Liverpool fury at Gerrard claim

www.liverpool.com - Jan 30 2005

Liverpool supremo Rick Parry has furiously hit back at claims that he has already negotiated a summer move to Chelsea for midfielder Steven Gerrard - and the club will be seeking legal advice over the claims.

Gerrard was ready to move to Stamford Bridge during Euro 2004 but eventually committed his future to Liverpool. However a newspaper report alleged that Parry had met Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon last week to agree a A£30million deal.

Parry said in a statement on Liverpoolfc.tv: "I did not meet with Peter Kenyon, nor did I agree a deal for Steven Gerrard. Both Rafa Benitez and myself have made it clear to Steven that we want him to stay and we see his future at Anfield."

The claims over Gerrard come on the same day Chelsea were accused of "tapping-up" Arsenal defender Ashley Cole - a claim denied by the player's agent.

Parry and boss Anfield boss Benitez have constantly said Gerrard is not for sale, although it is clear the situation will be reviewed in the summer when the Liverpool skipper knows whether the club are in the Champions League next season and Benitez's team re-building plans.

Gerrard was asked about his future on BBC last night and said: "Of course it is flattering that some top clubs around Europe are showing an interest in me but I am at a top club at the moment.

"I'll sit down at the end of the season and assess my future."