Finnan is keen to stay Red - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 13 Sept 2004
Finnan is keen to stay Red
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

STEVE FINNAN says he's relieved the transfer window is closed - because he
knows he has until January to prolong his Liverpool career.

Finnan scored his first goal for the club in the comfortable 3-0 win over
West Brom.

His selection came as a surprise, especially since the Irishman was
regularly tipped with a transfer away from Anfield just a few weeks ago.

But the signs are Finnan is determined to make the most of the second
chance he's been given by manager Rafa Benitez.

"People have different opinions on whether I should be playing or not.
That's up to them. I've not worried too much about the speculation," said
Finnan.

"There's been a lot of talk about a number of players leaving. I'm just
glad the transfer window is closed now because no-one will leave until January.

"I've never felt that worried about it, to be honest. I didn't speak to
other clubs, but if Liverpool had agreed to sell me there would be nothing
I could do about it. In football, if you're told to go, you go.

"There are always going to be 10 or 11 players who aren't playing every
week, and they won't be happy.

"Apart from two or three, I don't think anyone will be playing every game.
You've just got to get your head down and hope you'll get your fair share
of matches during the season, especially the big ones."

Finnan's left foot strike virtually settled the game at Anfield just before
half-time and now he's hoping to keep his place for the visit of Monaco.

He added: "To score my first goal, especially at Anfield, is a great
feeling. I'm enjoying playing right midfield. First and foremost I'm a
full-back and that's where I'd like to play. But as long as I'm playing I'm
happy.

"It was a good performance. It was exactly what we needed after a couple of
defeats."

Liverpool are now preparing for their return to Champions League action as
Monaco visit on Wednesday.

Monaco coach Didier Deschamps says the Anfield atmosphere could prove a
deciding factor in the tie.

"Everybody has a lot of respect for Liverpool. They are a legend and so is
their Anfield stadium," said Deschamps.

"They have a trump card in Anfield. I know that playing at home will
increase their strength tenfold, and knowing how strong they can by
physically, it will be difficult."


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