You'll Never Walk Alone (FM2010)

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 33
Date: Mon 09 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Man Utd result disappoints fans
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Supporter spokesperson Richard Martin believes the fans are disappointed with Liverpool's 0 - 1 English Community Shield defeat against Man Utd. Richard believes the fans absolutely hate losing to one of their closest rivals.
Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard and Yossi Benayoun were the main targets for the fans' criticism and there were some who stated that players such as Martin Skrtel and Mauro Formica should have been preferred in the starting line-up.


Liverpool had a controversial penalty appeal turned down in the 22nd minute during Liverpool's 0 - 1 English Community Shield defeat against Man Utd. Steven Gerrard believed that the referee had missed a blatant foul by Jonny Evans in the box and that Liverpool should have been awarded a penalty.


Liverpool fans was glad to see Fernando Torres back in full training today after he had to leave the field after 41 minutes in yesterdays Community Shield game with what looked like a minor injury.
Manchester United were not as lucky as there star striker Wayne Rooney today was sent to a specialist to treat what is reported to be broken ribs. First report is that he will miss 3-4 weeks of football.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 33
Date: Tue 10 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Källström set for Liverpool loan deal
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The Liverpool supporters finally had something to cheer for today when the front office announced that the loan move of Olympique Lyonnais' Kim Källström to Liverpool is ready to be completed. Liverpool tried to buy the Swedish left midfielder earlier but that deal never came close to being finalised. Instead Liverpool kept negotiations going in secret with Olympique Lyonnais and today the two teams and the player finally came tot an agreement.


Juventus are interested in buying Liverpool's Lucas. They would like to know how much Liverpool want for the player.


CSKA Moscow have made an offer of £1,500,000 for Ruben Yttergård Jenssen.
Feyenoord are amongst the favourites to sign Yttergård Jenssen and have reportedly made an offer, but Blackburn, Bolton, Deportivo, Fenerbahçe and Zenit are also said to be very interested.
They have set a deadline of Monday 16th August 2010 for Liverpool's decision.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 33
Date: Wed 11 / 08 / 2010
Headline: More transfer talk
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Dave Galley has reported that there are still a few injury problems persisting within the Liverpool squad.
Christopher Buchtmann (pulled hamstring) is close to a return to full fitness and should soon be available for selection.
Albert Riera (broken arm) and Robert Maloney (slipped disc) are on the long-term injury list and it will still be a while before we can think about setting a realistic return date for them.


Olympique Lyonnais' Mathieu Bodmer has expressed his amazement that manager Claude Puel has allowed Kim Källström to move to Liverpool on loan.
Bodmer told the club's unofficial website that he believed a central midfielder of Källström's quality was far too important an asset to farm out on loan and felt Liverpool's gain could prove to be Olympique Lyonnais' loss. Olympique Lyonnais will likely replace Källström on the AML with 22-year old Angel Di Marìa who arrived from Benfica last season.


Aston Villa are stepping up the chase for Liverpool attacking midfielder Adam Pepper, according to reports. However, it is believed The Villans will have to table a bid in the region of £825,000 to prise him away from Anfield.
Pepper, who is valued at £825K, currently has 4 years remaining on his £120 p/w deal at Anfield.


Fiorentina boss Cesare Prandelli is believed to have stated his desire to bring Liverpool left winger Gerardo Bruna to Artemio Franchi. Prandelli seems to see the 19 year-old as the ideal signing as he looks to strengthen his squad.
Bruna signed for league champions Liverpool in 2007 and with the loan of Kim Källström the possibility of theis deal going thru is suddenly encrising.


Sunderland have made an offer of £6,000,000 for Michael Dingsdag. Interest in Dingsdag is thought to be high, with Blackburn, West Ham, Wigan and Genoa among the clubs rumoured to be looking at the player. Liverpool have rejected the offer.

[Northwood_DK]

After more then 300 posts I guess its time to present the team before the start of season II.

Goalkeepers

José Manuel Reina GK
Nikolay Mihaylov GK
-----------------------------
Charles Itandje GK
Jason Steele GK
Dean Bouzanis GK

José Manuel Reina were perhaps the best goalkeeper in the Premier League last season finishing the year with a 7.00 rating, 12 clean sheets and conceding 30 goals in 33 games. This year Reina will be asked to play more like a “Sweeper Keeper” to compensate for the lack of speed in the defends.
With the sale of Diego Cavalieri to Inter last year Liverpool decided to bring back Nikolay Mihaylov from his loan to Twente this year and make him the backup for Reina. Nikolay Mihaylov played for Bulgaria in the World Cup and at this point looks like the future replacement for Reina when he decides to end his career. Mihaylov will get to see some action in the League and FA Cup.
For the Liverpool reserves it will be a fight between Jason Steele and Charles Itandje. Steele was brought inn for Middlesbrough last season after the sale of Diego Cavalieri.

[Northwood_DK]

Defence

Michael Dingsdag SW, D C, DM, M C
Jamie Carragher D RC
Glen Johnson D R
Emiliano Insúa D L
Daniel Agger D C
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Martin Skrtel D C
Philipp Degen D/WB R
Fábio Aurélio D/WB L
Martin Kelly D RC
Jay Spearing D R, DM, M C
Robert Maloney D L
Sotiris Kyrgiakos D C
Luke Wilkinson D C
Chris Mavinga D C
Stephen Darby D/WB R

On defends Liverpool have 5 players fighting for 4 spots in the starting line-up. The two back positions is locked down by Glen Johnson and Emiliano Insúa. The 21-year old Argentinean Emiliano Insúa was the big positive surprise last season when the won the spot in the starting-11 from Fábio Aurélio. Liverpool have already turned down several offers to sell the young player and hopfuly he can repeat last years performance. On the right side it’s Glen Johnson. He had a good season last year but with a £17mil price tag he better have a great year this season.
In the middle the fight for the two spots is between Danish international Daniel Agger, newcomer to Liverpool Michael Dingsdag and 32-year old vice-captain and Mr Liverpool Jamie Carragher. Agger and Carragher did a good job last season but Carragher is not getting any younger (or faster) and Daniel Agger struggles to stay healthy. If anything happen to any of the three in the middle it will likely be Martin Skrtel who is asked to step up. He started 12 games for Liverpool last season. Fábio Aurélio mad Stephen Darby will be the backups left and right while Sotiris Kyrgiakos looks to be on his way out.
Jay Spearing looks to be the only of the young talents with a chance to break the starting 11 in the near future and Liverpool might need to spend some money on the central defends to stay ahead of the curve.

[Northwood_DK]

Defensive midfielders

Javier Mascherano DM, M C
Lucas DM, M C
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Ruben Yttergård Jenssen M C
Florent Cuvelier M C
Christopher Buchtmann D/WB/AM L
Damien Plessis DM, M C
Victor Pálsson DM, M C
George Ainslie M R

This is one of the more interesting groups of players. Javier Mascherano and Lucas had excellent seasons last year and will starts again this year. Mascherano will have the defensive role while Lucas will be responsible to get the balls thru to the front line.
Behind them is a fantastic group of young players. Florent Cuvelier and George Ainslie are both just 17-years old and looks like very interesting prospects. Christopher Buchtmann is a year older and will play out left. Ruben Yttergård Jenssen was named the Young Norwegian player of the year last season before arriving in Liverpool. He got a few chances after joining Liverpool but didn’t show much and now he might be on the move with several European clubs showing interest.

[Northwood_DK]

Attacking midfield

Steven Gerrard AM RC
Yossi Benayoun AM RLC
Dirk Kuyt AM R, ST
Kim Källström AM LC
Albert Riera AM L
Alberto Aquilani AM C
-----------------------------
Douglas Costa AM LC
Mauro Formica AM C
Nabil El Zhar AM R
Gerardo Bruna AM L
Vincent Weijl AM L
Adam Pepper AM C
Nikola Saric AM/F C

Steven Gerrard is of cause the star in this group. He is now 30-years old and Liverpool’s success this season will depend on his ability to get the ball to Torres. Liverpool paid Roma £17mil for Alberto Aquilani and sooner or later they will have to figure out a way to use him (or sell him). On the left side the arrival of Kim Källström finally gave Liverpool the impact player they were looking for. He was selected the best AML in last years Champions League. On the right side Liverpool have the player who was selected the best overall player in lat years Champions League in Yossi Benayoun. He might find himself on the bench to start the season as Dirk Kuyt continues to show great form.
Douglas Costa, Mauro Formica and Nabil El Zhar can all be used as backups but the drop-off from the starting three is too big for them to be starters. The three young players Weijl, Pepper and Saric all need to develop but Nikola Saric has shown great poise the few times he gotten the chance on the first team.

[Northwood_DK]

Forwards

Fernando Torres ST
David N'Gog ST
Matías Defederico F C
-----------------------------
Andriy Voronin F C
Nathan Eccleston ST
James Ellison ST
Michael Ngoo ST
Lauri Dalla Valle ST
Krisztián Németh ST

Last season Fernando Torres scored 35 goals for Liverpool. David N'Gog will be used again this season as the “savvier” who can come on late and score a winning goal. His player card might not look like much but he still finished last season with 12 league goals despite only starting 13 games. Behind those two it looks very thin. Matías Defederico is just 21-years old and got a lot to learn. Also 21-year old Krisztián Németh also got talent and picked up some experience when he started 33 games for AEK Athens last season. The rest of the group will hopefully never see first team football in Liverpool.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 33
Date: Thu 12 / 08 / 2010
Headline: 'Maybe next season,' says Moyes
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With his team soon to face title challengers Liverpool, Everton manager David Moyes has told TEAMtalk.com that he doesn't think Thomas Northwood's side will be good enough to end the season as champions. Moyes did concede that, given a few quality signings, Liverpool might be a contender next season.


Sunderland have raised there bid another £1.25mil and is now making a £7,250,000 offer for Michael Dingsdag. Genoa are amongst the favourites to sign Dingsdag and have reportedly made an offer, but Blackburn, West Ham and Girondins Bordeaux are also said to be very interested.
They have set a deadline of Saturday 21st August 2010 for Liverpool's decision.


Bolton are interested in buying Liverpool's Christopher Buchtmann. They would like to know how much Liverpool want for the player. Liverpool say the player is not for sale.


Oldham have made an offer to loan Liverpool's Jason Steele for 5 months. Oldham feel the player would become a valuable member of the first-team. Steele, 19, arrived at Anfield from Middlesbrough for a fee of £150K in 2009. They have set a deadline of Thursday 19th August 2010 for Liverpool's decision.


Coca-Cola Championship side Newcastle United had to scrape through on penalties against a dogged Morecambe on a day where shocks were hard to come by. Darlington are also through to the Second Round as they stunned Coca-Cola Championship side Barnsley at Darlington Arena. Elsewhere, there were wins for Bristol Rovers, Wycombe Wanderers, Preston North End and Peterborough United.

[bbgunn]

Nice looking team you have there.

[Northwood_DK]

Originally Posted by bbgunn

Nice looking team you have there.

Thanks BB

It’s basically the same team as last season. Kim Källström is a nice player but with a £30mil transfer budget I would have liked to get a bigger name then that.

I’m a bit unsure before this season. I normally struggle in the second season and with last years results it feels like the only way is down.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 33
Date: Fri 13 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Liverpool take on Everton in local derby
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Everton: 7-4 Draw: 11-5 Liverpool: 5-4 (English Premier League)
Everton are slight underdogs in what should prove a tightly contested affair against league champions Liverpool, according to Sky Bet.
David Moss watched Everton's convincing 5 - 0 Friendly victory over Glenavon and notes that although Everton lined up with a 4-5-1 formation last Thursday, they normally play 4-4-1-1.
Moyes likes his teams to play possession football and Everton will look to get the ball down and play it. Their midfield are good on the ball and can create chances. Finally, it will be important to defend deep or use fast defenders as their attacking pace may cause problems. Moss believes that Everton will look to use the aerial power of central midfielder Marouane Fellaini and we should look to cut off the supply to him.

Injured Players: Erik Edman and Tim Cahill
Unavailable Players: None


Thomas Northwood was not giving much away as he met journalists ahead of Liverpool's match against Everton in the English Premier Division.
A journalist from BBC Radio 5 live chose the main focus point for the conference, asking, "Marouane Fellaini has been pinpointed as a possible threat to the Liverpool defence in the forthcoming match. Do you agree with that assessment?"
Northwood's response was, "I think it's fair to say I agree with that."
There is speculation that Marouane Fellaini will be buoyed by Northwood's positive words.
Thomas Northwood also responded to David Moyes' recent comments with good humour.
Liverpool manager Thomas Northwood has told David Moyes that he is relishing playing Everton on Saturday. Northwood commented that games between the two rival clubs always provided great entertainment.


Youth Coach Rodolfo Borrell was present as Liverpool Under 18s emerged victorious against Blackpool Under 18s at Highbury Stadium this afternoon. Borrell singled out Jamie Marler as the team's top performer. The defensive midfielder scored a goal to round off an impressive display.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 33
Date: Sat 14 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Confident performance from The Reds
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vs.

MATCH REPORT:
Everton 2 - 4 Liverpool (Premier League)
An efficient performance by Liverpool's players saw them confidently overcome a lacklustre Everton 4 - 2 at Goodison Park.
Striker Fernando Torres started the new season with an early goal when he gave Liverpool the lead with a real poacher's effort in the 18th minute. Midfielder Lucas doubled Liverpool's lead with a screamer from the edge of the area on 31 minutes.
After the second goal Liverpool decided to switch to a more defensive formation.
Enthusiastic striker James Vaughan gave the Everton fans a glimmer of hope after 34 minutes with a good header from just inside the six-yard box. James Vaughan then equalised for Everton in the 65th minute with a fine header from point-blank range.
Liverpool switched back to the attacking more and it didn’t take long before tireless midfielder Kim Källström then put the away side in front after 81 minutes with a towering header from close range. The Liverpool fans might have been forgiven for thinking that their side would be happy with just the winner but the scoring wasn't over. Kuyt scored from the penalty spot after Yobo gave away a thin penalty.

Attendance: 40158

Liverpool Starting 11:

José Manuel Reina
Glen Johnson
Emiliano Insúa
Michael Dingsdag
Daniel Agger (sub 79)
Lucas (G: 31)
Javier Mascherano (sub 89)
Dirk Kuyt (G: 89)
Kim Källström (G: 81)
Steven Gerrard (c)
Fernando Torres (sub 84) (G: 18)
----------------------------------
Nikolay Mihaylov
Jamie Carragher (on 84)
David N'Gog (on 79)
Alberto Aquilani
Yossi Benayoun
Florent Cuvelier (on 89)
Philipp Degen




A controversial penalty was given in the 88th minute during Everton's 2 - 4 English Premier Division defeat against Liverpool. Everton central midfielder Marouane Fellaini revealed after the match that he felt that a penalty was a harsh decision for his team-mate Joseph Yobo.
Everton boss David Moyes refused to openly criticise the referee after the match, claiming that he was not prepared to risk being reprimanded by the FA.


Thomas Northwood was not giving much away as he met journalists in the wake of Liverpool's 4 - 2 English Premier Division victory over Everton.
A journalist from the Daily Post chose the main focus point for the conference, asking, "There are rumours that you are still in the market for another player. After today's Premier Division match against Everton, do you think you will be bringing a new player in?"
Northwood's response was, "I wouldn't say that's a likely course of action."


Speaking to Sky Sports News, Liverpool boss Thomas Northwood admitted he is an admirer of Wolverhampton Wanderers left-back Martin Olsson's talents. Northwood continued by stating that he thought Olsson was an accomplished player.
Liverpool are rumoured to be interested in the player.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 33
Date: Sun 15 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Liverpool announce season ticket sales
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The English Premier Division kicked off a new season yesterday with a total of 403900 spectators turning out around the division. With twenty teams in action and 21 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found between two bitter rivals at Goodison Park where a crowd of 40158 witnessed Everton's 2 - 4 defeat against Liverpool. The highlight of that match was Liverpool's Kim Källström scoring on his debut.
Elsewhere, Marvin Emnes scored a placed shot during Tottenham's 2 - 2 draw with Middlesbrough and 27500 watched Stoke's 1 - 2 defeat against West Brom where Ishmael Miller scored the pick of the goals with a powerful effort.


Supporter spokesperson Richard Martin feels the fans are delighted with Liverpool's 4 - 2 English Premier Division victory over Everton. Richard believes the fans feel there is nothing more satisfying than getting one over your closest rivals.
Particularly impressive were players like Lucas, Dirk Kuyt and Fernando Torres and they quite rightly look to be keeping the likes of Ruben Yttergård Jenssen, Alberto Aquilani and Matías Defederico out of the side.


Liverpool have announced the final sales figures for season tickets. The ticket office has confirmed that the club have sold 32073 season tickets for this season.
The season ticket sales have soared from last season, when the club sold 28000 season tickets.


After receiving praise from Liverpool boss Thomas Northwood, Wolves' full-back Martin Olsson responded in an appreciative manner. Speaking to BirminghamMail.net, Wolverhampton Wanderers' full-back Martin Olsson reacted with a beaming smile.
Olsson stated he was delighted at receiving praise from a manager like Thomas Northwood for whom he has a lot of respect.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 34
Date: Mon 16 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Liverpool favourites for Sunderland clash
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Liverpool: 4-7 Draw: 5-2 Sunderland: 4-1 (English Premier League)
League champions Liverpool have been touted as comfortable favourites but will have to be wary about complacency when taking on Sunderland, according to Sky Bet.
Current Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has been at Sunderland for 15 months, having joined the club in June 2009.
David Moss watched Sunderland's 1 - 0 English Premier Division victory over Fulham last Saturday and noted that Sunderland play a defensive 4-4-2 formation and often look to draw the opposition onto them before attempting a counter-attack.
Its expected that Liverpool will change from there normal 4-2-3-1 formation to a more attacking 4-1-3-2 for this must-win home game.
Bruce likes his teams to play possession football and Sunderland will look to get the ball down and play it. They benefit from a strong and organised defence and this could prove difficult to break down. Their midfield are good on the ball and can create chances. Finally, it will be important to defend deep or use fast defenders as their attacking pace may cause problems.
Moss believes that central midfielder Lee Cattermole will need to be watched carefully as he has the ability to be a match winner.
Injured Players: Craig Gardner
Unavailable Players: None


Pepe Grande was not giving much away as he met journalists ahead of Liverpool's match against Sunderland in the English Premier Division. A journalist from skysports.com chose the main focus point for the conference, asking, "Can we expect a change in your approach to discipline in light of Jamie Carragher's comments highlighting a surprising lack of it?"
Pepe Grande's response was, "I have to say changes are unlikely."


Burnley have made an offer to loan Liverpool's Douglas Costa for 5 months. Burnley feel the player would become a valuable member of the first-team.
Douglas Costa has just signed for Liverpool from Brazilian First Division side Grêmio for £6M. Liverpool have accepted the offer.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 34
Date: Tue 17 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Torres shines as Liverpool win
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vs.

MATCH REPORT:
Liverpool 2 - 1 Sunderland (Premier League)
Liverpool showed their superiority in a 2 - 1 victory over Sunderland during their English Premier League game at Anfield, but they could and should have scored more. The match was certainly not one for the purists with neither side able to keep the errors out of their game.
An error from Michael Turner allowed striker Fernando Torres to score a placed shot from close range which hit the inside of the post before crossing the line after a brilliant cross from Dirk Kuyt. Torres then doubled Liverpool's lead with a fine header from point-blank range on 74 minutes when he was left all to himself after a corner. The last goal of the game came from centre-back Michael Dingsdag whose 90th minute own-goal will undoubtedly cause him some embarrassment.

Attendance: 45362

Liverpool Starting 11:

José Manuel Reina
Glen Johnson
Emiliano Insúa
Michael Dingsdag (OG: 90)
Daniel Agger
Dirk Kuyt
Kim Källström (sub 45)
Javier Mascherano
Steven Gerrard (c) (sub 53)
Fernando Torres (G: 44, 74) (MOM: 8.4)
Matías Defederico (sub 75)
---------------------------------------
Nikolay Mihaylov
Jamie Carragher
David N'Gog
Alberto Aquilani (on 53)
Yossi Benayoun (on 45)
Lucas (on 75)
Philipp Degen


Fernando Torres was the best player on the park during Liverpool's 2 - 1 English Premier Division victory over Sunderland this evening and the margin of victory should have been even greater. Torres had the quality to put the Sunderland defence to the sword and finished the match with two goals. Torres got an 8.05 rating and 3 goals after two games and is clearly the man behind Liverpool’s great start to the season.
Torres has become almost synonymous with the football club at Liverpool since he arrived from At. Madrid for £22M in 2007.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 34
Date: Wed 18 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Wednesday's Champions Cup Round-Up
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With ten matches played and 28 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found at Stamford Bridge where a crowd of 41761 witnessed Chelsea's 2 - 0 victory over Anderlecht. The game was marred however by an injury to Chelsea's José Bosingwa.
Elsewhere, a brace from Juan Manuel Mata inspired a win for the away side during Celtic's 1 - 2 defeat against Valencia and Stéphane Bernier scored the pick of the goals in Paris Saint-Germain's 3 - 1 victory over Roma with a freekick from the edge of the area which hit the inside of the post before crossing the line.


Supporter spokesperson Richard Martin feels the fans are pleased with Liverpool's 2 - 1 English Premier Division victory over Sunderland.
Richard believes the fans were pleased with the amount of times the team managed to test the opposition goalkeeper.
Particularly impressive were players like Glen Johnson, Dirk Kuyt and Fernando Torres and they quite rightly look to be keeping the likes of Philipp Degen and David N'Gog out of the side.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 34
Date: Thu 19 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Douglas Costa sent to Burnley
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The loan move of Liverpool's Douglas Costa to Burnley can now be completed. Liverpool have confirmed the deal.
Liverpool's Fernando Torres has told an official supporters' club website that Douglas Costa's loan move to Burnley is exactly what his team-mate needs. The 19 year-old attacking midfielder who just arrived in England is not part of the first-team plans at Anfield this season and Torres firmly believes this loan opportunity with Burnley will do wonders for Douglas Costa's confidence and fitness.


Man Utd have signed Rob Rijsbergen from sc Heerenveen on a free transfer. Subject to conditions, however, the transfer may eventually rise to £3,900,000. sc Heerenveen will receive a compensation fee of £1,500,000 as part of the deal. Rijsbergen had been out of contract at his old club.


West Ham have made an offer to loan Liverpool's Ruben Yttergård Jenssen until the end of the season. West Ham have offered £325K as a payment up front with a view to paying £2.7M to make the move permanent. West Ham feel the player would act as cover for the first-team.
Yttergård Jenssen, 22, arrived at Anfield from Tromsø for a fee of £1.5M in 2009. Sporting CP are amongst the favourites to sign Yttergård Jenssen and have reportedly made an offer, but Schalke and Fenerbahçe are also said to be very interested. They have set a deadline of Wednesday 25th August 2010 for Liverpool's decision.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 34
Date: Fri 20 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Liverpool getting ready for 3rd game in a week
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West Ham: 3-1 Draw: 2-1 Liverpool: 4-5 (English Premier League)
The odds are firmly stacked against West Ham in what should prove a difficult home encounter against league champions Liverpool, according to Sky Bet.
David Moss watched West Ham's 2 - 0 English Premier Division victory over Fulham and notes that although West Ham lined up with a 4-1-3-2 formation last Tuesday, they normally play 4-1-2-1-2.
Zola likes his teams to play possession football and West Ham will look to get the ball down and play it. They benefit from a strong and organised defence and this could prove difficult to break down. Their midfield is strong and work well as a unit.
Moss believes that West Ham will look to use the aerial power of striker Dean Ashton and Liverpool should look to cut off the supply to him. Liverpool boss Thomas Northwood revealed to the gathered journalists ahead of their forthcoming match against West Ham that he regards Dean Ashton as the oppositions main threat. Northwood indicated that his players would have to find a way to contain Ashton if they are going to be successful in their forthcoming encounter.
Injured Players: Scott Parker
Unavailable Players: None


Liverpool's Israeli international Yossi Benayoun has now gained British citizenship. The right winger has taken citizenship after living in the country for five years. Benayoun wanted to become an EU national.
Benayoun, who has 23 months left on his current contract, has been at Anfield since July 2007.


Man Utd have signed Chelsea's Ivorian left winger Salomon Kalou for a fee of £4,600,000. Subject to conditions, however, the transfer may eventually rise to £5,500,000. The former Feyenoord man has already expressed his determination to do well for the club and impress his new manager.


Dave Galley has reported that central midfielder Ruben Yttergård Jenssen has sustained a bruised shin following a robust challenge during a training session. Galley advises you that Yttergård Jenssen will be treated by the club's physios. It is likely that Yttergård Jenssen will be out for between 5 days and 6 days whilst he is treated.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 34
Date: Sat 21 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Another confident performance from The Reds
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vs.

MATCH REPORT:
West Ham United 0 - 2 Liverpool (Premier League)
An efficient performance by Liverpool's players saw them confidently overcome a lacklustre West Ham United 2 - 0 at Upton Park.
Legendary midfielder Steven Gerrard gave Liverpool the lead with a freekick from the edge of the area in the 27th minute. Striker Dirk Kuyt then completed the scoring for Liverpool with a powerful effort on 86 minutes. Only negative today was the injury to right-back Glen Johnson.

Attendance: 34426

Liverpool Starting 11:

José Manuel Reina
Glen Johnson (sub 45)
Emiliano Insúa
Jamie Carragher
Daniel Agger
Lucas
Javier Mascherano (sub 86)
Dirk Kuyt (G: 86)
Kim Källström (sub 72)
Steven Gerrard (c) (G: 27) (MOM: 8.0)
Fernando Torres
------------------------------
Nikolay Mihaylov
Michael Dingsdag
David N'Gog
Alberto Aquilani
Yossi Benayoun (on 72)
Florent Cuvelier (on 86)
Philipp Degen (on 45)

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 34
Date: Sun 22 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Glen Johnson out for a week
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Dave Galley has reported that right-back Glen Johnson has suffered a bruised rib following an accidental collision during the match against West Ham. Galley advises that Johnson will be treated by the club's physios. It is likely that Johnson will be out for between 4 days and 5 days whilst he is treated.


With seven matches played and 12 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found at Upton Park where a crowd of 34426 witnessed West Ham's 0 - 2 defeat against Liverpool. The highlight being a landmark goal for Liverpool's Steven Gerrard. Elsewhere, Chelsea's 2 - 0 victory over Wigan proved to be a fiery affair and Sean St. Ledger scored the pick of the goals in West Brom's 2 - 1 victory over Middlesbrough with a well timed close range finish.


Supporter spokesperson Richard Martin feels the fans are pleased with Liverpool's 2 - 0 English Premier Division victory over West Ham. Particularly impressive were players like Dirk Kuyt and Steven Gerrard, leaving the likes of David N'Gog wondering how he will break into the side.
Liverpool have notched up five straight wins and the title contenders occupy 1st place in the English Premier Division and Dirk Kuyt and Fernando Torres were selected in the English Premier Division Team of the Week first eleven.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 35
Date: Mon 23 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Johnson to miss At. Madrid game
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Liverpool's Glen Johnson has told TEAMtalk.com of his disappointment that he will miss the European Super Cup against C. Atlético Madrid S.A.D. on August 27th through injury.
Instead of taking to the field against Los Colchoneros, Johnson will be forced to watch his team-mates from the stands.
Philipp Degen will take over his place in the starting line-up.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 35
Date: Tue 24 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Tuesday's League Cup Round-Up
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With forty-six teams in action and 63 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found at The Bescot Stadium where a crowd of 7731 witnessed a shock result during Walsall's 7 - 6 penalty win over Hull. Elsewhere, Burnley's 1 - 2 defeat against Preston proved to be a fiery affair and Jamie O'Hara scored the pick of the goals in Tottenham's 2 - 0 victory over Reading with a well timed close range finish.
Coca-Cola League 1 side Hartlepool United provided the most notable upset of a Second Round which saw a number of big clubs eliminated by lower league opponents. Pools unceremoniously dumped Premier Division side Blackburn Rovers out after a penalty shootout.
Wycombe Wanderers have also progressed after a win at Bramall Lane where they upset newly-promoted Sheffield United in stunning fashion.
Elsewhere, there were wins for Walsall, Ipswich Town, Doncaster Rovers and Watford.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 35
Date: Wed 25 / 08 / 2010
Headline: West Ham loan van der Vaart
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R. Madrid's Dutch attacking midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has joined West Ham on loan until the end of the season. As part of the deal, West Ham may purchase van der Vaart for £6,500,000 at any point during the loan spell.
Van der Vaart, who has 3 years left on his current contract, has been at Santiago Bernabéu since August 2008.


The transfer deadline for English clubs is in one week.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 35
Date: Thu 26 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Liverpool gets ready for European Super Cup
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Liverpool: 5-4 At. Madrid: 7-4 (European Super Cup)
English champions Liverpool are just about favourites to overcome the opposition in what should prove a tightly contested affair against Spanish LIGA BBVA side At. Madrid, according to Sky Bet. Both clubs will be doing everything they can to ensure victory.
David Moss believes At. Madrid are likely to field a 4-4-2 formation. The pitch at Stade Louis II is long which will favour teams playing a direct style. If defenders push up there will be a lot of space to exploit in behind them for the quicker players to take advantage of. Moss believes that a potential threat to the Liverpool defence will be the pace of forward Sergio Agüero.
Liverpool favourite Ian Rush has singled out striker Diego Forlán as the most influential At. Madrid player for the forthcoming game, according to TEAMtalk.com. Rush declared that the Reds should get something out of this game provided they put the shackles on At. Madrid's main attacking threat. Forlán, 31, arrived at Vicente Calderón from Villarreal for a fee of £18.25M in 2007.
Injured Players: Pablo and Raúl García
Unavailable Players: Ignacio Camacho


Thomas Northwood was not giving much away as he met journalists ahead of Liverpool's match against C. Atlético Madrid S.A.D. in the European Super Cup.
A journalist from The People chose the main focus point for the conference, asking, "You could be considered as somewhat fortunate by some as At. Madrid's Raúl García will not be able to play in the upcoming European Super Cup match. How important to the match do you consider Raúl García's absence to be?"
Northwood's response was, "I am sure At. Madrid will cope just fine."
It seems likely that Raúl García may be unhappy about Northwood's negative words.
Liverpool is expected to got away from there normal formation playing with only one attacker today.


Liverpool will play Aston Villa in the English League Cup Third Round. The game will be played at Anfield on Tuesday 21st September 2010.
Liverpool are acknowledged as the most successful side ever to have played in the League Cup, having won the competition seven times but this wqs not the 3rd round draw they were hoping for.


Dave Galley has reported that defensive midfielder Victor Pálsson has sustained damaged cruciate ligaments following a robust challenge during a training session. Galley advises you that unfortunately the only course of action for damaged cruciate ligaments is for the player to see a specialist. It is likely that Pálsson will be out for between 7 months and 8 months whilst he is treated.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 35
Date: Fri 27 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Reds made to rue missed chances
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vs.

MATCH REPORT:
C. Atlético Madrid S.A.D. 3 - 2 Liverpool (Euro. Super Cup)
After appearing to just have the edge in this hard-fought battle, Liverpool's players and fans will be very disappointed to have lost 3 - 2 to a C. Atlético Madrid S.A.D. team they consider to be their equal.
Cultured midfielder Alberto Aquilani got Liverpool off to a flyer by scoring a powerful effort from the edge of the area on 3 minutes. Aquilani then doubled Liverpool's lead with a powerful effort on 42 minutes. Alberto Aquilani was given the chance to start when Thomas Northwood decided to rest Steven Gerrard for this game.
Winger Simão pulled one back for At. Madrid after 64 minutes with a placed shot. Experienced striker Diego Forlán then equalised for At. Madrid in the 68th minute with a fine header from point-blank range. Cata Díaz was able to keep his composure to score from the spot after Dingsdag gave away a penalty.

Attendance: 18524

Liverpool Starting 11:

José Manuel Reina
Philipp Degen
Emiliano Insúa
Michael Dingsdag
Daniel Agger (sub 82)
Lucas
Javier Mascherano
Dirk Kuyt
Kim Källström (sub 60)
Alberto Aquilani (G: 2, 42) (MOM: 8.6)
Fernando Torres (c) (sub 47)
---------------------------------------
Nikolay Mihaylov
Jamie Carragher
David N'Gog (on 82)
Steven Gerrard
Yossi Benayoun (on 60)
Florent Cuvelier
Matías Defederico (on 47)


A controversial penalty was given in the 90th minute during Liverpool's 2 - 3 European Super Cup defeat against At. Madrid.
Liverpool right-back Philipp Degen revealed after the match that he felt that a penalty was a harsh decision for his team-mate Michael Dingsdag.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 35
Date: Sat 28 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Northwood’s worst loss
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Supporter spokesperson Richard Martin believes the fans are disappointed with Liverpool's 2 - 3 European Super Cup defeat against At. Madrid.
Michael Dingsdag, Emiliano Insúa and Matías Defederico were the main targets for the fans' criticism and there were some who stated that players such as Glen Johnson, Jamie Carragher and Fábio Aurélio should have been preferred in the starting line-up.
This was the worst defeat for Liverpool and Thomas Northwood since he took over as the manager for the team before the start of last season. When up by two goals with less then 30 minutes to play a team of Liverpool’s format should not give away 3 goals and loss in regular time.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 35
Date: Sun 29 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Wayne Rooney re-injured
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Wayne Rooney played his first match today after getting injured in the Community Shields game against Liverpool earlier in the month. Today he got 67 minutes on the field before having to be replaced again this time with a groin injury. Rooney will be looking at another 2-3 weeks on the bench.


The highlight of the Champions Cup group draw sees last year's winners Liverpool drawn alongside Portuguese Liga Sagres side Sport Lisboa e Benfica - SAD in Group H as they begin their defence of the Champions Cup.
The two other teams drawn alongside them in this group are Greek Superleague outfit Olympiakos and German First Division team Nürnberg.
Liverpool, who have won the competition an impressive six times, will be looking for their 2nd consecutive win. Liverpool have been awarded £3,826,000 for playing in the European Champions Cup Group Stage. Group matches will start on 15.9.2010.


Liverpool youngster Christopher Buchtmann could be on his way to Fulham after manager Thomas Northwood revealed that he is ready to listen to offers. The 18-year-old left-back is clearly not part of Northwood's plans at Liverpool and the youngster might well jump at the chance of regular first-team football.
Buchtmann, who is valued at £350K, currently has 22 months remaining on his £130 p/w deal at Anfield.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 36
Date: Mon 30 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Aston Villa sign Pato
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Aston Villa have chocked the football world and splashed the cash on A.C. Milan's Pato, landing the Brazilian striker for a fee of £19,250,000. Subject to conditions, however, the transfer may eventually rise to £20,000,000. The former Internacional player, who joined A.C. Milan for £19.25M in 2007, has represented Brazil nineteen times during his career.
This is the biggest transfer in football since Maxi Rodriguez was sold from At. Madrid for £22mil in August 2009.


With six matches played and 18 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found at The City Of Manchester Stadium where a crowd of 45071 witnessed Man City's convincing 4 - 0 victory over Tottenham. The highlight being a landmark goal for Man City's Robinho.
Elsewhere, Hugo Rodallega scored twice during Wigan's 2 - 2 draw with Everton and 32609 watched Sheff Utd's 0 - 1 defeat against West Ham.


Liverpool: 2-5 Draw: 11-4 Wolves: 13-2 (English Premier League)
League champions Liverpool should record an easy home win against Wolves, according to Sky Bet. Liverpool have notched up five straight wins and the title contenders occupy 2nd place in the English Premier Division while Wolves are currently 9th in the English Premier Division.
David Moss watched Wolves' 0 - 1 English League Cup Second Round defeat against Doncaster and notes that although Wolves lined up with a 4-4-2 formation last Tuesday, they normally play 4-1-4-1.
McCarthy likes his teams to play possession football and Wolves will look to get the ball down and play it. They benefit from a strong and organised defence and this could prove difficult to break down. Finally, it will be important to defend deep or use fast defenders as their attacking pace may cause problems.
Moss believes that a potential threat to the Liverpool defence will be the pace of right winger Michael Kightly.
Injured Players: Stefan Maierhofer and Sylvan Ebanks-Blake
Unavailable Players: None

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 36
Date: Tue 31 / 08 / 2010
Headline: Wolves causes trouble
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vs.

MATCH REPORT:
Liverpool 1 - 0 Wolverhampton Wanderers (Premier League)
Liverpool showed their superiority in a 1 - 0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers during their English Premier League game at Anfield, but they could and should have scored more.
Striker Fernando Torres gave Liverpool the lead with a freak goal in the 26th minute. Goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey then summed up his team's performance by nearly gifting Liverpool another goal on 46 minutes. Liverpool were often prevented from playing as they wanted to due to the number of fouls committed by their enthusiastic opponents.
José Manuel Reina was the best player on the park during Liverpool's 1 - 0 English Premier League victory over Wolves this evening and the margin of victory should have been even greater. The Liverpool goalkeeper looked safe enough when called upon and the clean sheet will have done wonders for his confidence.

Attendance: 45362

Liverpool Starting 11:

José Manuel Reina (MOM: 7.7)
Glen Johnson
Emiliano Insúa
Martin Skrtel
Jamie Carragher (sub 85)
Dirk Kuyt (sub 45)
Kim Källström
Javier Mascherano
Steven Gerrard (c)
Alberto Aquilani (sub 45)
Fernando Torres (G: 26)
------------------------------
Nikolay Mihaylov
Michael Dingsdag (on 85)
David N'Gog
Lucas
Yossi Benayoun (on 45)
Florent Cuvelier (on 45)
Matías Defederico



Leicester have made an offer to loan Liverpool's Nabil El Zhar for 5 months. Leicester feel the player would become a valuable member of the first-team. El Zhar signed for league champions Liverpool in 2006. Coventry are rumoured to be interested in the player.
Liverpool have accepted the offer. With Dirk Kuyt still showing no signs of slowing down, the Liverpool front office believed this was the best chance Nabil El Zhar had for first team football this season.
Liverpool's Javier Mascherano has told an official supporters' club website that Nabil El Zhar's loan move to Leicester is exactly what his team-mate needs. The 24 year-old right winger is not part of the first-team plans at Anfield this season and Mascherano firmly believes this loan opportunity with Leicester will do wonders for El Zhar's confidence and fitness.


Albert Riera has returned to full training following his arm injury. The left midfielder had been out for 5 weeks after sustaining the injury. Riera, 28, arrived at Anfield from Espanyol for a fee of £8M in 2008.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 36
Date: Wed 01 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Getting ready for Europe
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Supporter spokesperson Richard Martin feels the fans are pleased with Liverpool's 1 - 0 English Premier Division victory over Wolves. Fernando Torres was particularly impressive and his performance will have delighted the Liverpool fans.
Liverpool have notched up six straight wins and the title contenders occupy 1st place in the English Premier Division.


With eight teams in action and 9 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found at The Circle where a crowd of 25404 witnessed Hull's heavy 0 - 3 defeat against Chelsea. Elsewhere, Nikola Kalinic scored a well timed close range finish during Arsenal's 3 - 2 victory over Blackburn and 45362 watched Liverpool's 1 - 0 victory over Wolves.


Twenty-one of your players have been called up for international duty.

Match Date: September 3rd.
France Under 21s: Chris Mavinga
Greece Under 21s: Dean Bouzanis

Match Dates: September 4th and September 8th.
Italy: Alberto Aquilani
Bulgaria: Nikolay Mihaylov
Hungary: Krisztián Németh
Slovakia: Martin Skrtel
Denmark: Nikola Saric and Nicolaj Køhlert
Spain: Fernando Torres, José Manuel Reina and Albert Riera
Norway: Ruben Yttergård Jenssen
Greece: Sotiris Kyrgiakos
Finland: Lauri Dalla Valle
Morocco: Nabil El Zhar

Match Dates: September 4th and September 8th.
Holland: Dirk Kuyt
England: Steven Gerrard and Glen Johnson
Belgium: Florent Cuvelier
Israel: Yossi Benayoun
Switzerland: Philipp Degen


Assistant manager Pepe Grande has reminded the Liverpool front office of some important dates in the month ahead:
1.9.2010 - End of transfer window
1.9.2010 - European Champions Cup squad registration
4.9.2010 - England v Belgium (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
6.9.2010 - England Under 19s v Wales Under 19s (U19 International)
7.9.2010 - England Under 21s v Albania Under 21s (Euro U21 Ch'ship Quals)
8.9.2010 - Liverpool Reserves v Newcastle Reserves
8.9.2010 - England v Wales (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
11.9.2010 - Stoke v Liverpool (Premier Division)
15.9.2010 - Olympiakos v Liverpool (Champions Cup)
16.9.2010 - Man Utd Reserves v Liverpool Reserves
18.9.2010 - Liverpool v Tottenham (Premier Division)
21.9.2010 - Liverpool v Aston Villa (League Cup)
24.9.2010 - English League Cup Fourth Round Draw
25.9.2010 - Liverpool v Bolton (Premier Division)
27.9.2010 - English FA Cup Third Qualifying Round Draw
28.9.2010 - Liverpool v Benfica (Champions Cup)

Pepe Grande has also decided to give you some feedback on how training has been going over the past month.
The following players have trained well over the past month:
Lauri Dalla Valle (Set Pieces)
Nikola Saric (Set Pieces)
John Flanagan (Set Pieces)


Liverpool have been asked to register a maximum of 25 players to be eligible for the group phase of the European Champions Cup. At least 4 players must have trained at Liverpool, and 8 or more players must have trained at any club in England for at least 3 seasons between the ages of 15 and 21.
The player list Liverpool has submitted looks like this.
Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres, David N'Gog, Daniel Agger, Javier Mascherano, Jamie Carragher, Yossi Benayoun, Mauro Formica, Dirk Kuyt, Glen Johnson, José Manuel Reina, Martin Skrtel, Lucas, Emiliano Insúa, Philipp Degen, Matías Defederico, Kim Källström, Nathan Eccleston, Stephen Darby, Martin Kelly, Sotiris Kyrgiakos, Andriy Voronin, Krisztián Németh, Nikolay Mihaylov and Alberto Aquilani

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 36
Date: Thu 02 / 09 / 2010
Headline: August review
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To summarise, the board are satisfied with Thomas Northwoods management of the team. The capture of Kim Källström, who the fans believe to be an extremely good player, has been particularly pleasing. Despite the positives, the fans are disappointed at Liverpool's 0 - 1 English Community Shield defeat against Man Utd.

The club recorded a loss of £6.19M last month.
Monthly Turnover: £17.36M
Previous Month: £23.99M
Main Income: Season Tickets £4.25M
Monthly Expenditure: £23.56M
Previous Month: £31.97M
Main Expenditure: Player Wages £5.46M


Liverpool's goalkeeper José Manuel Reina has wowed his home fans at Anfield this month with his impressive performances only allowing one goal in four league games and has duly won the English Premier Division Player of the Month. The 28 year old goalkeeper has really shown everyone what a good player he is with his past four appearances.
There was nothing to choose between the top three and the award could easily have gone to either Sheff Utd's Matthew Kilgallon or Jonas Olsson from Stoke, who came second and third respectively.


Wolverhampton Wanderers' towering centre-back Neven Subotic has wowed the fans at Molineux this month with some outstanding performances and has duly won the English Premier Division Young Player of the Month. The 21 year old central defender has really demonstrated to everyone what a capable player he is over the past few weeks.
With not much to choose between the top three, Liverpool's Emiliano Insúa took second place and James Tomkins of West Ham came third.


Liverpool's Thomas Northwood has won the English Premier Division Manager of the Month award. The award panel made their decision after the Reds boss guided his team to victory in all four of their league games this month. It’s the second time in his Liverpool career that Tom Northwood wins this award. Last time was exactly one year ago when he also won the Aug09 award.

(PRM) Liverpool 4 - 2 Everton (14th Aug)
(PRM) Liverpool 2 - 1 Sunderland (17th Aug)
(PRM) Liverpool 2 - 0 West Ham (21st Aug)
(PRM) Liverpool 1 - 0 Wolves (31st Aug)

There was nothing to choose between the top three and the award could easily have gone to either Man Utd's Alex Ferguson or Carlo Ancelotti from Chelsea, who came second and third respectively.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 36
Date: Fri 03 / 09 / 2010
Headline: More loan offers
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The loan move of Liverpool's Vincent Weijl to Lincoln can now be completed. Liverpool have confirmed the deal. Liverpool's Fernando Torres has told an official supporters' club website that Vincent Weijl's loan move to Lincoln is exactly what his team-mate needs.
The 19 year-old left winger is not part of the first-team plans at Anfield this season and Torres firmly believes this loan opportunity with Lincoln will do wonders for Weijl's confidence and fitness.


FC København have made an offer to loan Liverpool's Krisztián Németh until the end of the season. FC København have offered £525K as a payment up front for the loan deal.
FC København feel the player would act as cover for the first-team.
Németh signed for league champions Liverpool in 2007. They have set a deadline of Wednesday 1st September 2010 for Liverpool's decision. Its doubtful is Krisztián Németh will accept a move to Copenhagen.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 36
Date: Sat 04 / 09 / 2010
Headline: International Round-Up
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The qualifying stages for the European Championship and the African Nations Cup kicked off today.
The European Championship is by many considered the toughest international tournament to win with only quality teams qualifying to the tournament. Liverpool assistant manager Pepe Grande has reported back on the Liverpool players involved in today's international fixtures:

Slovakia 2 - 1 Moldova (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-five year-old Slovakia captain Martin Skrtel gave a solid performance for Slovakia in this match.

Russia 2 - 1 Holland (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Thirty-year-old striker Dirk Kuyt came on as a substitute for Holland and was largely disappointing.

Switzerland 4 - 1 Montenegro (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-seven year-old full-back Philipp Degen gave a solid performance for Switzerland in this match.

Kazakhstan 2 - 0 Israel (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Thirty year-old Israel captain Yossi Benayoun gave a solid performance for Israel in this match.

Bulgaria 1 - 2 Czech Republic (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-two year-old goalkeeper Nikolay Mihaylov gave a solid performance for Bulgaria in this match.

England 2 - 0 Belgium (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Thirty-year-old attacking midfielder Steven Gerrard played the whole match for England and showed good composure in front of goal by scoring twice.
Glen Johnson also played in this match.

Norway 2 - 0 San Marino (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-two year-old tireless midfielder Ruben Yttergård Jenssen gave a solid performance for Norway in this match.

Spain 4 - 0 Liechtenstein (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-six-year-old striker Fernando Torres played the whole match for Spain and showed good composure in front of goal by scoring twice.

Albania 0 - 3 Greece (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Thirty-one year-old strong centre-back Sotiris Kyrgiakos gave a solid performance for Greece in this match.

Hungary 0 - 4 France (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-one-year-old striker Krisztián Németh remained on the field for the entire game but he will be disappointed with his level of performance for Hungary.

Finland 4 - 1 Croatia (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Striker Lauri Dalla Valle looked in good shape as he played the whole match for Finland, getting on the scoresheet in the process.

Ethiopia 1 - 3 Morocco (African Nations Quals)
Twenty-four-year-old right winger Nabil El Zhar didn't have the best of games for Morocco and was eventually substituted.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 36
Date: Sun 05 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Liverpool players named in Team of the Week
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José Manuel Reina and Glen Johnson were selected in the English Premier Division Team of the Week first eleven for there performance against Wolverhampton earlier in the week.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 37
Date: Mon 06 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Injury worry
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Dave Galley has reported that there are still a few injury problems persisting within the Liverpool squad.
Daniel Agger (groin strain) is close to a return to full fitness and should soon be available for selection.
Victor Pálsson (damaged cruciate ligaments) and Robert Maloney (slipped disc) are on the long-term injury list and it will still be a while before we can think about setting a realistic return date for them.
Dave Galley has also reported that central defender Martin Kelly has suffered a twisted knee after twisting sharply during the match against Newcastle Reserves. Galley advises you that Kelly will be treated by the club's physios. It is likely that Kelly will be out for between 12 days and 2 weeks whilst he is treated.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 37
Date: Tue 07 / 09 / 2010
Headline: International Round-Up
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Liverpool assistant manager Pepe Grande has reported back on the young Liverpool players involved in today's international fixtures:

Greece Under 21s 0 - 1 Wales Under 21s (Euro U21 Ch'ship Quals)
Nineteen year-old young goalkeeper Dean Bouzanis gave a solid performance for Greece Under 21s in this match.

Hungary Under 21s 0 - 3 France Under 21s (U21 International)
Nineteen-year-old central defender Chris Mavinga didn't have the best of games for France Under 21s and was eventually substituted.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 37
Date: Wed 08 / 09 / 2010
Headline: International Round-Up
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Pepe Grande has reported back on the Liverpool players involved in today's international fixtures in the second round of the Euro Ch'ship Quals:

England 2 - 0 Wales (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Thirty-year-old legendary midfielder Steven Gerrard did well for England, playing the whole match and creating a goal.
Glen Johnson also played in this match.

Republic of Ireland 2 - 0 Israel (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Thirty-year-old right winger Yossi Benayoun will be disappointed with his performance for Israel. Despite playing the entire match, he never really got going.

Sweden 3 - 0 Norway (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-two year-old tireless midfielder Ruben Yttergård Jenssen gave a solid performance for Norway in this match.

Holland 1 - 3 Serbia (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Thirty-year-old striker Dirk Kuyt will be disappointed with his performance for Holland. Despite playing the entire match, he never really got going.

Spain 2 - 1 Greece (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Striker Fernando Torres looked in good shape as he played the whole match for Spain, getting on the scoresheet in the process.
Albert Riera and Sotiris Kyrgiakos also played some part in the fixture.

Andorra 1 - 1 Switzerland (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-seven year-old full-back Philipp Degen gave a solid performance for Switzerland in this match.

Cyprus 0 - 3 Slovakia (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-five year-old Slovakia captain Martin Skrtel gave a solid performance for Slovakia in this match.

Moldova 1 - 3 Bulgaria (Euro Ch'ship Quals)
Twenty-two year-old goalkeeper Nikolay Mihaylov gave a solid performance for Bulgaria in this match.


Holland suddenly looks in serious trouble. They are off to a horrible start to the Euro Ch'ship Quals and have lost there two first games and finds themselves last in the group with 0 points. There is still a lot of football to be played but this is not the start the Orange was looking for.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 37
Date: Thu 09 / 09 / 2010
Headline: European Champions Cup title odds from Sky Bet
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Barcelona have been made 6-1 favourites to win the European Champions Cup title this season. The rest of the main contenders are priced at: 7-1 - R. Madrid, 15-2 - Liverpool, 8-1 - Man Utd, 10-1 - Inter and 11-1 - Chelsea.
By rating Liverpool chances at 15-2, it appears that the bookmakers really believe them to be amongst the forerunners in this competition. Such good odds clearly point to the fact that Liverpool will be a force to be reckoned with in the latter stages.


Even though it's still early in the season, Stoke City boss Tony Pulis has voiced his doubts over Liverpool's chances of putting together a strong challenge for the Premier Division title this season. Pulis claimed that Liverpool weren't unbeatable and he gave his Stoke side every chance of being able to pull off a win at Britannia Stadium on Saturday.
Stoke are currently lying in 17th place in the English Premier Division.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 37
Date: Fri 10 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Stoke face difficult Liverpool challenge
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Stoke: 7-2 Draw: 9-4 Liverpool: 4-6 (English Premier League)
The odds are firmly stacked against Stoke in what should prove a difficult home encounter against league champions Liverpool, according to Sky Bet.
Liverpool have notched up six straight wins and the title contenders occupy 1st place in the English Premier Division while Stoke are currently lying in 17th place in the English Premier League.
David Moss believes Stoke are likely to field a 4-4-2 formation. The pitch at Britannia Stadium is narrow, which will suit teams who play predominantly through the middle. Wide players will struggle to make an impact. Moss believes that right winger Liam Lawrence will need to be watched carefully as he has the ability to be a match winner.
Injured Players: Dave Kitson and Danny Higginbotham
Unavailable Players: None

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 37
Date: Sat 11 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Liverpool edges past Stoke
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vs.

MATCH REPORT:
Stoke City 0 - 1 Liverpool (Premier League)
Liverpool produced a good display this afternoon to see off the challenge of Stoke City at Britannia Stadium. The match began in controversial circumstances as Stoke were denied claims by Ricardo Fuller for a penalty. Liverpool finally took the lead when striker Fernando Torres scored a close range effort on 41 minutes.
Liverpool had a number of attempts at goal but their profligacy meant they didn't score as many as they maybe would have liked. That was mainly because of Stokes Danish goalkeeper Thomas Sørensen who won man-of the match after several key safes.

Attendance: 27500

Liverpool Starting 11:

José Manuel Reina
Glen Johnson
Emiliano Insúa
Martin Skrtel
Michael Dingsdag
Dirk Kuyt (sub 89)
Kim Källström
Javier Mascherano
Steven Gerrard (c) (sub 65)
Fernando Torres (G: 41)
Matías Defederico (sub 56)
---------------------------------
Nikolay Mihaylov
Jamie Carragher
David N'Gog
Lucas (on 56)
Yossi Benayoun
Florent Cuvelier (on 89)
Alberto Aquilani (on 65)



Pepe Grande was not giving much away as he met journalists in the wake of Liverpool's 1 - 0 English Premier Division victory over Stoke. A journalist from BBC Radio 5 live chose the main focus point for the conference, asking, "Stoke were angered today when the referee decided not to award what some people would have seen as a controversial penalty. Do you agree with the decision?"
Pepe Grande's response was, "My first instinct was that it should have been given."
Pepe Grande also declined to comment on the injury that sent Steven Gerrard to the sideline after 65 minutes of play.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 37
Date: Sun 12 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Stoke denied penalty
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Stoke had a controversial penalty appeal turned down in the 1st minute during Stoke's 0 - 1 English Premier Division defeat against Liverpool. Ricardo Fuller believed that the referee had missed a blatant foul by Glen Johnson in the box and that Stoke should have been awarded a penalty. Stoke boss Tony Pulis refused to openly criticise the referee after the match, claiming that he was not prepared to risk being reprimanded by the FA.


Supporter spokesperson Richard Martin feels the fans are pleased with Liverpool's 1 - 0 English Premier Division victory over Stoke. Fernando Torres was particularly impressive and his performance will have delighted the Liverpool fans.
Liverpool have notched up seven straight wins and the title contenders occupy 1st place in the English Premier Division.


It has been another great day of action in the English Premier Division. With fourteen teams in action and 25 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found at The Hawthorns where a crowd of 26200 witnessed a shock result during West Brom's 3 - 2 victory over Man City. The win was even more surprising considering that West Brom has a man sent off with a red card after only 22 minutes. The highlight being a landmark goal for Man City's Marek Hamsik.
The positive surprise in this year Premier League has to be West Bromwich Albion. The team that finished 4th in the Coca Cola division last season but still managed to win promotion to the best league find themselves in 5th place with one game less played the rest of the teams around them.
Elsewhere, a brace from Didier Drogba inspired a win for the home side during Chelsea's 4 - 2 victory over Aston Villa and Rob Rijsbergen scored the pick of the goals in Man Utd's 2 - 0 victory over Blackburn with a close range header.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 38
Date: Mon 13 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Agger resumes full training
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Daniel Agger has returned to full training following his groin injury. The central defender had been out for 2 weeks after sustaining the injury. With his return he will now be available to play in the Champions League opener this Wednesday against Olympiakos in Greece. Agger, 25, arrived at Anfield from Brøndby for a fee of £5.75M in 2005.


Dave Galley has reported that central defender Chris Mavinga has sustained a fractured jaw following a robust challenge during a training session. Galley advises you that unfortunately the only course of action for a fractured jaw is for the player to see a specialist. It is likely that Mavinga will be out for between 3 weeks and 4 weeks whilst he is treated.


A comfortable win for Tottenham Hotspur saw Jermain Defoe named man of the match after Tottenham's convincing 5 - 0 English Premier Division victory over Fulham this evening. Defoe had the quality to put the Fulham defence to the sword and finished the match with two goals. Defoe, 27, arrived at White Hart Lane from Portsmouth for a fee of £15.75M in 2008.


Olympiakos fans are all set to welcome Liverpool fans to Piraeus for their European Champions Cup Group H match. The hosts are considered slight underdogs for the match but with some luck their fans hope to be celebrating come the final whistle.
Both clubs will be doing everything they can to ensure victory.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 38
Date: Tue 14 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Liverpool take on Olympiakos in European meeting
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Olympiakos: 7-4 Draw: 11-5 Liverpool: 5-4(Fav) (European Champions League Group H)
Greek Superleague side Olympiakos SF Piraeus are slight underdogs in what should prove a tightly contested affair against English champions Liverpool, according to Sky Bet.
David Moss believes Olympiakos are likely to field a 4-4-2 formation. The pitch at Georgios Karaiskakis is on the short side which will cause a lot of congestion, particularly in the middle of the pitch. Players will have to work hard in order to find space. Moss believes that a potential threat to our defence will be the pace of striker Matt Derbyshire.
Injured Players: Celso Borges, Enzo Maresca, Tom De Mul and Alejandro Dominguez
Unavailable Players: None


With sixteen teams in action and 20 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found at The City Of Manchester Stadium where a crowd of 46220 witnessed Man City's 1 - 0 victory over one of last years finalists Juventus. The highlight being a landmark goal for Man City's Stephen Ireland.
Elsewhere, Angel Di María scored a curling shot from the edge of the area during Valencia's 0 - 1 defeat against Olympique Lyonnais and 54809 watched FC Bayern's 2 - 0 victory over Spartak Moscow where Miroslav Klose scored the pick of the goals with a placed shot.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 38
Date: Wed 15 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Thrylos battle for victory
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vs.

MATCH REPORT:
Olympiakos SF Piraeus 3 - 2 Liverpool (Champions League Grp H)
A gritty performance by Olympiakos SF Piraeus saw them come away from Georgios Karaiskakis with a 3 - 2 win. Striker Fernando Torres gave Liverpool the lead with a freak goal in the 30th minute. Torres doubled Liverpool's lead with a powerful effort just 3 minutes later.
Morocco captain Adil Ramzi pulled one back for Olympiakos after 36 minutes with a curling shot from the edge of the area. Striker Matt Derbyshire then equalised for Olympiakos in the 48th minute with a well executed finish.
Striker Javier Chevantón scored what proved to be the winner for the home side on 65 minutes with a powerful effort. It’s the second time in just a few weeks that Liverpool gives up a 2-0. Last time it happened was in the Euro. Super Cup loss to Atlético Madrid. This was not the start Liverpool hoped for in there defends of the Champions League trophy.

Attendance: 32340

Liverpool Starting 11:

José Manuel Reina
Glen Johnson
Emiliano Insúa
Jamie Carragher
Daniel Agger (sub 69)
Javier Mascherano (sub 89)
Alberto Aquilani
Dirk Kuyt (sub 59)
Kim Källström
Steven Gerrard (c)
Fernando Torres (G: 30, 33) (MOM: 8.4)
-----------------------------------------
Nikolay Mihaylov
Martin Skrtel
David N'Gog (on 69)
Lucas (on 89)
Yossi Benayoun (on 59)
Florent Cuvelier
Matías Defederico



A man of the match performance from Fernando Torres was not enough to secure a win during Liverpool's 2 - 3 European Champions Cup Group H defeat against Olympiakos this evening, according to Football365.com.
Torres had the quality to put the Olympiakos SF Piraeus defence to the sword and finished the match with two goals. The Spanish international has been in lethal form for Liverpool this season, leading the club's scoring charts with seven goals in eight appearances.


Sweden boss Lars Lagerbäck was seen at Georgios Karaiskakis during Olympiakos' 3 - 2 European Champions Cup Group H victory over Liverpool. It is believed Lagerbäck was casting an eye over the progress of Olof Mellberg and Kim Källström for his next Sweden squad.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 38
Date: Thu 16 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Wednesday's Champions League Round-Up
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It has been another great day of action in the European Champions League. With sixteen teams in action and 25 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found at Georgios Karaiskakis where a crowd of 32340 witnessed a shock result during Olympiakos' 3 - 2 victory over Liverpool. The highlight being a landmark goal for Olympiakos' Javier Chevantón. Elsewhere, Andrés Iniesta scored a long range curling shot during Barcelona's convincing 4 - 1 victory over Shakhtar and 40689 watched Chelsea's 2 - 0 victory over Inter where John Terry scored the pick of the goals with a fine header from point-blank range.


Thomas Northwood was unsurprisingly not giving much away as he met journalists in the wake of Liverpool's 2 - 3 European Champions Cup Group H defeat against Olympiakos.
A journalist from NovaSPOR FM94,6 chose the main focus point for the conference, asking, "Javier Chevantón's winner today consigned you to defeat. Losing like that could have a negative effect on the team's morale. How do you think it will affect them?"
Northwood's response was, "Thinking positively, I would hope the players react with improved performances."


Supporter spokesperson Richard Martin believes the fans are disappointed with Liverpool's 2 - 3 European Champions league Group H defeat against Olympiakos.
Emiliano Insúa, Daniel Agger and Dirk Kuyt were the main targets for the fans' criticism and there were some who stated that players such as Martin Skrtel and Matías Defederico should have been preferred in the starting line-up.
The result leaves the team clinging to their aim of reaching at least the Semi Final of the Champions League.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 38
Date: Fri 17 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Trap game for Liverpool?
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Liverpool: 1-4(Fav) Draw: 4-1 Tottenham: 9-1 (English Premier League)
League champions Liverpool should record an easy home win against Tottenham, according to Sky Bet. Manager Northwood doubt that it will be easy but still hopes for a positive result. Liverpool have notched up seven straight wins and the title contenders occupy 1st place in the English Premier Division.
Tottenham are currently lying in 7th place in the English Premier Division.
David Moss watched Tottenham's convincing 5 - 0 English Premier Division victory over Fulham last Monday and noted that Tottenham play a defensive 4-4-2 formation and often look to draw the opposition onto them before attempting a counter-attack.
Redknapp likes his teams to play possession football and Tottenham will look to get the ball down and play it. Their midfield are good on the ball and can create chances. Lastly, we will need to make plans for their forwards as they are strong and quick.
Moss believes that the sheer athleticism of attacking midfielder Luka Modric will be an imposing threat.
Injured Players: Dean Parrett and Alan Hutton
Unavailable Players: None


When asked about unbeaten Liverpool's chances of winning this season's English Premier Division title, Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp pointed out that there was still a long way to go this season and anything could still happen.
Redknapp also said that as far as Liverpool's unbeaten record goes, he plans for Tottenham Hotspur to be the team to end it.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 38
Date: Sat 18 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Liverpool held scoreless
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vs.

MATCH REPORT:
Liverpool 0 - 0 Tottenham Hotspur (Premier League)
Liverpool could count themselves highly unlucky to only draw in their English Premier League match at Anfield. Liverpool had a number of attempts at goal but their profligacy meant they didn't score as many as they maybe would have liked. The team took a total of 22 shots compared to Tottenham’s just 10 but the Spurs still more shots on goal (4 compared to 5). It didn’t help either that Tottenham Hotspurs Brazilian keeper Gomez had a great day and won “Man-of-the-Match” with a 7.4 rating. It’s the first time since 12/04/2010 that Liverpool has failed to score at home.

Attendance: 42463

Liverpool Starting 11:

José Manuel Reina
Glen Johnson
Emiliano Insúa
Michael Dingsdag
Martin Skrtel
Lucas
Javier Mascherano (sub 81)
Dirk Kuyt
Kim Källström (sub 36)
Steven Gerrard (c) (sub 64)
Fernando Torres
-----------------------------
Nikolay Mihaylov
Daniel Agger
David N'Gog (on 81)
Alberto Aquilani (on 64)
Yossi Benayoun (on 36)
Florent Cuvelier
Matías Defederico


Tottenham have paid Liverpool £1,000,000 as part of the Robbie Keane transfer deal. The player has played in 50 league games for Tottenham.


Liverpool have extended their unbeaten record in the Premier Division to nine games following their 0 - 0 result against Tottenham Hotspur. The season ahead looks promising for The Reds after this latest result. They have made an impressive start and on current form may find themselves top of the pile for a longer period.


Kim Källström was replaced after 36 minutes with a minor injury. He is expected to be ready for the Aston Villa game in four days if necessary.

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 38
Date: Sun 19 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Week 6 recap
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With seven matches played and 18 goals scored, the best viewing was to be found at The Riverside Stadium where a crowd of 33193 witnessed a shock result during Middlesbrough's 4 - 2 victory over Man Utd. The highlight being a landmark goal for Man Utd's Giuseppe Rossi. Elsewhere, Steven Reid scored a fine header from point-blank range during Blackburn's 1 - 2 defeat against Chelsea and 24677 watched Wigan's 2 - 0 victory over West Ham where Hugo Rodallega scored the pick of the goals with a freak goal.


Supporter spokesperson Richard Martin believes the fans are disappointed with Liverpool's English Premier Division 0 - 0 draw with Tottenham. Richard believes the fans were disappointed with the team's inability to convert chances into goals.
Kim Källström and David N'Gog were the main targets for the fans' criticism and Matías Defederico was one of the players mentioned who they would have preferred to see in the starting line-up.
Liverpool have not conceded in four matches and the title contenders lie in 1st place in the English Premier Division.


Season Update Week 6

Premier League standing after Week 6

1. Liverpool – 6 games, 16 points
2. Chelsea – 5 games, 15 points
3. Manchester Utd, 6 games 13 points


Liverpool Average EPL season Rating after Week 6

1. Fernando Torres - 7.37
2. Glen Johnson – 7.22
3. José Manuel Reina – 7.20


Liverpool EPL Goals scored Week 6

1. Fernando Torres - 5
2. Dirk Kuyt - 2
3. 3 players tied with 1


Liverpool last 5 games rating

1. David N'Gog 7.46
2. Fernando Torres - 7.30
3. Glen Johnson – 7.22

[Northwood_DK]

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Week: 39
Date: Mon 20 / 09 / 2010
Headline: Galley files Liverpool injury update
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Dave Galley has reported that there are still a few injury problems persisting within the Liverpool squad.
Martin Kelly (twisted knee) is close to a return to full fitness and should soon be available for selection.
Chris Mavinga (fractured jaw) and Robert Maloney (slipped disc) are still a couple of weeks away from returning to full training. The English Premier Division match against Man City on Saturday 2nd October and the English Reserves Group 2 match against Everton Reserves on Wednesday 6th October could be considered realistic targets for a possible return.
Victor Pálsson (damaged cruciate ligaments) is our only long-term injury and it will still be a while before we can think about setting a realistic return date for him.