[lfc-news] Liverpool v Newcastle team news - PA

PA Sport, 18 Dec 2004
BENITEZ FACES TOUGH CHOICE

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez will make a late decision on which
goalkeeper will face Newcastle on Sunday.

Jerzy Dudek was at fault for Portsmouth's late equaliser in midweek and
Chris Kirkland is back in light training after the back injury which
gave Dudek his chance.

Full-back John Arne Riise is set to be recalled to the starting line-up.
Midfielder Luis Garcia is also back in contention after missing three
weeks with a hamstring injury. Benitez said: "Luis is training normally
and I think he can play against Newcastle. Igor Biscan is fit again too."

"The only players who won't be available are Vladimir Smicer and Djibril
Cisse."

Newcastle manager Graeme Souness is hoping for some good news on the
injury front as he prepares to return to his former club.

Alan Shearer (thigh), Patrick Kluivert (hamstring), Kieron Dyer (calf),
Laurent Robert (leg muscle) and Lee Bowyer (suspension), all missed
Thursday night's 1-1 UEFA Cup draw with Sporting Lisbon.

Souness is expecting most, if not all, to be fit for Sunday's trip to
Anfield.

Craig Bellamy injured his back against Sporting, but should be fit,
although Ronny Johnsen and Nicky Butt (both hamstring) and Stephen Carr
(knee) remain on the sidelines.

Teams

Liverpool (from): Dudek, Kirkland, Finnan, Josemi, Carragher, Hyypia,
Traore, Biscan, Riise, Kewell, Gerrard, Hamann, Alonso, Garcia, Nunez,
Baros, Pongolle, Mellor, Harrison, Diao.

Newcastle (from): Given, Harper, Taylor, Bernard, Hughes, Elliott,
Bramble, O'Brien, Ramage, Dyer, Jenas, Milner, Bowyer, Robert, Ambrose,
Brittain, Shearer, Kluivert, Bellamy, Ameobi, Guy.


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[lfc-news] Liverpool v Man Utd ticket details - Official Site

Official LFC Website, 17 Dec 2004
LIVERPOOL V MAN UNITED TICKET NEWS
By Paul Eaton

Liverpool have announced ticket details and selling arrangements for the
clash with Manchester United at Anfield on January 15, 2005.
The entire stadium will be ticketed and the following prices will apply:

Main Stand, Centenary Stand Upper and Lower Tiers, Paddock Enclosure and
Anfield Road £30.00

Kop Grandstand £28.00

Kop Grandstand (one adult/one child combined) £42.00

Anfield Road Stand (one adult/one child combined) £45.00

Season Ticket holders will be able to gain entry as usual for this
Premier League fixture through their normal turnstiles on production of
their season ticket book and voucher No.12. Upper Centenary and Anfield
Road Adult/Child Season Ticket holders will present their Fan Card at
the turnstiles as usual.

Initially applications for match day tickets for this fixture will only
be available to those supporters who attended the Norwich City match on
25 September 2004 and the Birmingham City match on 6 November 2004.

Attendance Data held on the Ticket Office Computer System for the
Birmingham City and Norwich City fixtures will determine eligibility for
a Manchester United ticket.

Selling arrangements

Tickets will be available from the Ticket Office from Thursday 30
December until Friday 7 January 2005.

Postal applications

Supporters who attended both the nominated games and are unable to
attend in person should make an application by post immediately,
enclosing the correct remittance and a stamped addressed envelope and if
in possession of a Fan Card the customer number should be quoted.

Telephone Bookings

Tickets will be available to eligible supporters on the credit card
booking line 0870 220 2151 from Thursday 30 December 2004 until Friday 7
January 2005 and will be subject to a booking fee of 50p per ticket.

Online Ticket Sale

A limited number of adult tickets will be available to purchase online
at www.liverpoolfc.tv to eligible supporters holding a Fan Card and
unique password. These will be available from 30 December for as long as
supplies last.

Priority Ticket Scheme

Priority TicketScheme tickets will be available as usual from Tuesday 21
December 2004.

Important

Supporters who purchased their ticket through the Development
Association need to contact the Development Association concerning the
allocation of Manchester United tickets.

Complimentary tickets from the nominated fixtures will not qualify for a
Manchester United ticket.

Tickets are subject to availability and while stocks last.

We would emphasise to all eligible applicants that no guarantee can be
given that tickets will be available to all who apply.

The Ticket Office will be closed as follows:

Friday 31 December 2004 12.30 pm
Sunday 2 January 2005
Monday 3 January 2005
Saturday 7 January and Sunday 8 January 2005


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[lfc-news] Dudek shrugs off blame - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 17 Dec 2004
Dudek shrugs off blame
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

JERZY DUDEK was 30 seconds from the perfect comeback on Tuesday.

Then the ball landed at the feet of Portsmouth's Matt Taylor, and
instead of being hailed for a steady return to Premiership duty, Dudek
awoke on Wednesday to more headlines questioning his ability.

The Pole has been the first to admit his mistakes in the past, but feels
it was unfair fingers were pointed at him for the late equaliser.

"I know what's been said but the most important thing for me is what the
manager thinks," said Dudek.

"I thought there was nothing I could do about their goal and I'm glad
the manager thinks the same way.

"I was waiting for a cross but the guy miskicked it and it flew towards
the net. I reacted and tried my best to save it but it was difficult.

"I managed to stop it but there wasn't much I could do about the fact
the ball then went straight to an attacker.

"After the game the manager said he was happy with my performance,
especially because it's my first Premiership game for two months."

Now he is back, Dudek has no intention of relinquishing a role he had
established in impressive style when he joined Liverpool from Feyenoord
in 2001.

Dudek's reputation was unblemished for 12 months, but since 2002 he and
Chris Kirkland have regularly rotated.

While the competition was presumed healthy for the club when the duo
signed on the same day, Dudek is not so sure it has had the desired effect.

"I've felt some English people probably don't want to support me as much
as they do Chris, but I think that's normal," says Dudek.

"People are patriotic and as a foreign player that's something you have
to accept when you go to another country. But I don't think that's been
a good situation for the club.

"I don't think it helps the atmosphere in the team.

"I'd like all the speculation about which goalkeeper should play to stop
now, but whenever you don't get a result, someone has to be responsible
and it's usually the goalkeeper. First it was me and then it was the
same for Chris.

"I'm very happy to be back in the side now because I've waited for my
moment. The manager told me at the start of the season there would be a
time when Chris would play a lot of games because he needs to see every
player at the club so he can judge for himself everyone's qualities.

"I wasn't angry about that decision. I understand why the manager wanted
to see Chris in goal.

"Now the manager has said to me: 'Okay, you will have some games now'.
It's unfortunate for Chris he is injured, but good for me he has brought
me back.

"I have to think professionally and try to make sure I do everything I
can to stay in the side. I'm full of confidence I can stay where I am.

"The period out has been very important for me. I've worked hard and
given myself time to prepare for the moment I returned. Now I want to
get the payback.

"What I would like most is some stability. I had a good relationship
with Joe Corrigan, but the training was a lot different than it is now.
"When I first came to Liverpool it was new to me. Now, the new ideas are
the old methods which I used before I came to Liverpool.

"We work much more technically and create more game situations. I like
that. "I'm not saying it's better or worse, just different, and I prefer
this. It's like I've gone back to the basics and I'm happy with my work
over the last six months."

Goalkeepers are known to mature with age. The performance of Nigel
Martyn last week was proof.

Dudek believes if he has the confidence of those around him, there is no
reason why he cannot re-establish the image he had in 2002 as one of the
world's best.

"When I came to Liverpool I felt fine. I was in good form," he recalled.

"When I'm asked where it started to go not so well, I always go back to
the situation after the World Cup which took away my confidence.

"As a goalkeeper, that's what you need more than anything. You learn a
lot along the way, but even when you are learning you must always
perform as a goalkeeper - especially at Liverpool where every game is
important and every mistake is noticed.

"People will talk every time you make a mistake and start to doubt you.
I have to say that was something I didn't expect after I'd played so
well for a full season. I thought people would accept a few mistakes
after I'd proved myself for so long."


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[lfc-news] Garcia winning the race to face Toon - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 17 Dec 2004
Garcia winning the race to face Toom
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

LUIS GARCIA could make a surprise return to the Liverpool side for the
visit of Newcastle on Sunday.

The Spanish forward returned to training this week, and Rafa Benitez is
confident Garcia will be declared available.

Liverpool still have two more training sessions before the game and
Benitez is keen for Garcia to return to action as soon as possible.

The 26-year-old has been out for three weeks with a hamstring strain,
suffered during the recent Champions League defeat to Monaco.

"Luis is training normally and I think he can play against Newcastle.
Igor Biscan is fit again too," said Benitez today.

"The only players who won't be available are Vladimir Smicer and Djibril
Cisse."

Graeme Souness' side are in a similar position to the Reds having been
expected to challenge for a Champions League position but struggled for
consistent results.

Benitez believes both club will be fighting for a position higher up the
league in the New Year.

He said: "We know we are playing a good side and it's an important
fixture for both our situations.

"We need to get nearer to the top four. If we win, we can close the gap
and keep ourselves ahead of Newcastle who are another side I am sure
will push higher up the table.

"It's important for the future of the season we enjoy a good result."


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[lfc-news] German test for Reds

PA Sport, 17 Dec 2004
GERMAN TEST FOR REDS

Liverpool have been drawn against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions
League first knockout round.

The draw offers Rafael Benitez's men the chance to avenge their
quarter-final defeat by Leverkusen in 2002.

Leading 1-0 after the home leg, Gerard Houllier's side fell apart in the
face of a Michael Ballack-inspired Leverkusen who won 4-2 in the return tie.

However, although the German side finished top of their group in the
current campaign, they are not in the same class as the 2002 team and
Liverpool could have been given a much tougher prospect.

"I think we are happy enough," said the Anfield club's chief executive
Rick Parry.

"We don't fear any team at this stage. Hopefully, we can do a bit better
against Leverkusen than the last time we played them.

"It is not easy but we will get on with it now.

"I'm pleased we didn't get one of the Italian clubs - you have to play
them at some stage but it (the draw) is OK."

Parry also admitted progressing to the knockout stage was incredibly
significant for the club - and not just because of the money it would
bring in.

"It is a massive boost to be through to last 16. People have been
talking about finances but it is a pure football boost," he told Sky
Sports News.

"It keeps the second half of the season alive. We are really looking
forward to the knock-out phase."

Draw in full:

First knockout round (all kick-offs 1945 GMT)

First Legs

Tuesday February 22
Bayern v Arsenal
LIVERPOOL v Leverkusen
PSV v Monaco
Real Madrid v Juventus

Wednesday February 23
Barcelona v Chelsea
Bremen v Lyon
Man. United v Milan
Porto v Internazionale

Second Legs

Tuesday March 8
Chelsea v Barcelona
Lyon v Bremen
AC Milan v Man. United

Wednesday March 9
Arsenal v Bayern
Juventus v Real Madrid
Leverkusen v LIVERPOOL
Monaco v PSV

Tuesday March 15
Internazionale v Porto


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[lfc-news] Norwich v Liverpool ticket news - Official Site

Official LFC Website, 16 Dec 2004
NORWICH V LIVERPOOL TICKET DETAILS
By Paul Eaton

Liverpool have announced ticket details and selling arrangements for the
Premiership clash at Norwich on January 3, kick-off 12.45pm.
Liverpool Football Club have received an allocation of 2293 stand
tickets for this ALL ticket fixture priced as follows;-

Adult £30 No Concessions
Adult £29
Child £21 Under 16
Child £11 Under 12
Over 65's £21

Ticket Allocation

Tickets will be available to Season Ticket holders based on attendance
at Premier League away fixtures during Season 2003-2004 on the following
days,

Attendance at 10 or more games: Friday 17 Dec 8.15am - 4.45pm and Sunday
19 Dec 9.00am - Kick Off

Attendance at 9 or more games: Monday 20 Dec 9.15am-4.45pm

Attendance at 8 or more games: Tuesday 21 Dec 9.15am - 3.15pm

Attendance at 7 or more games: Wednesday 22 Dec 9.15am - 4.45pm

Attendance at 6 or more games: Thursday 23 Dec 9.15am - 4.45pm

The allocation of tickets will be subject to availability and while
stocks last.

Tickets will be available for personal application at the Ticket Office,
by postal application and credit card bookings on Telephone Number 0870
787 2000. The Fan Card must be presented when applying at the Ticket
Office and in the case of postal applications or telephone applications
the number must be quoted, telephone bookings will require the
applicants address to be confirmed and are subject to a booking fee.

Please do not apply if you do not meet the required criteria, any
queries regarding the Fan Card please telephone 0870 220 2345.

We would emphasise to all eligible applicants that no guarantee can be
given that tickets will be available to all who apply.

Executive Box holders, Centenary, Premier and Executive members should
contact the Corporate Sales Department.

Only on the first day of sale will the Ticket Office be open from 8.15am
to 4.45pm.

The Ticket Office will then revert to normal office hours from Monday 20
December 2004,which are Monday - Friday 9.15am-4.45pm

The Ticket Office will be closed on Tuesday 21 December from 3.15pm
December, Friday 24 December from 12.30pm, Saturday 25December and
Sunday 26 December ,Monday 27 December 2004, Friday 31 December from
12.30pm ,Sunday 2 January 2005 and Monday 3 January 2005.


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[lfc-news] Price must be right to land Morientes - Post

Liverpool Daily Post, 16 Dec 2004
Price must be right to land Morientes
By David Prior, Daily Post Staff

FERNANDO MORIENTES has been told he can leave Real Madrid next month -
but Liverpool's hopes of bringing the striker to Anfield will hinge on
their ability to drive down asking price.

The Bernabeu club appear ready to end months of speculation by
off-loading the Spanish international in the new year transfer window,
with club president Florentino Perez hoping to use the player's fee to
bankroll a summer move for Inter Milan's Brazilian frontman Adriano.

That will open the door for Liverpool to make a formal approach for a
player they have consistently been linked with - although it is believed
the Anfield club are not prepared to match his pricetag of around £8million.

Morientes is unhappy with life in Madrid having fallen down the
strikers' pecking order behind Raul, Ronaldo and Michael Owen, and has
seen his Primera Liga season largely restricted to secondhalf substitute
appearances.

He has voiced hopes of a return to Monaco, where he spent last season on
loan and played a significant role in their Champions League glory, but
the Principality club are in a weak position financially and coach
Didier Deschamps has ruled out a Morientes return.

Liverpool, whose desperate need for reinforcements was underlined by
Tuesday's disappointing draw against Portsmouth, will hope that factor
may give them some room to push Real's price down.

Another player still on the Anfield checklist is Nicolas Anelka, with
Manchester City indicating at this week's AGM they would consider a loan
deal - with a view to a permanent move - for a player whose future at
Eastlands looks to be in jeopardy after some ill-advised comments to a
French magazine.

City chairman John Wardle said he would sell the Frenchman at the right
price to ease the club's escalating debts, despite the striker's apology
over his attack on the club.

Anelka is, however, also valued at around £8million, while there are
still question marks over his temperament and therefore suitability for
Rafael Benitez's squad.

And despite an Anelka arrival receiving the backing of Steven Gerrard,
the manager is unlikely to bear such factors in mind when choosing new
blood.

Despite Tuesday's late setback against Pompey, the Spanish coach remains
upbeat despite his side trailing leaders Chelsea by 15 points.

He said: "If you look at the table we have gained one point and closed
the gap on the top four teams.

"I accept it is a bad situation losing two points at home but it is not
the worst. The players are frustrated but we will return to training and
focus on our next game and put this one behind us."

The game did however further convince Jamie Carragher of the need for
new arrivals next month. "I'm not talking necessarily about replacing
individuals," he said. "More about getting numbers in. We need a bigger
squad. No matter what's happened so far this season, I think everyone
knows we're still short of players."

John-Arne Riise said: "Consistency is the key and that will take time.
We've a lot of new players in the side, and so far they have done
brilliantly, but they need time to fully adapt."


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[lfc-news] Kewell faces summer hernia op - PA

PA Sport, 15 Dec 2004
KEWELL FACES SUMMER HERNIA OP

Liverpool's Harry Kewell is likely to need a hernia operation next summer
if he does not take a break from international friendly games in the next
six months, his manager has warned.

Bernie Mandic told Australian TV network SBS that Kewell needed a break
from the game and that Australia would be fortunate to have him available
for any friendlies in 2005, ruling him out of the Socceroos' preparations
to win a World Cup finals spot in Germany for the first time in 32 years.

Mandic said Kewell was still suffering from persistent ankle and groin
injuries which, if not rested, could leave him needing an off-season hernia
operation.

"Realistically he should have a good rest," said Mandic.

"The physios have advised him to take a good eight to 10 weeks off. I would
say you would be fortunate to see him twice in Australia."

The Socceroos are scheduled to play friendlies against South Africa in
Durban on February 9 and Iraq in Australia on March 26.

Kewell's summer should be dominated by the Confederations Cup in June, when
the Socceroos face Germany, Argentina and Tunisia in the group stage. But
if an operation is required then, Kewell will miss the tournament.

"God forbid, if he has to have an operation in the off-season then
obviously the Confederations Cup is out of the picture," said Mandic.

"That is the one he definitely wants to be part of and believes every
player should be part of that.

"He views the Confederations Cup as critically important for preparations
to the World Cup and he really would love to be part of that.

"That for him is the priority next to the play-off match versus [a team
from] South America."



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[lfc-news] Carra: We must go window shopping - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 15 Dec 2004
Carra: We must go window shopping
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

JAMIE CARRAGHER says Liverpool's recent results have underlined the urgent
need to reinforce the squad in January's transfer window.

Rafa Benitez's side dropped another two points due to a last gasp equaliser
for Portsmouth in a 1-1 draw at Anfield.

A distraught Carragher said he 'felt like the side had lost' on the final
whistle.

"It's the manner in which we conceded a goal at the end which hurts.

"When you score in the last minute it's the best feeling you can have, but
when you concede, it feels like a defeat," he said.

"We needed those three points to close the gap and get further up the table
so we've missed a good opportunity.

"We had enough chances to win the game well before they scored."

The Reds continue to be linked with former striker Nicolas Anelka, and
Manchester City even indicated at their AGM yesterday a loan deal with a
view to a permanent move this summer was possible.

That would make Anelka an attractive option for Benitez, whose main concern
is an £8m fee.

Liverpool are making no comment on such speculation, but it's clear the
senior players at Anfield are desperate for some top class recruitments and
Anelka fits the bill.

"Liverpool is a big club and we've got to be challenging for the title. No
matter what's happened so far this season, I think everyone knows we're
still short of players," said Carragher.

"Even though we beat Arsenal, I don't think any of us was thinking that
meant we had a squad which is good enough to challenge for the title.

"I'm not talking necessarily about replacing individuals, but more about
getting numbers in. We need a bigger squad. We've lost a lot of players
during the summer who still haven't been replaced, and while it's not an
excuse, that's been seen with the number of injuries we've had. There are
still a lot of players out now.



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[lfc-news] Youngsters sign new Anfield deals - Official Site

Official LFC Website, 14 Dec 2004
YOUNGSTERS SIGN NEW ANFIELD DEALS
By Paul Eaton

Liverpool youngsters Zak Whitbread and David Raven have both been rewarded
for their excellent progress this season with new Anfield deals.
The two Academy graduates, who have played starring roles in the Reds'
march to the Carling Cup semi-final, have signed new contracts to remain at
Anfield until 2007.

Whitbread has played in every match in this season's Carling Cup,
impressing at centre half alongside Stephane Henchoz, while Raven turned in
a sparkling performance on his competitive debut at right back in the
quarter final success at Tottenham.

Profile on Zak Whitbread:

A product of the club's Academy, Whitbread was handed the opportunity of
training with the first team squad when he moved down to Melwood in the
summer of 2003.

Zak made his first team debut under Rafael Benitez at Millwall with a man
of the match performance in the 3-0 Carling Cup win in October 2004.

Zak is a left sided defender who can play at left back or centre half. He
was born in the USA and also has a British passport.

Whitbread experienced life with the first team squad when he was on the
2003 Far East tour of Thailand and Hong Kong. He played 18 minutes for the
first team in the first game in Thailand but missed the Hong Kong match
through injury.

He is a regular member of Hughie McAuley's reserve team and is seen as a
bright prospect, and was included in the squad for the 2004 summer tour of
the USA and Canada.

Profile on David Raven:

England youth international captain Raven made the move full time to
Melwood in January 2004 and is a consistent performer in defence.

He has played a number of games at centre half for the reserves and England
but Benitez sees his best position as a right back.

Raven made his first team debut with a man of the match display during the
Carling Cup quarter-final win at Tottenham in December 2004.

A former trainee with Tranmere Rovers, Raven is a product of Liverpool's
Academy and is a talented player.

Raven made his first team debut in the pre-season 2-1 win over Wrexham in
August 2004 when he gave an accomplished display at centre half.



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[lfc-news] FA Cup tie set for Friday night - Official Site

Official LFC Website, 14 Dec 2004
BURNLEY TIE SET FOR FRIDAY NIGHT
By Paul Eaton

Liverpool have confirmed that their FA Cup tie at Burnley will take place
on Friday January 7 2005, kick-off 7.45pm.
The tie has been selected for live coverage on SKY TV and so will be the
first of this season's third round games.

No ticket news has yet been announced by the Reds for the clash at Turf Moor.

If the match ends in a draw the replay will be at Anfield on Tuesday
January 18 2005, kick-off 8pm.



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[lfc-news] Rafa refusing to blame Dudek - Official Site

Official LFC Website, 14 Dec 2004
RAFA REFUSING TO BLAME DUDEK
By Paul Eaton

Rafael Benitez has refused to blame goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek for Portsmouth's
late equaliser at Anfield.
Liverpool appeared to be heading towards three points thanks to Steven
Gerrard's second half free kick, but as the game entered stoppage time
Dudek palmed away a left wing cross and Pompey striker Lomana Lua Lua was
on hand to save a point for the visitors.

The Reds' boss was understandably disappointed with the manner of the late
goal, but he was equally frustrated with the amount of chances his side
missed over the 90 minutes.

Benitez said: "I think their player tried to cross the ball but in the end
it was a shot. The goalkeeper did his best to get it away and was unlucky.
I haven't seen it on the video but I want to watch it again.

"The important thing tonight was that we didn't take the chances. We had
enough to win the game convincingly but we only scored one. In football you
can never feel safe when you have only scored one.

"Of course it is a disappointing result and people will say we have lost
two points. But the table will say we have gained one, so it could have
been worse."



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[lfc-news] Portsmouth report - PA

PA Sport, 14 Dec 2004
Liverpool 1 Portsmouth 1

Liverpool were left stunned as Lomana LuaLua grabbed a dramatic
stoppage-time equaliser at Anfield.

Goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek, back in the side with Chris Kirkland injured,
looked at fault for the strike which rescued a Barclays Premiership point
for Pompey.

He could only palm a cross from Matthew Taylor into the path of LuaLua, who
gratefully headed home.

Liverpool were shell-shocked - and little wonder because they had run a
game in which Steven Gerrard gave them a 70th-minute lead.

Gerrard had almost opened the scoring in the eighth minute when his shot
was parried by goalkeeper Jamie Ashdown.

Then 60 seconds later Dietmar Hamann failed to find the target from close
range after Antonio Nunez had flicked on a corner from Gerrard.

They came under pressure again in the 18th minute when Nunez whipped in a
good cross to the near post.

But defender Linvoy Primus was perfectly positioned and steered the ball to
safety.

Portsmouth almost made the breakthrough in the 25th minute after a swift
counter-attack.

LuaLua tried to curl a shot from inside the area beyond Dudek, but Steve
Finnan got a vital touch.

Liverpool surged forward a minute later, and Gerrard picked out Nunez at
the back post. He had time on his side but succeeded only in sending a weak
shot into the arms of Ashdown.

Finnan raced forward in the 35th minute and whipped in a cross to the near
post. Again Portsmouth defended staunchly with Andy Griffin booting the
ball clear.

The visitors almost paid for a moment of slackness in the 38th minute, however.

Amdy Faye was easily knocked off the ball by Nunez, who broke forward deep
into the Portsmouth half. He cleverly released Harry Kewell in a good
position on the edge of the area.

The Australian midfielder seemed to be caught in two minds, and his
attempted pass to Finnan drifted out of play.

Portsmouth remained dangerous on the break, and LuaLua showed a good turn
of pace in the 42nd minute to race into the opposing area. The striker's
shot was on target but did not carry enough power to trouble Dudek, who got
down quickly to block his effort.

This was a good spell by Portsmouth - and a minute later Gary O'Neil saw
his well-struck effort go narrowly wide of the post, with the goalkeeper
well beaten.

Liverpool regained the momentum at the start of the second half, and
Gerrard fired in a powerful shot after 47 minutes which just cleared the bar.

They kept up the pressure, and Kewell made space inside the area only to
see his effort go wide of Ashdown's left-hand post.

Then Dejan Stefanovic was forced to make a hurried clearance under pressure
from Milan Baros in the 51st minute. Gerrard had begun the move with an
incisive pass to Nunez, who delivered a cross from the right.

Portsmouth were again forced on the back foot two minutes later when they
scrambled the ball away from Baros after a clever free-kick from Xabi Alonso.

Kewell was again out of luck in the 56th minute when his fierce drive
whistled past the post as the Kop held its breath.

Ashdown twice came to his team's rescue in quick succession.

He superbly blocked Nunez's effort in the 58th minute - and then somehow
managed to parry and then catch Hamann's close-range header.

Kewell then got away from former Liverpool midfielder Patrik Berger but
failed to test Ashdown from the edge of the area.

The former Leeds star was finding plenty of room to manoeuvre and saw
Ashdown make a good block from his effort in the 69th minute.

Gerrard, typically, opened the scoring in the 70th minute with a 25-yard
thunderbolt into the corner following a short free-kick from Hamann.

Portsmouth were looking disheartened, and the home side almost added a
second in the 86th minute.

Substitute Florent Sinama-Pongolle saw Arjan de Zeeuw block his shot which
bounced into the path of Kewell. He rattled the ball back towards the goal
only for Ashdown to get down quickly to smother his effort.

Then came LuaLua's equaliser to leave the Kop in a state of disbelief at
seeing two precious home points slip away.

Liverpool: Dudek, Finnan, Hyypia, Carragher, Traore, Nunez (Josemi 89.00),
Hamann, Gerrard, Alonso, Kewell, Baros (Sinama Pongolle 82).
Subs Not Used: Riise, Mellor, Harrison.
Booked: none
Goals: Gerrard 70.

Portsmouth: Ashdown, Griffin, De Zeeuw, Primus, Stefanovic, LuaLua, Faye
(Berkovic 85), Stone, O'Neil, Berger, Fuller (Taylor 61).
Subs Not Used: Hislop, Mezague, Cisse.
Booked: none
Goals: LuaLua 90.

Att: 35,064
Ref: M Clattenburg (Co Durham).



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[lfc-news] TEAM: Liverpool

----------------------------- New web site -----------------------------
See http://www.statmail.co.uk/ for the latest results, tables and stats
and subscribe to any of our 134 free e-mail update services
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Results and fixtures

Date Comp Opposition Result Attend
----------------------------------------------------------------------
14/08/04 PREM Tottenham Hotspur Away D 1-1 35,105

21/08/04 PREM Manchester City Home W 2-1 42,831

29/08/04 PREM Bolton Wanderers Away L 0-1 27,880

11/09/04 PREM West Bromwich Albion Home W 3-0 42,947

20/09/04 PREM Manchester United Away L 1-2 67,857

25/09/04 PREM Norwich City Home W 3-0 43,152

03/10/04 PREM Chelsea Away L 0-1 42,028

16/10/04 PREM Fulham Away W 4-2 21,884

23/10/04 PREM Charlton Athletic Home W 2-0 41,625

26/10/04 LC Millwall Away W 3-0 17,655

30/10/04 PREM Blackburn Rovers Away D 2-2 26,314

06/11/04 PREM Birmingham City Home L 0-1 42,669

10/11/04 LC Middlesbrough Home W 2-0 28,176

13/11/04 PREM Crystal Palace Home W 3-2 42,862

20/11/04 PREM Middlesbrough Away L 0-2 34,751

28/11/04 PREM Arsenal Home W 2-1 43,730

NEXT LC Tottenham Hotspur Away




Results summary as at Tuesday 14th December 2004

__________________ __________________ __________________
| Home | Away | Total |
_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Played | 9 | 10 | 19 |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Won | 7 (78%) | 2 (20%) | 9 (47%) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Drawn | 1 (11%) | 3 (30%) | 4 (21%) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Lost | 1 (11%) | 5 (50%) | 6 (32%) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| For | 18 (2.0/game) | 12 (1.2/game) | 30 (1.6/game) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Against | 6 (0.7/game) | 13 (1.3/game) | 19 (1.0/game) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|


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The administrators of the mailing list have requested this service


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[lfc-news] Mark Lawrenson column - Post

Liverpool Daily Post, 14 Dec 2004
The bad habits Kirkland has to eradicate now
By Mark Lawrenson, Daily Post

EVEN though a football match goes on for more than an hour and a half, it
is decided by just a few instants.

At Goodison Park on Saturday, those crucial moments revolved around the two
goalkeepers and it was Chris Kirkland who was found wanting.

Whereas Nigel Martyn stood firm with an easy confidence born of his
extensive experience, Liverpool's stopper appeared paralysed at times by
the uncertainty that is currently all too apparent in his performances.

When Lee Carsley's goal flashed past him - virtually right next to him in
fact - I bet most Liverpool supporters will have had flashbacks to the last
two games against Olympiakos and Aston Villa.

There too the keeper was beaten by shots he would have been expected to
stop, so it is an ongoing problem and if left unchecked, could lead to more
trouble and more soft goals. However I believe it is a relatively simple
flaw to sort out, given a bit of work in the video room and on the training
pitch.

It is not as if Kirkland has been spilling shots or letting goals through
his hands - instead he seems to have slipped into bad habits in his
positioning and technique.

First and foremost, when he is on his line waiting for shots he seems to me
to be planting his feet, which means he does not have any spring in his
step. Whereas you would expect a goalkeeper to be on his toes and ready to
go left or right as needed, Kirkland looks flat-footed which means he is
unable to change direction at the moment.

Whether that is down to the injuries he has suffered in the past, I don't
know, but he has to regain that bounce if he is to keep clean sheets.

On top of that, if you are setting a wall at free-kicks, then there is no
point standing behind it where you can't see the ball. Given the
improvement in players' technical ability and ball technology, even with a
clear view of the ball a goalkeeper is only going to have a few heartbeats
to see where the ball is going and react accordingly.

If you only see the ball when it has gone past the wall, then your reaction
time is that much shorter, as shown by the ball being beyond Kirkland at
Villa before he dived.

It is up to Kirkland to stand where he can see the ball, and that means
leaving the wall to defend half of the goal while he is in the other half.
If someone gets the ball over the wall and into the top corner then so be
it, you've got to hold your hands up and say fair enough. That happens in
football, but to me there is no excuse for a top class keeper like Kirkland
to put himself in a blind spot, and so cut down his chances of saving the ball.

I would be looking now for Liverpool's goalkeeping coach Jose Ochotorena to
sit down with Kirkland and have a little word while they watch some videos
of him in action, to point out what he has been doing wrong.

Once he recovers from his latest niggle, then I'd also have him on the
training pitch working hard to iron out those flaws.

Let me make it clear - I'm not doubting his ability as a goalkeeper and I
believe he has the potential to be a great player for Liverpool. Like any
young player - and he is still a baby in goalkeeping terms - he just makes
mistakes now and again and it is up to the people around him to get him
through any difficult patches.

In that way I think it is a shame he will not play against Portsmouth.
Getting back on the bike straight away would have given him the chance to
put in a good performance and ease the doubts he must be feeling.

Sitting out games when your last performance was shaky at best means the
role Rafael Benitez and his coaches have to play is even more crucial in
ensuring Kirkland's belief in himself stays strong.



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[lfc-news] Ian Rush column - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 14 Dec 2004
Resist talking about Anfield future
By Ian Rush

It seems no matter whether Liverpool win, lose or draw, Steven Gerrard's
future is the main topic of conversation.

I can understand why supporters are getting a bit sick of hearing about it.

The club should have been allowed to celebrate a momentous win over
Olympiakos last week - and the captain's brilliant goal which secured it -
but instead all I read about was whether Stevie is staying or not.

I think we all sympathise with his comments. Everyone wants Liverpool to be
competing for the title.

But, speaking from my own experience, I think Steven still needs to learn a
bit about how reporters operate.

It's obvious he was asked certain questions about his future last week
which, in retrospect, didn't need to be answered on that particular day.

Stevie was too honest for his own good. Sometimes straight-batting a
difficult question is the right response. There's no way Stevie intended
those comments to be timed in the way they were.

I can understand the argument for speaking your mind, but I'm sure he
recognises he was lured into saying things at the wrong time. I think he
was caught on the hop a little bit and ended up saying too much.

He scored a fantastic goal against Olympiakos, but a few days later people
were still talking about the Press conference the day before. I think
that's a shame for him.

There's no need for him to put so much pressure on himself. He has enough
on his plate worrying about maintaining his own brilliant performances
without trying to sort out all the off- field problems too.

Kirkland needed good run

IT'S a shame for Chris Kirkland that he suffered a back injury after the
derby defeat

Goalkeepers are the last players you want to be changing regularly. You
have to make your mind up as a manager who's your number one and stick to it.

He wasn't the only one at fault for the goal on Saturday. There were errors
in the build-up.

To build up his confidence he needed to get straight back into action with
a few clean sheets. Unfortunately he'll have to wait to prove himself again.

Reds should rise above

I WON'T be betting against Liverpool finishing above Everton this May,
despite the result at the weekend.

Benitez's side has four of their next five league games at Anfield. Given
the impressive home form, this has to be seen as an ideal opportunity to
finally get some momentum.

I see Liverpool as a side capable of winning four of their next five games,
and it's not beyond the realms of possibility Everton will endure a run
where they lose four out of five at some point during the season.

Let's see what the league table looks like then.

That 12 point gap may look huge today, but things can change very quickly.
I hope it gets cut by three points tonight.

Liverpool have been too hot and cold this season. No-one has been unhappy
after home fixtures, but the away form is a concern.

The Christmas period is always a perfect chance to transform the look of
the league table.



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[lfc-news] Benitez hoping storm clouds have all cleared - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 14 Dec 2004
Benitez hoping storm clouds have all cleared
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

ASKED about his ambitions ahead of the season, a senior professional summed
up the mood at Anfield last August.

"A bit of normality wouldn't go amiss," he said.

"There was too much drama last year. It was like every win or defeat was
the most important of the season."

Over the last fortnight, Liverpool's players have found themselves in
similar territory.

Victory over Olympiakos was perceived by some as the beginning of an epic
period.

Defeat in the derby three days later reversed the gears leading to
premature claims of a 'power shift on Merseyside' with less than half the
season played.

With the soap opera of the AGM and the skipper's future as unwanted
backdrops, memories of last year have made an unwelcome return.

The next four fixtures, though, offer a chance to restore some calm.

Portsmouth, West Brom, Southampton and, to a lesser degree, Newcastle, have
the potential to be run-of-the-mill fixtures.

They represent an opportunity for Liverpool to creep unnoticed towards a
more acceptable position and emerge from the Christmas period in a
healthier state.

A win against Portsmouth tonight would put the Reds sixth, just four points
from the top four.

Manager Rafa Benitez is adamant his side will compete for the Champions
League places and is thankful for a swift opportunity to banish the memory
of Saturday.

"The derby is finished with now," said Benitez.

"There's no point wasting time thinking about the derby defeat. All we lost
is three points.

"I told the players they were allowed one day to be disappointed but after
that they would have to prepare for the next game.

"When you win, it's okay to have a long time between a game. When you lose,
you want to play again quickly.

"You analyse the game more when you lose. We need to respond better when we
concede a goal. We still had 20 minutes left on Saturday to do something.

"Against Olympiakos we scored three goals by playing good football. But
when you play an aggressive side away from home and you start playing long
balls, it makes it easier for them to defend quicker.

"We needed to get wide quicker and use shorter passes. They would have had
more problems. We need to learn from that.

"I didn't like the way we changed our style."

There are those who think the change was partially due to the team
selection. No such controversy is anticipated this evening.

Xabi Alonso will return. So too will Milan Baros, while Steve Finnan is
sure to be favoured ahead of Josemi at right-back.

Benitez's frustration remains his lack of a world-class target man to hold
the ball and bring others into play.

Steven Gerrard is likely to continue playing off the striker until a
recruitment is made in January.

Nicolas Anelka continues to be linked with a return to Anfield as much in
hope as expectation, but Liverpool could be priced out of a bid because
Manchester City rate the French forward at £8m.

Combined with a hefty salary, that is beyond what Benitez can afford unless
investment plans materialise.

But the manager is far from downhearted with the progress of his side,
focusing on the impressive home record, the fact Liverpool are still
fighting on four fronts and stressing the only way is up.

"There are lots of opportunities for us to still think about doing good
things for the club," he said..

"I have seen the statistics today and I thought: 'Okay, we are in a better
position now than a year ago. We have two more points after the same number
of games'.

"But we want to be much better than that.

"Let's not forget we are still in four competitions. Not many clubs are
still in the Carling Cup and the Champions League and have a lot to play
for in the Premiership. Then there is the FA Cup to come.

"We have the incentive to work even harder.

"Away from home we are not winning games and that's where we really need to
improve. At Anfield we have done well. We have played well away in some
games but not scored enough goals.

"Some said to me: 'Are you sure you will finish in the top four?' I said:
'Of course.' Why not?? "

Four wins out of four will make that argument more persuasive.

Beyond that? Chelsea arrive at Anfield on January 1 and the circus comes
back to town.



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[lfc-news] Reds in search for new sponsor - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 14 Dec 2004
Reds in search for new sponsor
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

LIVERPOOL are hoping to secure a £6m-a-year shirt sponsorship deal in the
new year, as a 12-year relationship with Carlsberg could be about to end.

The Reds' current deal with the brewing giants ends in May.

Negotiations are ongoing about prolonging the successful partnership.
However, there are indications Carlsberg won't continue their sponsor-ship
at Anfield and the Reds are already exploring different avenues.

The last sponsorship deal was signed with the brewers in August 2002 and
would have been worth £15m if Liverpool had qualified for the Champions
League every year since.

Participation in the UEFA Cup last season slightly reduced the amount the
club received from the performance-related agreement, although it was still
the most lucrative in Anfield history.

The Reds will be hoping the appointment of a world renowned manager, as
well as their continued presence in this year's elite European competition,
will make them more attractive to possible commercial partners.



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[lfc-news] Liverpool v Portsmouth team news - PA

PA Sport, 13 Dec 2004
KEEPER KIRKLAND BACKS OUT

Goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek returns to the Liverpool side against Portsmouth
after Chris Kirkland was ruled out with a back injury.

Local teenager Paul Harrison will be on the bench as cover.

Manager Rafael Benitez could recall striker Milan Baros and Xabi Alonso
might also start at the expense of Salif Diao in midfield as Liverpool bid
to get back on track in the league following the derby defeat to Everton.

Nigel Quashie will again miss out with a groin injury when Portsmouth face
the Reds.

Striker Lomana LuaLua should be fit despite coming off with cramp towards
the end of Saturday's 1-1 draw at Newcastle.

Velimir Zajec looks set to opt for an unchanged team with David Unsworth
ruled out until the new year with hamstring trouble sustained in last
week's win over West Brom.

Teams

Liverpool (from): Finnan, Josemi, Carragher, Hyypia, Traore, Riise, Kewell,
Gerrard, Hamann, Garcia, Alonso, Nunez, Baros, Pongolle, Mellor, Dudek,
Diao, Harrison.

Portsmouth (from): Ashdown, Griffin, Stefanovic, de Zeeuw, Primus, Stone,
Faye, O'Neil, Berger, LuaLua, Cisse, Fuller, Taylor, Berkovic, Hughes,
Curtis, Mezague, Hislop.



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

Official LFC Website, 13 Dec 2004
LATE WARNOCK GOAL SINKS FOREST
Steve Hunter at the City Ground

A brilliant finish from Stephen Warnock gave Liverpool Reserves a deserved
late 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground in a match where
Darren Potter, John Welsh, Zak Whitbread and David Raven further enhanced
their promising reputations.
Warnock's winning goal two minutes from time came from a corner and the
midfielder smashed the ball into the roof of the net after excellent work
from Zak Whitbread.

As usual Warnock gave 100 per cent and his goal was a reward for his hard
work and never give up attitude.

Forest nearly snatched an equaliser themselves in stoppage time but Patrice
Luzi made an unbelievable save to keep out a stinging drive from Kris Commons.

Forest took the lead in the match on the hour mark but Liverpool were level
within three minutes through a cool penalty from Foy after Potter was
brought down.

Potter was a class act throughout the match and his passing and probing was
a big feature of Liverpool's performance. He combined well in the centre of
midfield with captain John Welsh who played a deeper role to allow Potter
to dictate the play.

The lively Mark Smyth came close to winning the match for Liverpool in the
final 15 minutes when he fired just over the bar. Smyth did well up front
and was certainly unfortunate not to score. Scotland Under-21 international
Robbie Foy also had an excellent game for the Reds and showed trickery and
good hold up play.

At the back Zak Whitbread was outstanding at centre half with a commanding
display alongside the ever improving Danny O'Donnell from the Under-18
Academy team.

England youth international David Raven had another excellent match at
right back and defended well and got forward to support the attack as well.
Raven looks an excellent prospect and very rarely do you see him have a bad
game such is his high consistency.

Liverpool Reserve manager Hughie McAuley fielded a young side with Stephen
Warnock a late inclusion at the expense of Richie Partridge and Patrice
Luzi returned in goal.

Liverpool made a bright start in the match and Mark Smyth was denied a goal
by a fine save from Colin Doyle after brilliant approach play from Darren
Potter.

Forest then began to come back into the game and should have scored after
16 minutes but Marlon King from six-yards out completely missed his kick
and shot straight into the arms of a grateful Patrice Luzi.

Eugene Bopp went close for the home side after 23 minutes with a long range
shot that was well saved by Luzi.

The game was then held up for about five minutes because of a clash of head
between two Forest players that resulted in left back Chris Doig leaving
the field with concussion.

Another superb pass from Potter almost produced a goal for Liverpool but
Robbie Foy in a great position was unlucky to see Doyle deny him with a
superb diving save.

Smyth went close for Liverpool deep into stoppage time when he superbly
controlled a pass in the Forest penalty area then tried a curled shot that
went wide but it was a decent effort.

Nine minutes into the second half Liverpool went close when Welsh?s
stinging low drive was well saved by Doyle then Foy saw a shot deflected
just wide after good approach play from Smyth.

Forest took the lead on the hour mark when Marlon King found space just
inside the Liverpool penalty area and blasted past Luzi into the net.

Within three minutes Liverpool were level courtesy of a Robbie Foy penalty.
Superb skill from Potter saw him brought down in the area and a penalty was
awarded. As cool as you like Foy sent Doylethe wrong way from 12 yards.

Two minutes later Foy almost scored again with a shot from the edge of the
box but was denied by a good save from Doyle.

Zak Whitbread also went close for Liverpool with a great strike from
30-yards-out but again Doyle saved well.

Forest had a glorious chance to win the match six minutes from time but
Luzi made a brilliant double save to keep out Forest but Warnock was to win
it for Liverpool with a late goal.

Nottingham Forest Reserves: Doyle, Biggins, Doig (Hurren 23), Beaumont,
Hjelde (Wilmet 45), Perch, James, Eugene Bopp (Fernandez 45), King,
Westcarr, Commons.

Liverpool Reserves: Luzi, Raven, J Smith, O'Donnell, Whitbread, Potter,
Wilkie (Guthrie 76), Welsh, Smyth, Foy, Warnock. Subs unused: Lancaster
(GK), D Smith, Noon, Platt.

Referee: D Richardson.

Liverpoolfc.tv Man of the Match: Darren Potter. Classy display in midfield
and his passing was superb. Robbie Foy also had a good match as did Zak
Whitbread and David Raven.

Match conditions: Absolutely freezing!



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[lfc-news] Dudek to replace Kirkland for Pompey visit - Official Site

Official LFC Website, 13 Dec 2004
DUDEK TO REPLACE KIRKLAND FOR POMPEY VISIT
By Mark Platt

Jerzy Dudek will be back between the sticks for Liverpool when Portsmouth
visit Anfield tomorrow after Chris Kirkland was ruled out with a back injury.
The extent of Kirkland's latest injury blow is not yet known but he hasn't
been able to train and is also considered a doubt for Sunday's game against
Newcastle.

Dudek's last first team appearance was in the Carling Cup quarter-final
victory over Tottenham a fortnight ago.

Reserve keeper Paul Harrison has not been included in the second string
squad for tonight's trip to Nottingham Forest and is expected to be named
on the bench.



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[lfc-news] Carling Cup ticket details - Official Site

Official LFC Website, 13 Dec 2004
LIVERPOOL V WATFORD: CARLING CUP TICKET DETAILS

Liverpool Football Club have announced the following ticket selling details
for the Carling Cup semi-final against Watford.
Carling Cup Semi Final 1st Leg
Liverpool v Watford

To be played at Anfield
On Tuesday 11 January 2005, kick off 8.00pm

The entire stadium will be ticketed and the following prices will apply:-

Main Stand, Centenary Stand, Paddock Enclosure, Anfield Road Lower Tier and
Kop Grandstand: £17.00

Kop Grandstand (one adult/one child combined): £25.00

Anfield Road Upper (one adult/one child combined): £25.00

Over 65's: £12.50

Wheelchair Spaces and Personal Assistants(combined ticket): £8.50

Visually Impaired seats and Personal Assistants(combined ticket): £8.50

The allocation and selling arrangements for Shareholders and Season Ticket
holders are as follows:-

Shareholders -

On holding
1-29 shares: 1 stand ticket at £17.00
30-59 shares: 2 stand tickets at £17.00
60-89 shares: 3 stand tickets at £17.00
90 shares and over: 4 stand tickets at £17.00

Main Stand,Centenary,Paddock, Anfield Road Lower and Kop Grandstand Season
Ticket holders -

1 ONE stand ticket at £17.00

Kop Grandstand adult/child Season Ticket holders: 1 ONE combined ticket at
£25.00

Anfield Road Adult/Child Season Ticket holders: 1 ONE combined ticket at £25.00

Wheelchair/Visually Impaired Season Ticket holders and Personal Assistants:
1 ONE combined ticket at £8.50

Selling Arrangements

Tickets will be available to all Shareholders.

Tickets will be available to Season Ticket holders and Fan Card holders who
attended the Carling Cup match against Middlesbrough on 10 November 2004.

Tickets will be available at the Ticket Office, by postal application, or
by phone on the Carling Cup Credit Card line 0870 220 0056. Shareholders
should call 0870 220 2151. Season Ticket holders and Fan Card holders will
also be able to purchase tickets on line at www.liverpoolfc.tv

Personal application

The Fan Card must be presented when purchasing tickets at the Ticket Office
and Shareholders must bring details of their shareholding.

Postal application

Postal applications from Shareholders , Season Ticket holders and Fan Card
holders should include the correct remittance and stamped addressed
envelope. Season Ticket and Fan Card holders must quote their Fan Card
number. Shareholders must give details of their Shareholding. Shareholders
with shares registered under a nominee company must give details of the
nominee company and the account number. Postal applications should be
received by Monday 20 December 2004.

LFC Ticket Office
P O Box 204
Liverpool
L69 4PQ

Telephone Bookings

Shareholders wishing to purchase tickets on the credit card booking line
should telephone
0870 220 2151
Shareholders will be required to confirm their address and details of their
shareholding and shareholders with shares registered under a nominee
company, must give details of the nominee company and the account number
must be supplied.

Tickets will be available to season ticket holders and Fan Card holders on
0870 220 0056 and will be subject to a 50p per ticket booking fee. Season
ticket holders and Fan Card holders must quote their fan card number and
confirm their address. This telephone number will also be used when tickets
become available for general sale.

Online bookings

Tickets may be booked online by quoting the fan card number and unique
password. There will be a transaction charge of £2.50 per ticket.

Tickets will be available during normal office hours Monday - Friday 9.15am
to 4.45pm, as follows,

All Shareholders: Thursday 16 December 2004

Season Ticket holders who attended Middlesbrough on 10 November 2004:
Thursday 16 December - 19 December 2004

Fan Card holders who attended Middlesbrough on 10 November 2004: Monday 20
December - 23 December 2004

All remaining Season Ticket holders: Tuesday 28 December - 31 December 2004

General Sale: Tuesday 4 January 2005

Non season tickets holders who have purchased a Fan Card should present
their Fan Card for personal applications at the Ticket Office, the Fan card
number and address must be quoted in postal application and on telephone
bookings, Online sales will require the Fan Card number and unique
password. In the event of Liverpool Football progressing in the Carling Cup
priority for future rounds will be given to Season Ticket holders and Non
Season Ticket holders holding a Fan Card who have purchased tickets for
earlier rounds. Supporters wishing to gain priority for possible future
rounds of the Carling Cup will be offered the opportunity to purchase a Fan
Card. Please note that to gain full priority it is necessary to have one
Fan Card per ticket and the following details will be required for each
card, name, address Home Tel.no, Mobile No. and Email address.

Should tickets be available on the night of the match it will not be
possible to capture data at the turnstiles and therefore priority CANNOT be
credited against Fan Card holders details held on the Ticket Office
computer systems.

The Ticket Office will be CLOSED as follows,

Tuesday 21 December 2004 from 3.15pm
Friday 24 December 2004 from 12.30pm
Saturday 25 December 2004
Sunday 26 December 2006
Monday 27 December 2004
Friday 31 December 2004 from 12.30pm
Sunday 2 January 2005
Monday 3 January 2005



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[lfc-news] Nervous wait for Kirkland - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 13 Dec 2004
Nervous wait for Kirkland
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

CHRIS KIRKLAND faces an anxious wait to see if he's kept his place for
Liverpool's Premiership clash with Portsmouth tomorrow.

Fingers were pointed at the Anfield keeper for the third consecutive game
following Lee Carsley's winning goal in the Merseyside derby.

After tame strikes by Nolberto Solano at Aston Villa, and Rivaldo in the
Champions League clash with Olympiakos found the net, Kirkland (pictured)
has suddenly found himself under pressure.

Manager Rafa Benitez has the option of recalling Jerzy Dudek, who did his
cause no harm with a match-winning performance against Spurs in the Carling
Cup a fortnight ago.

Benitez must decide whether to back his 23-year-old stopper through the
first dip of his career.

The Liverpool boss is not being drawn on the subject of who'll play against
Portsmouth.

"Throughout a season, players will have good moments and bad moments. The
question is you need to use the best players for each game and for the
right game," said Benitez.

"I don't know if I can blame the goalkeeper in particular for the goal
because there were two or three mistakes which led to the goal."

The Spanish coach has the luxury of recalling Milan Baros after the Czech
star was rested at the weekend. Baros is still seeking fitness following
his hamstring problems. Xabi Alonso and Steve Finnan will also return after
being controversially left out of the derby.

Benitez defended his decision to leave Alonso on the bench ahead of a busy
fixture list. "We can talk about why Alonso wasn't playing or Baros wasn't
playing, but in my opinion you always need to use the whole squad," said
Benitez.

The Liverpool boss was unimpressed by perceived attempts to pressurise
referee Steve Bennett prior to Saturday's game.

The Reds thought it was inappropriate for Everton to question the
appointment to refereeing chief Keith Hackett.

* Liverpool have tickets available on general sale for tomorrow night's
game (£26 Adults, £39 Adult/Child Combined and concessions from £13).



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