Kop-TV

Liverpool linked with move for Palmeiras’ Cavalieri

fiz — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:29:10 +0000

Liverpool could be signing Palmeiras goalkeeper Diego Cavalieri, according to Setanta Sports. The player has made a trip to Europe to secure a work permit and some reports are suggesting that Liverpool could be his destination.

Palmeiras’ sporting director Genaro Marin confirms that there are several clubs interested in signing the 26-year-old goalkeeper.

“A transfer is being discussed, the way to pay (…),” Marin told UOL Esporte.

“We’ll look to go further tomorrow (Thursday) because there’s not just one team interested.We have signed a document with the team that forces us to keep their name secret, that’s why we can’t reveal it at the moment.”

“They came to speak to me, to Palmeiras, and the negotiations are in progress.”

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Insua gets a new deal

Zac Lee Rigg — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:31:29 +0000

Emiliano Insua has been given a new deal by the club which ties the youngster down until June 2011. Insua broke through into the Liverpool first team at the end of last season, playing 5 matches.

He’s highly rated in Argentina where he consistently starts for the youth teams, and won the U-20 World Cup last year.

Offering a unique South American flavor of attack down the left flank from a defensive position, the 19-year-old will battle with Flabio Aurelio and Andrea Dossena for the left back spot next season.

Villa reject another Barry bid

Redneck — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 20:04:04 +0000

A club statement has been issued by Aston Villa claiming that a renewed bid for captain Gareth Barry has been rejected.

“The report in today’s paper of a £17m offer for Gareth Barry is inaccurate.

“The club have received a renewed offer from Liverpool for the player but that still falls well short of Aston Villa’s evaluation, and has subsequently been rejected.” read the statement on the offish AVFC website.

Barry is valued at £18million by the Midlands club and it is looking increasingly unlikely that another move will be made by Benitez for the England International after this latest rejection.

12-year-old Torres in action

fiz — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 14:27:06 +0000

Some footage (goals and skills) showing a young Fernando Torres in 1996 when he was just 12.

The video is from a tournament between Atletico Madrid and AC Milan.

Download
Credits to Toone10

Torres in UEFA select squad

Zac Lee Rigg — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:52:42 +0000

Fernando Torres, scorer of the winning goal in the Euro 2008 final, has been rewarded with high praise from UEFA. They released a 23 man select squad from the competition, and Torres leads the forward line in it.

Despite struggling for goals, being substituted off early in matches, and taking a backseat to David Vila’s exploits, the graft and movement of Torres did not go unnoticed by UEFA.

Absent from the list is Christiano Ronaldo.

The UEFA select squad:

Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon (Italy), Iker Casillas (Spain), Edwin van der Sar (Netherlands).

Defenders: Bosingwa (Portugal), Philipp Lahm (Germany), Carlos Marchena (Spain), Pepe (Portugal), Carles Puyol (Spain), Yuri Zhirkov (Russia).

Midfielders: Hamit AltÄ±ntop (Turkey), Luka Modric (Croatia), Marcos Senna (Spain), Xavi Hernández (Spain), Konstantin Zyryanov (Russia), Michael Ballack (Germany), Cesc Fàbregas (Spain), Andrés Iniesta (Spain), Lukas Podolski (Germany), Wesley Sneijder (Netherlands).

Forwards: Andrei Arshavin (Russia), Roman Pavlyuchenko (Russia), Fernando Torres (Spain), David Villa (Spain).

Silva staying put

fiz — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:38:02 +0000

Euro 2008 winner David Silva made no secret of his desire to stay at the Mestalla. There were talks of several Premier League clubs including Liverpool showing interest in the £15million man.

Silva told Spanish sports daily AS, “I am happy at Valencia. I’m under contract and at the moment I’m only thinking about going to relax myself and enjoy this great achievement.”

Valencia president Agustin Morera has warned interested clubs to keep their hands off him and David Villa.

“If we had wanted to transfer them (Villa and Silva) like other players it wasn’t that it didn’t happen because of a lack of offers,” he said.

“Last year was the same as now, we have offers on the table for them.”

“But our interest is that they stay, that is our hope as well as to have a very great team.”

Reds target Villa wants Valencia stay

fiz — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:24:09 +0000

Liverpool target David Villa will remain with Valencia according to the Spanish sports daily AS. The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to Chelsea and Liverpool after a string of brilliant performances in Euro2008.

Villa insists that he’ll still be a Valencia player next season and in many years to come.

Villa told Spanish sports daily AS, “I am happy here and I hope to continue for many years. I hope I can continue for many years, including more than I have signed for”

“I have always felt the love of the fans and it is something that fills me with pride.I’m under contract and I’m very happy at Valencia,” he added.

‘French Gem’ parts ways with Liverpool

fiz — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:07:49 +0000

French striker Anthony Le Tallec will return to France to join Le Mans after being released by the Liverpool.

Le Tallec hasn’t been able to break into the first team and was loaned out to 4 clubs during his long stint at Anfield. Much was expected from Le Tallec who was given the tag “French gem” from Houllier.

The French forward together with his cousin Sinama-Pongolle was signed by Gerard Houllier after impressive performances for the French national youth team in the European U-16 and World U-17 Championships in 2001.

Red Regrets Loan Request

Reina singing his heart out!

fiz — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 10:39:53 +0000

Pepe Reina seen here entertaining the fans and fellow teammates. I’ve no idea what he’s talking about but it’s fantastic!

Parry confident of Reds stay

Redneck — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 08:59:53 +0000

Chief Executive Rick Parry was in a confident mood yesterday as he picked up his honorary degree from the University of Liverpool.

Recent speculation has suggested that Parry could be ousted from his post at Anfield after co-owner Tom Hicks publicly criticised him of failing the club, but he remained defiant that he will be working alongside manager Rafael Benitez next season.

He told the Liverpool Daily Post: “I’m looking forward to working with Rafael (Benitez) and helping improve on last season’s result.

“Our standards are very high, as is the standard our fans demand. Winning the league, that’s the prize we’re all striving for.” he added.

New twist in Stadium plans

Redneck — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 08:44:00 +0000

A new twist has emerged which could delay the start of development work on our new stadium.

The North-West Development Agency (NWDA) is refusing to hand over a £9million grant until Tom Hicks & Co can prove they have the financial ability to complete the proposed project.

Last night a club source told the Liverpool Daily Post: “We are not planning on having the long term funding in place until the end of this year.

“We have sufficient funds currently to take us through the early stages of the project.”

Cheif Executive of the NWDA, Steve Broomhead, spoke of the issue: “The NWDA is engaged in positive, on-going discussions with Liverpool Football Club regarding our investment in the regeneration aspects of the new Anfield development.

“The NWDA’s grant has always been dependent upon the club demonstrating that funding for the new stadium has been fully secured and we are currently awaiting detailed evidence that this is in place.

“Until this time, the agency will retain its £9m investment towards the project, but we remain optimistic about the outcome and are committed to working closely with Liverpool FC and other partners to bring the development and the regeneration of North Liverpool forward.” he added.

The news broke just as Tom Hicks tried to impress LFC fans with his £1.6billion deal with a plastics manufacturer in the USA (Graham Packaging Holdings Co.), in an attempt to flex his financial muscles despite poor reports recently.

Euro 2008 final roundup

Zac Lee Rigg — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 08:02:25 +0000

The team with the most Liverpool players in it has won Euro 2008. Spain–boasting Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso, Alvaro Arbeloa, and Pepe Reina–are the champions of Europe.

In the final against German, Torres scored the lone goal to settle the match. Xavi played a clever through ball which looked lost when Torres sped around Philip Lahm and dinked the ball over the on-rushing Jens Lehman.

In fact, much of the Spanish attack went through Torres. His off-the-ball runs created space for Spain’s short, swift, sharp passing game. Without strike parnter David Villa on the pitch due to injury, Torres found much more space within which to stretch his legs. He was a constant threat to the German goal, and highlighted that by headed onto the post roughly 10 minutes prior to scoring.

Xabi Alonso came on for Cesc Fabregas in the 62nd minute, and calmed the game down. His composure and positioning next to Marcos Senna allowed Spain to continue to dominate posession even when Germany were frantic to score an equalizer. Eventually the Germans gave up and hoiste the ball over the midfield in an attempt to circumvent it.

Then, in the 77th minute Torres left the pitch for Daniel Guiza. He had run the entire match and should have scored more. Luckily, his one proved enough.

After the match, Torres grabbed a Spanish flag from a fan and draped it over his shoulders. He could be seen celebrating with Reina, Alonso, and Arbeloa. Then, for the trophy ceremony, he wrapped the flag around him like a skirt. The delight on his face was apparent for all to see.

The Liverpool Spanish contingent will not leave for a well-earned vacation and are due back at Melwood in three weeks.

Benitez proud of Torres achievement

WattagoalbyRiise — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:59:56 +0000

Rafa Benitez has spoken of his pride after Fernando Torres confounded his critics to fire Spain to their first major honour since 1964.

The Liverpool boss admits certain sections of the Spanish press were critical of the striker’s performances in Euro 2008. Many of these critics seem to miss the point somewhat that Torres’ runs enabled David Villa to score the goals that he did. Even club and international team-mate Pepe Reina admitted that Fernando Torres was giving up goals, in order enable the other Spanish attackers to fill their boots.

However, El Nino’s winning goal against Germany on Sunday night has made him a national hero – and Benitez believes the strike will be talked about for decades to come.

He told the offish site: “I am very proud, especially after he has been criticised from some journalists in Spain.

“Everyone remembers the Marcelino goal from 44 years ago, and the last final Spain were in was 24 years ago. Now people will talk about Torres in the same way.”

Benitez watched the goal from the comfort of his sofa, from where he was in no doubt the best team won.

“Spain played well. For 10 minutes at the start of each half Germany were pressing, but after that Spain controlled the game,” he said.

“The first goal changed the game. After that Metzelder pushed forward and Torres was left one versus one. Spain could play on the counter and that was important.

“They had three or four players in the middle with real quality and played good football.”

Alvaro Arbeloa, Xabi Alonso and Pepe Reina will now be given three weeks’ rest before returning to Melwood ahead of the new campaign.

Lehmann: “Torres not in same league as Henry”

fiz — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 11:59:25 +0000

Being at the losing end of the Euro2008 has certainly affected Jens Lehmann’s judgment. Lehmann believes that Fernando Torres isn’t quite in the same league as Theirry Henry.

“Well, he scored and that’s what you have to do as a striker but you’re asking someone who played together for years with Thierry Henry and he was a God, performance-wise, when he was in England.”

“So when you take him and compare him to other strikers, there’s a difference and Torres is definitely still not at Thierry’s level.

“Yes he could get there - but it will take him a while.”

Source Quote: Mail Online

‘Pelle’ returns to Liverpool

fiz — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:59:24 +0000

Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Mauricio Pellegrino as their new first-team coach. Pellegrino will be working on the defence as well as the reserves. Pellegrino played 12 games during the 2005 season but was released the following season.

Rafa told the offish site, “His role will be first-team coach, and he’ll also carry out specialist training sessions.”

“He can also work specifically with the defence, and also the reserves. Pellegrino has a winning mentality. He won the Intercontinental Cup before going to Spain with Barcelona and Valencia.”

“He has a lot of passion. When I asked him to come he was very pleased, but first he wanted to find out if there was a school where his three children could play good football. He is a football man.”

The depth and experience he as to offer to the players would be beneficial to the players.

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Swans turn to another Liverpool winger

fiz — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:47:34 +0000

Swansea City could turn to Liverpool’s Adam Hammill to replace Paul Anderson who chose to join Nottingham Forest instead. The Western Mail reported that Hammill would be a direct replacement for Anderson who was a hit during his stint at the Liberty.

The flamboyant midfielder joined Southampton on a season loan loan last season. The 20-year-old was once highly-regarded at Anfield having won the FA Youth Cup, but he hasn’t been able to break into the first team yet.

Hammill is contracted to the club till 2011 and could find himself going out on loan again.

Torres goal put Spain in driving seat

fiz — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 19:35:16 +0000

Torres puts Spain ahead on the 33rd minute with a beautiful lob over Lehmann. The Liverpool striker created a goal out of nothing.

Martinez questions Anderson’s loyalty

fiz — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 16:40:23 +0000

Swansea boss Roberto Martinez is upset that Liverpool’s winger Paul Anderson snubbed Swansea City to join Nottingham Forest. Martinez questioned Anderson’s loyalty and claimed that Anderson owes Swansea big for steering him in the right direction.

Martinez said: “Everyone knows being grateful or loyal in football does not exist anymore.”

“We are proud to be involved in the development of a player that no-one wanted 12 months ago who now has six or seven choices,” he added.

“We are delighted how he adapted as we allowed him to enjoy his football, that’s why he has enjoyed a lot of interest from clubs this summer.”

Source Quote: BBC Sport

Grab your free LFC scarf

Redneck — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 17:24:41 +0000

We’re giving 3 Kop-TV Forum members the chance to grab a free LFC scarf from the Official Liverpool FC Store.

To have a chance of winning, all you have to do is answer the single question over on this thread, sending your answer via email.

Three random winners will be drawn at the end of July and will be asked to choose any scarf from this selection on the official LFC store.

If you are not already a Kop-TV forum member, you can sign-up for free here.

£33m Barca duo invited to Tranmere friendly?

Redneck — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:09:48 +0000

Barcelona’s Eto’o and Ronaldinho are rumoured to have been invited to attend the Reds’ first pre-season friendly game against Tranmere Rovers on the 12th July as they prepare a staggering £33million bid for the duo.

According to Football-Rumours.com: “Spanish sources close to the Anfield club have suggested that a bid of £33 million has been laid down for the services of Eto’o and Ronaldinho.”

“No one could have fortold, but it seems Benitez has been a big admirer and is willing to break the bank for FC Barcelona pair.

“If FC Barcelona agree, (and it’s not out of the question as they have both been told their services are not required anymore) this would be a serious coup and loud battle cry from the Merseysiders in the Hunt for that first Premier League title.

“Reports also conform that the two have been invited to Liverpool’s first pre–season friendly against Tranmere on July 12th.” claimed the site.

Spurs ready to Kop Crouchy?

Redneck — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:37:06 +0000

According to Spanish journalist Guillem Balague, Tottenham Hotspur have enetered the race to capture beanpole striker Peter Crouch in a daring summer raid.

Arsenal and Pompey have both been reported to be showing interest in the England international star, with the latter having multiple bids rejected already during the current transfer window.

“I can confirm that there is a new contender for the signature of the Liverpool striker: Tottenham Hotspur.” he published on his website earlier today.

“Spurs have approached Liverpool for the player who they see as someone who can occupy the role of Dimitar Berbatov, who they expect will depart before the beginning of the season.

“The north London club are therefore on the lookout for a striker who can provide similar attacking options to the Bulgarian.” he added.

Alonso: “Nothing is decided”

Redneck — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 21:09:54 +0000

Xabi Alonso appears to be becoming disgruntled with his proposed move to Serie A giants Juventus.

“Nothing is decided, apart from Liverpool’s willingness to release me” he told Stadio News.

Whilst the switch to Italy seemed a certainty to go through, no official announcement from either Liverpool or Juventus has been made as of yet, and manager Rafael Benitez was reported last month to declare that the Spaniard wont be leaving Anfield anytime soon, even if the likes of Gareth Barry do arrive on Merseyside.

“I just want to think about doing well with Spain and I have a European Championship final to think about rather than anything else.” he added.

Jamie Carragher Compilation - The Legend

fiz — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:28:34 +0000

A brilliant compilation on Jamie Carragher done by SauronXL. Definitely one of the best Carragher compilation out there. A must watch for all Liverpool fans.

Download

Reds youth joins Forest

Redneck — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 15:04:52 +0000

Paul Anderson has joined Championship newcomers Nottingham Forest on a season-long loan deal after rejecting a return back to Swansea where he was loaned out to last season.

Anderson, 19, is hoping to be able to complete the deal in time for pre-season training this coming Tuesday.

“I enjoyed last season at Swansea but after speaking to Forest I just felt that it was the right move for me.” he told the Forest Offish website.

“I’m joining a big club in Forest and I am very excited about the challenge of trying to help them make an impact in the Championship.

“I realise I will face a battle to get into the team because there are some very good players here but I have confidence in my ability to do that.” he added.

Liverpool beat Barca and Spurs to sign Saric

fiz — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 13:35:19 +0000

Liverpool have agreed to sign teenage striker Nikola Saric from Herfolge. All club and personal terms have been agreed and 17-year-old is set to sign the contract soon.

“It is a unique opportunity for me,” the Denmark Under-18 international informed Dagbladet Koge.

“I will train with the big names over there and there is time for me to develop at reserve level. I am very pleased with the development as it has been a very tough season for me.” he added

Sports Director Per Rud told the club’s official website, “We are pleased and proud that Nikola has gone to one of the world’s best football clubs. We would have liked to have earned more money from Nikola but his injury and the fact that his contract expired in the New Year made it difficult.

“Liverpool acted extremely well in all cases and knew all the details. They have been fair in the process and could’ve waited until the New Year but they will have him over now.”

Tottenham, Barcelona and Charlton were among the other clubs interested in signing Saric.

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Liverpool sign Dutch youngster

fiz — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:25:11 +0000

It’s reported in the DutchNews.nl that Liverpool have signed 17-year-old striker Vincent Weijl from AZ Alkmaar. He’ll be joining the U-18 Academy as a first year trainee.

From the club’s official site, it states that Weijl has played for AFC Amsterdam and Ajax before. His name has been added onto Liverpool’s Wikipedia page.

Boro eyes Carson as Schwarzer replacement

fiz — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 11:23:42 +0000

According to the Daily Mail, Gareth Southgate has lined up Liverpool’s Scott Carson as a replacement for Fulham-bound Mark Schwarzer.

Scott Carson’s £9million price-tag has prevented Martin O’Neill from making the young Liverpool goalkeeper’s loan move permanent.

Carson is determined to leave Anfield in search of first-team football. He seems unwilling to play second fiddle to first choice Pepe Reina as he fears it will hamper his England career. However, not many clubs are willing to fork out £9million for the goalie.

Finnan relishing Anfield fight

Redneck — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:05:47 +0000

Following the capture of Phillip Degen from Borussia Dortmund, Reds long-serving right back Steve Finnan, is relishing the forthcoming fight for a regular starting role next season.

“I’m sure United will do exactly that this summer and we have to do the same. At a club like this there will always be competition for places. Nobody can afford to take anything for granted.” he told the Offish site.

“You look at our squad now and you can see we’ve got two top players in nearly every position.

“If the manager wants to add more, I’ve got no problem with that. I think every player welcomes competition; I’m no different.” he added.

Crouch targeted by Gooners?

Redneck — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 07:58:28 +0000

Peter Crouch is rumoured to be a target for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger as he looks for a replacement for Emmanuel Adebayor who is close to a £32million switch to AC Milan, handing the Gooners a staggering £25million profit on the player they signed just two years ago.

Agent Vincenzo Morabito told Italian TV show Studio Sport: “Arsenal are exploring the transfer market for a substitute for Adebayor.”

“The names being talked about are Peter Crouch, Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz and Germany forward Mario Gomez.” he added.

Portsmouth found it difficult to land the beanpole-striker, with a £9million bid being rejected, but Wenger shouldn’t have too many problems in raising close to the £15million valuation put on Crouchy’s forehead by manager Rafa Benitez.

Liverpool turns to new target after Taylor snub

fiz — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 12:08:18 +0000

Liverpool have set their sights on Fulham goalkeeper Antti Niemi as a backup for Pepe Reina according to The Mirror. Maik Taylor’s rejection has prompted Rafa to look for a new target.

Antti Niemi has expressed his desire to leave the club after after being knocked down the pecking order by Kasey Keller and new signing Mark Schwarzer.

There are 5 top-flight clubs expressing their interest in the goalkeeper and he’ll make the decision after returning from holiday.

Reds to Play In Blue

Redneck — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 08:42:09 +0000

It has been revealed that the new third shirt for 2008/9 season will be blue after makers Adidas replaced last seasons Black third shirt which was mostly used for away European games.

What do you think of the new choice in colour?

Gillett: “We are now on site”

Redneck — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 08:13:08 +0000

Enabling works are set to be carried out by LFC as preperations take shape to begin development work on our new 73,000 seat stadium.

Initially set to have a capacity of 60,000, the new stadium is planned to be ready for the 2011/12 season.

“This is a significant milestone for the club and I am delighted that the design received full planning consent and that we are now on site,” Gillett told the Offish site.

“We have been working very hard over the last six months to move the details of the design along but this is the first tangible evidence for fans that a new LFC stadium will be built.” he added.

‘Macca’ keen on Reds duo

fiz — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:01:42 +0000

Former Red and current Leeds manager Gary McAllister is interested in Liverpool’s Krisztian Nemeth and Astrit Ajdarevic on loan according to TeamTalk. It’s reported that ‘Macca’ has invited the duo to join his squad for pre-season training.

Nemeth has been in immense in the reserves earning praises from Rafael Benitez himself and reserves team coach Gary Ablett. Ablett even likened reserve striker Krisztian Nemeth to Reds’ legend Kenny Dalglish. It’d be beneficial for the Hungarian to go out on a season-long loan deal.

It’s been told that Astrit Ajdarevic will also leave the club in the summer once a new club has been found.

Youngster wants loan move

fiz — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 09:56:09 +0000

There’s a handful of clubs trying to sign Paul Anderson on loan. Anderson has had a successful season after impressing in League One for Swansea City.

Nottingham Forest are willing to fork out as much as £750,000 for the youngster on a permanent deal, but it’s believed that Anderson is more interested in a loan move to Swansea.

Swansea’s manager Roberto Martinez told the club’s official site, “I met with Paul and we agreed that as far as football reasons go it’s clear, he wants to play for Swansea City,”

”We are delighted about that, but there are three parties here, ourselves Liverpool and the player, and we must all come together now on an agreement.”

”We all know how excited Paul is about playing Championship football and we’re delighted that he wants to do it with us.”

”Paul has told me he wants to come back here and that he is happy to carry on his development with Swansea, but now we need to finalise things.”

Pompey bid for Crouch rejected

fiz — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 09:37:39 +0000

Portsmouth The News reported that Liverpool have rejected a £9 million bid from Aston Villa for striker Peter Crouch.

Harry Redknapp has been a fan of the lanky striker but he insists that he wouldn’t pay submit to Liverpool’s excessive demand. Crouch’s high price-tag of £15 million has hindered a move to Portsmouth.

Crouch has found himself warming the bench on many occasions as the gaffer has gone for the partnership of Fernando Torres and Dirk Kuyt. It is still unclear whether he will stay or move to a club where he’ll be given regular football.

Benayoun wants to see out career with Liverpool

fiz — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:23:34 +0000

Yossi Benayoun wants to stay at Liverpool for the rest of his career. There were several reports suggesting that Harry Redknapp and Mark Hughes might be making a move for the Israeli.

“There are three or four clubs in England willing to buy me after the season I have just had,” Benayoun told the Jewish Chronicle. “But I want to stay at Liverpool until the end of my career.

”It really moves me when I go out on to the pitch at Anfield and the crowd start singing.”

Euro 2008: Quarter-Final Round-up

Zac Lee Rigg — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:11:08 +0000

There were mixed results for the Liverpool players still involved in Euro 2008 competition.

Dirk Kuyt found himself on the teary-eyed side of that spectrum. He continued his starting role for the Dutch and played out a tense opening half against Russia. In the intermission, he was replaced by Arsenal’s more attack-minded Robin van Persie.

Despite scoring a late equalizer through Ruud van Nistelrooy, Holland were undone by superior tactics from fellow Dutchman Guus Hiddink and a higher workrate from the Russians. The final score was 3-1.

Liverpool’s Spanish Armada ended the quarter finals in much better spirits. Going up against an Italian team they hadn’t beaten for over 8 decades, the Spanish press were apprehensive despite glowing performances in the group stages.

Fernando Torres started up top alongside David Villa, but neither could break through a very deep Italian defense. Luckily for them, Italy also failed to break Iker Casillas’s sphere of dominance either.

Torres was substituted in the 85th minute as Spain sought a game winner, and had to join his Anfield teammates Xabi Alonso, Pepe Reina, and Alvaro Arbeloa to watch a nail-biting penalty shoot out.

Casillas once more came out tops to see Spain through to the semifinals where they will come up against Russia.

Hughes set to raid Anfield?

Redneck — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 01:27:02 +0000

According to reports, new Manchester City boss Mark Hughes, is set to launch a raid on Anfield for Yossi Benayoun.

The Manchester Evening News are reporting that Benitez is likely to offload the Israeli midfielder despite only signing him last summer from West Ham United.

Portsmouth are also said to be in the frame.

Spain fend off Italy

Redneck — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 01:15:43 +0000

Spain will progress to the EURO2008 semi-final’s after beating the World Champions 4-2 via a penalty shoot-out setting up a clash against Russia.

After 90 minutes and extra time, the score remained deadlocked at 0-0.

Torres: “I’m enjoying this victory”

Redneck — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 01:04:21 +0000

Fernando Torres spoke of his delight after Spain went through to the EURO2008 semi-final’s after a penalty shoot-out victory over World Champions Italy.

“I’m enjoying this victory!” declared the Spanish hitman who was substituted before the panelties began.

“I think we all must look back at the harder moments to realise how important this is. This is the most beautiful time I’ve ever experienced with the Spanish team.” he added,

“I’d have liked to have taken a spot-kick because I always want to support the team, Russia? They’ve proven to be a high level side and they will compete.” he told Marca.

Kewell calm amidst speculation

Redneck — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:56:12 +0000

Former Red Harry Kewell is remaining calm amidst a sea of speculation surrounding his footballing future.

“I’m on holiday for a week or so and then I’ll decide my future, but for now I’m just going to relax.” the Aussie winger told FoxSports Australia.

“In this day and age, clubs take their time. There’s a long way to go and a big process to go through, so I’m in no rush.” he added.

Kewell has recently been linked with a move to Serie A outfit AS Roma, linking him up with another former Red John Arne Riise, who made his switch to Italy last week.

Reds to face stern test in Berlin

Redneck — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:40:07 +0000

Liverpool will be travelling to Berlin to take on Hertha at the Olympic Stadium (pictured) on 22nd July as part of our pre-season preperations.

Rafael Benitez told germany’s Sportfive: “We are delighted to be playing a game against HERTHA BSC as part of our pre-season training camp. We always like to play against good quality opposition as these games form a vital part of our preparations for the new season”.

Meanwhile, Hertha’s chairman Dieter Hoeneß added: “The game against Liverpool is an important way for us to judge our form.

England’s record champion is replete with world-class players and has been very successful in the Champions League in recent years. For Berlin’s football fans, the friendly will provide the perfect kick-off to the new season.”

Rafa in for Van Der Vaart?

liverpoolrox — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 13:40:33 +0000

With Milner seemingly out of reach, Reds manager Rafael Benitez could turn his attentions to Hamburg winger Rafael Van Der Vaart.

The Dutch maestro is looking for a move to England after spending most of his career in Ajax and Hamburg.

He turned down a contract extension with Hamburg, catching the attention of an array of clubs, including Liverpool, Man Utd and Chelsea.

Liverpool have the advantage, as Van Der Vaart’s compatriots Kuyt and Babel are already Liverpuldians and would undoubtedly be looking to woo him to Liverpool. Van Der Vaart played a limited role in the Oranje’s last eight performance at the Euros, and will be looking to catch the eye of Van Basten and prove that he can play at the very top level.

New Kop-TV Forums Open

Redneck — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 13:39:05 +0000

The new Kop-TV forum boards are now open for use.

If your a regular around these parts, you may well be aware that we have had some changes to our forums in recent months.

We switched to an external forum system after many failed attempts in importing our old forum database after a server move, which unfortunately proved to be unpopular move amongst our registered members.

So one last attempt was made to import our old forum database into our own system and (so far) everything seems to be working just fine!

After a sleepless night, the forums are in a stable and useable state, and seamlessly integrate within our new mainsite design.

All usernames and password combinations should still be in tact so members who registered on our old forums should still be registered.

All posts made on the Sportsmates forums will be lost, but you can copy and paste threads over if you like using this link.

Exclusive: AFCL Manager Derek Goulding Interview

Redneck — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 19:26:24 +0000

In an exclusive interview with Kop-TV, AFC Liverpool manager Derek Goulding shares his thoughts on the club’s forthcoming first competitive fixture against St. Helens Town, the Vodkat Cup and AFC Liverpool’s coverage over on the official Liverpool FC TV channel, LFC TV.

First things first, your thoughts on your forthcoming first-ever competitive match as AFC Liverpool? Excited! A lot of hard work has been put in behind the scenes by the steering group and club members to get us to this stage. This is the first step of the journey and every great adventure and historic journey began with one small step and this is our first step. We can’t wait for it to begin.

Your expecting a big turnout for the game, the ground can hold 1,000 but many believe that you could fill the stadium several times over, do you think the players will be able to handle such pressure at such an early part of the club’s existance. If the rumours are true that we could fill the stadium several times, that would be absolutely incredible. It will be a great achievement to get the 1000 sold out, and the players will relish the moment.

We all want to perform in front of the largest audiences possible. They shouldn’t feel any pressure at all, they will certainly enjoy the atmosphere and thrive on the occasion I’m sure.

How happy are you with the players at AFC Liverpool’s disposure, anyone to look out for in particular, any hidden gems? Non-league football is littered with hidden gems, some still young enough to make an impression in the professional game. Here at AFC Liverpool we are aiming to be the best non league team in the area, so I’m confident we will be able to attract players of the highest calibre, for the level we are playing at.

One factor you seem to be focusing on is the Liverpool community, how are things progressing in terms of youth teams, school visits etc..? We already in the short space of time, since our formation, have in place, a first team, reserve team, under 18’s, two under 16’s teams, a womens team, followed by under-16s and under-14s teams for girls.

Eventually we do intend to have all junior teams and we certainly want to fully integrate with our community and form a unique bond with them.

AFC Liverpool’s inclusion in the Vodkat Cup is great news, how do you think the team will fair, can we actually go all the way and win it? I’m optimistic we’ll be a force straight away at this level, which I feel will give us a good chance in this trophy. It won’t be easy though, the football is very competitive in non- league and if we get through at Holker we’ve then got a tough test at last years champions New Mills.

It’s tough to win any trophy at what ever level you play, but we will be setting out to achieve success, somewhere along the line in our first season.

Coverage on LFC TV is another tremendous coop, how excited are you about the prospect of TV coverage? To be accepted by LFC and the letter Rick Parry sent to the club has been a massive boost to everyone at AFC.

The coverage on LFC TV is just the icing on the cake. If there are Liverpool supporters out there who can’t get to Anfield to support the reds then hopefully they will be encouraged to come and support us, we play in red, we have a liverbird on our chest and we play with great passion and pride for Liverpool.

We feel really privileged to be associated with Liverpool FC and the support they have given us so far has been fantastic.

Some former Reds are showing their support to the AFCL cause, are there any more legends in the pipeline? Yes its been great to get support from some of the LFC legends and the football club its self. Liverpool FC is very close to the hearts of the people behind this club and everyone involved with it and I know when we receive messages of support from LFC and its legends it gives everyone a massive lift. We need as much support as we can get and hopefully there will be other legends who will send messages of support in the future.

Thanks for your time Derek, it is greatly appreciated and you have the full support of Kop-TV cheering you on.

For full information on AFC Liverpool, visit the club’s official website.

Alonso hints at Juve switch

fiz — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 15:50:53 +0000

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso has dropped a hint that he may quit Liverpool for Juventus this summer. The Spaniard admits that he’s ‘fascinated’ by Italian football.

“We’ll see what will happen with Juve. It’s difficult to say today. I spent four fantastic years at Liverpool, but I have to admit that I have always been fascinated by Italian football,” Alonso told Sky Italia.

He added: “Juve are one of the biggest teams in Europe, perhaps the biggest in Italy. They have very many fans not only in Italy but all over the world.

“They have champions of the quality of [Gianluigi] Buffon, [Pavel] Nedved, and [Alessandro] Del Piero who together have achieved great success.

“They’re a team who want to get back to winning the Scudetto and who also want to compete in the Champions League. In short: a great club.”

However, he insists that the only thing on his mind right now is the Euro 2008 and he’ll decide on his future after the Euros.

“I am very calm. I have little to say about Juve because at the moment I am very focused on Euro 2008 and on Spain.”

“I don’t have any news on my future, at this time my future is only the Euros.”

AFCL Match Tickets Now On Sale

Redneck — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 08:48:45 +0000

Match tickets for AFC Liverpool’s first-ever competitive match are now on sale today at The Casa between 10am - 2pm.

AFCL, who recently announced the arrival of their first kit designs, will tackle St. Helens on the 16th July.

For more information on AFC Liverpool, visit the club’s official website.