for each other".
"Kenny came in at a difficult time. It is always difficult to come in when a team is struggling, but I think we have started to play better".
"Definitely he lifted the team, definitely he lifted the team spirit, and we have to give the credit to him and Steve Clarke".
"We've got three wins in a row so confidence will rise and hopefully that will carry on in the next couple of games".
"There is quite a way to go and that is why we have to take one game at a time, to get three points and see where that takes us".
YNWA
Dalglish has helped us to a 3 match winning streak in the Premier League, which has moved us up to 7th in the table and brought the feel good factor back to Anfield.
Agger believes the manager deserves praise for his role in turning Liverpool's season around, and he is optimistic the side can maintain their excellent form.
When quizzed on what Dalglish had brought to the team, here's what Agger had to say:
"The easiest answer is the confidence and mentality of working for each other".
"Kenny came in at a difficult time. It is always difficult to come in when a team is struggling, but I think we have started to play better".
"Definitely he lifted the team, definitely he lifted the team spirit, and we have to give the credit to him and Steve Clarke".
"We've got three wins in a row so confidence will rise and hopefully that will carry on in the next couple of games".
"There is quite a way to go and that is why we have to take one game at a time, to get three points and see where that takes us".
YNWA
Friday, 4 February 2011
Benitez Wants A Return To Merseyside
Rafael Benitez has said in an interview he would love to return to Merseyside to manager Liverpool.
With King Kenny now in charge, this news may seem unimportant all of a sudden, but it's great to know Liverpool is still in Rafa's heart.
He said the following:
"Always to be manager of Liverpool is a dream, at this time I know that Kenny is doing really well so I have to wait and just keep watching games and that's it".
"But if you say to me in the future you would like to be manager, for sure, (there is) no doubt about this. When is the question but I have to move forward anyway".
YNWA
With King Kenny now in charge, this news may seem unimportant all of a sudden, but it's great to know Liverpool is still in Rafa's heart.
He said the following:
"Always to be manager of Liverpool is a dream, at this time I know that Kenny is doing really well so I have to wait and just keep watching games and that's it".
"But if you say to me in the future you would like to be manager, for sure, (there is) no doubt about this. When is the question but I have to move forward anyway".
YNWA
Dalglish Talks About Chelsea Game
Kenny Dalglish insists Liverpool will be focused solely on maintaining their impressive form at Chelsea – regardless of who the Blues have in their starting line-up.
Article from LFCTV.
The Reds could face former teammate Fernando Torres within days of his deadline day move at Stamford Bridge but the boss is more concerned with seeing his side continue their upturn in fortunes.
"We'll wait and see what happens," Dalglish told reporters when quizzed about the prospect of Torres partnering Didier Drogba.
"I don't know who Carlo (Ancelotti) is going to pick. Until he comes out and tells us who he is going to pick, then we'll be guessing.
"We'll play against whoever they put on the pitch. We are more important than any player they have."
He added: "Our ambition is to get as much as we can from the next game. It's the way I've been brought up. I don't see any need to change it. If it was good enough for two of the greatest British managers that ever lived, I think it is good enough for me to adopt that principle as well.
"We've got our reward for the hard work we have done. It's been a difficult week for them as well. Some people forget that they also have emotions and feelings. We've been in the newspapers a lot all week. That puts an extra bit of strain on them.
"It's to their great credit that they have put all that behind them and put in such a determined performance to get a result against Stoke.
"We've been delighted by the attitude and the approach since we came in. If we continue to work hard and get points, then we'll have more points to help us finish higher in the league. That's all we are trying to achieve."
A run of three straight wins has moved Liverpool into seventh place ahead of a mouthwatering encounter in the Capital.
Dalglish accepts they will face a stern test of their credentials against the reigning Barclays Premier League champions but insists they will hold no fears at Stamford Bridge.
"Of course it's a difficult game," he said.
"They had a great result at Sunderland the other night. They have picked themselves back up after going through a run of games when they couldn't buy a victory. But they are back on song now.
"They are a good side but I don't think we are too bad either. They will be looking at us and see that we are on the up. They will be as concerned about us as we are about them.
"They have some great players. They are strong, quick and move it quite well. We know what they have. It's up to us to try and do better than them on the day.
He added: "To have won three on the spin with three clean sheets will give us a lot of confidence.
"Chelsea have a different style to what Stoke and Wolves have had so we've got to compete against that. It's a game away from home, so I suppose the responsibility is on Chelsea to push forward.
"But we have a responsibility as well, to compete as well as we possibly can. We can only go there and try our best. We must make sure we are prepared properly and see how it goes."
Since returning to the Anfield dugout Dalglish has helped to reinvigorate Liverpool's season.
He admits he has enjoyed every moment so far and feels the manner in which both goals were celebrated in the victory over Stoke illustrates how the club is now moving forward.
"It's a football club that means an awful lot to myself and all of my family members," he said.
"I'm only doing what millions of others who care about this club would do - and that's to try and help them. If we can turn the corner a little bit, improve our league position and play a small part in the future, then fine.
"I'm enjoying myself. It was very pleasing for me on Wednesday night, when we scored both goals. Every player celebrated and that's important for us. If we have a good dressing room then we have a better chance of being successful.
"I think it showed that the dressing room is pretty united."
Asked if he felt the presence of Torres could act as further motivation for his players come Sunday afternoon, the boss said: "I think the players relish a battle against every player they come up against. Since I've come in they have competed brilliantly against every player that has been on the pitch for the opposition.
"I don't think there is anyone we wouldn't compete against. Our lads don't have a problem and I think they will be competitive irrespective of the opposition."
Reporters also suggested that Liverpool fans now equate the rivalry with Chelsea to that of the passion they reserve for clashes with Everton and Manchester United.
Dalglish responded: "I've not heard them say that.
"When you had the so-called top four and Liverpool were part of that - as Chelsea were - they were all rivals. For me, anyone in the opposing team is a rival that you compete with.
"I don't have a pecking order in terms of games you want to win. I want to get three points in every game.
"For me, we are more important than the opposition.
"Yes, we have to compete with the likes of Man United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham and everybody else. And we'll try our best to do that. But there's no special opposition as far as I'm concerned."
Dalglish could opt to recall Jamie Carragher for the clash with Chelsea following his recovery from a long-term shoulder injury.
The vice-captain was an unused substitute in the midweek win over Stoke and the Scot admits it could act as a huge lift to have him available again.
Dalglish said: "He's delighted to be back. Carra's a very strong character. He's very important in the dressing room and when he's fit he'll be very important on the pitch as well.
"For us it's a bonus to have Jamie Carragher back in amongst the squad."
While the return of our No.23 has given the Reds a significant boost, Dalglish did reveal he has two doubts for the weekend trip to London - including ex-Blue Joe Cole.
He said: "Christian Poulsen was on the bench against Stoke but I think he tried to tie his boot lace and his back went into spasm.
"So, we didn't want to take a chance, it could have stiffened up on him. We removed him and put Danny Wilson on the bench instead.
"Joe Cole just tweaked his knee a bit in training earlier in the week. We don't know whether he will be fit enough for Chelsea. It's nothing serious. He could be fit but there's a chance he might not be."
YNWA
Article from LFCTV.
The Reds could face former teammate Fernando Torres within days of his deadline day move at Stamford Bridge but the boss is more concerned with seeing his side continue their upturn in fortunes.
"We'll wait and see what happens," Dalglish told reporters when quizzed about the prospect of Torres partnering Didier Drogba.
"I don't know who Carlo (Ancelotti) is going to pick. Until he comes out and tells us who he is going to pick, then we'll be guessing.
"We'll play against whoever they put on the pitch. We are more important than any player they have."
He added: "Our ambition is to get as much as we can from the next game. It's the way I've been brought up. I don't see any need to change it. If it was good enough for two of the greatest British managers that ever lived, I think it is good enough for me to adopt that principle as well.
"We've got our reward for the hard work we have done. It's been a difficult week for them as well. Some people forget that they also have emotions and feelings. We've been in the newspapers a lot all week. That puts an extra bit of strain on them.
"It's to their great credit that they have put all that behind them and put in such a determined performance to get a result against Stoke.
"We've been delighted by the attitude and the approach since we came in. If we continue to work hard and get points, then we'll have more points to help us finish higher in the league. That's all we are trying to achieve."
A run of three straight wins has moved Liverpool into seventh place ahead of a mouthwatering encounter in the Capital.
Dalglish accepts they will face a stern test of their credentials against the reigning Barclays Premier League champions but insists they will hold no fears at Stamford Bridge.
"Of course it's a difficult game," he said.
"They had a great result at Sunderland the other night. They have picked themselves back up after going through a run of games when they couldn't buy a victory. But they are back on song now.
"They are a good side but I don't think we are too bad either. They will be looking at us and see that we are on the up. They will be as concerned about us as we are about them.
"They have some great players. They are strong, quick and move it quite well. We know what they have. It's up to us to try and do better than them on the day.
He added: "To have won three on the spin with three clean sheets will give us a lot of confidence.
"Chelsea have a different style to what Stoke and Wolves have had so we've got to compete against that. It's a game away from home, so I suppose the responsibility is on Chelsea to push forward.
"But we have a responsibility as well, to compete as well as we possibly can. We can only go there and try our best. We must make sure we are prepared properly and see how it goes."
Since returning to the Anfield dugout Dalglish has helped to reinvigorate Liverpool's season.
He admits he has enjoyed every moment so far and feels the manner in which both goals were celebrated in the victory over Stoke illustrates how the club is now moving forward.
"It's a football club that means an awful lot to myself and all of my family members," he said.
"I'm only doing what millions of others who care about this club would do - and that's to try and help them. If we can turn the corner a little bit, improve our league position and play a small part in the future, then fine.
"I'm enjoying myself. It was very pleasing for me on Wednesday night, when we scored both goals. Every player celebrated and that's important for us. If we have a good dressing room then we have a better chance of being successful.
"I think it showed that the dressing room is pretty united."
Asked if he felt the presence of Torres could act as further motivation for his players come Sunday afternoon, the boss said: "I think the players relish a battle against every player they come up against. Since I've come in they have competed brilliantly against every player that has been on the pitch for the opposition.
"I don't think there is anyone we wouldn't compete against. Our lads don't have a problem and I think they will be competitive irrespective of the opposition."
Reporters also suggested that Liverpool fans now equate the rivalry with Chelsea to that of the passion they reserve for clashes with Everton and Manchester United.
Dalglish responded: "I've not heard them say that.
"When you had the so-called top four and Liverpool were part of that - as Chelsea were - they were all rivals. For me, anyone in the opposing team is a rival that you compete with.
"I don't have a pecking order in terms of games you want to win. I want to get three points in every game.
"For me, we are more important than the opposition.
"Yes, we have to compete with the likes of Man United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham and everybody else. And we'll try our best to do that. But there's no special opposition as far as I'm concerned."
Dalglish could opt to recall Jamie Carragher for the clash with Chelsea following his recovery from a long-term shoulder injury.
The vice-captain was an unused substitute in the midweek win over Stoke and the Scot admits it could act as a huge lift to have him available again.
Dalglish said: "He's delighted to be back. Carra's a very strong character. He's very important in the dressing room and when he's fit he'll be very important on the pitch as well.
"For us it's a bonus to have Jamie Carragher back in amongst the squad."
While the return of our No.23 has given the Reds a significant boost, Dalglish did reveal he has two doubts for the weekend trip to London - including ex-Blue Joe Cole.
He said: "Christian Poulsen was on the bench against Stoke but I think he tried to tie his boot lace and his back went into spasm.
"So, we didn't want to take a chance, it could have stiffened up on him. We removed him and put Danny Wilson on the bench instead.
"Joe Cole just tweaked his knee a bit in training earlier in the week. We don't know whether he will be fit enough for Chelsea. It's nothing serious. He could be fit but there's a chance he might not be."
YNWA
Thursday, 3 February 2011
Carroll Feels At Home
Andy Carroll claims Liverpool already feels like home, after only being here since his move on Transfer Deadline Day on Wednesday.
He told his introductory press conference at Anfield this morning that he has been overwhelmed by the welcome given to him by our supporters, saying "Yes, it was a fantastic reception. The fans have been great with us. When I signed on Monday, that was great as well. There were a 100 fans outside Melwood waiting for me to turn up".
"It's been fantastic coming down here and having the welcome I've had. It feels really like home now. I know it's only been three days but the welcome I've had from everyone, where I'm staying and at the training ground, it's just been great".
"Obviously now the ambition is to win stuff and go places. Everyone believes we can do that".
Carroll is officially the most expensive british player in history, costing £35,000,000, but the man himself insists he is not daunted by the fee, or by the fact he has inherited the shirt worn by Ian Rush, Robbie Fowler, and Fernando Torres.
He continued "It was a lot of money but I'm sure I can do what I need to do to prove the money was worth it, I'm here to score goals and create chances for the team, and that's what I can do".
"Time will tell. I scored goals at Newcastle and that's what I want to do - we'll just have to wait and see.
"Obviously Torres was a great player but I need to concentrate on my own game and play my football."
He was then asked about his feeling towards Newcastle.
He replied "I've got massive respect for Newcastle. It's my team, it's my home club, and I'm not really going to talk about what happened at Newcastle other than my friends and family are still there and Newcastle means a lot to me, but I'm at Liverpool now and that's what I've got to concentrate on".
"Coming here to Liverpool has been fantastic. The reception I got at the training ground and then last night was brilliant for us".
Carroll is currently injured, and asked when he would return to make his debut, he said: "I am working hard in the gym with the fitness guys at Melwood, and I just need to get my fitness up. When I finally come out for my debut with the No 9 on it's going to make me realise that I'm here and I'm here to stay".
"It's a thigh strain. It's going to be a few weeks and then we'll see how it is".
He was then quizzed on the following:
Steven Gerrard:
"Obviously he's a great captain, he's a leader, he brings everyone together and I'm sure I'll get along well with him".
Maturing:
"I feel I am ready. I have made the move now. I feel like I have settled down. I know what I need to do and that's concentrate on my football".
Suarez
"He showed what he can do. He got a goal and was lively around the pitch and it was great to see that".
YNWA
He told his introductory press conference at Anfield this morning that he has been overwhelmed by the welcome given to him by our supporters, saying "Yes, it was a fantastic reception. The fans have been great with us. When I signed on Monday, that was great as well. There were a 100 fans outside Melwood waiting for me to turn up".
"It's been fantastic coming down here and having the welcome I've had. It feels really like home now. I know it's only been three days but the welcome I've had from everyone, where I'm staying and at the training ground, it's just been great".
"Obviously now the ambition is to win stuff and go places. Everyone believes we can do that".
Carroll is officially the most expensive british player in history, costing £35,000,000, but the man himself insists he is not daunted by the fee, or by the fact he has inherited the shirt worn by Ian Rush, Robbie Fowler, and Fernando Torres.
He continued "It was a lot of money but I'm sure I can do what I need to do to prove the money was worth it, I'm here to score goals and create chances for the team, and that's what I can do".
"Time will tell. I scored goals at Newcastle and that's what I want to do - we'll just have to wait and see.
"Obviously Torres was a great player but I need to concentrate on my own game and play my football."
He was then asked about his feeling towards Newcastle.
He replied "I've got massive respect for Newcastle. It's my team, it's my home club, and I'm not really going to talk about what happened at Newcastle other than my friends and family are still there and Newcastle means a lot to me, but I'm at Liverpool now and that's what I've got to concentrate on".
"Coming here to Liverpool has been fantastic. The reception I got at the training ground and then last night was brilliant for us".
Carroll is currently injured, and asked when he would return to make his debut, he said: "I am working hard in the gym with the fitness guys at Melwood, and I just need to get my fitness up. When I finally come out for my debut with the No 9 on it's going to make me realise that I'm here and I'm here to stay".
"It's a thigh strain. It's going to be a few weeks and then we'll see how it is".
He was then quizzed on the following:
Steven Gerrard:
"Obviously he's a great captain, he's a leader, he brings everyone together and I'm sure I'll get along well with him".
Maturing:
"I feel I am ready. I have made the move now. I feel like I have settled down. I know what I need to do and that's concentrate on my football".
Suarez
"He showed what he can do. He got a goal and was lively around the pitch and it was great to see that".
YNWA
Liverpool 2-0 Stoke: Match Review
Liverpool enjoyed a 2-0 victory today at Anfield against Stoke, with Luis Suarez bagging a debut goal after being on the field for only 16 minutes.
The first half was dominated strongly by Liverpool, but with little clear cut chances, a few coming to Dirk Kuyt who failed to hit the back of the net.
Dalglish's half time team talk seemed to work, as Liverpool came out firing, and within 2 minutes of the 2nd half kick off, Gerrard hit a free kick which was deflected into the path of Kyrgiakos, who held possession long enough for Meireles to fire home, adding another goal to an impressive few games for the Reds.
With Liverpool impressing, Suarez replaces Fabio Aurelio on 62 minutes, and 16 minutes later he timed a run nicely and found himself 1 on 1 with the keeper, who he dribbled around and slotted home, relying on a little luck which he got when Wilkinson failed to clear off the line.
Comfortable performance and a good victory, taking our record to 3 consecutive wins and clean sheets.
YNWA
Dalglish's half time team talk seemed to work, as Liverpool came out firing, and within 2 minutes of the 2nd half kick off, Gerrard hit a free kick which was deflected into the path of Kyrgiakos, who held possession long enough for Meireles to fire home, adding another goal to an impressive few games for the Reds.
With Liverpool impressing, Suarez replaces Fabio Aurelio on 62 minutes, and 16 minutes later he timed a run nicely and found himself 1 on 1 with the keeper, who he dribbled around and slotted home, relying on a little luck which he got when Wilkinson failed to clear off the line.
Comfortable performance and a good victory, taking our record to 3 consecutive wins and clean sheets.
YNWA
Wednesday, 2 February 2011
Liverpool Lineup Announced
The lineup for tonight's home game against Stoke has been announced and is as follows:
Reina
Kyrgiakos, Skrtel, Agger, Kelly
Aurelio, Lucas, Gerrard, Johnson
Meireles
Kuyt
Subs: Gulacsi, Carragher, Poulsen, Shelvey, Suarez, Maxi, Ngog
Click here for a free £25 bet on the game!
YNWA
Reina
Kyrgiakos, Skrtel, Agger, Kelly
Aurelio, Lucas, Gerrard, Johnson
Meireles
Kuyt
Subs: Gulacsi, Carragher, Poulsen, Shelvey, Suarez, Maxi, Ngog
Click here for a free £25 bet on the game!
YNWA
Suarez Set To Start
New star signing Luis Suarez is set to make his Liverpool and Anfield debut tonight against Stoke, after receiving international clearance from the FA to play.
The striker, recently bought for £22,800,000 from Ajax, has been named in Kenny Dalglish's squad for the clash with Tony Pulis' side, as we look to make it three wins in a row and continue our climb up the league table.
Tickets are still available for tonight's game from the ticket office windows at Anfield and there will also be cash turnstiles open at the stadium - so don't miss out on the possibility of seeing our new number seven in action!
Click here for a free £25 bet on the game!
As always we will be showing the game live here:
http://www.facebookfootballleague.co.uk/watchliverpool.html
YNWA
As always we will be showing the game live here:
http://www.facebookfootballleague.co.uk/watchliverpool.html
YNWA
Tuesday, 1 February 2011
Luis Suarez: The First Interview
Below is a video of Suares' first interview as a Liverpool played, he was taken straight to the boot room to give it.
YNWA
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)