[lfc-news] Luton block Reds' keeper advances - Echo

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Liverpool Echo, 1 Sept 2004
Luton block Reds' keeper advances
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

RAFAEL BENITEZ'S bid to recruit goalkeeping cover was frustrated by Luton's
refusal to allow highly-rated goalkeeper Dean Brill to join Liverpool on trial.

The 19-year-old was due on Merseyside a week before the transfer deadline
closed.

Had the youngster impressed, the Reds would have considered a permanent deal.

However, Luton boss Mike Newell blocked the move at the last minute after
both clubs had initially agreed the switch.

Liverpool will continue to monitor the progress of the teenager who is
outof-contract with the Hatters at the end of the season.

Meanwhile, winger Richie Partridge ends a nine month injury nightmare
tonight, determined to force his way into Benitez's plans.

Partridge will figure for the Reds' second string against Nottingham Forest
at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground in a game rescheduled from last night.

It's the Irish international's first appearance since suffering cruciate
ligament damage nine months ago.

The 23-year-old had to undergo surgery at the famed Colorado surgery of Dr
Richard Steadman.

Now the midfielder has his sights on convincing Benitez his future is at
Anfield.

"Last year was a nightmare for me," said Partridge today.

"I was out for nine months and in the final year of my contract. Liverpool
have been brilliant to me, giving me another year during my rehabilitation.
Now I'm just delighted to be playing again.

"We've a reserve game in each of the next three weeks so it's up to me to
take my chance and show the manager what I can do."

One of the Academy's hottest properties as a youngster, Partridge was
limited to a single senior appearance under Gerard Houllier.

But with Kirkby graduates already getting a taste of first team action
under the new regime, Partridge feels more opportunities are on the horizon.

Partridge said: "I think the manager has seen everyone in the squad play
except me, because of my injury. There's a definite incentive for me to do
well when you see how he's prepared to give everyone a chance.

"It was a bit frustrating because I was looking forward to the game last
night, but we're playing tonight instead now.

"If things go well I can push on from there and my ambition is still as
strong as ever to push myself into consideration for the first team squad."

Sami Hyypia will play through the pain barrier for Finland against Armenia
and Andorra in World Cup qualifiers this week after breaking his nose at
Bolton on Sunday.


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