BARCLAYS PREMIERSHIP 2006-2007 Finish

19 Aug 06_____A__1-1__Sheffield United_____Fowler(70)
26 Aug 06_____H__2-1__West Ham United______Agger(42),Crouch(45)
09 Sep 06_____A__0-3__Everton
17 Sep 06_____A__0-1__Chelsea
20 Sep 06_____H__2-0__Newcastle United_____Kuyt(29),Alonso(79)
23 Sep 06_____H__3-0__Tottenham Hotspur____Gonzalez(63),Kuyt(73),Riise(89)
30 Sep 06_____A__0-2__Bolton Wanderers
14 Oct 06_____H__1-1__Blackburn Rovers_____Bellamy(64)
22 Oct 06_____A__0-2__Manchester United
28 Oct 06_____H__3-1__Aston Villa__________Kuyt(32),Crouch(38),Garcia(44)
04 Nov 06_____H__2-0__Reading______________Kuyt(14,73)
12 Nov 06_____A__0-3__Arsenal
18 Nov 06_____A__0-0__Middlesbrough
25 Nov 06_____H__1-0__Manchester City______Gerrard(67)
29 Nov 06_____H__0-0__Portsmouth
02 Dec 06_____A__4-0__Wigan Athletic_______Bellamy(9,25),Kuyt(40),(Own Goal)McCulloch(45)
09 Dec 06_____H__4-0__Fulham_______________Gerrard(54),Carragher(60),Garcia(66),Gonzalez(90)
16 Dec 06_____A__3-0__Charlton_____________Alonso(3),Bellamy(82),Gerrard(88)
23 Dec 06_____H__2-0__Watford______________Bellamy(47),Alonso(88)
26 Dec 06_____A__0-1__Blackburn Rovers
30 Dec 06_____A__1-0__Tottenham Hotspur____Garcia(45)
01 Jan 07_____H__3-0__Bolton Wanderers_____Crouch(61),Gerrard(63),Kuyt(83)
13 Jan 07_____A__3-0__Watford______________Bellamy(34),Crouch(40),(48)
20 Jan 07_____H__2-0__Chelsea______________Kuyt(4),Pennant(18)
30 Jan 07_____A__2-1__West Ham United______Kuyt(46),Crouch(53)
03 Feb 07_____H__0-0__Everton
10 Feb 07_____A__1-2__Newcastle United_____Bellamy(6)
24 Feb 07_____H__4-0__Sheffield United_____Fowler(20,25),Hyypia(70),Gerrard(73)
03 Mar 07_____H__0-1__Manchester United
18 Mar 07_____A__0-0__Aston Villa
31 Mar 07_____H__4-1__Arsenal______________Crouch(4,35,82),Agger(60)
07 Apr 07_____A__2-1__Reading______________Arbeloa(15),Kuyt(85)
14 Apr 07_____A__0-0__Manchester City
18 Apr 07_____H__2-0__Middlesbrough________Gerrard(58,65)
21 Apr 07_____H__2-0__Wigan Athletic_______Kuyt(30,68)
28 Apr 07_____A__1-2__Portsmouth___________Hyypia(58)
05 May 07_____A__0-1__Fulham
13 May 07_____H__2-2__Charlton Athletic____Alonso(62),Kewell(90)

Pards: Please play fair Liverpool

ALAN PARDEW has begged Liverpool not to go easy on relegation rivals Fulham today.
The Charlton boss fears Rafa Benitez could rest his big guns in London ahead of their Euro final with AC Milan, giving the Cottagers a chance to pull clear of the drop zone.
Pards, whose Addicks face the Reds next week, said: “All teams have a responsibility to make sure it’s a fair, even situation.
“I’m sure the Liverpool teamsheet won’t be too different this weekend to what it will be next weekend.
“The one thing you can be sure of is they will have to freshen things up but they will also bring world-class players into their team.”
Charlton are three points off safety but Pardew reckons two wins from the final two games will ensure survival — starting with Tottenham at The Valley on Monday.
He added: “All the teams down there — Fulham, Wigan, West Ham and ourselves — have tough last games, which you wouldn’t want in any situation.
“That’s why this weekend is so important for all four teams.”

By:GARY PAYNE
Date:05 May 2007
Credit:www.thesun.co.uk

Gerrard: I'm Red for good

STEVEN GERRARD has confirmed he is holding talks to keep him at Anfield for years.
SunSport revealed yesterday how Liverpool planned to announce details of an extended £120,000-a-week deal on the eve of their Champions League final clash with Milan.
That would mean the Reds skipper would become the highest paid English player in the Premiership — raking in £6million a year.
And last night Gerrard, 26, confirmed he wants a long-term stay at Anfield.
He said: “I’m in talks to extend my contract.
“I’ve never been happier with my football. I’d love nothing better than to get it sorted and sign.
“We need to keep all our big players here so it’s very important we get the contracts sorted out so they can be here for a long time.”
Boss Rafa Benitez has opened talks with several other stars.
Jamie Carragher, Xabi Alonso, Pepe Reina and Steve Finnan are all set for new deals.
Benitez said: “If we can do things before the final it would be perfect. If not then it’s no problem.
“We’ve already had talks but couldn’t finish them before the Chelsea game, so decided to wait.
“Right now we must focus on the final but if it’s possible to do things earlier, then we will.”

By:PHIL THOMAS
Date:05 May 2007
Credit:www.thesun.co.uk

Carson: I'll keep Charlton up

SCOTT CARSON plans to give Charlton the perfect leaving present — by keeping them in the Premiership.
The on-loan No 1 plays his last game for the Addicks on Monday before being recalled by Liverpool to battle Pepe Reina for the keeper’s jersey.
But the England Under-21 star wants to go out on a high by helping his side win three crucial survival points over Tottenham.
Carson, 21, said: “I’ve had a great time here and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.
“I won’t say it’s going to be my last game but it is my last game this season and hopefully I can go out with a bang.
“It is a must-win game. Anything less puts us in real trouble because it means going to Anfield looking for three points.
“Obviously it’s going to be difficult but until we are actually relegated there’s still a chance.”
Without Carson’s heroics, Charlton would have been down weeks ago and his displays have alerted the likes of Arsenal over a potential summer swoop.
But Jerzy Dudek’s exit from Anfield could give Carson a chance to compete for a starting place with Champions League ace Reina.
He added: “Obviously my time would have been better had we been 10th in the league and closer to the European places.
“But the main thing was to get regular football. Before I came here I had less than 20 first-team games under my belt.
“I haven’t spoken to Alan Pardew or Rafa Benitez about the future. We’re just trying to get this season finished and then we’ll see what happens. But I definitely want to be a No 1.”
Carson says penalty expert Reina can help get the best out of him next season.
He said: “Fair play to Pepe, he had a lot of stick at the beginning of the season but he’s bounced back and is the hero now.
“He’s played in big games in Europe and is a top keeper. I’ve tried to pick things up from him and hopefully he’ll help me become a better keeper.”
Boss Pardew has begged Liverpool to play their best line-up against relegation rivals Fulham today.
He said: “All teams have a responsibility to make sure it’s a fair situation. That goes for Manchester United as well.”

By:GARY PAYNE
Date:05 May 2007
Credit:www.thesun.co.uk

PARRY SOUNDS NOTE OF CAUTION

Liverpool Chief Executive Rick Parry today sounded a note of caution for fans hoping to travel to Athens.
He said: "Unfortunately, our ticket allocation for the game is not going to come close to satisfying the demand from our supporters. "The bottom line is that we have been given only 17,000 tickets for a stadium with a capacity of 63,000 for the Final. We've expressed our disappointment at the figures, but have been told by UEFA that no more are available." He continued: "We're conscious people want to make arrangements and what we can say at the moment, having analysed all the figures, is that supporters who purchased tickets for seven Champions League games (not including qualifiers against Maccabi Haifa) and had their purchases recorded on their fan cards, are guaranteed to get a ticket for the Final. "However, due to the numbers involved, fans who purchased tickets for six Champions League matches home or away (not including qualifiers against Maccabi Haifa) or a combination of both and had their purchases recorded on their fan cards will have to be entered into a ballot for Final tickets. Season Ticket holders, members of the Auto Cup Scheme and fan-card holders will all have the same chance. None of these groups are being given priority. "Those supporters who are successful in the ballot will be notified in writing by the Ticket Office. "We have tried to be as fair as possible and work with the number of tickets allocated to us by UEFA, but inevitably there are going to be a lot of disappointed supporters and we can only apologise in advance for that." Liverpool Football Club will announce full selling details for the Champions League Final on Tuesday 8th May 2007.

By:Paul Eaton
Date:04 May 2007
Credit:www.liverpoolfc.tv

BENITEZ WEIGHING UP KEWELL RETURN

Rafa Benitez is not ruling out a Harry Kewell return against Fulham this weekend – but feels it may be just too soon for the Aussie winger.
Kewell had not kicked a competitive ball this season until a substitute appearance in Monday night's reserve fixture against Everton. On whether he could return to Premiership action on Saturday, Benitez said: "I need to talk to the doctor and Pako. He was playing yesterday and was okay, and he played the other day with the reserve team. We will see what the situation is. "I am not sure, I think it could be too soon. It's maybe a risk, but okay, it could be a possibility." Jerzy Dudek will again miss out through injury, while Benitez also confirmed Steven Gerrard may not travel this weekend. The Liverpool boss added: "Some of them were really tired after the game on Tuesday, so some of them will stay here. Insua maybe could be involved, maybe Nabil. I need to decide about the other youngsters when I know how the senior players are."

By:Jimmy Rice

Date:04 May 2007

Credit:www.liverpoolfc.tv

AGGER: THANK-YOU JAMIE

Daniel Agger has thanked Jamie Carragher for guiding him through his first full season on Merseyside – and labelled his fellow centre back "the best teacher any young player can have."
A series of rock solid displays saw the Dane become a firm Kop favourite even before his unforgettable goal in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Chelsea. Yet Agger insists such a smooth transition into the first team would not have been possible without the help of Liverpool's number 23. "Jamie Carragher is the best defender in the world, and not only this, he is the best teacher any young player can have," said the 22-year-old. "It's impossible for me to describe the level of respect I have for him and the way he's helped me in every game." Agger was also touched by the quotes attributed to his counterpart following the first leg against Jose Mourinho's men. The youngster was criticised in some quarters following an expert performance from Didier Drogba – but Carra was having none of it. "You don't need to worry about Daniel Agger. He's going to be a top player for years to come," said the club's vice-captain. Agger added: "When I think back to what happened in the first leg, I really don't know what to feel about it. I really didn't feel I played that badly. For some reason, some people decided to say I had a bad game. "Didier Drogba is one of the best strikers in the world and one of the best I've ever played against. He's one of many strong strikers in the Premiership which makes it such a tough league. "I thought Drogba was outstanding in both games, but it's just that everything in football is decided by the result and people never look at what really happened in the game afterwards. "There are some journalists in Denmark who like to get together and write the same things, so if one person says something they all agree. "It's just a big media circus sometimes although, in a strange way, the Danish media going against me this time made me more motivated because I'm the kind of person who can show it doesn't matter what's written. "I'll never be affected by that. "It's strange for me because the reaction in Liverpool has been so different and positive. A lot of our players have had a fantastic season and our fans are so fair and want to be supportive." Meanwhile, Agger has spoken of his pride at the team performance on Tuesday night. "I'm proud of how all the players performed. All of us worked very hard, and best of all we kept our concentration for 120 minutes and made no mistakes, which is very tough at this level against great players. "It was a great feeling when I scored. I felt amazing. I've never even been to a Champions League final as a spectator, but I know it's a massive game and one I'm really looking forward to."

By:Jimmy Rice
Date:04 May 2007
Credit:www.liverpoolfc.tv

RAFA: WHY I SAT DURING PENALTIES

Rafa Benitez has explained his reasons for sitting cross-legged during Tuesday's penalty shoot-out.
The Spaniard's unusual pose caused quite a stir after the semi-final victory against Chelsea. However, the Reds boss today told liverpoolfc.tv that he decided to sit simply so the supporters could see. "The Chelsea players were standing up in front of the bench, but the supporters were then asking them to sit," said Benitez. "We went to one side, but again the supporters couldn't see, so we sat down and watched. We were thinking about our people. "It's true I was really calm because I had a lot of confidence in Pepe. He is very good at penalties. Also, the players I selected had been practising. They'd played against Pepe and Jerzy in almost every training session. I had a lot of confidence." Meanwhile, Benitez has revealed he didn't celebrate with the players after reaching his second Champions League final in three seasons – because he feared a soaking! "I was talking with the press. I had about 15 TV interviews and the press conference. After I'd finished they had started celebrating, and I've read some things about the owners going in. But I know from experience that it's better to stay far from the players! "Then I went with the new owners and some staff to relax – not with the players because that's always a risk! "You are with your family and your people. We went to a hotel for a drink, but talking about football. I had a little bit of water and a little champagne. "We were really happy but now we must finish the job."

By:Jimmy Rice
Date:04 May 2007
Credit:www.liverpoolfc.tv

CROUCH: WE'RE PLAYING FOR FINAL PLACES

Peter Crouch has rejected claims the Reds have little to play for over the remaining two games of their league season by insisting: "European Cup final places are up for grabs."
Liverpool face Fulham at Craven Cottage tomorrow and then complete their Premiership campaign against Charlton next weekend before all thoughts can be focused firmly on the clash with AC Milan in Greece. There may be little riding on the next two games as far as league points are concerned with a top four finish already guaranteed, but Crouch believes the chance to stake a claim for a place in Athens is all the motivation the Reds will need to end the season on a high. "It's going to be a hell of a battle for starting places now," admitted Crouch. "We've got a big squad and in the games prior to the final all the lads are going to be working really hard to win a place. "I've never been to Athens, but I'd be just as happy if the final was being played on Stanley Park. It's just a great achievement for us to be there again, and now we have to see it out. "We're all buzzing. It's a fantastic end to a long hard season and I was lost for words at the end on Tuesday night. "The competition just seems to suit us. I don’t know if it's our style of play or tactics, but we're able to get results. But now we've got to win. The celebrations were great, but we know it's not finished. "We're pleased to be there but we know the manager wants us focused on completing the job. "I can't speak highly enough about our manager. To get to the Champions League final in his first year, the FA Cup last season and now another Champions League final is fantastic. If we could win again it would be a perfect hat-trick for him."

By:Paul Eaton
Date:04 May 2007
Credit:www.liverpoolfc.tv

AGGER DREAMING OF ATHENS GLORY

Daniel Agger is confident Liverpool will be celebrating European Cup glory for the sixth time in their history in Athens later this month.
The usually unflappable Danish defender admits that even he is getting carried away with the excitement of reaching the final and now can't wait to take part in the biggest game of his life. "This is by far the biggest thing I've ever been involved in in my career," he said. "I won't know how big it is until I run out on to the pitch in Athens for the first time. I'm really excited by this game and normally I am very calm and collected. "Of course we can win the Champions League again. We have to believe that we can do it and if we didn't believe it, we would not have got past Barcelona and Chelsea and to the Final. "It has just been such a great couple of days. After the game we went into town and got back rather late. We painted the town red and I just hope we are celebrating again in Athens."

By:Paul Eaton
Date:04 May 2007
Credit:www.liverpoolfc.tv

REDS IN RED FOR FINAL DATE

Liverpool will wear their red home kit for the Champions League final against AC Milan on May 23.
Rafael Benitez's side had been named as the away team for the match in Athens but Milan have chosen to wear their all white strip.
That means the teams will be wearing the same colours as when they met in the 2005 final in Istanbul, when Liverpool came back from 3-0 down at half-time to win on penalties.

Date:4 May 2007

Credit:www.sportinglife.com

BREAD AND BUTTER FOR BENITEZ

Rafael Benitez will have to force his mind away from AC Milan and Athens on Saturday and back to completing Liverpool's league programme.
Once again he will find himself in a position to inadvertently influence the futures of other clubs with his team selections.
Liverpool, fresh from the momentous Champions League triumph over Chelsea, are back in west London to face relegation-haunted Fulham.
Craven Cottage is not one of Benitez's favourite grounds, and he will face a Fulham side under new coach Lawrie Sanchez desperate for a win.
That will make this a fierce, confrontational game, and one that Benitez will not want to risk too many of his potential first-choice side for the Champions League final on May 23 in Athens.
He is certain to field a weakened, almost second-string side and that will undoubtedly upset the other teams down in the relegation zone.
He has ignored such considerations twice already recently. Against Wigan at Anfield he rested Steven Gerrard and half-a dozen other front line men. If Wigan had not lost that game, there would have been severe criticism from elsewhere.
Then at Portsmouth last weekend, a team fighting for a UEFA Cup spot with Everton among others, Benitez left Gerrard and co back in Liverpool watching television.
Pompey were all but gifted three points. Mutterings from Goodison Park were clearly audible after that.
But on Saturday Benitez could rest even more. Teenage defender Jack Hobbs was on the bench at Fratton Park and could well get his debut this time, while young Italian goalkeeper Daniele Padelli - among the substitutes against Chelsea in midweek - may also get a first run-out.
Argentinian youngster Emiliano Insua also made his debut against Pompey at left-back, and could figure again.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Craig Bellamy, Mark Gonzalez, Sami Hyypia, Gabriel Paletta and reserve youngsters Paul Anderson and Craig Lindfield could also figure. Benitez may even take some of his FA Youth Cup-winning side with him to London.
He has shown a lack of concern about the problems of others, already saying: "My club is my priority, and I do not believe that a season rests on one or two games."
By that he means that clubs in a mess at the bottom are there because of season-long failings which are not his responsibility now.
Asked last week whether he would give games to Youth Cup final winners against Portsmouth, he did not dismiss the idea out of hand because of a lack of experience, saying only: "Those lads will not play at Portsmouth because they were involved in their own final two days beforehand, they are tired."
Most of them played in a reserve victory over Everton earlier this week, and one or two could find themselves on the bench at Craven Cottage.

By:Paul Walker, PA Sport
Date:4 May 2007
Credit:www.sportinglife.com

Crewe in talks to sign O'Donnell

Crewe have opened talks with Liverpool about the possibility of signing Daniel O'Donnell on a permanent deal.
The 21-year-old Reds defender has been on loan with Crewe since the start of the season and has provided cover for Julien Baudet and Billy Jones.
Boss Dario Gradi told the club website: "I have spoken Liverpool about signing Danny on a permanent contract.
"There would be compensation involved but I don't see that as being a stumbling block."

Date:4 May 2007
Credit:www.bbc.co.uk

Recre go with the Flo

Recreativo de Huelva have confirmed the signing of Liverpool striker Florent Sinama-Pongolle.
The Frenchman has been on loan at Recre this term and his 11-goal haul has impressed the club's board.
The club secured an option to sign Sinama-Pongolle permanently when bringing him to Spain last summer and they have confirmed a deal has been pushed through for €4million (£2.7m).
Sinama-Pongolle is now under contract to Recre until the summer of 2011 and the deal has been welcomed by the Spanish club's president Francisco Mendoza.
"Today is a very happy day for all those connected with Recreativo, as we have all waited for the moment of seeing Sinama as a member of the club," he told the club's official website.
"We have obtained him by putting in the most important financial push of this organisation in its 118-year history."
Sinama-Pongolle added: "I would like to thank the club and the fans for the affection they have shown me since I arrived at Huelva."

By:Alex Livie
Date:4 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Reds in contract talks with five

Liverpool have opened contract negotiations with five key players, manager Rafa Benitez has confirmed.
Reds captain Steven Gerrard revealed earlier on Friday that he was in talks about committing his long-term future to the club.
He is joined by defenders Jamie Carragher and Steve Finnan, midfielder Xabi Alonso and goalkeeper Jose Reina in being offered new deals at Anfield.
Benitez called a halt to discussions to allow his players to focus on the UEFA Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.
Talks resumed after winning a place in the Athens final, and Benitez hopes the five key squad members will sign extensions in the near future.
"We have had some conversations with four or five players," the Spaniard told reporters ahead of Liverpool's game against Fulham on Saturday.
"We decided to stop talks briefly because we were playing in the semi-final of the Champions League.
"But we are talking again and hopefully can agree something before the final happens.
"The players already have contracts but we told them we want to do the deal and we are really close (to agreeing terms)."
Meanwhile, Benitez has rejected criticism from outgoing academy coach Steve Heighway.
Heighway claimed Benitez was having a detrimental impact on the club's youngsters by taking too much involvement.
"I was working for 10 years with Real Madrid and we had 40 players go on to play Premier League football in Spain, so I have some experience," Benitez responded.

By:Andrew Scurr
Date:4 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Gerrard reveals Reds talks

Steven Gerrard admits he has 'never been happier' after starting talks over a new contract at Liverpool.
The Reds captain, who came close to leaving Anfield two years ago, is set to commit his long-term future to the UEFA Champions League finalists.
New owner Tom Hicks has expressed his desire to see the talismanic midfielder sign an extended contract on Merseyside.
And his wish is likely to come true after Gerrard confirmed he is discussing a new deal with his only club.
"Tom Hicks has said he cannot see me playing for another club, and yes, I'm in talks to extend my contract at Liverpool and I've never been happier with my football," Gerrard told the club's official website.
"I'd love nothing better than to get this contract sorted and signed, so I can understand where he's coming from.
"We need to keep all of our big players here, so it's very important we get the contracts sorted out so they can be here for a long time."
Gerrard also revealed he was surprised that Liverpool will meet Milan in the Champions League final again, rather than Premiership rivals Manchester United.
He added: "I'm confident we can go to Athens and bring the cup back home.
"But Milan are a fantastic team and we know it's going to be really difficult, so we need to be right at the top of our game.
"I was really surprised actually that they won their semi-final because I had confidence that Manchester United would get the result they required.
"I thought it was going to be a Liverpool-Manchester United final, but credit to Milan because they were excellent on the night and deserved to win the game."
Meanwhile, Liverpool will wear their red strip, and Milan will play in white, in the Champions League final - the same colours as two years ago.

By:Mark Buckingham
Date:4 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

BENITEZ TO NAME WEAKENED SIDE

Rafael Benitez will have to force his mind away from AC Milan and Athens tomorrow and back to completing Liverpool's league run-in.
And once again he will find himself in a position to inadvertently influence the futures of other clubs with his team selections.
Liverpool, fresh from the momentous Champions League semi-final triumph over Chelsea, are back in west London to face the relegation-haunted Cottagers.
Their survivial battle will make this a fierce, confrontational game, and one that Benitez will not want to risk too many of his first-choice stars.
He is certain to field a weakened side and that will undoubtedly upset the other teams down in the relegation zone - a gauntlet the Spaniard has already run this year.
But tomorrow Benitez could rest even more than he did for games against Portsmouth and Wigan, with teenage defender Jack Hobbs and goalkeeper Daniele Padelli in line for debuts.
Emiliano Insua, handed a debut at Pompey, could figure again alongside the likes of Alvaro Arbeloa, Craig Bellamy, Mark Gonzalez, Sami Hyypia, Gabriel Paletta, Paul Anderson and Craig Lindfield could also figure.
Benitez is unconcerned about the fate of Fulham's relegation rivals, saying: "My club is my priority, and I do not believe that a season rests on one or two games."
Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez denies the Reds will be suffering from a European hangover when they travel to Craven Cottage tomorrow.
Sanchez said: "People are talking about the effect Liverpool playing their second leg of their Champions League semi-final match will have on them.
"But I don't think they'll be less up for it, even if they don't have much to play for in Premiership."

Date:4 May 2007
Credit:www.sportinglife.com

Heighway fumes at 'crazy' Benitez

Former Liverpool academy coach Steve Heighway says manager Rafael Benitez's decision to assume control of the club's youth policy is "crazy".
Heighway left his job last week after 18 years in charge, following their FA Youth Cup win over Manchester United.
He told The Times: "Rafa is a terrific manager, but I think I'm the best coach of 17 and 18-year-old's in this club.
"But I no longer get the chance to do that. It's crazy, mad and it's to the detriment of the young players here."

Heighway, who oversaw the development of Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard, added: "If they are not working with the best coach of young players, then what is this football club doing?
"It's not an ego thing, but one thing I am absolutely sure about is that the best thing for the players is to be with me.
"My influence is being taken away too soon over the best players and I'm not convinced that what they are going to do is better for them.
"I would urge any football club to make sure the academy is not one of the areas the manager controls."

Date:4 May 2007

Credit:www.bbc.co.uk

Euro judges reject Shields appeal

European judges have rejected an appeal by jailed Liverpool fan Michael Shields over his attempted murder conviction.
The 20-year-old was jailed in Bulgaria for attacking a barman in May 2005 - a crime he insists he did not commit.
Shields' sentence was reduced to 10 years on appeal, and he was moved to the UK prison system in 2006.
His lawyers appealed to the European Court of Human Rights on the grounds his rights were violated during the trial, but the appeal was rejected.
Shields, from Edge Hill, Liverpool, was transferred to the HMP Hindley in Wigan, Greater Manchester, in November after a £90,000 fine was paid.

He was told the news in the prison just hours after he watched Liverpool beat Chelsea to reach the Champions League final.
His father, Michael Shields, said: "Michael was really excited about Liverpool winning, and he was hoping Manchester United would get through to the final as well.
"Then he was told his appeal had been rejected and he's just heartbroken.
"We're all devastated. It's difficult to talk about it, because we feel so low right now."
Mr Shields said the family would continue fighting to clear his son's name, but admitted he did not know if there were any avenues left to go down.
Legal meeting
Arlene McCarthy, Euro MP for Liverpool, said she was disappointed by the court's decision not to hear the appeal.
She said: "I am in continuous discussions with the Bulgarian authorities to ensure we get justice for Michael, and we will continue to fight on behalf of him and his family."
Mrs McCarthy plans to meet with the Shields family and legal advisors on Friday to help plan the next stage in the legal battle.
Shields was jailed for the attempted murder of barman Martin Georgiev, who had a paving slab dropped on his head in the Black Sea resort of Varna in May 2005.
He been holidaying in Bulgaria after travelling from neighbouring Turkey, where he had watched on TV as his team beat AC Milan in the Champions League final.
Shields has always protested his innocence and told the court he was asleep at the time of the incident.

Date:3 May 2007

Credit:www.bbc.co.uk

Gerrard's £6m-a-year new deal

STEVEN GERRARD will give Liverpool the perfect Euro boost — by pledging the rest of his career to the club.
The Kop skipper, 26, has agreed terms on a new £120,000- a-week contract to keep him at Anfield for life.
That will see him pocket £6million a year and make him the best-paid English player in the Premiership.
Reds boss Rafa Benitez hopes to officially announce the news on the eve of the Champions League final against AC Milan in three weeks.
Liverpool revealed recently that the future of midfield man Gerro, together with stars like Jamie Carragher and Xabi Alonso, would be top of the agenda for new owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks.
Now the two men have proved as good as their word, with the offer that will make Gerrard the highest-paid player in Liverpool history.
Gerrard’s future has been the subject of speculation in recent years.
During the summer of 2004 he was tipped to join Chelsea but, despite going close to moving to Stamford Bridge, he eventually opted to stay put.
A year later, after Gerrard led the Reds to Champions League glory in Istanbul, Chelsea were again close to a £32m swoop — before a late change of heart saw him commit to staying at Anfield, with a new four-year deal.
The England ace offered to give up the captaincy after the controversy but boss Benitez insisted he kept the job.
Last year he insisted he planned to stay at Liverpool until he was no longer wanted. He was already contracted until 2009 but the club’s American owners were determined to keep him at the club for the rest of his career and opened talks over an extended deal.
Negotiations were swiftly agreed and the announcement of a four-year extension will send them into battle in Athens in the highest-possible spirits.
It means Gerrard will equal the pay of Chelsea stars Andriy Shevchenko and Michael Ballack and put the £110,000-a-week five-year deal signed by Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United firmly in the shade.

By:PAT SHEEHAN
Date:04 May 2007
Credit:www.thesun.co.uk

Gerro's on hunt for Rino

STEVEN GERRARD is relishing the chance to wipe the smirk off Rino Gattuso’s face for a second time.
Gerrard labelled AC Milan skipper Gattuso ‘The Smirk’ because of the look on his face at half-time of the 2005 Champions League final.
Milan went in at the break 3-0 up — only for a Gerrard-inspired Reds to hit back and win on penalties after a 3-3 draw.
The two sides — and the two skippers — meet again in this year’s Euro showpiece in Athens with midfielder Gattuso insisting he will put the record straight.
Gerrard said in his recent book: “People rate Gattuso for some reason. For me, he is all mouth.
“He looks aggressive but is as scary as a kitten. He doesn’t hurt you. I’ve never seen Gattuso play a killer ball.
“Gattuso just plays for the fans — theatrical and emotional. He was the one Milan player who had a smirk on his face leaving the pitch at half-time.
“I saw it. F*** you. A couple of other Milan players waved at their fans and family. That disgusted me.”
Gattuso, speaking after Milan’s 3-0 drubbing of Manchester United in Wednesday’s semi-final second leg, said: “I have 20 days to prepare to play against him again.
“I still have respect for him and like the way he plays. I am looking forward to playing him again and looking him in the eye before it starts.
“It will be different from two years ago. That I promise. It’s very important to put the record straight.”
Gattuso could face a UEFA charge after TV caught him making obscene gestures to Paul Scholes during Wednesday’s game.

By:SHAUN CUSTIS
Date:04 May 2007
Credit:www.thesun.co.uk

Gattuso: Reds a long ball team

Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has branded UEFA Champions League final opponents Liverpool 'a long ball team'.
The two giants of the European game will reprise their 2005 showdown in Athens later this month following contrasting semi-final wins.
Liverpool edged past Chelsea in a penalty shoot-out, while Milan were magnificent in thumping Manchester United 3-0 at the San Siro.
Gattuso has compared the two Premiership rivals and feels Liverpool are no match for their Manchester counterparts.
"I feel there is a noticeable difference in talent between Manchester United and Liverpool, and that we have beaten the better side of the two," said Gattuso.
"United have far more technical players, who are quick and able to do things on the ball. Liverpool do not have those individuals.
"What they have is a way of playing as a team. They are like an Italian team of 10 years ago.
"All they try to do is defend together, with everybody behind the ball and just one striker. Every ball is a long ball."
Gattuso is also relishing a midfield battle with Steven Gerrard, following the Reds captain's critical comments of the Italian in his autobiography.
The former Rangers ace added: "If he wants to say bad things about me to get me going, I'm very happy.
"I now have 20 days to prepare to play against him again.
"I still say I have respect for him and like the way he plays. I'm looking forward to playing him again and looking him in the eye before it starts."

By:Mark Buckingham
Date:4 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Uefa make final provisions

Uefa admit they will be unable to satisfy fans' demand for tickets for the UEFA Champions League final.
Liverpool and Milan will contest a repeat of the 2005 final at the 72,000-capacity Athens Olympic Stadium on 23rd May after winning through their respective ties this week.
Each team will receive an allocation of 20,000 tickets but Uefa's director of communications William Gaillard concedes that that will leave many fans disappointed.
"We know that however many tickets we provide it would never be enough - we could probably sell out a stadium with a million seats!" said Gaillard.
Gaillard advised fans without tickets to attend a fan park in the Greek capital.
"Our advice to fans is always not to travel without a ticket because we do not want them to be exploited by ticket touts, but of course people are free to travel if they wish.
"If they just want to savour the Athens experience then they can use the fan park in downtown Athens."
Gaillard does not expect English-Italian hostilities to be resumed in Athens.
"There is no history of hostility between the fans and it gives us an advantage that we have the experience of the two sets of fans in a final in similar circumstances two years ago."

By:Chris Stanton
Date:3 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Warnock fears Reds success

Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock is concerned that Liverpool's progression to the UEFA Champions League final could be detrimental to his side's hopes of top flight survival.
Rafael Benitez's team round-up their Premiership campaign with games against strugglers Fulham and Charlton.
Warnock, whose side are also battling to avoid the drop, is hoping that Benitez does not therefore field weakened sides in either match now that they have the final with Milan in Athens on 23rd May to focus on.
"It might not be good news for us that Liverpool progressed," Warnock said.
"They are going to be involved in some important matches, from our perspective at least, between now and the end.
"The situation is in our own hands now, so we've got to make sure we keep it that way."
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan, whose side are also within reach of the relegation zone, believes that Benitez will be honourable in the remaining two games.
"Liverpool usually put their strongest team out," he said.
"They are always difficult to beat, they hate losing a match, and I don't think they would ever duck the issue of putting out a team that was not good enough to win a match."

By:Amanda Cornforth
Date:3 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Rafa wary of Milan

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is wary of the threat posed by Milan to their dreams of winning the UEFA Champions League later this month.
The two European giants will lock horns in Athens on 23rd May in a repeat of their 2005 classic final.
Liverpool beat Milan on penalties in 2005 after they came from three goals down to send the game into a dreaded penalty shoot-out.
Benitez knows Milan will driven on by the opportunity of exacting revenge and he believes the Rossoneri are a better side from two years ago.
"It's clear we are going to play a team with players with a great attitude and quality," said Benitez.
"You could see by how hard they worked last night. They are desperate to win the Champions League and after what happened two years ago we must be very careful.
"They are a very dangerous opponent for us."
Benitez has called on his players to ignore all the hype over the final and concentrate on their preparations for the showpiece event.
"We must focus on the final," added Benitez. "The hard work for the players begins now. The final is not today, it is in a few weeks time and we must start our preparation from this moment.
"Some people think because we won two years ago and we also beat Chelsea we will do it again, but this is not the right message.
"You do not win a trophy for winning a semi-final. Playing well in the final is what's important now.
"They (Milan) are strong in every position. Defensively they are good, they have excellent strikers and in players like Gennaro Gattuso and Kaka they have two of the best players in the world.
"They are a team we will show a lot of respect to.
"I have said many times we are stronger now than we were two years ago but I also believe Milan are a better side than they were when we last played each other."

By:Peter ORourke
Date:3 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Milan 'pride' at achievement

Milan spokesman Umberto Gandini has spoken of the Rossoneri's pride in reaching the UEFA Champions League final.
The Italian giants, who came into Wednesday's semi-final second leg against Manchester United trailing 3-2, secured their trip to Athens later this month with a 5-3 aggregate success.
Milan's participation in the competition looked in doubt last summer because of the Italian match-fixing scandal but they are now preparing for another final appearance.
"I think the main feeling we have now is pride, we are very proud of what we have achieved," Gandini told Sky Sports News.
"We started the season on a very uncomfortable and a very sad note and here we are to play our third final in five years."
Milan will come up against Liverpool in a repeat of the 2005 Champions League final when The Reds rallied from three goals down to win on penalties.
Gandini is looking forward to facing the Premiership club again, but insists Milan will not be out for revenge for the defeat in Istanbul two years ago.
"It is a great honour to play Liverpool again, it's a big club with great tradition and definitely they have demonstrated a winning side by being in the final twice in three years," he said.
"I'm not talking about revenge, it's not part of our game. We are very happy to have the chance to replay Liverpool and to see who is the best on the field.
"I think that we'll have to make sure if we go up, we stay up but a lot depends on the way Liverpool will allow us to play. It will be very tight, no question.
"They play a different style of game to us, we try to play entertaining football and try to win games by playing well.
"Liverpool play very strong with a lot of pressure, they have talent as well and have a different game plan.
"(Rafa) Benitez and (Carlo) Ancelotti will have a lot to think about in the next 20 days."

By:Andrew Scurr
Date:3 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Gerrard: Magic to win again

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard admits it would be 'magic' to lift the UEFA Champions League trophy for a second time.
The Reds will face Milan in a repeat of the 2005 final in Athens later this month and Gerrard is relishing another European showpiece.
The midfielder was a key figure in his side's remarkable comeback two years ago when Liverpool came from 3-0 down to eventually prevail on penalties.
A shoot-out success over Chelsea on Tuesday night took Rafa Benitez's side into the final again and Gerrard feels such exploits are indicative of the team's spirit.
Though acknowledging Liverpool have failed to reach the same heights in the Premiership, the skipper is dreaming of more Champions League glory.
"It's superb to be there twice in three years," said Gerrard.
"We haven't done well domestically, but we are some side in Europe.
"We are everybody's nightmare because we never know when we are beaten and that is a great attitude to have.
"It doesn't matter whatever team we face.
"Lifting the cup crossed my mind as soon as we scored the last penalty against Chelsea. It would be magic to lift that trophy again."

By:Mark Buckingham
Date:3 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Reina: You must be strong

Liverpool hero Jose Reina feels his strength is helping him on his way to becoming a 'great' goalkeeper.
Reina's two saves in Tuesday's penalty shoot-out against Chelsea took Liverpool into a second UEFA Champions League final in three years.
His spot-kick prowess also helped The Reds to win last season's FA Cup final, although Reina puts his record down to 'luck'.
However, the Spaniard believes his mental toughness is playing a key role in establishing him as one of the game's top keepers.
"My penalty record is down to luck, but you have to like football too," said Reina in The Sun.
"The more you watch games, the more information you learn. Ahead of the Chelsea game I didn't do too much different than I would normally do, but it is important to know what their players do at other moments.
"It depends always on the situation of the game. There are many things. But I won't say too much more because that is my secret.
"To be a great goalkeeper - and that is what I am trying to be - you must be f***ing strong. Excuse me for using that word.
"Your mistakes are magnified and, at a club like Liverpool, more so. Every one is seen as the end of the world and you have to be very strong mentally to ignore that.
"But throughout my career I have had to be strong. The start of this season was like that and when I had to leave Barcelona for Villarreal it was the same. I learned a lot from that experience."

By:Mark Buckingham
Date:3 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Gerro: We're a nightmare

STEVEN GERRARD sent Liverpool roaring to another Champions League final and then insisted: We’re everyone’s worst nightmare.
Skipper Gerro said: “We haven’t done well domestically but we are some side in Europe. We are everybody’s nightmare because we never know when we are beaten — that is a great attitude to have.”
Gerrard is just as convinced that Liverpool are at the dawn of another golden era after storming into their second European Cup final in three years with a 4-1 penalty shootout victory over Chelsea.
He added: “There was a lot of disrespect shown to us beforehand but all that matters is we have reached two Champions League finals in three years.
“That’s not just part of this club’s great history now, more importantly for me it’s a massive statement about our present — and future.
“Now we’ve got to go on and win it. It’s all about bringing the cup home again and, after beating Barcelona and Chelsea, we’ve no need to fear anyone in the final.”
Two years ago Gerrard was in the Kop side which dumped Chelsea out at the last-four stage, thanks to a Luis Garcia goal which Jose Mourinho still insists did not cross the line.
But he believes this season’s triumph was even better.
He insisted: “All the lads deserve so much credit for the achievement.
“For me, it felt even better than 2005. That night it was all about digging in and defending for our lives.
“We did that this time when we had to but you could see there was more quality to our play throughout the team from the goalkeeper, through to the defence, midfield and strikers.
“I’m convinced we deserved to win over 90 minutes, created more chances and they never really hurt us over the whole game.
“We have shown how much we’ve improved in the last two years — we are a far more dangerous side now.
“It lays to bed a few ghosts. It’s still hurting them because they keep bringing it up but we forgot about that semi-final a couple of years ago.”

By:PHIL THOMAS
Date:03 May 2007
Credit:www.thesun.co.uk

Kop hero on penalty drama

PEPE REINA’S spot-kick heroics have left him facing a real final dilemma.
While the rest of his Liverpool team-mates spend the next three weeks fending off ticket requests, the Spanish keeper will be desperately trying to talk his inspiration into taking one.
On Tuesday, Reina lifted his reputation as Europe’s best penalty stopper to new heights, with two outstanding saves in the Champions League shootout against Chelsea.
It helped the Reds to a 4-1 penalty-kick triumph in the Anfield semi-final showdown and booked a place in their second European Cup final in three years.
That is where the problems start for the man whose Millennium Stadium wonder show a year ago earned Liverpool FA Cup glory over West Ham in identical circumstances.
His father, Miguel, himself once a European Cup final goalkeeper, gets so nervous watching his son play he rarely goes to live matches and he will need some persuading to attend the final in Athens on Wednesday May 23.
Reina admitted: “I will try to convince my father to come to the game, but he suffers when he watches me live and it can be dangerous.
“He has had some health problems, but nothing serious — it is more to do with nerves and his temper.
“He has only been to watch me six or seven times during my whole career. It is difficult for him as a father who was also a goalkeeper.
“My father knows the situation and what one mistake can mean, so he prefers not to watch me live.
“He came to watch me at Anfield in the Champions League against PSV Eindhoven last month, but that was only because the tie was all but over and we were winning 3-0 from the first leg.
“But I will try to convince him to come to Athens. It could be a once-in-a-lifetime occasion so he must come to that game.”
Reina is certainly hoping he enjoys a better slice of fortune in the European final than his dad did some 33 years ago.
In 1974 Miguel was between the sticks for Atletico Madrid’s clash with Bayern Munich.
He leaked a last-gasp goal that earned the Germans a replay — which they promptly won 4-0.
Now Reina, 24, wants to put the family record straight and admitted he will be picking his father’s brains over what to expect.
He added: “My father played in a European Cup final but hopefully it will not be the same result.
“We haven’t spoken much about that, but now we have plenty of time to do so now.
“The game was before I was born, but I have seen it on video.
“Knowing he played in a European Cup final has been special to me.
“If Liverpool can win the trophy then I think it would mean a lot to him — he would be the proudest father in the world. He didn’t push me to do anything, but certainly encouraged me when I began to show an interest in being a goalkeeper.
“I think, because of my father, football is just naturally in my blood.
“Having said that, just because my father was a goalkeeper didn’t automatically mean I was going to become one too.
“I’ve got five brothers and I’m the only one who is a goalkeeper.”
Reina arrived at Anfield two years ago with a reputation as one of the game’s best penalty stoppers after a host of successes with Villarreal.
And he puts all his success down to mental toughness, good fortune, endless hours studying videos . . . and a secret extra which he refuses to divulge.
He revealed: “My penalty record is down to luck, but you have to like football too.
“The more you watch games, the more information you learn. Ahead of the Chelsea game I didn’t do too much different than I would normally do, but it is important to know what their players do at other moments.
“It depends always on the situation of the game. There are many things. But I won’t say too much more because that is my secret.
“To be a great goalkeeper — and that is what I am trying to be — you must be f***ing strong. Excuse me for using that word.
“Your mistakes are magnified and, at a club like Liverpool, more so.
“Every one is seen as the end of the world and you have to be very strong mentally to ignore that.
“But throughout my career I have had to be strong.
“The start of this season was like that and when I had to leave Barcelona for Villarreal it was the same. I learned a lot from that experience.
“When I left I knew I had to take a step back to move forward again. I think I have done that now, but we still have a big game to play.”
Two years ago Reina was weeks away from a £6million switch to Liverpool signing, and watched the Champions League win over AC Milan in Istanbul with a few drinks, knowing he was heading to the European champions.
This time he hopes to be toasting success as a crucial member of the line-up. He added: “I was at home drinking beers because I knew I was joining Liverpool.
“That was an amazing night and now we have to try and repeat it. I have spoken with Jerzy Dudek many times about what happened and he’s bored me with all his stories!
“It feels amazing, fantastic to be in the European Cup final. It was an excellent night for everyone and I feel very proud to be part of this club.
“I came to Liverpool to experience nights like this. My aim was to win trophies. I managed to win one last year and hopefully I will this season.
“We have to go on and win the competition now. Liverpool is all about winning trophies and we have to make sure that we do that in May and write another piece of history.”

By:PHIL THOMAS
Date:03 May 2007
Credit:www.thesun.co.uk

KAKA LOOKING FOR REDS REVENGE

AC Milan midfielder Kaka is relishing the opportunity to avenge the 2005 Champions League final defeat against Liverpool after progressing to the final at the expense of Manchester United.
Milan's 3-0 second-leg victory in the semi-final at the San Siro set up a rematch with the Reds, their conquerors two years ago.
United came to Milan with a 3-2 lead from the first leg but were quickly put on the back foot by the Rossoneri, who scored through Kaka and Clarence Seedorf.
An out-of-sorts United were unable to turn things around and Alberto Gilardino killed the tie in the second half as Milan ran out 5-3 aggregate winners.
Kaka believes Milan played flawless football against the Red Devils and fully merited their place in the final in Athens on May 23.
"We have played a perfect game," admitted Kaka, who scored three of Milan's five goals in the two-leg tie.
"We knew against a team like Manchester United that we needed to do something special and we have achieved it with the help of our fans.
"I am extremely happy with the way the team has played, we were the best side on the pitch and we deserved to go through.
"The final against Liverpool will be a unique game.
"I sincerely hope it will be different from that of 2005."
The Brazilian struck the opener to put his team on their way to overturning the 3-2 deficit following the opening leg at Old Trafford.
Midfielder Clarence Seedorf added the second before substitute Alberto Gilardino made it 3-0 to bring the San Siro fans to their feet.
Kaka, who is the top scorer in this season's Champions League with 10 goals, brushed aside his heroics and believes team-work was the key to his side's achievement.
"I reiterate that I am not playing at my top level," said the 25-year-old. "I still have a lot to improve on.
"We have worked really hard this week and we have been rewarded."

By:Cindy Garcia-Bennett, PA Sport, Milan
Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.sportinglife.com

CARRAGHER: 'LET'S GO AND WIN IT'

Jamie Carragher insists he will only be truly content when Liverpool lift the European Cup again.
While the England defender savoured the semi-final victory against Chelsea following a penalty shoot-out, he immediately looked at the bigger picture.
Carragher is desperate to bring the trophy back to Anfield for the second time in three seasons after collecting a winners' medal in 2005.
It has become something of a personal mission for Liverpool's all-time record appearance holder in Europe.
Following his 90th match at this level, Carragher said: "It is a great feeling to go through but it is only the semi-final.
"While we have got to enjoy the moment, the final is only a few weeks away.
"The main thing is to bring the trophy back to Liverpool again. Let's go and win it now."
Carragher believes the result proves that Liverpool deserve respect even though they have fallen behind Chelsea and Manchester United in the title race.
He said: "People claim we are not a great side but we are doing something special.
"It is an unbelievable achievement to get to two European Cup finals in three years.
"It was a great result as Chelsea were favourites. I think we just edged it.
"They are a good side and came on strong after the first half.
"Extra time could have gone either way as there were a lot of tired legs. Fortunately we got there in the end."
Chelsea look to have run out of steam, according to Carragher.
Liverpool on the other hand were swept along on a wave of emotion with the Kop rocking from start to finish.
Carragher said: "Chelsea have kept going this season despite being a bit behind Manchester United.
"Maybe it has just told on them in the end.
"The fans kept urging us on. They are renowned for their support especially in European games. They never let you down."
Goalkeeper Jose Reina saved two penalties in the shoot-out after Daniel Agger had brought the sides level of aggregate. Dirk Kuyt got the winner as Liverpool won 4-1 on spot-kicks.
Carragher admits his nerves were jangling.
He said: "Petr Cech is one of the best keepers in the world and you are worried he might save one.
"You are never sure until the last moment. But we always have confidence in 'Pepe' and he called it right again."
Bolo Zenden put the first penalty away for Liverpool and insisted he felt calm.
"I was not really nervous, " said the midfielder, who is out of contract in the summer. "I do practice a bit in training.
"When you step up to the plate, you sort of forget where you are and focus on putting the ball in the back of the net.
"It also helps having someone like Pepe in goal. When I was looking on, I had 100% confidence in him."
Zenden felt the victory against Chelsea was similar to that over Barcelona because of the team's attitude.
He said: "We work really hard. Chelsea are a good team, who like to play on the counter-attack. It is difficult when you go behind like we did in the first leg.
"We had one or two scary moments in this game but when you face a team like Chelsea it is hard not to give chances away.
"We got through and we do not want to go all the way to the final and lose. Winning the Champions League is something you want to achieve as a player."

By:Ken Gaunt, PA Sport
Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.sportinglife.com

REDS FANS PLAY DOWN FINAL FEARS

Fears over potential trouble at the Champions League final in Athens and problems finding accommodation are being exaggerated, according to one Liverpool fans group.
Reds chief executive Rick Parry has voiced his concerns over security issues as many supporters are expected to travel without tickets.
Either Manchester United or AC Milan await in the final but with the age-old rivalry between the north-west clubs and the problems associated with Italian teams this season worries are growing that the final will not pass off without trouble.
Add to that the fact that today there appeared to be no hotel rooms available in Athens between May 22 and May 24 and UEFA's showpiece event could be overshadowed by events off the pitch.
However, Leigh Andrews, of the Leeds branch of the Liverpool Supporters' Club, played down those fears.
"I understand the Greek police don't hold back if there is trouble," said Andrews, who was in Istanbul when Liverpool beat AC Milan on penalties in 2005.
"But there weren't any problems against Milan two years ago and I hope there woldn't be trouble if it was against Manchester United.
"But I wouldn't say I haven't got any worries because unfortunately there will be a huge demand for black-market tickets."
Many fans are currently investigating their travel plans but Andrews said the location could deter some from travelling, with the apparent lack of accommodation meaning those who do make the trip having to face paying over the odds or finding alternative arrangements.
"It is an awkward place to get to and people have already been looking at the options," he added.
"One lad has booked a flight from Leeds to Dusseldorf and then on to Athens but if his flight into Germany is late he will miss the game altogether - which is a big risk.
"I've thought about having a week in Corfu or Crete.
"What happens is people book these hotels well in advance and then sell them on again and make a killing.
"I think one or two of the younger ones will not mind roughing it on a park bench for the night but I prefer a proper bed."

Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.sportinglife.com

EDMILSON HAILS LIVERPOOL TEAM SPIRIT

Barcelona midfielder Jose Edmilson has praised the team ethic at Liverpool which has helped the English side reach the Champions League final for the second time in three years.
Liverpool, who beat AC Milan to claim the 2005 title, eliminated semi-final opponents Chelsea in a penalty shoot-out last night to book their place in the Athens final, where they will meet either Milan or Manchester United.
Liverpool may not boast the individual superstars of some of Europe's other big clubs, but 30-year-old Edmilson believes Rafael Benitez's side are proof that a solid all-round team can be more than a match for anyone.
"At Anfield they don't have the best players in the world, but they are a good team," said Edmilson, whose Barca side saw the defence of their Champions League title ended by Liverpool at the last-16 stage of this year's competition.
"They are very effective, almost perfect tactically, and obedient.
"Football is changing, it is not so much about fancy skills, now it's about playing as a team. Liverpool showed that yesterday."

Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.sportinglife.com

Reds chief mocks beaten Chelsea

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry has belittled Chelsea's achievements this season following their Champions League exit at the hands of the Reds.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho was reported to have described Liverpool as a small club and a cup team before the game.
"I don't care what he says, I don't listen," Parry told Radio Five Live.
"I guess when you've invested £500m it's a fantastic season to win the League Cup. He's welcome to his opinions, we care about Liverpool."
Liverpool beat Chelsea 4-1 on penalties and now face a final against either Manchester United or AC Milan.
Parry said he thought the atmosphere at Anfield on Tuesday matched that of their Champions League semi-final win over the Blues at the ground in 2005.
"It was another fabulous Anfield night," he said. "I thought we'd never see anything to beat the atmosphere in 2005, but I think this equalled it.
"It was very, very special and I think you only get these nights in Anfield.
"The supporters were fantastic and the players and manager have done a fantastic job and done us proud. It was magnificent to be there."
Parry admitted there could be security concerns if Manchester United beat AC Milan to set up an all-English Champions League final.
"There will be concerns from a security point of view if it's two English teams, sadly," he said.
"There will be issues we'll have to address. There will be a lot of supporters from both teams travelling without tickets, which the authorities will have to deal with.
"A lot of careful thought and planning would definitely be required."
Despite their Champions League success, the Liverpool chief executive admitted that the club's ultimate ambition was still to win the Premiership title.
The Reds are currently 18 points behind Premiership leaders Manchester United and have not won the league since 1990.
Parry said: "For us, the big prize is the Premier League, we've made no secret of that.
"Every one of us wants to be a Premier League contender. We're not quite there, but we'll do everything in our power to make sure we get there."

Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.bbc.co.uk

Kuyt wants Man Utd in Euro final

Liverpool hero Dirk Kuyt has set his sights on a "historic" Champions League final meeting with rivals Manchester United in Athens.
Dutch striker Kuyt scored the decisive spot-kick as Liverpool beat Chelsea 4-1 on penalties in their semi-final.
He told BBC Sport: "AC Milan and Manchester United are two great teams and clubs.
"But a meeting between two big clubs from the Premiership in the Champions League final would be historic."
Liverpool won their semi-final second leg clash at Anfield 1-0 thanks to Daniel Agger's first-half strike.
With the tie finishing 1-1 on aggregate after extra-time it went down to penalties.
Kuyt scored the decisive spot-kick to put Liverpool through to a second Champions League final in three years.
The forward added: "It is fantastic for us to reach the Champions League final. There is no bigger game in European club football and to do it in my first season here is an amazing feeling.
"We felt we deserved to win after the 90 minutes and extra time. We were very strong and to see that last penalty go in was a great feeling.
"It is just fantastic for us. We had chances. I hit the post and had a goal disallowed, but we got there in the end and Pepe Reina was sensational for us in the penalty shoot-out.
"You come to clubs like Liverpool for nights like this.
"We wanted to do it for our fans as well because they were fantastic in the way they supported us.
"We have beaten some very strong teams to get to the final, like Barcelona, PSV Eindhoven and now Chelsea.
"It is not up to us who we play, Manchester United and AC Milan have to fight for their place, but certainly two English clubs playing each other would be history.
"Now we have to get ready for the final because we want to win it now. We have come this far so we want to win it and we think we can.
"We have shown we can win over two legs against the best sides, now it is down to one match."

By:Phil McNulty
Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.bbc.co.uk

Benitez the master of Europe

Rafael Benitez may struggle to return the Premiership to what Liverpool regards as its spiritual home - but a journey to the Champions League final on a regular basis more than makes up for that gap in his collection.

Benitez was quizzed about his lack of a title in the after-glow of yet another semi-final triumph over his arch-rival Jose Mourinho.

He admitted it was tough with Manchester United and Chelsea winning almost every week, but he can more than handle the demands of the Champions League.

And so it proved again as Anfield celebrated another wild European night in front of The Kop.

Benitez knew his team had got it wrong at Stamford Bridge - but he scented blood once Chelsea only established a one-goal lead.

He spoke with an open confidence he rarely demonstrates, and his team backed his words once the slipshod and nervous early exchanges were over.

Benitez is not always the amiable nice guy seen by the cameras. He is ruthless and does not take kindly to being crossed, which is clearly what he felt he had been by Mourinho.

This was no footballing classic. It was never going to be.

But Benitez once again confounded those of us who looked at his team-sheet and questioned his approach.

No Xabi Alonso. Two wingers in the inconsistent shape of Jermaine Pennant and the largley ineffective Bolo Zenden.

And yet it all became clear very quickly.

Steven Gerrard was restored to a marauding midfield role after spending time on the margins, while Javier Mascherano was biting and snapping in around Chelsea's heels.

The pairing of Alonso and Mascherano was too similar at Chelsea, too deep. Benitez remedied the problem and was rewarded with a bristling display from the Argentine.

Mascherano's distribution is not perfect, but he loves a tackle, as several Chelsea players discovered.

It was impossible to recognise him from the dispirited figure witnessed at West Ham earlier this season.

Benitez regards himself as an arch-strategist, and the two-leg format suits him and Liverpool perfectly.

They proved it against Juventus and Chelsea in 2005 and this year favourites Barcelona and Chelsea again have perished on Benitez's drawing board.

Liverpool were the team creating the clearer chances, despite Mourinho's claim that Chelsea were the better side.

As for the final, Benitez will have to make some tough tactical choices whether they play AC Milan or Manchester United.

But he can usually be relied upon to fashion a result when an occasion demands it - and is occasionally followed by the odd stroke of good fortune every successful manager needs.

Manchester United would provide a sterner attacking test than Chelsea did, and Benitez's choice in midfield and attack will be key against either them or the Italians.

But after winning the Uefa Cup in his final season with Valencia and already claiming one Champions League for Liverpool, don't bet against another winning strategy in Athens.

By:Phil Mcnulty
Date:02 May 2007
Credit:www.bbc.co.uk

Reds won't let stars depart

Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks is adamant there are no plans to let any of the club's star players leave.
Following The Reds reaching the UEFA Champions League final, the new owners want to build on their success.
That means not letting the likes of captain Steven Gerrard and defender Jamie Carragher depart Anfield at any price.
Hicks, fellow co-owner George Gillett and Rafa Benitez have already discussed players' futures, with Gerrard high on the agenda.
"As far as keeping our players, that is on-going. We have sat down with Rafa a few times now and know what he wants," Hicks said.
"But I cannot imagine Steven Gerrard playing for anybody else but Liverpool.
"He will be here for a long time - we have already been speaking to his agent and those of our best players."
Meanwhile, Hicks also updated the situation surrounding the club's new Stanley Park stadium, which is due to be completed in time for the 2009/10 campaign.
He added: "On the new stadium, we will honour the plans already in place but things are being changed. We have talked to people and we do not want to start over with the plans again.
"So far we have worked on its insides, the outside is next, but we are near to being able to announce our new plans.
"We have to compete with Manchester United who can get over 70,000 in their stadium, while Arsenal's new ground has 60,000, and with London prices.
"Liverpool has a unique market. We have a huge waiting list of fans wanting to buy tickets so we want a bigger stadium than the one previously envisaged."

By:Andrew Scurr
Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Gillett lauds Benitez

George Gillett admits Rafa Benitez has already exceeded the expectations of the new Liverpool owners.
Gillett and fellow American Tom Hicks purchased The Reds for nearly £500million and knew the manager in place was a good one.
However, having led Liverpool to the UEFA Champions League final, Gillett has been hugely impressed by Benitez.
"We knew he was good - but not this good!" said Gillett.
"Rafa has been tremendous. My sons and I followed the sport here before we came. We knew about Rafa Benitez and what he had done in Europe.
"We knew of him but I don't think we realised how good he was, and not just as a coach.
"Not only was he a brilliant coach but he is a very sharp, savvy businessman. He knows what he wants and how to get it.
"The more we have seen of him the more impressed we have become.
"We will be supporting him during the summer but it is not about money, it is about athletes and giving people opportunities."
Gillett and Hicks were in attendance for Liverpool's penalty shoot-out victory over Chelsea at Anfield on Tuesday.
The pair are already making plans for their trip to the Champions League final on 23rd May, where Benitez's men will face either Milan or Manchester United.
"You bet I will be in Athens, I have seen some marvellous games already in Europe and that will be another," Gillett added.

By:Andrew Scurr
Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com

Reina's home ransacked

Jose Reina returned from his UEFA Champions League penalty shoot-out heroics against Chelsea to find his house had been ransacked.
Reina saved two of Chelsea's three penalties to book Liverpool's place in the final, but was brought back down to earth when he came back from the team's celebrations at 12.45am to find burglars had visited in his absence.
The thieves took jewellery, a Bang and Olufsen entertainment system and personal documents from his home in Woolton, Liverpool, as well as his Porsche with Spanish number plates.
Merseyside Police reported the Porsche Cayenne had been found burnt out at 6.30am on Wednesday morning in Liverpool's West Derby area.
Reina chose not to comment on the incident.

By:Robin Hackett
Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.skysports.com