The AnfieldRoad forums

Anfieldroad forums

We've just set it up. Literally. Still to do? 1st priority is change the "skin" from it's current blue colour. Then add some better logos and so on. For now though it's available for you to go and join up. Register, then post, as appropriate. Still no rules on the site yet, but common sense will prevail.

UPDATE: We've not done much else, but it's not blue now!

[lfc-news] Benitez had his heart set on Woody - Echo

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
Make a clean sweep of pop-up ads. Yahoo! Companion Toolbar.
Now with Pop-Up Blocker. Get it for free!
http://us.click.yahoo.com/L5YrjA/eSIIAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Liverpool Echo, 2 Sept 2004
Benitez had his heart set on Woody
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

LIVERPOOL boss Rafael Benitez today revealed Jonathan Woodgate was his top
summer transfer target before Real Madrid's multi-million swoop for the
defender.

And Benitez says he was also frustrated in his bid to sign Fernando
Morientes from the Spanish giants as part of the Michael Owen deal.

The manager's admission demonstrates he still feels his side is short of
top quality in defence and attack.

With the transfer window closed until January, Benitez must now wait before
reinforcing his squad.

Woodgate left Newcastle in a £15m deal a fortnight ago. The Reds' boss says
Liverpool couldn't compete financially once Madrid made their move.

"Woodgate is a most interesting player. I requested him for Liverpool
because his references were excellent," Benitez said.

"We wanted to sign him, but he was expensive for our budget. In addition,
he has been injured a long time. When we'd decided, Madrid already had made
a bid that we could not equal."

On Morientes, Benitez added: "I wanted him as part of the Owen deal. But he
had given his word to Camacho to stay and he kept it."

The Spanish coach has quickly recognised the scale of the task ahead of
him. While publicly declaring his satisfaction with the squad he's working
with, he's also bracing himself for some difficult early months while his
plans come to fruition.

Benitez added: "To lose a game like that against Bolton has not made
anybody nervous. After the game, the chairman came onto the bus and told me
to be calm. He said it was a matter of time. I can work without tension
because I have time to arrive at my objectives.

"I want a Liverpool that keeps the ball. I want balance in defence and
attack. I do not have fixed schemes to create another Valencia out of
Liverpool, but I want us to play good football."

Meanwhile, Benitez has expressed his astonishment at the fee Manchester
United paid for teenager Wayne Rooney.

Benitez said: "Rooney is a good forward, but if I must be sincere, the
price that has been paid is crazy. Manchester made its decision, but
sometimes the transfer market goes too far."

Coventry's audacious attempt to take Chris Kirkland back on loan is doomed.

Liverpool spent the final weeks of transfer activity trying to recruit
goalkeeping cover, so there is no chance of Benitez allowing the only
deputy to Jerzy Dudek to leave the club.

Indeed, once Kirkland has recovered from his back problem he'll be a strong
contender to regain his place as Anfield number one, especially since Dudek
has struggled for form since the start of the season.

Manchester City have reportedly failed with a late bid to sign Stephane
Henchoz on transfer deadline day.


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[lfc-news] Benitez interview - Official Site

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
Make a clean sweep of pop-up ads. Yahoo! Companion Toolbar.
Now with Pop-Up Blocker. Get it for free!
http://us.click.yahoo.com/L5YrjA/eSIIAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Official LFC Website, 1 Sept 2004
RAFAEL BENITEZ TALKS TO .TV
By Paul Eaton

Rafael Benitez talks to us about the closing of the transfer window,
Sunday's game at Bolton, the Cisse and Baros partnership, our start to the
season, referees, his new life in Liverpool and much more...

~ Rafa, with no new signings before the transfer deadline can we assume
you're happy with your squad?

Yes, I'm happy. I am also happy that the transfer window has now closed and
I have time to work with the team and with the squad of players we have here.

~ You've had a few days to reflect on the weekend game at Bolton. What went
wrong on that day?

A lot of things went wrong for us. We lost Kewell and Pongolle before the
game and then Hyypia after a couple of minutes. We had opportunities during
the game but we didn't play well. It was a difficult game for us because
Bolton were very aggressive. If we'd scored first then we would have had
more control of the game but the fact is we lost and we now have to work
hard to prepare for the next game.

~ Some people were surprised you left Djibril Cisse out at Bolton. What was
your thinking behind that decision?

I see the players during the week and then decide on the team. In the first
half at Bolton we didn't have Cisse but we had three good opportunities to
score and in the second half when we had Cisse there weren't as many clear
chances. It's more important to get players arriving in the box than it is
to have a lot of forwards on the field.

~ Xabi Alonso and Luis Garcia made their debuts at Bolton. Were you happy
with their performances?

I think they both played well but I know they can both play better. They
know their team-mates now, they are training well with us and I am sure
they will do even better for us in the future.

~ Garcia was unfortunate to have a goal wrongly disallowed at Bolton. What
differences have you noticed between officials in England and in Spain?

It's always difficult to talk about referees because over the course of the
season you will get good and bad decisions made for and against you. It's
the same in Spain and every week the questions are always about the
referees. In my opinion it's better not to talk about them at all.

~ How would you describe your start to the season after three matches?

I saw the team play in pre-season and was very pleased with our
performances. In the league so far we haven't had enough victories. I don't
want to keep saying this but we need time. I have told the supporters
before and I will tell them again that this team will improve and get to a
better level but we just need time. That's the only thing I can say.

~ Is your message to the fans then just to be patient?

I think the fans understand the situation better than me because they have
been waiting to win the title for 15 years and they have seen the team
playing over recent seasons. They felt that the team needed something
different and I can tell you we are changing a lot of things. We need time
to get to know each other, to learn about each other and to work together.
If people know me then they will know I am always fighting and working
because I have confidence in my staff and in my players. We will improve
our level, I am sure of that.

~ What have been the pleasing aspects from the first three games of the season?

As I said, I'm not happy because we need more victories. The good thing is
the team could have won the three games. If you come up against a team
which is better than yours to play a game which is impossible for you to
win then you say 'okay, we weren't good enough'. But this team is strong,
sometimes we play well and other times not so well. We are playing with a
spirit and that's important because I am sure in the future we will start
winning the games we are currently losing or drawing.

~ And what things have worried you most so far?

I don't think it's good for the players to talk about the future, about
trophies and titles. It is more important to talk about the next game and
at the moment we have only four players training with us because the rest
are away on international duty. We need to have all of our squad together
to think only about the next game.

~ Do you believe that Cisse and Baros can form a partnership to score
enough goals for you this season?

They need to learn more about each other, about their styles of play and
their movements on the pitch. That needs time as well. If they keep working
hard then little by little I am sure we will see the strength of them as a
pair.

~ Finally, how much are you enjoying life in the city away from football?

I spoke to my wife about this this morning and she told me she was very
happy. The children will go to school here, we are working on our house and
the sun has even come out for a couple of days. I am sure we will be happy
here.
I have only had a couple of days to look around the city since I came here.
I've been to the cathedral and also been shopping but I haven't had much
time to do anything else as I'm always here in Melwood.


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[lfc-news] Reserves v Forest report - Official Site

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
$9.95 domain names from Yahoo!. Register anything.
http://us.click.yahoo.com/J8kdrA/y20IAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Official LFC Website, 1 Sept 2004
REDS DRAW WITH FOREST

Neil Mellor and Richie Partridge made their comebacks from injury for
Liverpool but overall it was a disappointing night for the reserves who
drew 0-0 with 10 man Nottingham Forest, at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground,
writes Steve Hunter.

Forest were reduced to 10 men in the 58th minute when Neil Mellor chased a
loose ball and goalkeeper Ian Deakin handled outside his penalty area. An
inevitable red card was shown.

Despite the advantage Liverpool failed to impose their authority on the
Forest goal and despite the efforts of Mellor and the lively Mark Smyth the
service to the front men was not good enough.

It is a disappointing start to the reserve season from Hughie McAuley's
side. Liverpool finished second last season but so far have lost two games,
drawn one and haven't yet scored a goal.

On the positive side for the Reds, Republic of Ireland Under-21
international winger Richie Partridge made his first appearance for
Liverpool for nine months after returning from a cruciate knee ligament
injury. Considering he has been out for such a while he did well and had
some good moments in the match.

Djimi Traore captained the Liverpool team and with John Welsh on
international duty with England Under-21s David Mannix partnered Igor
Biscan in the centre of midfield.

Rafael Benitez, Pako Ayesteran, Alex Miller and Paco Herrera were all
present at the Racecourse Ground and the Liverpool manager could be seen
taking notes as he assessed the merits of the players on show in the
reserve team.

After surviving an early scare when Sam Mullarkey headed wide from close
range for Forest Liverpool began to get into the game with Richie Partridge
a lively figure. After 14 minutes a weaving run from Jon Otsemobor created
an opening but on his not so favoured left foot fired over the bar.

A minute later Igor Biscan had a great chance when defenders backed off and
space opened up outside the box, but unfortunately his low shot was off target.

Liverpool's best chance in the first half fell on 27 minutes to Neil Mellor
and it was a chance the returning striker would normally put away. A superb
ball from Stephen Warnock released Otsemobor in acres of space down the
right, and from his low cross Mellor miskicked and missed a great chance.

A minute before half time Forest should have took the lead when Patrice
Luzi flapped at a cross and James Perch headed wide when he probably should
have scored.

Liverpool were much more livelier in the second half and their chances of
victory were given a boost when Forest when reduced to 10 men just ahead of
the hour mark. Mellor chased a loose ball and the keeper Ian Deakin handled
outside the area. The inevitable red card came out and substitute keeper
Paddy Gamble came on with striker Sam Litchfield sacrificed.

From the resulting free-kick Stephen Warnock fired a shot just past the
post after seeing his initial effort blocked. Then the lively Mark Smyth
had two openings when he shot just over the top after linking well with
Mellor then he headed over after a good run and cross down the left flank
from Traore.

Forest left back James Perch then had a great chance for 10 man Forest when
he shot just wide from just outside the Reds penalty area then Ross Gardner
curled a shot just past the post.

Liverpool Reserves: Luzi, Otsemobor, Raven, Traore, Biscan, Whitbread,
Partridge (Wilkie 77), Mannix, Mellor, Smyth, Warnock. Subs not used:
O'Donnell, Harrison, Butler, Guthrie.

Nottingham Forest Reserves: Deakin, Hanson, Perch, Gardner, Hurren, Tarka,
Wilmet, Beaumont, Litchfield (Gamble 58), Mullarkey, Hughes (Handbury 85).

Referee: S J Bratt

Liverpoolfc.tv Man of the Match: Mark Smyth. Worked hard and ran tirelessly
for the team cause, and with a little more luck might have scored the winner.


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

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

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
$9.95 domain names from Yahoo!. Register anything.
http://us.click.yahoo.com/J8kdrA/y20IAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

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.


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[lfc-news] File - faq.txt

******************************************
Liverpool [lfc] Football Club News-List FAQ
Last Updated: January 2004
*Please read and keep for future reference.*
******************************************

- ----------
CONTENTS
- ----------
1. What is the Liverpool FC News List?
2. What are the List Rules?
3. How do I subscribe and unsubscribe?
4. Digest or Single emails?
5. How do I send a message to the list?
6. How can I read previous topics?
7. Problems and complaints?
8. What other mailing lists are available?

1. What is the Liverpool FC News List?
=====================================================
The LFC-NEWS list is a low volume list for news, articles and match reports
only - not discussion.

2. Mailing List Rules
=====================================================
Basic netiquette should suffice.

3. How do I subscribe and unsubscribe?
=====================================================
Subscribe?
To subscribe please send an email to lfc-news-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Unsubscribe?
To leave the lfc list visit the user centre and press the 'unsubscribe' link.
Or send an email to lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

4. Digest or Single emails?
=====================================================
If you wish to change your mail format visit the user centre and switch
between 'daily digest' or 'individual mails'.
To change your subscription to daily digest mode, send a blank message to:
lfc-news-digest@yahoogroups.com

To change your subscription to individual emails, send a blank message to:
lfc-news-normal@yahoogroups.com

5. How do I send a message to the list?
=====================================================
This news list is an announcement only list.

6. How can I read previous topics?
======================================================
There is an archive URL if you wish to read an old post from weeks
gone by, it's available at both:
http://www.escribe.com/sports/football/lfcn/

7. Problems and complaints?
======================================================
If you do not have web access, cannot solve a problem or wish
to make a complaint please contact the list board outlining your
problem at:
lfc-news-owner@yahoogroups.com

8. What other mailing lists are available?
======================================================
The LFC mailing list is a Liverpool FC debating forum via email, be warned
that a high volume of messages can be expected so please ensure your mail
provider can cope. The LFC mailing list originated in 1994 and is used by
Liverpool fans all over the world for discussion and distribution of information.
Be warned this is a high volume list.
To subscribe please send an email to lfc-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

lfc-news-owner@yahoogroups.com. http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/


------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
Make a clean sweep of pop-up ads. Yahoo! Companion Toolbar.
Now with Pop-Up Blocker. Get it for free!
http://us.click.yahoo.com/L5YrjA/eSIIAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/
Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[lfc-news] Reserves game postponed a day - Official Site

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
Make a clean sweep of pop-up ads. Yahoo! Companion Toolbar.
Now with Pop-Up Blocker. Get it for free!
http://us.click.yahoo.com/L5YrjA/eSIIAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Official LFC Website, 31 Aug 2004
RESERVES GAME POSTPONED A DAY
By Steve Hunter

Liverpool Reserves match with Nottingham Forest has been postponed due to
Forest having transportation problems.
The Nottingham Forest coach broke down just as they were about to leave on
the journey to Wrexham's Racecourse ground.

The fixture was quickly rearranged and will now take place on Wednesday
night, 1st September.

This means striker Neil Mellor and winger Richie Partridge will be able to
make their comebacks after injury.

Kick-off on Wednesday night will be 7pm.


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[lfc-news] Heighway: The future is brighter under Benitez - Echo

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
Make a clean sweep of pop-up ads. Yahoo! Companion Toolbar.
Now with Pop-Up Blocker. Get it for free!
http://us.click.yahoo.com/L5YrjA/eSIIAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Liverpool Echo, 31 Aug 2004
The future is brighter under Benitez - Heighway
By ROB BRADY, Liverpool Echo

STEVE HEIGHWAY insists Liverpool's Academy starlets will come good under
new boss Rafael Benitez.

Relations between the Reds' Academy director and former manager Gerard
Houllier were strained, but he believes the future is brighter now the
Spaniard is in charge.

Heighway said: "The early signs are that things have changed for the
better. His willingness to talk football with us is a big change from the
previous regime and that is good. There's been lots of opportunities to
speak with him already and that can only benefit the Academy.

"From the discussions I've had with the new manager I see no reason why the
Academy boys will not be given a chance. I'm confident that if any boy
shows he's got sufficient talent, then he'll get promoted. First into the
reserve team, then the first team."

Benitez has already handed first-team chances to graduates Darren Potter
and Stephen Warnock. And Heighway insists there is a lot more talent to
come. He said: "Between the 16 and 18 age group there are a lot of good
players.

"I don't like to mention names, but in the under-16 group alone I'd say
there are at least half-a-dozen with outstanding promise, but they're very
young and still at school."


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[lfc-news] Mark Lawrenson column - Post

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
$9.95 domain names from Yahoo!. Register anything.
http://us.click.yahoo.com/J8kdrA/y20IAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Liverpool Daily Post, 31 Aug 2004
Continuity will prove the key for Rafa's men
By Mark Lawrenson, Daily Post

IF YOU take any football team, then add four new players, a new manager and
your central defensive linchpin getting injured early in a game, then that
team is going to struggle.

So it proved for Liverpool against Bolton, who were the more settled of the
sides just because of the continuity of personnel and leadership.

That is not a criticism, it is just a fact of life for Rafael Benitez at
the moment and it will be that way for the next few months, maybe even
until Christmas.

During that time he will be faced with a difficult challenge - the need to
implement his tactical changes at every level of Liverpool's performance
while at the same time keeping winning games.

At the moment while the players are struggling to come to terms with his
changes, it is throwing up some anomalies.

The most obvious of those is Steven Gerrard's positioning. Let's be honest,
at international level, he is forced to play out of position to accomo-date
other people and because of the lack of a left-sided player.

At club level though, you do not move the best English midfielder in the
Premiership around willy-nilly to fit in alongside other players - they
should do that so he can play where he wants.

As to who plays along Gerrard, then I would choose Xabi Alonso ahead of
Dietmar Hamann.

He is a class player and a brilliant passer of the ball and while he may
take a few games to settle in, he still offers more options in attack than
Hamann will, although everyone will have to work that bit harder to make up
for the German's defensive nous.

Still, at least there are options for the manager in midfield. Up front
Liverpool are going into the Champions League with Djibril Cisse, Milan
Baros and Florent Sinama-Pongolle.

Even the most optimistic Liverpool supporter must concede that they are
stretched for resources with Michael Owen going.

I remain to be convinced that Baros and Cisse can play together as they are
yet to complement each other and are too similar.

Pongolle looks like he needs to play regularly somewhere else to knock the
rough edges off him, but even he is similar to the other two.

To me in a perfect world another striker is required just to make up the
numbers, and he must offer something different.

Be that a target man or a Teddy Sheringham type of player, Benitez should
strengthen even if Cisse and Baros suddenly prove me wrong and start
playing as a partnership instead of individuals.


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[lfc-news] Reds hopeful of Hyypia return for Baggies visit - Echo

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
Make a clean sweep of pop-up ads. Yahoo! Companion Toolbar.
Now with Pop-Up Blocker. Get it for free!
http://us.click.yahoo.com/L5YrjA/eSIIAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Liverpool Echo, 31 Aug 2004
Reds hopeful of Hyypia return for Baggies visit
By Rob Brady, Liverpool Echo

LIVERPOOL remain hopeful defender Sami Hyypia will have recovered from his
broken nose in time for their next game in 11 days' time.

The injury, which forced him off at Bolton on Sunday, may keep him out of
Finland's forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Armenia.

But time is on Liverpool's side and the influential centre-back should be
fit for the league visit of West Brom on September 11.

Hyypia was replaced early on at the Reebok Stadium by Djimi Traore, who now
looks certain to stay at Anfield after his proposed £1.5m move across
Stanley Park to Everton collapsed at the 11th hour.

Manager Rafael Benitez wants to retain the 24-year-old Frenchman in his
squad, although the player himself is yearning for first-team football.

Traore said: " The manager has told me he wants me to stay, but of course I
want to be playing first-team football. That's the important thing for me.

"I was surprised to be included against Bolton. It was unfortunate it came
at the expense of Sami. After getting injured in America I only returned to
full training last Tuesday and I have not played any pre-season games."

The defender may be given a chance to build up his match fitness in
Liverpool's reserve game against Nottingham Forest at Wrexham's Racecourse
Ground tonight (kick-off 7pm).

Neil Mellor is hoping to make his comeback following a six-week lay-off
with a knee injury.

Meanwhile, Reds stars Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher will tonight be
given the chance of a quick reunion with Michael Owen following the
striker's £8m move to Real Madrid.

After Real's friendly with Pumas de Mexico tonight, Owen will join up with
the rest of the England squad to prepare for Saturday's World Cup qualifier
against Austria.

Sven Goran Eriksson reiterated that the former Liverpool forward needs
regular first-team football at the Bernabeu if he is to be sure of his
England place.

The coach said: "I don't know how Real Madrid are thinking, whether they
will put him in or not. I should be worried if a month had gone past and he
hadn't played. Then it would be bad for him and us.

"But I don't think they have bought Michael Owen just to have him on the
bench. I should be surprised if that was the case."


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[lfc-news] Traore remains uncertain over future - Official Site

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
$9.95 domain names from Yahoo!. Register anything.
http://us.click.yahoo.com/J8kdrA/y20IAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Official LFC Website, 30 Aug 2004
TRAORE REMAINS UNCERTAIN OVER FUTURE
By Mark Platt

With the transfer deadline fast approaching Djimi Traore admits he's unsure
what the future holds for him.
The defender has been strongly linked with a move to city rivals Everton,
with the Toffeemen revealing on Friday that he was expected at Bellefield
for a medical.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez insists he want to keep Traore at Anfield and in
an ideal world the the French youngster would like to stay.

He was a surprise inclusion in the squad for Sunday's game at Bolton but
wants assurances that he has a part to play in the future at this club.

"People will have seen me play against Bolton and now think that I must be
staying but I honestly don't know what is happening," says Traore.

"The manager has told me he wants me to stay but of course I want to be
playing first team football, that is the important thing for me."

Traore found himself surprisingly thrust into the fray after just 14
minutes at the Reebok Stadium and performed commendably alongside Jamie
Carragher in the centre of defence against the Trotters.

"It was a surprise to be included against Bolton. After getting injured in
America I only returned to full training last Tuesday and I haven't played
in any pre-season games," he adds.

""It was unfortunate that I came on at the expense of Sami who was injured
and it was not an easy game. We had a couple of new faces in the team and
it was disappointing to lose again after the midweek defeat in the
Champions League. We can do better and it only the beginning of the season
so hopefully we can bounce back."

Whether Traore is around to help the Reds bounce back remains to be seen
but with the transfer window closing tomorrow things will have to move fast
if his five-year Anfield career is to come to a close.


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[lfc-news] Bolton report - PA

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
$9.95 domain names from Yahoo!. Register anything.
http://us.click.yahoo.com/J8kdrA/y20IAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

PA Sport, 29 Aug 2004
Bolton 1 Liverpool 0

Kevin Davies, snapped up for nothing, left Liverpool's big-money buys on
the floor at the Reebok Stadium.

The industrious striker grabbed the winner to give Bolton their third
victory in four games.

For a club that continues to view avoiding relegation as a success, it is a
remarkable start.

While manager Sam Allardyce will be delighted, new Liverpool coach Rafael
Benitez has a lot of work to do if they are to regain a place at the top table.

He was looking for his team to bounce back after the defeat by Graz AK in
the Champions League but they carried little threat at the Reebok.

Benitez gave debuts to Spanish duo Xabi Alonso and Luis Garcia for this game.

Alonso was drafted in from Real Sociedad for £10.7million while Garcia
moved from Barcelona for £6million.

However, it will take both players time to get adjusted to the demands of
the Barclays Premiership.

Benitez packed the midfield with Czech Republic striker Milan Baros the
lone striker.

Liverpool central defender Sami Hyypia was left in a daze inside the first
minute when Davies backed into him.

Davies caught Hyypia's face with an elbow but TV pictures indicated that it
was an accident.

Hyypia was able to resume after treatment on the pitch, although he looked
in a little bit of discomfort.

There were reports his nose had been broken and he had difficulty seeing
out of his right eye.

He eventually came off in the 14th minute and was replaced by Djimi Traore,
who could well be playing his last game for the club ahead of a move to
Everton.

Alonso and Garcia were struggling to get into the game and Baros scuffed a
shot wide of the post from a good position.

However, Alonso found space and set up Dietmar Hamann, only for his effort
to go wide of the target.

Play switched down the other end and Jamie Carragher did well to block Gary
Speed's goal-bound effort.

Greece winger Stelios Giannakopoulos got on the end of a cross from Jay-Jay
Okocha after 30 minutes but failed to test Jerzy Dudek with his header.

Steven Gerrard was beginning to win a lot of possession in the middle of
the park and tried to steer a shot beyond Jussi Jaaskelainen, only to see
his effort go wide.

The England star then picked out Stephen Warnock with a good crossfield
ball with Bolton pushing up.

Warnock showed pace to skip away down the left before delivering a cross
into the path of Garcia.

He flicked the ball on but there was no-one in the area to take advantage
of the opportunity.

Bolton took the lead after 38 minutes when former Southampton striker
Davies scored his first goal of the season.

He ghosted in at the far post to toe-poke a shot into the net after Henrik
Pedersen had got away from Josemi down the left before delivering a low cross.

It was good work by Pedersen, who has been recalled to the Denmark squad
for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Liverpool manager Benitez decided to boost his attacking options at the
start of the second half.

He brought on Djibril Cisse to partner Baros with Warnock being replaced
despite a bright display on the left flank.

Bolton almost added a second in the 46th minute with the industrious Davies
sending in a powerful 25-yard effort.

Poland goalkeeper Dudek, however, was equal to it and did well to turn the
ball around the post.

Pedersen then put Traore under pressure when Davies flicked on a cross from
Bruno N'Gotty. The Liverpool defender was happy to hack the ball into the
stand.

Liverpool were again forced on the back foot when Ivan Campo found space
but his effort did not trouble Dudek.

Pedersen was giving Josemi a headache with his insistence on taking him on
and the Spaniard looked uncomfortable.

Dudek produced another fine save in the 58th minute, clawing away a header
from the Tunisian Radhi Jaidi.

This was a good spell of pressure by Bolton who were stringing together a
number of neat passes.

Okocha got away a minute later and Dudek did well to get down early and get
his body behind the ball.

Liverpool retaliated and Gerrard picked out Garcia, only for his effort to
go the wrong side of the post.

Cisse was becoming increasingly frustrated at the lack of service but
Bolton were continuing to dominate in midfield.

Allardyce rang the changes, bringing on Les Ferdinand and Kevin Nolan for
Davies and Giannakopoulos.

With time running out, Liverpool pushed forward and Garcia found the net
only for his effort to be ruled offside by referee Uriah Rennie.

Cisse could have equalised for Liverpool in the 87th minute but sent a shot
wide from a tight angle under pressure from Jaidi.

Bolton: Jaaskelainen, Hunt, N'Gotty, Jaidi, Gardner, Okocha (Hierro 85),
Campo, Speed, Giannakopoulos (Nolan 75), Davies (Ferdinand 72), Pedersen.
Subs Not Used: Poole, Cesar.
Booked: Nolan, Hierro.
Goals: Davies 38.

Liverpool: Dudek, Josemi, Carragher, Hyypia (Traore 14), Riise, Luis
Garcia, Alonso, Hamann, Warnock (Cisse 45), Gerrard, Baros.
Subs Not Used: Diao, Biscan, Harrison.

Att: 27,880
Ref: U Rennie (S Yorkshire).

BENITEZ NEEDS TIME TO MAKE REDS WORK

New Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has admitted it could take "three or
four months" for the team to be up and running.

Benitez saw his side go down 1-0 to Bolton at the Reebok Stadium with free
transfer signing Kevin Davies getting the winner.

The defeat ended a disappointing week for Benitez after the defeat by Graz
AK in a Champions League qualifier, although Liverpool did go through.

Substitute Djibril Cisse could have equalised in the 87th minute but sent a
shot wide from a tight angle under pressure from Radhi Jaidi.

Benitez said: "We need to continue to work hard. It will take some time to
get things right.

"We need three or four months to have a powerful team."

Benitez felt hard done by that referee Uriah Rennie ruled out a 'goal' from
£6million signing Luis Garcia on his debut.

He found the net after Dietmar Hamann played a neat ball over the top to
split the Bolton defence.

Benitez said: "We have seen TV pictures and it is is a goal. The problem is
we cannot do anything about it now."

The former Valencia coach was forced to change his side early on after
defender Sami Hyypia was injured in an accidental clash with Davies.

Hyypia suffered a broken nose and blurred vision in his right eye and was
replaced by Djimi Traore.

The injury to Hyypia could now delay Traore's arrival at Everton after they
claimed a fee had been agreed with Liverpool.

Asked if Traore would be going to Everton, Benitez said: "At this moment, no."

He admitted that that had missed Hyypia's presence on the pitch.

"Sami is good in the air and losing him made it a lot more difficult for us.

"But I felt we did enough in the first half to win the game. We had three
good opportunities."

Not only was it Garcia's first game in England, £10.7million signing Xabi
Alonso also made his bow.

Both players struggled but Benitez said: "They played well but can play
better. They need to understand that referees allow contact here."

Bolton have made a blistering start to the season with three wins in their
first four games.

Former Southampton striker Davies scored his first goal of the season in
the 38th minute with a clinical finish.

He ghosted in at the far post to toe-poke a shot into the net after Henrik
Pedersen had got away from Josemi down the left before delivering a low cross.

It was good work by Pedersen, who has been recalled to the Denmark squad
for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Manager Sam Allardyce was thrilled with the way his side full of bargains
went about their business.

"The players were a little tired after the trip to Southampton in midweek
but they used their skills and brains to good effect," he said.

"It was a fantastic victory. Liverpool have spent a lot of money and have a
lot of talent.

"For us to play to that tempo is tribute to the players. We used the ball
correctly and played well as a team. Defensively we were solid.

"Our main striker (Davies) got off the mark and the victory was something I
felt we deserved."


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

Support our site!

We're trying to make improvements to this site, and unfortunately that means more ads! That's OK though, you can ignore them if you like. We don't want to use "pop-ups" either, as they are REALLY annoying. If you see any on our site let us know - it's out of our control in the short term, but once we know, we can zap 'em!

It would be really nice though if you'd click on a link or two, and maybe even buy something off them!

Bolton 1 Liverpool 0

Ah well. We've got used to this haven't we?

LFC team to face Bolton - confirmed

A debut for Garcia and Alonso, with Cisse kept on the bench. Traore also gets a place on the bench, suggesting he may not be about to leave after all. Finnan is not in the 16.

Dudek

Josemi Carragher Hyypia Riise

Alonso Hamann Gerrard Warnock

Baros Garcia

Subs:
Harrison Cisse Diao Traore Biscan

Listen to the game live on BBC Radio Five Live

BBC Radio Five Live have publicised extensively that they have the rights to broadcast live commentary of Premiership games from this season. Check their site out at kick off time to see if they are true to their word!

Liverpool V Bolton - Live Updates

Liverpool play at the Reebok stadium against Bolton Wanderers this afternoon. The game is live on Sky Sports in the UK, 4:05pm kick-off, but if you aren't able to watch then click here to take advantage of the live updates from Sporting Life.

[lfc-news] Garcia undaunted by Owen's legacy - Telegraph

------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor --------------------~-->
$9.95 domain names from Yahoo!. Register anything.
http://us.click.yahoo.com/J8kdrA/y20IAA/yQLSAA/2_TolB/TM
--------------------------------------------------------------------~->

Sunday Telegraph, 29 Aug 2004
Garcia undaunted by Owen's legacy
By Derick Allsop

The number 10 shirt has long been the mantle of mastery and mystique. Pele,
Law, Platini, Maradona - the line of succession is testament to its
inspirational status in world football.

But Luis Garcia was conscious of the additional burden he would be
subjecting himself to when he asked for the number at Liverpool. It was
vacated by Michael Owen, the England striker lured from Anfield by the
lucre and lustre of Real Madrid. Undaunted by the inevitable comparisons,
Garcia aspires to a leading role in the renaissance of a club that once
dominated the game not only in this country but also in Europe.

Garcia, a £6 million signing from Barcelona, is one of four Spanish players
in a squad already reflecting the influence of Liverpool's new manager,
their countryman Rafael Benitez. Xabi Alonso, a central midfield player
imported from Real Sociedad at a cost of £10.7 million, is likely to join
Garcia, a winger-cum-striker, on duty at Bolton today.

Both have five-year contracts and Garcia, 26, is intent on finding the
fulfillment that eluded him through a nomadic early career in his homeland.
"Those of us who have just arrived are determined to do something
historical at this club, create something permanent, something that will go
on forever," said Garcia on behalf of the Spanish acquisitions.

"Senor Benitez told me about the plans he has for the club, about what the
future holds for Liverpool. He's trying to build a team that will not just
be high in the English league but also taking part in the Champions League
on a regular basis and achieving things on a European level.

"Liverpool is still considered in Spain to be one of the greats of Europe.
I spoke to my colleagues in Spain and they all said, 'You've got to go
there, it's a massive club'. When Barca came to play here, they talked
about mythical Anfield."

Dark reality has shrouded the myth in recent years, which is why Owen
defected to the Bernabeu and Steven Gerrard almost joined Chelsea.
Liverpool's uncomfortable passage into the Champions League proper, losing
their home leg against AK Graz, can scarcely have impressed the watching
Garcia, although it will have hastened his debut. "You can't judge on that
performance," he said, diplomatically.

Garcia's commitment to the Liverpool cause is matched by his belief in
Benitez, the coach in charge at Tenerife when he scored 16 goals in a
season for the club. Others have been less convinced by the player, who has
had to ply his trade on loan and made rare appearances on his return to
Camp Nou.

The call from Benitez, recruited as replacement for Gerard Houllier after
winning the Spanish league and the UEFA Cup with Valenica last season, was
enough to outweigh personal sacrifice.

"It was very difficult to leave Barcelona," Garcia said. "Barca is a club I
grew up with. I went through the ranks as a young player. I'm from just
outside the area. All my family and friends are there. And my wife is
expecting a baby in October. So all these things made it hard to leave for
somewhere totally different. However, I had a conversation with Senor
Benitez and he put his faith in me. He was the first manager who gave me
the confidence to play. He has a reputation for building a proper team
rather than a collection of individuals, he gets everybody pulling in the
same direction."

"The Spanish league is important on the European scale but we consider the
English league to be on the same level. Maybe a different style, but the
same standard. I think it will suit my game - it's very fast, end-to-end
and there seem to be a lot of spaces in which to work."

Garcia expects to be playing on the right, but that will not diminish the
responsibility of wearing the No 10 shirt. "I realise it has a lot of
meaning for Liverpool fans and I know there are a number of great players
who have had that number. I see it as a challenge. The thing for me is to
not disappoint anyone and let down those players who have worn it before me."


Unsubscribe: lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://www.lfc-list.org.uk/

Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lfc-news/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
lfc-news-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/