[lfc-news] Sunderland report - PA

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PA Sport, 20 Aug 2005
Liverpool 1 Sunderland 0

Champions of Europe they may be, but Liverpool cannot be satisfied with
this disjointed display against a 10-man Sunderland who more than
embarrassed the Anfield men.

Xabi Alonso struck a sweet free kick to give Liverpool a first-half
lead, but when they should have hit top gear and put the Barclays
Premiership new boys in their place.

But it was the Wearsiders who showed all the fight, refusing to throw in
the towel despite losing winger Andy Welsh to a debatable red card.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez took off Steven Gerrard on the hour, and the
collective Anfield audience held its breath.

And once again Liverpool showed they can be rudderless without their
leader - and they were relieved to hear the final whistle, which was
followed by Sunderland boss Mick McCarthy making his views on two denied
penalties known to referee Barry Knight.

Former Everton skipper Alan Stubbs made his debut for Sunderland after
his summer move away from Merseyside, and he was at the heart of a
defiant Sunderland defence which did not wilt under pressure.

Liverpool had Djibril Cisse in the starting line-up, but he played for
long spells like a man who had other things on his mind.

The Frenchman, linked with a move away from Anfield despite Benitez's
assurances that he is going nowhere, was a peripheral figure for long
spells.

He lacked the industry of Gerrard, certainly. It was match number 11
already for the Anfield skipper, and he was in the fray from the off.

In the opening minutes the England midfielder picked up possession on
the left, cut inside and unleashed a swerving 25-yard effort which
cracked against the far post, hit Stubbs, and flew behind.

And it was Gerrard taking the corner, curling the ball in for Fernando
Morientes to send a header flashing just wide from 10 yards.

Sunderland played primarily with Andy Gray on his own up front, and the
Stadium of Light new boy managed one glancing header which went wide
from 10 yards.

Gary Breen was booked for hauling back Fernando Morientes, before Bolo
Zenden headed a long angled cross from Steve Finnan wide of a post
against a Sunderland side who fought for everything and were capable of
breaks from deep.

In the 23rd minute Carl Robinson was next into the book for a trip on
Zenden, and when Xabi Alonso stepped up to take the free-kick 20 yards
out, he curled a beauty into the top corner of the net, although
goalkeeper Kelvin Davis got a hand on the effort.

Sunderland hit back when Welsh's fine through-ball sent Dean Whitehead
racing into the box to fire a low cross into the six-yard area, where
Finnan hurled himself in front of Liam Lawrence to scoop the ball from
danger virtually under the bar.

Mohamed Sissoko was next into the book for a late foul on Tommy Miller,
before Robinson's cross from the left bounced on top of the bar.

Within minutes Stubbs caught Xabi Alonso late and got another lecture
from Knight before Luis Garcia replaced Gerrard, who played most of the
90 minutes for England in Copenhagen in midweek.

Liverpool then took off the erratic Zenden to allow John Arne Riise to
take over on the left - but still there was no flow about their play and
it took the Kop to remind them they were European champions.

Sunderland produced a double substitution, sending on Stephen Elliott
and Chris Brown for Lawrence and Whitehead, sensing there was still
something in the game for the Black Cats.

Then in the 73rd minutes Welsh was harshly dismissed for bowling over
Luis Garcia as he ran into the action following a challenge on the
Spaniard by Julio Arca.

Knight again consulted his assistant and produced an instant red card,
to Welsh's amazement, with television replays showing very little
contact and even less intent.

That was the point when Milan Baros was introduced for Cisse to a warm
welcome from the Kop, who were maybe seeing the Czech for the last time.

Knight then turned down a couple of debatable Sunderland penalty appeals
for challenges on Brown and Elliott which had McCarthy hopping up and
down on the line in fury.

He sent on Chris Brown and Stephen Elliott to try to salvage a point,
while Nosworthy was also booked late on for fouling Riise.

Liverpool: Reina, Finnan, Hyypia, Carragher, Warnock, Sissoko, Alonso,
Gerrard (Luis Garcia 55), Zenden (Riise 63), Morientes, Cisse (Baros 75).
Subs Not Used: Josemi, Carson.
Booked: Gerrard, Sissoko.
Goals: Alonso 24.

Sunderland: Davis, Nosworthy, Breen, Stubbs, Arca, Lawrence (Elliott
66), Miller, Whitehead, Robinson (Woods 81), Welsh, Gray (Brown 66).
Subs Not Used: Caldwell, Joe Murphy.
Sent Off: Welsh (74).
Booked: Breen, Robinson, Nosworthy.

Att: 44,913
Ref: B Knight (Kent).

GERRARD TO MISS EUROPEAN CLASH

Steven Gerrard is almost certainly out of Liverpool's Champions League
clash with CSKA Sofia on Tuesday with a calf injury picked up in the 1-0
victory over Sunderland at Anfield.

Captain Gerrard, figuring in his 11th match so far this summer and
played 84 minutes of England's miserable defeat in Denmark this week,
was replaced by Luis Garcia in the 55th minute.

Now boss Rafael Benitez said: "Steven felt something in his calf, he
will have a scan and I will talk to him before making a decision.

"But it is very unlikely that he will play against Sofia and I hope to
have him for the Super Cup game in Monaco on Friday against CSKA Moscow."

Benitez refused to criticise the length of time England boss Sven-Goran
Eriksson asked Gerrard to play in Copenhagen.

But there was surprise from the Anfield hierarchy at how much of the
friendly international the Reds captain was expected to play -
particularly with both England and Liverpool being acutely aware of the
huge workload the midfielder is taking on this season for club and country.

On the stuttering performance in beating the Barclays Premiership new
boys, Benitez said: "We did not play with any fluidity, but after an
international week when lots of the players have been involved in 90
minutes of matches, it is important just to win.

"We started well and scored a good goal, and needed a second. But it
wouldn't come.

"Some days when we create chances we score, other times like this game
strikers seem to need a lot of chances before they do score."

Sunderland boss Mick McCarthy said referee Barry Knight has agreed to
have a second look at the red card given to midfielder Andy Welsh.

McCarthy said: "It quite clearly was not a red card.

"The lad didn't lash out or anything like that, he is a little nippy
midfielder, not a big 6ft-plus centre-back.

"In fact having seen it on TV it wasn't even a yellow card.

"I politely asked the referee at the end whether he would look at the
incident again and he said he would.

"I feel a bit sorry for him because he asked his assistant's opinion and
I believe he was told that my player swung out at the player.

"He certainly hasn't done that, he has twisted and just run into the lad.

"But if a linesman says he saw something that he may not really have
seen, the referee has no option but to send him off."

The former Republic of Ireland boss added: "We could also have had a
penalty and after being on the back foot in the first half, we were much
better afterwards.

"Had we had 11 men on the field, I could have put more strikers on and
gone for it at the end, but it wasn't possible."

The Sunderland boss also had a view on the incident between Alan Stubbs
and Gerrard in the second period, which saw the Liverpool man
substituted soon after.

He said: "Alan was clattered, and with players going at the pace they do
it only takes a nick and they are over.

"Gerrard had already been booked and maybe the injury he has got came
from that challenge - but it may have been a good idea to take him off
at that point."

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[lfc-news] TEAM: Liverpool

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Results and fixtures

Date Comp Opposition Result Attend
----------------------------------------------------------------------
13/08/05 PREM Middlesbrough Away D 0-0 31,908

20/08/05 PREM Sunderland Home W 1-0 44,913

NEXT PREM Charlton Athletic Away

Results summary as at Saturday 20th August 2005

__________________ __________________ __________________
| Home | Away | Total |
_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Played | 1 | 1 | 2 |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Won | 1 (100%) | 0 (0%) | 1 (50%) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Drawn | 0 (0%) | 1 (100%) | 1 (50%) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Lost | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| For | 1 (1.0/game) | 0 (0.0/game) | 1 (0.5/game) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|
| | | | |
| Against | 0 (0.0/game) | 0 (0.0/game) | 0 (0.0/game) |
|_____________|__________________|__________________|__________________|

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

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PA Sport, 19 Aug 2005
NOSWORTHY GETS NOD

Nyron Nosworthy is set to make his first start for Sunderland in place
of the injured Stephen Wright against Liverpool at Anfield tomorrow.

The former Gillingham full-back, who replaced Wright in the opening-day
defeat by Charlton, is expected to be the only change although
ex-Everton defender Alan Stubs comes into contention.

Defender George McCartney and goalkeeper Ben Alnwick have resumed
full-time training while utility defender Danny Collins is also making
good progress.

But Anthony Le Tallec, signed on a year-long loan from Liverpool, has
been refused permission to play against the European champions.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is expected to field an unchanged side for
the visit of the Black Cats.

Benitez still has long term injuries to Djimi Traore, Harry Kewell and
Peter Crouch, and although Florent Sinama-Pongolle made his comeback
from a knee problem in the reserves this week, it is unlikely he will be
considered for first team action yet.

Jamie Carragher, who needed an injection in his mouth because of an
infected tooth before he could play for England in midweek, is expected
to play.

Teams:

Liverpool (from): Reina, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Whitbread, Warnock,
Luis Garcia, Cisse, Sissoko, Gerrard, Hamann, Zenden, Alonso, Morientes,
Baros, Carson, Riise, Potter.

Sunderland (from): Davis, Nosworthy, Arca, Breen, Caldwell, Whitehead,
Robinson, Welsh, Lawrence, Miller, Gray, Stead, Brown, Elliott, J
Murphy, Piper.

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[lfc-news] Momo showing early promise - Echo

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Liverpool Echo, 19 Aug 2005
Momo showing early promise
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

WHEN Momo Sissoko was unveiled as the 'new Patrick Vieira', there was a
thunderous sound of uncomfortable shuffling in seats at Melwood.

Torturous memories were still too fresh in the mind. It was just three
years ago Salif Diao was signed with the same endorsement, while the
number of new Platinis, Zidanes and Lizarazus Liverpool have purchased
since 1998 ensured the Reds were once capable of fielding a French
tribute team.

It says something for the comparison fatigue Anfield regulars have
suffered that a compliment which ought to have provoked excitement about
the purchase from Valencia was viewed with immediate suspicion.

Manager Rafa Benitez isn't usually one for making such extravagant
claims about a signing, but through no fault of his own, his remarks
about Sissoko were greeted with a chorus of 'we've heard it all before'.

This may partially explain the lack of fanfare which greeted Sissoko's
superb Premiership debut at Middlesbrough last weekend.

The 20-year-old may not only have to fight to establish his own
reputation, but also against the stigma created by so many duff
Liverpool buys who began their career in the French league.

His first appearances in a Liverpool shirt suggest this won't be a
problem. In fact, the lack of widespread recognition for just how well
Sissoko coped with his first experience of the English game is an
oversight which will no doubt be rectified in the season ahead.

"In the two competitive games he's played he's already done very well
for me. He was man-of-the-match in the European game and the only reason
he wasn't last week was because Steven Gerrard was so fantastic," said
Benitez today, as he reflected on the £5m midfielder's impact.

"He worked, he tackled and he got into the box. He showed us he is going
to do a very good job. You must remember it is difficult for a youngster
to come to a new country. He needs to learn English and understand the
style of football. Maybe he's shown he will adapt quick. We are sure to
have a lot more energy in the middle with Momo."

Such is the fickle nature of modern football, had a 20-year-old English
ball winning central midfielder performed so admirably on his
Premiership debut, he'd probably be pursued for weekend features pushing
his claims for a World Cup place by now.

Naturally, it was Gerrard's all action display which grabbed the
headines, but the skipper was one of those raving at the quality of the
African's contribution.

"I think you can see already, even after just one league game, Momo
Sissoko is going to prove a very important player for us this season,"
said Gerrard.

"To put on a performance like that on his Premiership debut was
excellent. He's someone who's going to put in a lot of graft in midfield
and he's not going to be afraid to put the boot in when it's needed either.

"Maybe it's going to work out that he'll play a more important role in
away games, but everyone has been really impressed with him. He looks
like he could be a great signing."

If energy, intelligent use of the ball and competitiveness stand out as
obvious qualities of Sissoko's game, the only mild flaw thus far is the
hint he'll get the wrong side of referees.

Sissoko was booked on his debut, ironically enough for a show of dissent
rather than a late tackle, but Benitez isn't unduly concerned yet.

"I prefer to have a player with his energy and determination to tackle
all the time than someone who's worried about picking up a yellow card,
but for sure this is an area of the Premiership he'll have to learn more
about," said Benitez.

Gerrard echoed his manager's view.

He said: "I know what it's like to be a young player in the centre of
midfield. You want to get as many tackles in as possible and sometimes
you can make mistakes.

"But Momo is still learning. He's only a young lad and he'll learn more
about the Premiership every time he plays.

"To be honest, I thought he was very unlucky to get a yellow card. He
was a bit frustrated, but I don't see this being a problem."

Liverpool may still be short in certain areas, but Benitez has a wealth
of central midfield talent to choose from.

Didi Hamann didn't even make the bench in Middlesbrough, while a more
attacking formation at home may leave Sissoko waiting for his Anfield
league debut when Sunderland visit tomorrow.

If so, it proves there is still a great distance to travel before
Sissoko confirms his status as the 'next Vieira'.

For now, Liverpudlians can take comfort in the knowledge he most
certainly isn't the 'new Diao'.

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[lfc-news] We can rule the world - Echo

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Liverpool Echo, 19 Aug 2005
We can rule the world
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

RAFA BENITEZ has declared he wants his Liverpool side to rule the world.

The Reds have now confirmed they intend to compete in December's World
Club championships, after planning to withdraw from the event due to
fixture congestion.

But an Anfield rethink will see Liverpool participating in Japan in a
tournament Benitez says his side will be fully committed to winning.

Liverpool's squad has always been excited by the prospect of becoming
world champions, but it's the timing of the FIFA event which has caused
most concern.

The Reds first game will be in Yokohama on December 15 against either
Sydney FC or Deportivo Saprissa from Costa Rica.

"We feel we must go to Japan," said Benitez today.

"Looking at the Premiership fixtures, we will have to rearrange only one
league game. Because we are European champions, I think it's good for us
to be there.

"The problem has always been the number of games for us this season, not
because we don't want to go. For the club and the players, it will be a
great experience to play against teams from other continents.

"Obviously when you have a lot of fixtures, it's not easy, but we'll be
positive about it. There was once a time when the European Cup wasn't as
big as it is now.

"Maybe in years to come, this competition will have grown. It will be
good for us if in years to come people see Liverpool has won the World
Championship."

Benitez welcomed his international contingent back yesterday. There
appear to be no new injury problems.

The Spanish boss is maintaining his usual silence on transfer
speculation, but it's clear the Reds are not closing in on any of their
targets at this stage.

"We are still working, but it's not easy," admitted Benitez. "We have
different options, but you never know what will happen. The agents say
one thing, the clubs another. For now, we still need to wait."

On the plus side, Benitez revealed striker Peter Crouch has made rapid
progress from hamstring trouble and could even have made a shock
comeback tomorrow if he wasn't suspended.

"Most of the players will be fit soon," he said. "Crouch is better now.
Maybe tomorrow would have been too soon, but he wasn't allowed to play
anyway. We will check on him next week.

"He's training again and when I speak to him he says he's fine and wants
to play. For sure I think he will be able to play next weekend in the
Super Cup, but we'll see. "Harry Kewell is in Portugal undergoing more
treatment, but we're still not sure when he will be fit."

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[lfc-news] Hobbs signs pro deal with Reds - PA

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PA Sport, 18 Aug 2005
HOBBS SIGNS PRO DEAL WITH REDS

Overjoyed teenage prospect Jack Hobbs celebrated his 17th birthday by
signing a professional contract with European champions Liverpool on
Thursday.

The imposing 6ft 3in defender has joined from League Two outfit Lincoln
City after completing a successful trial and work experience period
during the past month.

Hobbs put pen to paper on a three-year deal at Anfield this morning
accompanied by his parents, agent and Imps boss Keith Alexander.

The youngster, who played his first competitive game for the Reds during
Tuesday night's 3-2 reserve defeat to Merseyside rivals Everton, told PA
Sport: "It's a big weight off my shoulders to have finally signed a
contract and is brilliant to be able to say I'm now a Liverpool player.

"Three months ago I was watching Liverpool win the Champions League on
television and now I've joined them.

"It's unbelievable and I'm still coming to terms with it, but it's the
best birthday present I could have ever wished for."

Liverpool beat off competition from Barclays Premier League rivals
Arsenal, Tottenham and Bolton to sign the promising teenager.

They will pay Lincoln an initial, undisclosed compensation fee thought
to be around £150,000.

However, the package includes an all-important sell-on clause, which
could net the Imps a potentially massive financial windfall in the future.

Imps chief executive Keith Roe said: "There will also be payments
related to appearances and on-field success and Liverpool will also come
to Sincil Bank next July to play us in a pre-season friendly.

"That guarantees a capacity crowd and should net us between £60,000 and
£80,000."

The acquisition of Hobbs comes amid a low profile summer transfer spree
by Reds boss Rafael Benitez to bolster his reserves following their
disappointing, injury-hit campaign last year.

The emphasis has been firmly on youth and in addition to Hobbs, Benitez
has also brought in Antonio Barragan, who has already tasted first-team
action thisseason, along with 17-year-olds Godwin Antwi and Miguel Rogu e.

The Spaniard wants the club's reserve side to become a breeding ground
for hungry youngsters rather than a team packed with unwanted senior
players.

Hobbs said: "Antonio Barragan has already made his first-team debut in
the Champions League and that's a great inspiration to the rest of us to
try and follow.

"But first and foremost, my aim has to be to work hard and try and
establish myself in the reserves."

Hobbs played only three minutes of first-team football for Lincoln after
joining the club from Mayflower Soccer Academy in Boston as a
nine-year-old in December 1997.

But Liverpool soon became alerted to his rich promise by Anfield chief
scout Frank McParland, who set up an initial trial for the player last
month.

The level-headed youngster has not looked back since and the Liverpool
coaching staff are now looking to convert him from a centre-half into a
holding midfielder.

"I played there against Everton on Tuesday for the reserves and felt I
did okay," said Hobbs, who has also shown a strong talent for cricket
but is no relation to his namesake and former England cricket great Jack
Hobbs.

"Benitez spoke to me at half-time about my positioning and overall I
felt I did quite well.

"I don't mind where I play but I'm taking it as a compliment that
they're trying me out in midfield because it's a test of my ball skills
as well as my defensive ability."

Liverpool reserve coach Hugh McAuley said: "Jack was nice and easy with
his distribution and it's good to have players who can play in different
positions."

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[lfc-news] International Reds round-up - Official Site

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Official LFC Website, 18 Aug 2005
INTERNATIONAL REDS ROUND-UP
By Mark Platt
Liverpoolfc.tv round-up how our players fared on a busy night of
international duty...

Denmark 4 v 1 England

Steven Gerrard - played 84 minutes before being replaced by Jermaine Jenas.

Jamie Carragher - started on the bench but appeared as a replacement for
John Terry at the interval.

Spain 2 v 0 Uruguay

Pepe Reina - won his first full cap and marked the occasion by keeping a
clean sheet.

Fernando Morientes - played the opening half on his long awaited return
to the squad.

Luis Garcia - came on as a 60th minute substitute for Joaquin.

Xabi Alonso - played the first half before being replaced by Sergio in
the 46th minute.

Republic of Ireland 1 v 2 Italy

Steve Finnan - played 57 minutes at Lansdowne Road before being replaced
by Stephen Carr.

Sweden 2 v 1 Czech Republic

Milan Baros - played the full 90 minutes but was unable to get his name
on the scoresheet in Gothenburg.

Macedonia 0 v 3 Finland

Sami Hyypia - played the full 90 minutes of the Finn's World Cup
qualifying win in Skopje.

Norway 0 v 2 Switzerland

John Arne Riise - played the full 90 minutes.

Holland 2 v 2 Germany

Dietmar Hamann - played 74 minutes before being substituted in Rotterdam.

France 3 v 0 Ivory Coast

Djibril Cisse - appeared as a late substitute for Thierry Henry in
Montpellier.

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[lfc-news] Lyon's£8.5m bid for Baros - Echo

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Liverpool Echo, 18 Aug 2005
Lyon's £8.5m bid for Baros
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

LYON today raised the stakes in the race for Milan Baros by tabling an
astonishing £8.5m bid for the striker.

Former Anfield boss Gerard Houllier underlined his determination to
recruit the Czech international with a huge offer for the player he
brought to Anfield three years ago.

Aston Villa were in pole position to recruit Baros, who has expressed a
preference to move to the Midlands.

Indeed, although Liverpool have accepted the French champions' bid,
Baros has already informed the Reds he doesn't want to be reunited with
his ex-manager.

Liverpool are hoping the lure of Champions League football will make
Baros rethink and are prepared to wait until the transfer window is
nearly closed for a final decision from the striker.

Lyon's offer is a serious setback to Villa, who hoped to secure the
Czech striker for £2m less.

Villa's £6.5m offer has obviously been rejected by the Reds.

Liverpool tried to compromise by asking for Nolberto Solano as part of a
deal for Baros.

So far, David O'Leary has firmly rejected the proposal, although Solano
himself is believed to be attracted to the prospect of a switch to
Merseyside.

The Reds will now await Villa's next move with interest, while Houllier
will be hoping his staggering offer and the lucrative wages and
signing-on fee Baros can expect following the £26m sale of Michael
Essien will tempt him to France.

Meanwhile, the Michael Owen transfer is no closer to being resolved
despite ongoing reports his return to Anfield is imminent.

Owen has told Madrid he only wants them to deal with the Reds, and
Liverpool will try to agree his transfer, but other clubs are prepared
to pay more for his services.

The Reds have not made contact with Madrid yet, and any suggestion a
deal could be tied up by the weekend is extremely premature.

Liverpool's international contingent return to Melwood for an early
evening training session as preparations begin ahead of Sunderland's visit.

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[lfc-news] Bayern star flattered by Liverpool "interest" - Post

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Liverpool Daily Post, 17 Aug 2005
Bayern star flattered by Liverpool 'interest'
By Ian Doyle, Daily Post Staff

BAYERN MUNICH midfielder Hasan Salihamidzic yesterday hinted he would
welcome a move to Liverpool.

Rafael Benitez is in the market for a right-sided midfielder, and has
been linked with a move for the Bosnian international.

And the 28-year-old, valued at £5million by the Bundesliga side, has
admitted he is honoured by Liverpool's interest.

"I've heard about interest from Liverpool and it is a great honour for
me to have the champions of Europe showing an interest in me," said
Salihamidzic..

"It is great to hear that, but of course it is not up to me and I have a
contract here until 2007. It is up to the two clubs to decide."

Salihamidzic has played in both Bayern's league games this season but
could be allowed to leave by coach Felix Magath if a suitable offer is
tabled.

Salihamidzic is just one of a number of midfield options Benitez is
pursuing, with Fulham's Steed Malbranque another possibility.

Meanwhile, Milan Baros has reiterated his desire to join Aston Villa by
snubbing overtures from French duo Lyon and Monaco.

Villa have agreed personal terms with Baros and are expected to lodge an
improved bid later this week, with Liverpool continuing to hold out for £7m.

That figure proved prohibitive for both Schalke and Everton, and Baros
admitted: "It is certainly a lot of money. Schalke could not afford it.
Liverpool paid £7m for Crouch, so they want the money back. But this has
nothing to do with me.

"It would be better if I leave Liverpool. I love the club very much, it
has wonderful fans and a super stadium.

"But the time comes to say goodbye and go somewhere else."

Baros has sounded out former Liverpool and Czech Republic team-mate
Patrik Berger about life at Villa Park, and said: "He said it is a club
of very high quality, but he did not give me any advice. He left the
decision to me."

And of his decision to turn down Lyon and Monaco, Baros added: "I have
nothing against the French league, it is certainly of a very high
quality, but I consider the leagues in England and Spain to be the best
ones."

Baros also revealed he was close to sealing a move to Valencia in the
summer before the arrival of new coach Quique Sánchez Flores at the
Mestalla scuppered the transfer.

"I agreed the transfer there, then the management was changed and
everything was gone," added Baros. "After last season we sat down with
the coach (Rafa Benitez) and consulted over my situation. "I openly told
him that I would go to Valencia. But I don't know if that has played a
big role (in leaving)."

Fernando Morientes believes he is now coming to terms with life in the
Premiership.

The striker has been recalled by Spain for tonight's friendly for
Uruguay after suffering an indifferent start to his Liverpool career
since arriving from Real Madrid in January. But Morientes said: "In the
11 months since I was last called up there have been some important
changes in my career.

"When I was at Real Madrid I hardly played and it was difficult to play
for the national team and when I arrived at Liverpool I had some initial
problems with my fitness and in adapting to the training.

"Now everything is going as I had hoped it would."

Florent Sinama-Pongolle made a scoring return to action last night when
he played 41 minutes as substitute in Liverpool reserves' 3-2 defeat
against Everton at Wrexham.

Meanwhile, new Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina is backing his former
Villarreal team-mates against Everton in the second leg of their
Champions League qualifier.

Villarreal got a valuable 2-1 first leg victory to put them in a
commanding position for the return match at El Madrigal next Wednesday.

He said: "All the Villarreal players are of the highest level and as
well as being good technically they are also able to deal with Everton's
physical strength."

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[lfc-news] Crouch targets capital comeback - Echo

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Liverpool Echo, 17 Aug 2005
Crouch targets capital comeback
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

PETER CROUCH is on target to make his return from injury in time to face
Spurs on September 10.

The £7m striker is currently sidelined with a hamstring problem, but
would still have been suspended for Saturday's visit of Sunderland anyway.

He won't be available for the return leg of the Champions League
qualifier with CSKA Sofia on Tuesday, but has an outside chance of
featuring in the Super Cup Final.

The trip to White Hart Lane is a more realistic target, however.

Manager Rafa Benitez is also confident Harry Kewell will soon return to
training after recovering from a hernia operation.

"I hope in three or four weeks we will have most of the squad available
again," said the manager.

Meanwhile, Michael Owen has no intention of rejoining former Liverpool
boss Gerard Houllier at Lyon.

Houllier wants to use the £24m kitty from the Michael Essien deal to
sign the 25-year-old.

Owen remains intent on returning to Anfield.

Indeed, the striker is more concerned about the French champions making
a Liverpool comeback more difficult by putting in a huge offer for him.

Despite already signing John Carew this summer, former Liverpool boss
Houllier and chairman Jean Michel Aulas say they're admirers of Owen.

Aulas said: "If you ask me whether I would be happy to welcome Michael
Owen to the club, the answer is yes. Of course I would."

Pepe Reina will make his Spanish international debut in tonight's
friendly with Uruguay.

Fernando Morientes will also make his first start for his country for 11
months, partnering former Real Madrid team mate Raul.

Liverpool are expected to appoint England under-21 physiotherapist Rob
Price to replace Dave Galley, who recently left the club to join Derby
County.

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

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Official LFC Website, 16 Aug 2005
FLO BACK WITH A GOAL IN RESERVES DEFEAT
Steve Hunter at Wrexham

Florent Sinama-Pongolle made a scoring return for Liverpool Reserves
after seven months out in the Reds 3-2 defeat to Everton, in the first
second string match of the season at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground.

Sinama-Pongolle entered the field as a 50th minute substitute to make
his first appearance for the Reds since injuring his knee in the Carling
Cup semi-final win at Watford on January 25th.

The France Under-21 star played on the right wing and was absolutely
superb. He was so sharp and almost single handedly rescued a point for a
Liverpool team which had at one stage been 3-0 down and Everton had
missed a penalty. Right wing is a position that seems comfortable for
Sinama-Pongolle and he can take players on and cause havoc. The watching
Rafael Benitez will have been pleased to see him back in action.

Reds midfielder Danny Guthrie scored a superb individual goal to make it
3-2 but it was too little too late for Liverpool. Everton also ended the
game with 10 men after James Harris was sent-off.

Liverpool's chief scout Paco Herrera is in charge of the Reserves this
season with Hughie McAuley as reserve coach.

Both teams fielded young players with Liverpool giving debuts to centre
half Jack Hobbs, Spanish right back Antonio Barragan and Ghana defender
Godwin Antwi. Spanish centre half Miquel Roque couldn't play as he is
waiting for international clearance.

With Paul Harrison and Patrice Luzi leaving the club in the summer the
goalkeeping responsibilities for the new reserve season will fall to
Northern Ireland youth international Paul Willis.

In order to fit all the players into the team on the night a few were in
different positions. Godwin Antwi is a centre half but because of a
striker shortage had to play up front while Hobbs was asked to play a
new role just in front of the back four, in the Didi Hamann role if you
like. Lee Peltier, one of the new Melwood recruits from the Academy this
summer is normally a central midfielder, but had to play left back.
Peltier hasn't played for over nine months due to a back problem so he
will have been grateful to get a game under his belt.

Zak Whitbread captained the team and partnered Danny O'Donnell at centre
half.

Until the introduction of Sinama-Pongolle Everton were causing all sorts
of problems in the air and were 3-0 up inside the opening 50 minutes
with all three goals coming from set pieces.

Everton winger Bjarni Vidarsson scored the first two goals both from
headers. The first one came after seven minutes when Vidarsson headed
home Christian Seargeant's left wing free-kick.

It was 2-0 after 37 minutes when Vidarsson headed home right back
Stephen Wynne's cross.

A minute into the second half Everton missed a penalty. A mistake from
Danny O'Donnell let in Victor Anichebe who was brought down by Zak
Whitbread. Liverpool keeper Paul Willis made a superb save to keep out
Mark Hughes spot kick.

However a minute later it was 3-0 and another set piece goal. Hughes was
allowed a free header at the back post and nodded it across goal for the
unmarked Anichebe to head home.

That was the cue for Paco Herrera to bring on Florent Sinama-Pongolle
after 50 minutes and the French star transformed the team almost single
handedly. He inspired all around him and Liverpool began to play and
looked a real threat every time they attacked.

Within five minutes of coming on Sinama-Pongolle made it 3-1 with a fine
header from David Mannix's free-kick. Sinama-Pongolle had won the
free-kick himself with some great work down the right wing.

Josemi was then introduced on the hour mark for Peltierand played at
centre half and was very competitive making several crunching tackles.

With Sinama-Pongolle causing all sorts of problems Liverpool were a
different side. He set up a great chance for Godwin Antwi who shot wide
then Liverpool went so close after 66 minutes. Antonio Barragan, who
looks a very promising player down the right hand side, whipped in a
great cross which Richard Wright couldn't hold under a challenge from
Antwi and Hughes headed clear from the line.

Zak Whitbread then headed just over the bar from a corner and
Sinama-Pongolle had a shot deflected just wide after a great run when he
beat three defenders.

With five minutes remaining Danny Guthrie made it 3-2 with a great shot
fired into the corner of the net giving Wright no chance.

Everton were then reduced to 10 men when James Harris was shown a red
card for dissent after a brawl.

Sinama-Pongolle went close for the Reds in stoppage time but there was
to be no comeback in the mini derby as Everton beat Liverpool at Wrexham
for the second successive season.

As far as the new boys are concerned Godwin Antwi worked hard but it is
unfair to make any judgement yet because he is a centre half in a new
country playing as a lone striker. That is a difficult role but he kept
working hard which was a good sign. He also showed some neat touches
with some good lay-offs for team-mates.

Antonio Barragan did well at right back. He has skill, can beat
opponents and looks a very decent prospect.

Jack Hobbs played in a new role too and worked hard. He certainly likes
a tackle and was constantly shouting encouragement to his team-mates.

The biggest positive on the night for the watching Benitez was seeing
Sinama-Pongolle back in action after seven months out. Flo gives the
Reds boss a number of different possibilities as is comfortable playing
up front or on the right hand side.

Liverpool Reserves: Willis, Barragan, Peltier (Josemi 60), O'Donnell,
Whitbread, Hobbs, Wilkie (Sinama-Pongolle 50), Guthrie, Godwin Antwi,
Mannix, Hammill (Frayne 82). Subs unused: Roberts (GK), Woods.

Everton Reserves: Wright, Wynne, Wilson, Wright, Hughes, Harris, Phelan,
Li Tie, Anichebe, Seargeant, Vidarsson.

Referee: S J Bratt.

Liverpoolfc.tv Man of the match: Florent Sinama-Pongolle. Great to see
him back and he totally transformed the game for the better as far as
Liverpool are concerned.

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[lfc-news] Baros resigned to leaving - Post

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Liverpool Daily Post, 16 Aug 2005
Baros resigned to leaving
By Ian Doyle, Daily Post Staff

MILAN BAROS has admitted he is resigned to leaving Liverpool as Aston
Villa close in on his capture.

The striker could have played his last game for the Anfield side with
the long-running saga over his future nearing a conclusion.

Liverpool are demanding £7million for the 23-year-old, a figure that has
so far proven a stumbling block in the Midlands club's efforts to sign
the player.

Baros claims he has agreed personal terms with Villa that would increase
his salary, although French side Lyon also maintain an interest.

And the striker believes his future could be sorted soon after his
return from international duty with the Czech Republic this week, with
Villa thought ready to table a suitable bid.

"It seems that there is no other possibility than to say goodbye and
leave," said Baros.. "Apparently the coach wants to bet on other players
and I don't want to sit in the grandstand.

"When I return from the international team, it will be resolved. It
could be resolved this week."

He added: "I have not refused Aston Villa or said that I didn't want to
go there. It is a high quality club, it would certainly not be a step
back for me.

"We agreed on money straight away and they even raised their offer. I
would be on better terms than at Liverpool, but nothing has been agreed
yet."

Baros has not played in any of Liverpool's Champions League games this
season, but made a second-half substitute appearance against
Middlesbrough in the Premiership opener on Saturday.

And the striker has dismissed any suggestion of a rift with Benitez.

"The coach has some ideas and I think I am not in them," said Baros.
"But there is no personal thing in it, it is just football and I am not
bitter."

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[lfc-news] Mark Lawrenson column - Post

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Liverpool Daily Post, 16 Aug 2005
Liverpool hopes on a wing and a prayer
By Mark Lawrenson, Daily Post

MIDDLESBROUGH away has been one of the more difficult visits on
Liverpool's fixture list recently, especially last season when they put
in a 'nothing' performance.

This time around they dominated with an excellent performance and
deserved to win 2-0 or 3-0 at least. Rafael Benitez's preferred system
worked almost to perfection and Steven Gerrard had maybe seven chances
that on another day would have gone in.

As good as it was though, I think they should have had three points, not
one.

Just look at Chelsea - they could easily have lost at Wigan, but they
managed to win. Just look at Arsenal. Newcastle held them out for most
of the match, but they manage to find a way to take all the points.

One area where I feel they still have the edge is in width, which is
where Steve Finnan and John Arne Riise or Stephen Warnock must stand up
and be counted more than they have done to date.

Benitez's system - 4-2-3-1 can mean a lot of the play comes down the
middle at times, which is probably why he is so keen for a right-sided
midfielder.

At Chelsea they have Damien Duff, Arjen Robben, Shaun Wright Phillips
and Joe Cole. Manchester United have Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo and
Park Ji Sung. Arsenal have Freddie Ljungberg and Robert Pires, with
Ashley Cole and Lauren bombing on from fullback.

If the likes of Bolo Zenden and Luis Garcia tuck in for Liverpool,
Finnan and Riise or Warnock have to get past them, but it is a skill
Liverpool have yet to master to its full effect.

That is still the subtle difference between those clubs and Liverpool,
and over the Premiership season that will add up to a few points at least.

Still, given that away from Anfield was his team's Achilles heel last
season, I am sure I was not the only person to see the improvement
Benitez has made.

There was a confidence around much of Liverpool's play that was
partially a follow up to the Champions League victory and partially
something more.

What was it? I think it was the understanding they have built up in
pre-season which shone through in their movement and appitite for the game.

And then there was Gerrard. In that role off the front player - secure
in the knowledge he has Xabi Alonso and Momo Sissoko minding the shop -
he is virtually unstoppable at times.

A lot of his success comes from the positions where he starts his runs.
He is running off the back of midfield players at centre-backs and
full-backs who are trying to jockey him, whereas he is going flat out.

That commits defenders - just ask Ugo Ehiogu, who could not keep up with
Gerrard and brought him down for the sending-off.

That is where he is most effective, although given that Benitez will not
play 4-2-3-1 all the time, he may have to settle for a more conventional
midfield role in other games.

I think one of those will be against Sunderland in the next match, who
looked like they would struggle after defeat against Charlton's 10 men.

Djibril Cisse should come back into the starting line-up for that game,
which I am looking forward to.

He could be a real star this season, given what I have seen of him so far.

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[lfc-news] Academy: Spanish trip sharpens side - Post

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Liverpool Daily Post, 16 Aug 2005
Spanish trip sharpens side
Academy Football With Chris Wright, Daily Post

LIVERPOOL under-18s are hoping their Spanish sojourn has put them spot
on for the new FA Premier Academy League season.

John Owens's side returned back from a mini-tournament near Valencia
over the weekend raring to go for this Saturday's opener at Cardiff City.

After 2-2 draws at home to both Wolverhampton Wanderers and Leicester
City earlier this month, Owens's side travelled to Spain last Monday for
four 30-minute each-way fixtures with some top La Liga opposition.

They lost the first match 3-0 to Espanyol; defeated Seville 1-0 with a
Calum Woods header; beat Athletico Madrid 3-2 with goals from Woods and
two from Francis Smith, one from the penalty spot; and lost 3-1 to Real
Madrid, with Robbie Threlfall scoring.

Owens said: "We were up against it really. Most of the lads they had
were third years. It is a different system. The British system in the
third year they are in the reserves. They go to Melwood and they don't
come back.

"There were a few players at Melwood who were eligible, but we kept it
as an Academy side, which meant we were a year or two years younger in
some cases."

"But it was a very good experience because in a tough task they are
going to learn more."

But Owens was delighted with the tournament as it achieved its aim of
bringing his squad closer to full match fitness in readiness for the
start of the season. "Obviously you always like to win all your games,
but the real test is whether it has done its job in getting them ready
match-wise and fitness-wise for Saturday.

"It has been a very good pre-season. The timing of the tournament was
right. It is the week we wanted to get four games on a trot like that. I
am confident that the pre-season has gone pretty much how we would have
wanted it and got us ready," he added..

Owens has just two fitness worries ahead of the first match. Strikers
Threlfall and Michael Nardiello have groin and hamstring problems
respectively but both are expected to be fit for Saturday.

FULL ACADEMY SQUAD: Third years - Paul Lancaster, Conal Platt, Calum
Woods. Second years - Paul Barratt, James Frayne, Adam Hammill, Jordan
Holmes, Francis Smith. First years - Charlie Barnett, Stephen Behan,
Michael Burns, Stephen Darby, Ryan Flynn, Craig Lindfield, Josh Mimms,
Michael Nardiello, Johnathan Pringle, Raymond Putterill, David Roberts,
James Ryan, Jay Spearing, Robert Threlfall, Ryan Wignall, Lee Woodward.

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[lfc-news] Youth is the key for Reds - Echo

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Liverpool Echo, 16 Aug 2005
Youth is the key for Reds
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

LIVERPOOL's reserves will include some unfamiliar names when they kick
off their campaign in tonight's mini derby at Wrexham's Racecouse ground
(7pm kick-off).

At least four teenagers recruited during the summer are expected to play.

Antonio Barragan has already tasted first team action, but the Reds have
also finally confirmed the arrivals of 17-year-olds Godwin Antwi and
Miguel Rogue in time for the first reserve fixture.

Antwi, a Ghanaian signed from Real Zaragoza, and Rogue, another defender
signed from Spanish side Lleida, have been training at Anfield
throughout the pre-season.

Jack Hobbs, who joined Liverpool from Lincoln, is also likely to feature
this evening.

Centre-half Hobbs can officially sign for the Reds on Thursday when he
turns 17.

Manager Rafa Benitez embarked on a low profile transfer spree for the
reserves following their disappointing, injury hit campaign last year.

He wants the second string side to become a breeding ground for hungry
youngsters rather than a team packed with unwanted senior players, as it
so often was last season.

Benitez hopes the youngsters will prove valuable first team assets in
the seasons to come.

"Our scouts and coaches have been looking after this area for us over
the summer and we've brought in a few youngsters for the reserve team
this year," explained Benitez.

"Our idea with the reserves is to have a younger team. That doesn't mean
we will sacrifice quality, but there will be more boys given experience.
To achieve what we want means getting players into the reserve team now.

"When you want to improve the level of your team, it's important not
only to make signings for the first team but also for the reserves. It's
good for the future. We don't want to lose a lot of games because it's a
young reserve team, but if that happens, at least we've a year to work
with them and we know they'll benefit from the experience."

A more familiar face hoping to play is Florent Sinama-Pongolle, who has
recovered from cruciate ligament damage.

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[lfc-news] Ian Rush column - Echo

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Liverpool Echo, 16 Aug 2005
Home is where heart is
By Ian Rush, Liverpool Echo

PEOPLE often use the expression 'you should never go back'.

I heard it enough times when I was a Juventus player when there was a
lot of speculation about me returning to Liverpool.

After one year in Turin, I wanted to come home. For every person telling
me to go back to Anfield, someone else would be saying it would never be
the same.

I know I made the right decision. Kenny Dalglish made it clear he wanted
me so I turned down Roma, Rangers, Bayern Munich and Manchester United
to go back to Anfield.

The League championship, FA Cup and League Cup winners' medals I won
during my second spell ensure I have no regrets about the decision when
I look back at my career.

Michael Owen know finds himself in a similar position to me. It's
amazing how similar my and Michael's careers are.

We both grew up in North Wales and have a similar attitude. We're both
ambitious but value our home comforts as much as our football.

If Michael comes back to England, a lot of people will say, just like
they did to me, he didn't succeed abroad and will regret he left
Liverpool in the first place.

I beg to differ. Michael and I took opportunities we had to take at
similar stages of our career. If I hadn't joined Juventus, or Michael
gone to Madrid, we'd both have looked back years later thinking what
might have been. It was inevitable he'd test himself abroad eventually.

He'll come back to England a better all-round footballer.

Yes, leaving Liverpool does make you realise what you've left behind,
but that's all part of the experience of being a player. Like me, if
Michael returns he'll be hoping he spends the rest of the prime of his
career at the club.

Considering he's still only 25, the price of losing Michael for one
season may actually prove to have been a sacrifice worth paying
considering he'll now probably be at Liverpool until he's at least 30 if
he returns.

Like every Liverpool supporter, I'm hoping it happens.

I'd dread going to Anfield to see Michael playing in anything but a red
shirt. I just know he'd score against us.

He's also the one striker of his type Liverpool don't currently possess.
He could form a partner-ship with all the other forwards, particularly
Peter Crouch and Fernando Morientes.

Michael didn't leave the club on bad terms, he has a good relationship
with the fans and if the manager wants him I couldn't imagine him going
anywhere else.

Cisse could wing it for Rafa

IT'S CLEAR Liverpool are looking for a right midfielder, although
Djibril Cisse's performance on Saturday suggested he could be a
temporary solution.

Cisse has the pace to trouble full backs and some of the crosses he put
in would be ideal for Peter Crouch or Fernando Morientes.

Rafa Benitez seems to have plenty of options on the left, but there's
hardly anyone to play on the other flank at the moment.

I'm sure a lot of fans will be hoping for good things from Bolo Zenden,
and as a steady influence I think he'll be useful. Liverpool's great
sides always had what you might call a busy midfielder who didn't always
grab the limelight but worked hard and gave balance on the right, or
left, and often popped up with goals.

Zenden could be a similar quietly effective, if unspectacular, purchase.

United pose a threat

MY EXPECTATION is for a top four finish by Liverpool this season, but
I'm sure they'll be a lot closer to the top.

Chelsea are clearly going to be up there, as will Arsenal, although I
think they'll miss Patrick Vieira.

My own tip for the title is Manchester United. I've always been a huge
Ruud van Nistelrooy fan and if he's back to his best, they'll have a
formidable strikeforce with Rooney and Ronaldo.

My fear all summer has been them trying to add Michael Owen, which would
make them even greater.

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[lfc-news] Gerrard: Missing Own would be a nightmare - Echo

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Liverpool Echo, 15 Aug 2005
Missing Owen would be a nightmare
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

STEVEN GERRARD today admitted it would be a 'nightmare' if Michael Owen
joins any Premiership club but Liverpool before the transfer deadline.

The Anfield skipper is making no secret of his desire to be reunited
with the striker as speculation surrounding the Real Madrid star reaches
fever pitch.

Liverpool remain Owen's chosen destination, although there are several
hurdles to overcome to make it happen.

Newcastle have muddied the waters, reducing the prospects of an initial
loan deal by vowing to outbid any Premier-ship rivals, despite being
told Owen doesn't want to go to St James' Park..

Gerrard is hoping Owen's preference to rejoin his old club will prove
decisive.

"It goes without saying I would love Michael Owen back here and think
everyone at the club would love him back," Gerrard told the ECHO.

"Obviously it's up to Real Madrid. He's their player and they'll decide
if he can go, but when I see Michael in the England squad this week I
won't even have to ask him where he'd like to be in a few weeks.

"I'm waking up every morning, looking in the papers and hoping to read
he's on his way here. Could you imagine him coming back to Anfield and
scoring against us for another club? It would be a nightmare.

"Whoever signs him guarantees themselves 20 goals and, in my opinion,
the best striker in the league."

The Liverpool skipper accepted some of the blame for the Reds' failure
to take one of several chances in the 0-0 draw at Middlesbrough.

But Gerrard insisted there was enough evidence at The Riverside to
suggest pre-season optimism is not misplaced.

"Everything was perfect apart from the fact we didn't score," said
Gerrard. "The manager told us to match them until half-time and keep a
clean sheet and then we'd create lots of chances in the last 30 minutes.
That's how it went, but we missed our opportunities."

* Aston Villa are closing in on Milan Baros and hope to conclude a deal
this week for around £7m.

Meanwhile, Florent Sinama-Pongolle should make his comeback from
cruciate knee surgery as Liverpool Reserves kick off the campaign
against Everton at Wrexham tomorrow.

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[lfc-news] Youngsters poised for Reds debut - Official Site

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Official LFC Website, 15 Aug 2005
YOUNGSTERS POISED FOR REDS DEBUT
By Steve Hunter

Liverpool have confirmed the signings of defensive starlets Godwin Antwi
and Miquel Roque, both of whom are set for debuts for the reserves
against Everton at Wrexham on Tuesday night.

Roque is a 17-year-old centre half from Spain and has been signed from
Spanish second division side Lleida.

Godwin Antwi, also 17, was born in Ghana and has been signed from Real
Zaragoza. He is a strong and powerful centre half who can also play in
midfield.

Both players will be based at Melwood, alongside fellow youngsters
Antonio Barragan and Jack Hobbs. All four of the new young acquisitions
are expected to be in the Reds' reserve team for the mini derby.

The game against Everton's second string, is our first of the season at
this level and kicks-off at 7pm on Tuesday at the Racecourse Ground.

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