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Liverpool FC | 2021/22 Season

Assistant boss Pep Lijnders says it is "absurd" that Liverpool must play two games in four days given the number of Covid-19 cases and injuries at the club.

The Reds drew 2-2 at Spurs on Sunday and take on Leicester in the Carabao Cup quarter-final on Wednesday.

Premier League clubs chose to fulfil festive fixtures at a meeting on Monday despite a rise in Covid-19 cases.

"We love the intensity but we all have to respect recovery," said Lijnders.

He added: "We think it is absurd we have to play after 48 hours. It's a much higher risk of injury.

"You'll have to ask the teams why they want to play. With the Covid cases being this fresh, it'd make sense to have more time before the next game."

Liverpool were missing a number of key players against Tottenham, with Virgil van Dijk, Fabinho and Thiago Alcantara among those absent following positive Covid tests, while captain Jordan Henderson had a cold.

Jude Bellingham 'would advise' footballers to get vaccinated
Lijnders also said the Premier League should listen to the scientists and not club executives when making decisions about how to deal with the impact of Covid-19.

Premier League players and club staff returned a record 90 positive tests last week, with six out of last weekend's 10 fixtures postponed.

It had been suggested that the Premier League's gameweek 20, starting on 28 December, would be postponed in order to ease the pressure on squads.

But the clubs have instead been advised if they have 13 fit players, plus a goalkeeper, they should fulfil their games.

"For me the experts are not the managers, they are the scientists and the doctors," said Lijnders.

"We should follow their guidelines. The Premier League should ask them, not the CEOs, not the managers, because health always comes position number one above everything."

BBC
 
Liverpool’s forensic approach to recruitment means they appear frontrunners to sign Jude Bellingham when the England midfielder returns to the Premier League.

Sources in Germany believe Liverpool have emerged as “the most realistic” destination for the midfielder when he moves from Borussia Dortmund, but indicate any move will have to wait until the summer transfer window of 2022 at the very earliest.

Bellingham is one of the most coveted players in European football and the underlying statistics behind his performances continue to impress recruitment specialists in the game.

It is little surprise he is also being monitored by Manchester United, Paris Saint Germain and Real Madrid, such is his status in European football.

isport
 
Reports that Liverpool could pip their rivals to the £64m signing of Erling Haaland with Mohamed Salah reportedly demanding the club bring him to Anfield.

Also Liverpool have reportedly identified Porto winger Luis Diaz as a potential target to solve their Africa Cup of Nations crisis in January.
 
Rough and costly night for Liverpool.

Missed penalty by Salah, chance after chance and they end up losing 1-0 to Leicester City.

I wonder just how much tonight's result will affect the outcome of the Premier League title.
 
Jurgen Klopp "didn't like" the way Liverpool played in their 1-0 defeat to Leicester and said they won't catch Man City if they continue to play in the same manner.

Ademola Lookman came off the bench to consign Liverpool to the shock defeat after Mohamed Salah had a penalty saved.

It was a miserable night for Klopp's side as they failed to close the six-point gap to Premier League leaders City and their wastefulness was to blame. City play twice before Liverpool's next Premier League fixture on Sunday, January 2 against Chelsea, which could mean Klopp's men will be 12 points behind the pacesetters if City stretch their winning run.

"Chelsea and us play against each other so we cannot both get the points," he said.

"Sorry for that but it was not our plan tonight to give City the chance to run away or whatever.

"But if we play like tonight, we don't have to think about catching up with City. But if we play our normal football, we can win normal football games.

"We have to see how many points we can get and we will see what that means.

"I don't have a proper explanation for tonight but to find this explanation is my main concern and not, in this moment, the gap to City.

"I know it is easy to say but if we had won the game 2-1 I would not have liked the game anyway. Tonight, I did not like a lot in our football game. That is not cool.

"We have to do better, improve and go again."

SKY
 
I wish managers and players would stop complaining about Covid and being made to play to many matches. Covid is effecting the entire world where as the Football season is always packed this time of the year. Enough matches have been cancelled due to Covid yet these men still keep on crying about the schedule. With the Word Cup next year too many postponements could effect next season giving them another reason to moan then.

Liverpool were poor yesterday. Other then Salah's penalty miss and Mane sitter we hardly created anything at all. Just a bad day at the office leaving us well behind City now. With Chelsea drawing today we need to go and defeat them at the weekend that will keep us in contention. Hoping against hope that Arsenal who are doing well at the moment can do us a favour by getting something against Man City on Saturday.

With Salah, Mane and Keita off to the AFCON JK should be looking to sign a few new players.
 
Jürgen Klopp will miss Liverpool’s game with Chelsea after registering a suspected positive test for Covid-19
 
Feels like two points dropped for Liverpool. Could be crucial
 
We don't have adequate players as replacements when some top players are missing. Mane in particular misses to many chances then Firmino is not doing anything this season. With Keta, Mo and Mane off to the AFCON I expect L'pool to drop more points. Doesn't seem JK is bringing any major signings in this month.

We can't compete with Man City's bank account. It is the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup for us to play for this season.
 
How many games will Salah and Mane miss for Liverpool?

Salah and Mane could miss out on up to seven games for the Reds in all competitions if their respective countries make it all the way to the final.

Keita’s Guinea are not favourites to go far in the tournament and the midfielder could be back to face Crystal Palace if his side are eliminated in the group-stage.

Senegal made it to the final last time and should they do so again, then Mane would miss both semi-final legs against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup.

The winger would also be absent for the Premier League games against Palace and Leicester and a trip to Burnley could be in doubt if he wins AFCON and is afforded a break after the competition ends.

https://talksport.com/football/1012...hamed-salah-sadio-mane-africa-cup-of-nations/
 
Now it will be up to Jota, Origi and Firmino to come good up front. JK's predicament will be to sign another forward when these three are still at the club. It is Bobby Firmino who has to come good now until the end of the season. Jota has proved himself where as Origi is capable as well.
 
Liverpool have re-opened their training ground after a two-day shutdown following an outbreak of Covid among players and staff.
 
I thought they might have gone back in for Coutinho, even if it was on loan, especially with Afcon and the Covid situation at the club.
 
Hassaan HS said:
Liverpool have re-opened their training ground after a two-day shutdown following an outbreak of Covid among players and staff.
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99% of LFC staff/players are vaccinated. Klopp opened his mouth to early, insisting he would only sign vaccinated players. Right after his club has seen a huge rise of infections.

PL shouldnt allow LFC to postpone matches, play the kids if they have too. When you take such an extreme stance, you should also then play on.
 
So clubs want match after match to be cancelled then they will complain of a fixture backlog leading to playing too many matches. They can't have it both ways or they should just vote to cancel the whole season if they are so terrified of Covid. As much as I admire JK often speaks without thinking.

Try to sign some players instead of crying over Covid all the time. Other clubs are equally vulnerable too it.
 
Trent Alexander-Arnold is missing from the Liverpool squad for their FA Cup third round tie with Shrewsbury after he registered a suspected positive Covid-19 test.
 
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/59925850

<b>Liverpool 3-0 Brentford</b>

Liverpool moved up to second in the Premier League as they overcame a stubborn Brentford side to take all three points at Anfield.

Fabinho's far-post header eased some of the tension that had built up at Anfield over 43 goalless minutes, but the home fans were relieved when Bryan Mbeumo sliced wide from a fine position after the break.

Shortly afterwards, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain connected with an Andy Robertson cross to double the lead and Takumi Minamino came off the bench to side-foot home a third.

Leaders Manchester City are 11 points above Liverpool, having played a game more.

It will take a spectacular and sudden disintegration in the champions' form, and a near flawless run-in from Liverpool to reverse those standings by May. City have dropped just 10 points so far this season.

Liverpool find a way without star duo

It was the first time since May 2017 that Liverpool had lined up without either Mohamed Salah or Sadio Mane for a Premier League match. And, for a while, it showed.

Liverpool had huffed and puffed to little effect against 10-man Arsenal in the Carabao Cup in midweek and once again they initially dominated possession without making an impression on the scoreline.

With Salah and Mane away on international duty, the hosts lacked the necessary guile and dexterity to prise apart the packed ranks of defenders.

Roberto Firmino and Takumi Minamino were able to almost walk in Liverpool's third after the former had robbed Ethan Pinnock of possession.

Virgil van Dijk had a close-range effort well saved by the spread-eagled Alvaro Fernandez, but otherwise Liverpool were restricted to long-range sighters, half-chance snap-shots and hopeful crosses which defenders Ethan Pinnock, Pontus Janssen and Kristoffer Ajer, all six foot four inches or more, cleared with ease.

The breakthrough came less than two minutes before the interval as Trent Alexander-Arnold's corner skidded through a crowded six-yard box for Fabinho to divert in at the far post.

Brentford, with a skinny 25% of possession, had offered some threat before the opener. Ivan Toney and Vitaly Janelt were not far away with shots from a good distance out, while Liverpool's high defensive line left them looking with relief for the assistant referee's flag on a couple of other occasions.

And after the break Mbeumo wasted a glaring opening. Having twisted inside Joel Matip, he had a clear sight of goal, but cracked his shot wide of the post from just inside the box.

It was the key moment in the game. Liverpool, stung into action, found another gear. Diogo Jota was denied by Fernandez and rattled the post before Oxlade-Chamberlain's diving header all but ended the visitors' hopes.

Oxlade-Chamberlain departed with an ankle injury and his replacement Minamino took advantage after Brentford attempted to play out from the back with calamitous consequences.

The final 10 minutes were played out in open style. The home fans greeted impending victory by singing the name of their former manager Rafael Benitez, who had been relieved of his duties at neighbours Everton, as 17-year-old Premier League debutant Kaide Gordon wasted a chance at one end for Liverpool and the impressive Toney did the same for the Bees at the other.

While unable to match the draw they produced in the reverse fixture in September, Brentford are 10 points above the relegation zone and well on target to survive their first season in the top flight in 74 years.
 
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Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino in the summer.

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Blood Red: Liverpool Transfer Round Up | Paulo Dybala, Bukayo Saka & Yves Bissouma
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According to El Nacional, Barca have expressed an interest in signing Firmino who is out of contract in 18 months.

The report also states he would be available for around €20 million (£16.6m).

The Catalan club are reportedly in the market for attacking players after summer signing Sergio Aguero announced his retirement from football last month due to a heart condition.Firmino has endured a frustrating campaign so far. He has already missed 14 games due to hamstring injuries and Covid issues and Jota has shone in his absence scoring 12 goals in all competitions.

However, the 30-year-old still has seven goals to his name this season and will certainly play a crucial role for the club whilst Salah and Mane are at the African Cup of Nations.

Firmino joined Liverpool for £21.3m from German side Hoffenheim in the summer of 2015.

In his six and a half seasons at Anfield he’s scored 94 goals and notched 72 assists in 309 appearances.
 
Now the Ox has got himself injured. Already three playing in the AFCON and without Thiago the squad is again looking thin.
 
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/60096122

<b>Caoimhin Kelleher: Liverpool keeper to start Carabao Cup final v Chelsea</b>

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp says goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher will start the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley on 27 February.

Kelleher, 23, has started every game in the competition bar the semi-final first leg against Arsenal, when first-choice Alisson played as the Brazilian returned following Covid-19.

Klopp described the Republic of Ireland international as a "top-class" keeper.

"Caoimhin will play, if he is fit," said Klopp.

"We consider Caoimhin as an outstanding goalie. Not a good goalie, an outstanding goalie, and we want to keep him here.

"And to keep him here you need to make sure of a few things. Before a season you need to think and talk about the different games he will get."

Cork native Kelleher has firmly established himself as Liverpool's number two behind Alisson.

He has played in four of the Reds' five Carabao Cup games this season, with his only three goals conceded coming in the dramatic quarter-final victory over Leicester City on penalties, when Liverpool progressed after he saved two spot-kicks.

Alisson came in for the semi-final first leg against Arsenal at Anfield as he returned to action following a positive Covid-19 test, however the Irishman was restored to the team for the second leg on Thursday and kept a clean sheet as Liverpool set up a meeting with Chelsea.

"My idea in this moment is to play him (at Wembley). I don't see any reason why we should not do that. Caoimhin deserves that," added Klopp.

"He has shown he deserves all the trust and faith that we have in him.

"Last week against Arsenal I had to explain to Caoimhin why he is not playing.

"I usually do not do that, but it was his competition and I thought Ali needs the game because he was lacking rhythm after Covid and all these kinds of things.

"What I really liked was that Caoimhin was not like, 'Oh yes, I understand'. He was like 'What? Why?' - so he matures in all departments and that is good. That is the goalie we want."
 
Easily brushed Arsenal aside on their own patch. The Arsenal hardly created any chances...we dominated possession as well and could have scored one or two more. Encouraging to see us defeat a supposed big team minus, Salah, Mane, Keita, Ox, Origi Thiago an even Alisson not even on the bench. What a brilliant buy Jota has been rising to the occasion whenever called. The boy is an awesome finisher.
 
Liverpool boosted their hopes of catching Manchester City in the Premier League as they mixed early class with late resilience to hold off Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

Less than 24 hours after league leaders City dropped points for the first time since October, Jurgen Klopp's side were sharp and ruthless early on to take the game away from their hosts.

The intensity of their press and crisp use of the ball overwhelmed Palace and Virgil van Dijk rose to deliver a bullet header for their opener before Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain finished a sweeping team move for their second.

Palace, though, eventually offered moments of warning, with Liverpool keeper Alisson forced to save well from Michael Olise and Jean-Philippe Mateta before Conor Gallagher glanced a header wide with the opening attack of the second half.

They finally broke through when the ever-willing Mateta raced onto Jeffrey Schlupp's superb through ball and unselfishly squared for Odsonne Edouard to tap into an empty net.

It prompted nervy moments for Klopp's side as Joachim Andersen drilled an effort wide and Olise went close with a late lob.

But Fabinho whipped home a penalty after Diogo Jota was felled in the box and a spot-kick was awarded after the VAR suggested referee Kevin Friend should revise his initial decision not to penalise Palace.

Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker said the decision was not a penalty "in a million years" but it helped secure the victory for Klopp's side, who have taken maximum league points from the fixtures missed by Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane while they play in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Much was made of how Klopp's side would handle the loss of Mane, Salah and Naby Keita, who will be available again for the visit of Leicester on 10 February. In their absence the Reds have marginally improved their hopes of challenging for the title.

The gap at the top has been reduced to nine points and with Liverpool having a game in hand, fans of a red persuasion will hope this tight victory coupled with the end of City's 12-game winning run leads to a momentum shift for the sides.

Klopp's side, who secured a place in the EFL Cup final at Wembley by beating Arsenal on Thursday, brimmed with early confidence.

They swarmed Palace to win the ball back seven times in the final third in the opening 30 minutes and had played over double the number of passes compared to their hosts in the same period.

Midfielder Curtis Jones again showed poise throughout as he created three chances and used the ball smartly in the final third, where he was more accurate than any Reds' player, completing 90% of his passes.

Andrew Robertson delivered the crosses for Van Dijk and Oxlade-Chamberlain to take his assist tally to 43 since the start of the 2017-18 season - the same mark as Trent Alexander-Arnold, and only Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has more in the league on 52.

But for all their early brilliance Liverpool found themselves on the end of a marked momentum shift towards half time.

Their 11 first-half shots fell to as few as four after the break as Palace began to find a footing and Alisson's saves kept the home side out until Edouard struck to deservedly rewarded their industry.

Olise, signed from Reading in the summer, looks set to prove a key force for Patrick Vieira.

The 20-year-old and the on-loan Gallagher covered more ground than any other Palace players but Olise created two chances and looked lively in advanced areas throughout, notably when he almost levelled with a deft lob late on.

Vieira and Palace were aggrieved at key moments in the defeat. There was a suggestion Roberto Firmino was offside in the build-up to Oxlade-Chamberlain's goal and the foul on Jota for the penalty that sealed the win was dubious.

The Portugal forward seemed to slightly change the direction of his run to collide with Palace keeper Vicente Guaita - a move the frustrated Vieira said was "really smart" - and referee Friend pointed to the spot after viewing the touchline monitor.

Vieira's side have just one win from their last six outings and enter the winter break on 24 points from 22 games - five fewer than they had under Roy Hodgson after as many fixtures last season.

They will hope to add results to promising performances like this one, while Liverpool know they must keep churning out wins like this if they are to stand any chance of reeling in league leaders City.
 
Liverpool are monitoring Eduardo Camavinga's situation at Real Madrid having been admirers of the 19-year-old French midfielder for some time. (El Nacional - in Spanish)
 
No Jota's fall was never a penalty. After a brilliant start it was normal for CP to come back at us being two down at half time. Now looking forward to see if we sign anyone before the window closes.
 
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/60165986

<b>Luis Diaz: Liverpool make move for Porto and Colombia winger</b>

Liverpool are trying to sign Colombia winger Luis Diaz from Porto in the current transfer window.

The deal, if completed, is expected to be worth €45m (£37.5m) plus a maximum of €15m in potential bonuses.

Liverpool were planning to wait until the summer but changed their stance as it became clear that Diaz could move elsewhere if they did not act.

The 25-year-old had been linked with a move to Tottenham, who reportedly had a bid of around £38m rejected.

Diaz was Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp's first choice for the summer when the asking price would have been €60 million (£49.9m).

However, with Liverpool moving late because of the prospect of missing out on Diaz altogether, the proposed move is far from straightforward. The forward is currently with his national team for World Cup qualifying matches; Colombia play Peru on Friday before an away game against Argentina on Tuesday, 1 February.

Liverpool will send a delegation to Argentina to conduct a medical as they try to get the move completed before the January transfer window closes at 23:00 GMT on 31 January.

Diaz has played against Liverpool twice in the Champions League this season, with Porto losing 5-1 and 2-0 in the group stages of the competition.

Porto failed to progress into the knockout stages of the competition after finishing behind Liverpool and Atletico Madrid in their group. However, they are top of the Portuguese top division, with Diaz having scored 14 goals and registered five assists in 18 league appearances.

If the deal is completed this window, it will be seen as a big coup for Julian Ward, who will take over as Liverpool sporting director when Michael Edwards leaves in the summer.

Ward had led on the move for Diaz, while Edwards has played an important role in support.
 
Diaz will be a great signing providing it s not at the expense of selling Mane or Salah. He has everything and is potentially a future great. I feel we will sell either Minamino or Origi before the window shuts. Diaz said no to Spurs then yes to us:wa
 
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/60180371

<b>Luis Diaz: Liverpool sign Colombia winger from Porto in five-year deal for initial £37.5m</b>

Liverpool have signed Colombia winger Luis Diaz from Porto in a deal worth 45m euros (£37.5m), with a further 15m euros (£12.5m) in potential bonuses.

Diaz has signed a contract until 2027 with the Merseyside club.

The 25-year-old had previously been linked with a move to Tottenham, who reportedly had a bid of around £38m rejected.

"I'm very happy to sign for Liverpool," the international said on Sunday via the club's official Twitter account.

Diaz requires a work permit and is unlikely to arrive in Liverpool until the end of next week at the earliest.

He has scored 14 goals and provided five assists in 18 league appearances this season for Porto, who are top of Portugal's Primeira Liga.

Diaz was Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp's main target for the summer transfer window, when the asking price would have been closer to £50m but the Reds changed their stance when it became clear the winger could move elsewhere if they did not act.

"I could not be happier that we've been able to get this deal done and bring Luis to Liverpool", Klopp said.

"I have always been a believer in only signing players in January if you would want to sign them in the summer, and that's very much the case with Luis.

"He is an outstanding player and someone we've been tracking for a very long time.

"This team deserved to add quality and when we played against Luis earlier this season, we saw what a danger he is, how fast he is and how his mentality was to help his team."

Diaz is currently on international duty with Colombia for World Cup qualifying matches.

Liverpool sent a delegation to Argentina - where Colombia play on Tuesday - to conduct a medical so the move could be completed before the January transfer window closed.
 
Now we are after Carvalho of Fulham. The winger will come much more cheaper then Diaz.
 
PakLFC said:
Now we are after Carvalho of Fulham. The winger will come much more cheaper then Diaz.
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Don't know much about these signings. Will they help a push towards the title? Or is this season lost, and such signings will have more of an impact in the future?
 
Firebat said:
Don't know much about these signings. Will they help a push towards the title? Or is this season lost, and such signings will have more of an impact in the future?
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Is this season lost? Really? We are 9 points behind City with a game in hand and a game against them still pending. That would cover 6 points. The title race is far from over, my friend.
 
uberkoen said:
Is this season lost? Really? We are 9 points behind City with a game in hand and a game against them still pending. That would cover 6 points. The title race is far from over, my friend.
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And Man City just drew at Southampton, ending a streak of 12 consecutive victories. As we have seen in recent seasons, it's tough to make up a points deficit on a team like that. And it's a pretty big ask to beat this same team at their ground, where you haven't won since 2018 in the UCL, and not in the league since 2015.

Then again, I don't have a horse in the race so my perspective is slightly different. Seems a foregone conclusion to most neutrals.
 
Firebat said:
Don't know much about these signings. Will they help a push towards the title? Or is this season lost, and such signings will have more of an impact in the future?
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Diaz is class. He is Columbia best player by far, very skillful. A perfect fit for Klopps LFC team.

There is a long way to go, we also have to visit City. City are strong favourites but the title isnt theirs yet.
 
Firebat said:
Don't know much about these signings. Will they help a push towards the title? Or is this season lost, and such signings will have more of an impact in the future?
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Carvalho will be loaned back to Fulham if we sign him. We have plenty of firepower for this season and are still in all competitions. It is all rosy at Anfield.
 
Carvalho deal fell through just before 11 pm deadline. A price had been agreed but the paperwork could not be completed on time. Additionally Liverpool were reluctant to loan him back to Fulham for the rest of the season.

Other clubs will also be interested in him when we probably go back for him in the summer. Hopefully the young man still wants to come to Liverpool and work with Jurgen Klopp more then any other coach.
 
Liverpool remain confident of completing a pre-contract agreement to sign Fabio Carvalho from Fulham on a free transfer in the summer
 
PakLFC said:
Carvalho deal fell through just before 11 pm deadline. A price had been agreed but the paperwork could not be completed on time. Additionally Liverpool were reluctant to loan him back to Fulham for the rest of the season.

Other clubs will also be interested in him when we probably go back for him in the summer. Hopefully the young man still wants to come to Liverpool and work with Jurgen Klopp more then any other coach.
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I thought LFC agreed to loan him back to Fulham for rest of the season, no? I still think he will be a summer signing and Neco's loan to Fulham showed both clubs are in good terms. But I am also concerned the other clubs might guarantee him playing minutes which he may not get at Liverpool.
 
hamid.s said:
I thought LFC agreed to loan him back to Fulham for rest of the season, no? I still think he will be a summer signing and Neco's loan to Fulham showed both clubs are in good terms. But I am also concerned the other clubs might guarantee him playing minutes which he may not get at Liverpool.
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We could not agree anything with Fulham at all. Carvalho is free to decide if or not he wants to join Liverpool in the summer. He will have to decide between being a guaranteed starter for a less ambitious club or to fight for his place at Liverpool. That's just the way it is and the price he has to pay for representing the mighty Reds.
 
Manager Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool would "be crazy" if they were not still interested in signing Fulham winger Fabio Carvalho after failing to push through a deadline-day deal.

The Reds looked set to sign the 19-year-old, whose contract expires in the summer, for £8m but the deal could not be completed before Monday's deadline.

"We are still interested - it would be crazy if we were not," said Klopp.

"It was late, the window closed, it did not work out. We'll see what happens."

Fulham boss Marco Silva has said Portugal-born Carvalho - who has represented England at youth level - is "very happy" at Fulham despite the deal not being concluded.

The former Benfica youth player has scored seven goals in 16 league games this season and would have remained at the promotion-chasing London club on loan until the end of the season even if the Reds had completed the deal.

Elliott returns and Diaz needs time
Klopp did complete the signing of £37.5m Colombia winger Luis Diaz from Porto during the transfer window but warned the 25-year-old "needs time" to live up to expectations.

The German manager added: "If he would come, step on the pitch and play his absolute best that would be strange. We're really happy and excited about the signing."

Klopp confirmed winger Harvey Elliott, another young player they signed from Fulham, will be available for Sunday's FA Cup tie against Cardiff City at Anfield.

The 18-year-old has not played since September when he suffered a dislocated ankle against Leeds United but Klopp says he is now "in a good place" and will be part of his squad.

Liverpool will still be without forwards Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, who will face each other for Senegal and Egypt respectively in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday, which Klopp says is a "great achievement".

"They both have the chance to achieve something big. All the experience the boys get in this helps us," said Klopp.

"It's impressive to see. It's difficult to get that far. The pressure on their shoulders was massive. We will watch it definitely."

BBC
 
Klopp on new signing Luis Diaz:

"We signed him because we like pretty much everything about him, that is how it is," Klopp told his press conference on Friday.

"I have followed him now for a while, not only since we played them [Porto] twice in the Champions League. He is an exceptional player; he has the speed, the skillset, the character to have a really good career. We all want him to have this career with us.

"Nowadays you have 16, 17-year-old boys playing at the highest level, maybe he is a bit of a late bloomer [Diaz is 25], but the bloom is exceptional.

"I am really happy that we could get him in now and we can help him, and he can help us. His story is a special one, I like players with special stories behind them. Now he is one of us and we can't wait to welcome him here and started working together."

Klopp insisted Diaz will need time adjust to his new surrounding at Liverpool, adding: "If Luis were to come here, step on the pitch and be immediately at his absolute best and playing better than all the other players would be really strange because we've played together for a while.

"He needs time. I haven't even seen him yet, he's not here at the training ground, so maybe we should wait a little bit.

"But we are really happy and excited about the signing; it is a really good sign that we work on all fronts to improve this team. In football, we have to be successful now and, in the future, he can help with both and that is a really good thing."
 
Harvey Elliott hailed as 'fearless' by Jurgen Klopp as Roy Keane urges Liverpool to sign up Mohamed Salah

Jurgen Klopp hailed Harvey Elliott as a "fearless boy" and "great footballer" after he marked his return from a long-term injury with his first goal for Liverpool in their 3-1 FA Cup win over Cardiff.

Elliott, who was making his comeback after suffering a dislocated ankle in September, struck Liverpool's third goal of the afternoon at Anfield when he expertly rifled home from an Andrew Robertson cross after coming off the bench in the second half.

The 18-year-old described the goal - which helped set up a fifth-round tie at home to Norwich for Liverpool - as a moment he will "cherish forever" after the game, while Klopp lauded the attitude he displayed during his rehabilitation.

"He was unlucky with the injury but then lucky with the whole process afterwards," the Liverpool manager told ITV.

"Everything has gone well. He did an incredible job and the medical department did an incredible job.

"He was patient coming back and he's still a fearless boy and a great footballer. There are not a lot of good things when you get an injury like that, but when you are that young, you deal with it better.

"Getting this goal was a really touching moment."

Speaking in his press conference, Klopp described Elliott's return as a "fairy tale" and added: "Probably his biggest talent is how ready mentally he is out there. He is a kid, yes, but on the pitch not so much.

"When he got the injury, the next day or two days later I saw him at the training ground and I was in a worse mood than he was.

"He was like, 'Come on boss, head up, I will be back'. He is an exceptional talent in a lot of departments."

Elliott told ITV: "It's hard to put into words at the moment. It's what I've been put into the team to do - to score and assist. Thankfully, it's come today in front of the fans after a long time out.

"It's my job, and I just have to keep doing it. It's a moment that for myself and for my family we will cherish forever."

On his goal, he said: "It wasn't too bad. Watching Diogo [Jota] next to me, I've been getting tips off him!"

The former Fulham youngster also used his post-match interview to thank club physio Joe Lewis for his role in helping him through the long months of rehabilitation.

"He's one of the physios who took me in during the early hours of the morning and we didn't finish until late at night. He made me strong again.

"A big shout out to all of my friends and family as well, especially my mum and dad. They've supported me throughout. A massive thanks to the fans who gave me all the love.

"The injury is behind me now and I'm back."

https://www.skysports.com/football/...eane-urges-liverpool-to-sign-up-mohamed-salah
 
Mohamed Salah is scheduled to return to training with Liverpool on Tuesday following the Africa Cup of Nations.
 
Although i acknowledge he was surrounded by average team mates Salah did not do much in the AFCON. As great a player he is i will trust Jurgen if his contract is not renewed. Salah is not irreplaceable if we can get Mpabbe or Erling Haaland as replacements. Ideally out of the three forwards i would much prefer if Firmino was sold.
 
PakLFC said:
Although i acknowledge he was surrounded by average team mates Salah did not do much in the AFCON. As great a player he is i will trust Jurgen if his contract is not renewed. Salah is not irreplaceable if we can get Mpabbe or Erling Haaland as replacements. Ideally out of the three forwards i would much prefer if Firmino was sold.
Click to expand...

I highly doubt either of the two you mentioned as Salah's replacement will join us. However, the fact that we've signed Diaz and also looking to bring in Carvalho seems like we're making plans for Salah's departure. Don't forget that with the Salah money (if he get's sold) we will also be strengthening our midfield
 
Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah could be in contention to face Leicester on Thursday only four days after losing the AFCON final with Egypt, Jurgen Klopp has confirmed.

Salah's Egypt were beaten in a penalty shootout - in which the captain did not take a spot-kick - by Senegal in Sunday's showpiece final in Cameroon.

Sadio Mane, who scored the winning penalty, joined celebrations in the Senegalese capital Dakar on Monday, and will not return to England in time to play in Thursday's game, Klopp added.

Klopp told LiverpoolFC.com: "Mo is now back, I spoke already to him. He is very disappointed of course, but looking forward to all the things coming up here now. I spoke to him and pretty much the first thing Mo told me was: 'I'm ready.' Haha!

"He is an experienced player, he is a physical monster, to be honest, so we have to see. He will obviously have a little recovery session today and we will see how he feels tomorrow and from there we go.

"Sadio flies out if it's possible on Wednesday night, so will arrive here on Thursday but he is, of course, then not involved in the Leicester game.

"It means the world to him, it means the world to his people, it means the world to Senegal and we respect that a lot and we would never consider to have called back him from there or whatever - let them do what they do in the moment because they deserve it.

"They've had an incredibly intense time, so when he is back we will talk to him and we will see how we can use him."

Senegal's victorious football team received a heroes' welcome when they landed back in the capital Dakar, after winning the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time.

Mane, who was named player of the tournament at the end of Senegal's AFCON triumph, described winning the trophy with his country as "the best day of his life".

The 29-year-old put an early penalty miss behind him to score the winning spot-kick as Senegal sealed victory in Bafoussam on Sunday.

"It's the best day of my life and the best trophy of my life," the Liverpool forward said.

"I won the Champions League and some [other] trophies but this is the special one for me. This is more important for me.

"I am happy for myself, my people and all of my family."

Speaking about his early spot-kick miss, he added: "When I missed the first penalty, it was a big blow for me. But my team-mates came to me and said: 'Sadio, we lose together and we win together. We know you. You have done too much for us, keep on going.'

"That made me stronger and I think it made the difference when I got the second one. All the boys came to me and said 'Sadio, we trust you' and that gave me more motivation. The trophy belongs to the whole Senegal team, everyone deserves it."

SKY
 
uberkoen said:
I highly doubt either of the two you mentioned as Salah's replacement will join us. However, the fact that we've signed Diaz and also looking to bring in Carvalho seems like we're making plans for Salah's departure. Don't forget that with the Salah money (if he get's sold) we will also be strengthening our midfield
Click to expand...

Problem is Liverpool are not big spenders in the market compared to a Man City Chelsea or the two Spanish sides. We have a method of doing things that can be very frustrating at times. I wonder why we left the Carvalho deal right to the last minute instead of getting it done sooner. It is such things that anger me. It could be that he ends up somewhere else now.

As for the midfield with Keita somewhat disappointing, Ox not doing much and Milner nearing the very end of his career we need to think about this. Elliot and Jones seem to be able replacements that could mean we need not spend too much there. Up front I would prefer if we sold Firmino where as Origi and Minamino will most likely leave in the summer.

Depends on how much we sell Salah for if we do let him go. The two possible replacements i mentioned particularly Haaland could become affordable if Salah goes for around £80 million with Firmino or Mane departing too. Mane and Salah only need to look at Wijnaldum and Coutinho to see the grass is mostly not greener elsewhere.
 
For a while the Premier League title race has seemed a foregone conclusion, with Manchester City looking sure to pick up the trophy for the fourth time in five campaigns.

Pep Guardiola's side moved 12 points clear at the top of the table on Wednesday with a routine 2-0 victory over Brentford, but old title foes Liverpool responded on Thursday by winning 2-0 against Leicester to cut the deficit to nine points - with a game in hand.

There is real unpredictability about this Covid-hit season and Jurgen Klopp's men have the opportunity to claw back further ground should they win that game, against Leeds, on 23 February.

Assuming both teams win their two league fixtures between now and then, City's once double-digit lead would be cut to just six points.

The two teams meet at Etihad Stadium in April, offering the Reds a chance to eat into that lead even further.

It is that equation which meant the post-match interviews and analysis at Anfield on Thursday involved plenty of talk about whether an unlikely Liverpool title challenge might still be on.

"I am not sure we are in a position to get them on their toes," said Reds boss Jurgen Klopp. "We have no chance to catch them but that does not mean we shall not try to play the best possible season for us.

"We have to win our football games and this football club is massive. There is a game, we put on the shirt and we have to win it. It doesn't work out all the time.

"It was really important for us to win tonight. It is not about us catching City - there are a lot of teams behind us who want to get closer. That is an important task as well."

'It's still an open Premier League'

While Klopp played down his side's chances, Spain midfielder Thiago Alcantara took a different view.

"We are still there," he said. "We have played one game less and have to face them there, so it is still an open Premier League."

Liverpool and City have tussled for the title for the past five seasons and are setting the standard in the top flight of English football once more, both sides having been beaten just twice in the league so far.

The Reds are the top scorers with 60 goals in 23 games, while City's 57 is the second highest. Guardiola's men, though, have conceded the fewest goals in the division, shipping just 14 from their 24 matches played.

Liverpool will need to continue their fine form if they are to overhaul the deficit - they are on a run of one defeat in their past 19 games in all competitions.

And they have plenty of reasons to be optimistic after Thursday's win. Forward Luis Diaz made an impressive debut, Mohamed Salah returned as a substitute after Africa Cup of Nations duty and Sadio Mane is still to come back into the team after winning Afcon with Senegal.

But the Reds know even winning all their remaining matches might not be enough given City's own superb form - the champions have won 14 of their past 15 league matches, drawing the other one.

And Liverpool will well remember the 2018-19 season, when they finished the campaign strongly but City won their final 14 matches to pip the Reds to the title by a point.

"The only way we can answer the questions is by getting results," Reds full-back Andrew Robertson told BT Sport.

"The gap is still too big - we just have to keep putting pressure on them. It will be an exciting run-in hopefully as we are still fighting in four competitions."

'Can Liverpool go and beat City?'

Supporters will already be looking to 9 April when the two sides meet in the Premier League at Etihad Stadium.

That game may prove crucial in deciding the destination of this season's trophy, and the narrative put forward by Klopp and Robertson that the title is already done and dusted is not shared by all.

Former Premier League striker Clinton Morrison said on BBC Radio 5 Live: "It's not over and I'm not ruling out Liverpool yet. I said it when Manchester City drew against Southampton, Liverpool are still in it.

"They still have to go to City - they won't sit back, they'll cause problems and if they win that after their game in hand then it's three points [the gap].

"Chelsea are out of it but I think it's a two-horse race. Liverpool have a great opportunity - I think it will go right down to the wire.

"There are still a lot of games to go. The only 'if' is whether they can go and beat Man City."

However, former Premier League goalkeeper Rob Green questioned how many times City might "slip up".

He added: "Can you see Manchester City losing that many points? It's tough to see where but if anyone's going to grind it out and bang out these wins it will be Liverpool.

"They just looked so impressive [on Thursday night] and you think when they get all those cogs going in the right direction they'll be hunting them down."

BBC
 
Youri Tielemans has turned down a new Leicester City contract, potentially prompting a battle for his signature between Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United.
 
1-0 victory at Burnley today, still keeping pace with Man City in the hope that the champions drop off at some point.
 
Great away win at a tough place like Burnley. They would have got at least a draw had the home team's finishing been better. On an off day when we didn't play that well winning all the points could be crucial at the end of the season. Although with a game in hand it will still be difficult to catch Man City. We need some other teams to help us out here by at least holding Man City whilst not dropping any points ourselves. I am depending on the likes of Chelsea here.
 
Manager Jurgen Klopp was pleased to see his side overcome testing conditions and difficult opponents as Liverpool won at bottom-of-the-table Burnley to record a fourth consecutive Premier League victory.

In wind and rain at Turf Moor, Fabinho scored the game's only goal just before half-time, the midfielder stabbing the ball home from a corner.

"Everything was set up to be a banana skin for us," said Klopp.

"The balls in the air were so tricky to defend because the wind came from all directions. We played the circumstances rather than suffered from them."

Burnley, fighting for Premier League survival, had several good chances before Fabinho struck.

Josh Brownhill had a long-distance effort saved by Alisson, and January signing Wout Weghorst should have done better after racing through on goal.

Chances were few and far between in a scrappy second half although substitute Diogo Jota should have added a late second after a quick Liverpool break but shot wide.

"Most of their chances were offside but of course they had their moments, that is clear. They have quality but we dealt with it pretty well," Klopp added.

"We have to work incredibly hard and that is what the boys did. We made our shirts dirty. I am really happy because I know how difficult it is to come here. Absolutely satisfied."

The win means Liverpool are nine points behind leaders City with 14 games still to play, one more than their title rivals, who host the Reds in April.

Burnley remain bottom, seven points from safety.

With Sadio Mane available again after helping Senegal win the Africa Cup of Nations, Klopp opted to restore the old guard and started with a front three of Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah, with in-form Jota on the bench.

But in driving rain and a blustery wind, the visitors' attacking trio often struggled to make an impact, although Mane did play an important role in the breakthrough goal.

The forward got a crucial flick on Trent Alexander-Arnold's corner and Fabinho ran on to it, hitting a first-time strike that was blocked on the line before the Brazilian followed up the rebound to poke in.

The goal continued Fabinho's impressive recent run of scoring form - it was his fifth in his past seven games in all competitions.

It secured an important three points from a game in which the Reds could easily have slipped up, with Burnley having held Manchester United to a draw on Tuesday.

Encouraging display by Burnley but wins needed

With Sadio Mane available again after helping Senegal win the Africa Cup of Nations, Klopp opted to restore the old guard and started with a front three of Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah, with in-form Jota on the bench.

But in driving rain and a blustery wind, the visitors' attacking trio often struggled to make an impact, although Mane did play an important role in the breakthrough goal.

The forward got a crucial flick on Trent Alexander-Arnold's corner and Fabinho ran on to it, hitting a first-time strike that was blocked on the line before the Brazilian followed up the rebound to poke in.

The goal continued Fabinho's impressive recent run of scoring form - it was his fifth in his past seven games in all competitions.

It secured an important three points from a game in which the Reds could easily have slipped up, with Burnley having held Manchester United to a draw on Tuesday.

Encouraging display by Burnley but wins needed


A win against a side chasing leaders Manchester City who had lost just once since 20 November was always going to be a difficult task for Burnley, but despite the result this was another encouraging display by the Clarets.

A combination of good saves and poor finishing was the only reason the hosts were not ahead before Fabinho struck and although Weghorst should have done better with a finish on the break, the striker once again put in an impressive performance.

He did, however, limp off midway through the second half and the Clarets will be hoping it is nothing serious because with his strength and height in attack and Maxwel Cornet's creativity, Burnley have the tools to give themselves a fighting chance of staying up.

But Sean Dyche's side have managed just one win all season and unless that record changes soon they could be cut adrift.

"That was a good performance against top class opposition but we didn't take our chances," said Dyche.

"I was pleased with the performance. Sometimes you have to forget where you are in the table because that performance will lead to more."

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/60276483
 
Diogo Jota: Jurgen Klopp confirms forward will miss Norwich game with ankle ligament injury which 'could go either way'

Diogo Jota has been ruled out of Liverpool's clash with Norwich due to an ankle ligament injury which "could go really quick or the other way around", according to Jurgen Klopp.

Jota has scored 17 goals in all competitions this season, and was replaced by Roberto Firmino at half-time in Liverpool's 2-0 win at Inter Milan on Wednesday night.

The Portugal international was pictured wearing a protective boot after the game.

"He will not be available this weekend but the extent is still not clear," Klopp told reporters ahead of Saturday's visit of Norwich.

"We need further assessment. It's something with some ligaments in and around the ankle, but not the ligament, some others.

"So, pretty much everything is possible in the moment; that it will go really quick and the other way around unfortunately as well. So we have to wait.

"Everybody saw the picture with him in the boot. It's a normal procedure, even when you just feel something, they put you in that boot. For the weekend, for sure not."

The midweek win against Inter was a landmark occasion for James Milner who came off the bench to make the 800th club appearance of his career.

Mohamed Salah, who scored Liverpool's second at San Siro, could reach a milestone of his own if he scores on Saturday, with the Egyptian one shy of 150 goals for the Reds.

"I'm only seven years here now, the club is so much older and there so many great players here," Klopp said.

"This team is one of the better ones in the wonderful history of the club. It is clear that Mo is a massive part of that His numbers speak for themselves, it's absolutely insane. Obviously, it's a massive number and hopefully, he can do that tomorrow."

https://www.skysports.com/football/...kle-ligament-injury-which-could-go-either-way
 
Liverpool 3-1 Norwich

<b>Liverpool staged a second-half comeback against a resilient Norwich side to keep their Premier League title hopes alive with an eighth successive win in all competitions.</b>

The Reds had threatened the Norwich goal countless times but they were stunned into emergency action moments after the interval when Milot Rashica's deflected strike gave the Canaries hope of a first win at Anfield in 28 years.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who made seven changes to the side that won at Inter Milan in the Champions League in midweek, intervened to make attacking changes on 62 minutes and within four minutes his side had turned the game around.

Sadio Mane acrobatically turned home Konstantinos Tsimikas' header and Mohamed Salah raced on to a clearance from goalkeeper Alisson Becker to round Angus Gunn and score.

Salah's 17th league goal of the campaign was his 150th in all competitions for Liverpool - making him one of only 10 men to reach that figure for the club - and Luis Diaz added his first since joining from Porto with a neat, chipped finish to seal the win.

Klopp's side move to within six points of league leaders Manchester City before the champions' late game, while Norwich drop to bottom place and are five points from safety.

While the stats will show a Liverpool win built from 29 shots and 70% of possession, Norwich can feel slightly hard done by after showing great character for over an hour.

Their 4-3-3 system slickly dropped into a 4-5-1 out of possession and Dean Smith's side looked to play out from the back, despite the threat of a Liverpool press that managed to win the ball back six times in the final third in the first 45 minutes.

An entertaining opening saw Teemu Pukki miss when one-on-one with Alisson, while Virgil van Dijk went close for the home side, Tsimikas missed from four yards, Salah saw a header cleared off the line and Diaz fizzed an effort narrowly over.

Klopp's side had racked up 15 shots by the interval but their inaccuracy and saves from Gunn - whose father Bryan kept a clean sheet in Norwich's last win at Anfield - gave them a platform from which they could threaten a shock.

Rashica's deflected effort from 25 yards left Alisson helpless and briefly gave Norwich hope of back-to-back away wins in the Premier League for the first time in 10 years.

But Klopp moved to bring on midfielder Thiago and striker Divock Origi in place of two midfielders in Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

"It's a coaching team effort in that we bring the boys on but change the system as well," Klopp said. "It's absolutely necessary in a moment like this you throw all the knowledge you have together.

"The 4-4-2 gave them a proper challenge to deal with. All of a sudden we had better positions and were a proper threat. Our reaction was just brilliant."

The extra attacking body seemed to briefly throw Norwich out of their stride and a fine switch of play from the impressive Jordan Henderson allowed Tsimikas to tee up the unmarked Mane, who swept home.

Henderson completed 97% of his 123 passes - including a sublime through ball for Diaz's late strike - but again Salah made a crucial contribution, pulling down Alisson's kick, beating Gunn and finishing past two Norwich players on the goalline.

The Egyptian had eight shots and created six chances - both game highs. Only Roger Hunt - in 226 matches - has reached 150 Liverpool goals in fewer games than the 233 Salah has needed.

Diaz's late finish will only add to the feel-good factor as the Reds continue to chase four trophies, while their ability to hold their nerve with so little margin for error in their pursuit of leaders City underlines the qualities Klopp's side possess.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/60357459
 
Great win by the boy's after being 1-0 down at home with 30 minutes left on the clock. What a forward line we have at Anfield without doubt the best in the EPL. Diaz has only added to the potency that was already there before his arrival. All three forwards were on the scoreboard whilst Bobby and Jota are recovering from injuries. Jurgen Klopp now has the luxury of changing the forwards and tactics according to the situation and strength even weakness of the opposition. With City losing at home to Spurs the mighty reds are right back in the title race:azhar2
 
Through to the final 8 of the Champions League. Not the most comfortable of 2-leg wins over Inter, but the result is what matters.

I fancy them to have a good chance of going all the way.
 
A somewhat bad day at the office today in what was an overall poor performance. Great strike by Milan to bring them back in to it, i was always confident of going through. We were due for a loss after being on a great run lately. If this means we'll beat Man City at the Etihad then i'll take it all day long. We are still fighting in all competitions which is all that matter to me.
 
Liverpool tipped to swoop without hesitation as Dortmund fail with U-turn on German gem raid

The Reds have faced significant calls over the past few seasons to freshen up their front line. They have relied for so long on Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino. However, all three will be 30 by next summer.

Nevertheless, Liverpool have added Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz, both 25, to their ranks, in recent transfer windows. The pair have subsequently added to manager Jurgen Klopp’s selection headache.

However, Klopp recently confirmed that, ahead of his planned 2024 exit from Liverpool, all his recent decisions are for the long-term future of the club.

Reported interest in Salzburg’s exciting Germany international Adeyemi makes sense for the future. The 20-year-old has made his breakthrough in the past three seasons to become one of his country’s most promising talents.

As a result, recent reports have revealed that it is not only Liverpool who are after Adeyemi. Bundesliga giants Dortmund have had the most advanced links with a raid. Nevertheless, previous reports have claimed that Dortmund are unwilling to pay Salzburg’s valuation of €40million (£33million).

According to the latest from Sky Germany, though, Dortmund have nevertheless performed a U-turn and made their first bid.

The offer is between €30million (£25million) and €35million (£29million).

But Sky Germany reporter Marc Behrenbeck revealed that Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain and RB Leipzig will not hesitate to pay Salzburg’s demands for Adeyemi.

Behrenbeck said: “There are some, especially from the Premier League, who would take him immediately for 40 million euros. That is not a lot of money for such a player.”

For now, though, Behrenbeck added that he “still expects” Dortmund to win the race for Adeyemi because they are “too far” along in negotiations.

Indeed, the player reportedly has an agreement in place with Dortmund over personal terms.


Adeyemi initially broke through in Austria in the 2019/20 season, but his profile has risen the most this term.

He has scored 15 goals in 21 Austrian Bundesliga games, while also laying on two assists.

However, he has particularly caught the eye in the Champions League.

Adeyemi netted three goals in the group stages and also starred in the last-16 first leg against Bayern Munich. Salzburg took the lead and it was only right at the end when Kingsley Coman rescued the German club a result.

Should he move to Dortmund, Adeyemi would be following in the footsteps of Erling Haaland.

Striker Haaland signed for the German club in December 2020 after his explosive breakthrough at Salzburg.

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/tra...n-on-german-gem-raid/ar-AAUMMZY?ocid=msedgntp
 
<b>Brighton 0-2 Liverpool</b>

Liverpool cut Manchester City's lead to three points with victory at Brighton and extended their winning run to eight Premier League games.

Luis Diaz continued the fine start to his Liverpool career as he raced on to Joel Matip's superb pass and headed past the onrushing Robert Sanchez after 19 minutes.

The Brighton goalkeeper was fortunate not to receive any punishment as he clattered into the Colombian forward, whose celebrations were put on hold as he received treatment following the high challenge.

Mohamed Salah sealed the three points with a second-half penalty awarded after a handball by Yves Bissouma - with the Egypt forward's 20th strike of the campaign bringing up Liverpool's 2,000th Premier League goal.

It is a fifth successive defeat for Brighton, for whom Danny Welbeck went closest to scoring with two minutes remaining but Alisson produced a fine save to avoid any late complications.

Liverpool's victory maintains the pressure on title rivals Manchester City, who travel to Crystal Palace on Monday (20:00 GMT).

BBC
 
The Brighton keeper was a stone wall sending off. A good standard performance by the boys on what has been a difficult fixture for us with Diaz in particular very impressive. £500,000 a week wanting Salah was average at best other then the penalty he did little else. Mane was good too as was the defence. We must defeat Arsenal in what will be a difficult match on Wednesday.
 
<b>Arsenal 0-2 Liverpool </b>

Liverpool moved to within one point of Premier League leaders Manchester City as they emerged impressive winners after an extremely tough examination at Arsenal.

The Gunners, well in the fight to finish in the top four, pushed Liverpool hard until Jurgen Klopp's quadruple-chasing side ruthlessly took control after the break.

Liverpool keeper Alisson saved crucially from Martin Odegaard after Thiago's misplaced backpass before Diogo Jota put Liverpool ahead, beating Aaron Ramsdale at his near post in the 54th minute.

Jota and Luis Diaz were immediately replaced by Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino, the latter doubling Liverpool's advantage just after the hour mark with a perfect flick from Andrew Robertson's cross.

Liverpool have now reeled off nine Premier League wins in succession while Arsenal remain in fourth, a point ahead of Manchester United but with two games in hand.
 
Another great away win by the lads now the title race is defo on. Terrible in the first half although even then I was confident our solid back line would hold up. The gaffer would for sure given the lads a severe telling off seeing they were out for the second half well before the opposition. The crucial moment came with Allison made that crucial stop when the Arsenal lad was clear through.

When we can swap with Mo, Mane, Salah, Diaz and Bobby someone will eventually score as was the case again wit two of these turning the match in our favour. Great ball through by Thiago for the first one then for the second one got a bit lucky when the ball bounced of Robbo to stay in. Now on to the FA Cup
 
‘Trent is out with a hamstring, so will be out for England too. Not good news — we will see how long it takes’.

Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold is ruled out for at least the next few weeks with a hamstring injury, says manager Jurgen Klopp.
 
Jurgen Klopp has criticised the football calendar, saying it makes it harder for one team to dominate as his Liverpool side look to complete an historic quadruple this season.

Liverpool remain on course to claim all four trophies this campaign after winning 2-0 at fourth-placed Arsenal on Wednesday night to close the gap on Premier League leaders Man City to just a point with only nine games left this season - including a trip to the Etihad on April 10, live on Sky Sports.

Klopp's side now face Nottingham Forest at the City Ground in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Sunday, while they have also been drawn to play Benfica in the Champions League last eight in April.

Liverpool will have to travel to Forest without right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, though, after the England international picked up a hamstring injury, with top scorer Mohamed Salah also likely to sit out the clash with a recurrence of a foot problem.

However, the German says Liverpool's upcoming fixture schedule will count against them in their bid to make history this season.

"The only way I can do is really be focused on the next game, I just have not enough space to think about different stuff [quadruple] and I don't have to," he said.

"And somebody told me we could play 18 games or whatever [from now on, if Liverpool win quadruple]. I have no idea where you want to fit them all in.

"To be honest, I don't know. What, it's May 22, and a week later it would be the Champions League final.

"Where are they all [18 games]? The FA Cup final would be the week before the Champions League final. No, the week before the season final.

"So it means that game must be rearranged as well. The calendar is not made for a lot of success for the same team, maybe fair.

"So because at one point you have to make [a decision]... Or we focus on that, or we focus on that or whatever."

Klopp, however, is keen to ensure the incessant focus on Liverpool's Premier League title race with City does not detract from the wider picture of keeping an unprecedented quadruple on track.

When things resume after the international break, Klopp's side have a chance to go top for the first time since late September as they have a Saturday lunchtime kick-off at home to struggling Watford.

The intensifying tussle between the two north-west rivals has somewhat deflected attention from the FA Cup quarter-final against Forest, where top-flight sides Arsenal and Leicester have already been beaten.

"If we take only a little bit off the gas... not even fully, just a little bit - gone. Three competitions, 'See you later', no chance," said Klopp.

"If we just go in that direction thinking, 'That's a little bit of a relief' [the FA Cup] that would be a problem.

"Yes, they are a Championship side but one in a really good moment. You can see how they set up in a system, big talent in the team as well - probably the whole Premier League is after them.

"So it is a really tough one and the challenge at this moment is to know about the positivity of the situation but to push it aside.

"Be just as greedy, angry and desperate to win the next game as if we were in the worst position in the table, like if you don't win that then it's all over.

"That's the situation we are in - to get always before kick-off to be the one team that nobody wants to play against and we try that again against Nottingham.

"The only way I know is to stay completely focused on the next game and that is Nottingham and we already have more problems than I wish because of one position [right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold's hamstring injury], Covid here and there, and then Nottingham coming up."

SKY
 
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Liverpool will play Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley after they edged past Nottingham Forest in a pulsating quarter-final at the City Ground.

Diogo Jota scored the only goal of the game for the visitors, prodding in Konstantinos Tsimikas' cross from the left with 12 minutes remaining.

Jurgen Klopp's quadruple-chasing team dominated possession but were made to work for their victory by their relentless Championship opponents, who saw a late penalty appeal turned down by VAR when Ryan Yates fell after a challenge with Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson.
 
A gritty performance by the boys today against difficult opposition. Respect to Forest for giving us a hard match in which they had a few good chances. No it was no penalty nonetheless they should have taken the lead two minutes before we scored. With seven changes made from the win at Arsenal Jota again proved what a great signing he has been. Now we have two very important matches against Man City coming up, lets go Reds!
 
Origi looks certain to leave Anfield as a free agent when the season concludes. The Belgian’s contract expires in the summer and Liverpool reportedly have no plans to offer an extension. Origi did hold a clause that would’ve triggered an automatic 12-month extension. However, the appearance requirements to activate that clause can no longer be achieved.

AC Milan are confident of bringing Origi to the San Siro. Led by technical director Paolo Maldini, the Rossoneri reportedly reached a partial agreement with Origi’s representatives earlier this week.

A four-year deal was agreed by both parties, though there was disagreement over the salary on offer.

AC reportedly tabled an offer of £48,000-a-week, but Origi was hoping for £72,000-a-week.

Italian outlet Gianluca DiMarzio claimed a compromise of £64,000-per-week could suffice, and per Football Italia, that’s exactly what’s transpired.

They report a verbal agreement has been struck over a £64,000-a-week deal which equates to €4m per season.

The two parties must still reach agreement regarding bonuses and agents’ fees. However, the heavy lifting in the deal has already been done and Origi is now a step closer to joining Milan.

A second Football Italia report states Origi’s arrival could quickly be followed by former Manchester United attacker Adnan Januzaj.

Januzaj played for United between 2013-17 and was a rare bright spark in David Moyes’ ill-fated season in charge in 2013/14.

He quickly fell out of favour under subsequent managers before being moving to Real Sociedad in 2017.

Januzaj to follow Origi to Milan?

Now 27, Januzaj’s time in Spain could be coming to an end. Like Origi, Januzaj’s contract expires in the summer and Milan could be his next stop.

The article does note, however, that the interest at present is more from Januzaj’s side than AC’s. In their words, Januzaj’s camp have ‘approached Milan rather than the other way around’.

Whether AC will scoop up the Belgium international, only time will tell. But given they are a shoe-in to qualify for next season’s Champions League, adequate strength in depth in the final third will be a must.

While not expected to be a starter in Italy, Januzaj could be a viable – and affordable – depth piece.

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/foo...-utd-old-boy-up-next/ar-AAVrVlL?ocid=msedgntp
 
Trent Alexander-Arnold could return against Watford as Jurgen Klopp urged Liverpool fans to create "the best 12.30pm atmosphere ever" as they look to top the Premier League table - even if only temporarily.

Liverpool are currently a point behind Manchester City in the league, and play first this weekend when they host Roy Hodgson's Watford at lunchtime on Saturday.

SKY
 
Come on Liverpool!

Leeds need a favour from you tomorrow.
 
<b>Liverpool 2-0 Watford</b>

Liverpool beat struggling Watford to complete a remarkable, albeit short, return to the top of the Premier League.

The Reds trailed Manchester City by 14 points on 15 January, but a 10th straight league win in the early kick-off at a raucous Anfield took them above Pep Guardiola's side, whom they meet on 10 April.

However, City won 2-0 at struggling Burnley later on Saturday to restore their one-point lead with eight games left.

Diogo Jota's 20th club goal of the season and his third in as many appearances in a Liverpool shirt - 34 seconds after Alisson made a huge save to deny Juraj Kucka - helped seal a tense win.

Portugal forward Jota jumped between two Watford defenders to meet a cross and head past Ben Foster as Joe Gomez marked only his second league start of the season with an assist.

Fabinho's late penalty - after Kucka's rugby-style challenge on Jota - secured the points.

Despite sealing a potentially significant win, Liverpool were not at their fluent best.

Joao Pedro wasted a glorious chance to equalise in the second half as Watford remain third from bottom, three points from safety.

Liverpool returned to the top of the table - albeit for a couple of hours - for the first time since early December, and at the start of the final push towards what would be a historic quadruple.

They face Benfica in the quarter-finals of the Champions League in Portugal on Tuesday before going to City in what many are billing as the game that could decide the title.

Liverpool, already Carabao Cup winners, started the penultimate month of the campaign - in which they also face City at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-finals - with a hard-earned win in a game where the result was more important than the performance.

Alisson had already denied Cucho Hernandez when he spread himself to block Kucka, before Jota pounced moments later.

Unlike team-mate Mohamed Salah, Jota will be going to the World Cup later this year after helping Portugal beat North Macedonia in a play-off in midweek.

While a tired looking Salah, who was pelted with missiles and targeted by green laser pointers as Egypt missed out on the World Cup to Senegal on Tuesday, was replaced after 69 minutes, Jota could have had a hat-trick.

Denied a second goal by Foster before half-time, Jota headed another chance over the bar in front of the Kop.

Tension was replaced by relief when Fabinho's 89th-minute penalty - awarded after referee Stuart Attwell watched a replay on the pitchside monitor - ensured Liverpool got the job done.

Watford must be more clinical.

Despite a 20th league defeat of the season, Watford will take some comfort that Liverpool were unable to relax until Fabinho struck.

However, the Hornets know they have to be more clinical in their final eight games if they are to stand any chance of staying up.

While Kucka was denied by a fine save, Pedro should have equalised in the second half after Watford beat Liverpool's offside trap.

Roy Hodgson's side face a difficult end-of-season run-in which includes matches at City and Chelsea.

Although they host Leeds on 9 April and Brentford on 16 April, they have picked up only seven points from a possible 42 at Vicarage Road this season.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/60883947
 
<b>Liverpool set to complete deal for Fulham’s Carvalho</b>

<I>Liverpool's move for Fabio Carvalho in January fell through after the Premier League side ran out of time to complete the deal on Deadline Day; Carvalho's current deal expires this summer and Fulham would be entitled to compensation set by a tribunal.</I>

Liverpool are set to complete the signing of Fabio Carvalho from Fulham after initially missing out on the winger on Deadline Day in January.

It is understood that the 19-year-old will move to Anfield this summer on a five-year contract.

Carvalho's current deal expires this summer and Fulham would be entitled to compensation set by a tribunal should the teenager join another English side at the end of that, while continental clubs would only need to pay a nominal fee.

Reports suggest Carvalho has already undergone a medical with his current club's permission ahead of a transfer which would see Liverpool pay Fulham £5m plus add-ons.

Liverpool's move for Carvalho in January fell through after the Premier League side ran out of time to complete the deal on Deadline Day.

Jurgen Klopp's side were set to sign Carvalho and loan him back to Fulham for the rest of the season but he remained with the Championship leaders anyway with no deal having been agreed.

Carvalho has scored seven goals in 29 Championship appearances for Marco Silva's side this season and also found the net in Fulham's 4-1 FA Cup defeat to Manchester City.

In February 2021 Liverpool were ordered to pay Fulham a record compensation fee for a 16-year-old following Harvey Elliott's transfer to the club in 2019. Once add-on clauses are met, Fulham could receive a fee in the region of £4m and have also inserted a substantial sell-on clause, understood to be 20 per cent.

https://www.skysports.com/football/...pool-set-to-complete-signing-of-fulham-winger
 
Jurgen Klopp says Saturday's FA Cup semi-final with Manchester City will have no influence on the Liverpool team he picks to face Benfica.

The Reds face City at Wembley after their Champions League semi-final second leg at Anfield on Wednesday.

Liverpool are looking to finish the job against the Portuguese side after establishing a 3-1 advantage in Lisbon.

"Nobody is injured but we need to look who is fresher for the game and stuff like this," said Klopp.

"The next game has no influence on the line-up for tomorrow but the last game has."

Despite his side's healthy advantage over Benfica, Klopp described the second leg as a "super important game".

"We tried so hard to get to the Champions League and now we can make it to semis," he added.

"It's 3-1 at half-time, it's as tricky as 2-0. A good basis, but if they score one - like we felt against Inter - the game changes.

"We felt it when they scored last week. We really need to make them feel this is a place they don't want to go."

BBC
 
Jurgen Klopp demands 'different level' from Liverpool for Man City rematch in FA Cup semi-final

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool were not at their best in their 2-2 draw at Manchester City last weekend and believes his side "can perform to a different level" when the two sides clash in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Saturday.

Liverpool were forced to come from behind twice in a thrilling 2-2 draw with City at the Etihad Stadium last Sunday that leaves the Premier League title race still on a knife edge.

Having also drawn 2-2 with their Premier League rivals at Anfield earlier in the season, Klopp is aiming to go one better this weekend and secure a return to Wembley for the final.

When asked whether the two sides can surprise each other any more, Klopp said: "We think a lot about these games. We have to. City were really strong last week and we were not at our best.

"So, I'd like to see a game where we are at our best. It would be interesting so why don't we give that a try? That would be nice, it could be a surprise if all of a sudden, we are good.

"The boys did a lot of good stuff in the game, but there were a couple of things and I know that we can perform to a different level.

"Then it's a cup game, a one off, and if it's 2-2 again then it's 120 minutes then it's penalties, that would be really crazy to go all the way."

https://www.skysports.com/football/...ool-for-man-city-rematch-in-fa-cup-semi-final
 
Liverpool: Virgil Van Dijk says 'almost impossible' quadruple would be 'dream'

Virgil van Dijk says it would be a "dream" for Liverpool to win a historic and "almost impossible" quadruple.

Liverpool lifted the Carabao Cup in February and are still in contention to win the FA Cup, Premier League and Champions League.

Jurgen Klopp's side beat title rivals Manchester City to reach the FA Cup final on Saturday.

"Nobody did the quadruple and there is a reason for it - because it is almost impossible to do," Van Dijk said.

Liverpool are one point behind league leaders City with seven games remaining.

They host Manchester United on Tuesday and face a tricky run-in to the end of the season, including matches against Merseyside rivals Everton and Champions League-chasing Tottenham.

Liverpool also face Villarreal in the last four of the Champions League, with Pep Guardiola's City taking on Real Madrid in the other tie.

"All this talk about quadruple or Treble is from the outside world and could put extra pressure on us," added Van Dijk.

"It is something that everyone would dream about, to win every competition you participate in, but we will see what it brings.

"Anything can happen, with other teams as well."

Netherlands international Van Dijk only returned to action in August after a 10-month lay-off with a serious knee injury.

He emphasised Liverpool do not take the fitness of any of their players for granted.

"I was not a great player back in the days, I was quite a late bloomer - that's why I enjoy my career even more," said the 30-year-old centre-back.

"I just want to keep it going, stay fit, win games and see what it brings and get ready for the World Cup as well."

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/61135748
 
Virgil van Dijk: Everyone at Liverpool pulling in same direction to make this a special season

Liverpool are still on for an unprecedented quadruple - and key man Virgil van Dijk says the whole club is pulling in the same direction to make this a "special" season.

The Reds followed up their qualification for the Champions League semi-finals by reaching their first FA Cup final in a decade on Saturday, beating Premier League title rivals Manchester City 3-2 at Wembley.

They now have the chance to go above City in the league for at least 24 hours when they host Manchester United at Anfield on Tuesday night, live on Sky Sports Premier League.

After claiming the Carabao Cup in February, there has been speculation about the prospect of Jurgen Klopp's side becoming the first English team to win every competition open to them in a season.

While defender Van Dijk is trying to keep his focus on the next 90 minutes, he tells Sky Sports the big aim is to claim the "rewards" at the end of the season.

"It's still going to be quite a tough journey until the end of the season in all the competitions we're still in. Like we always say, we take it game by game and that doesn't change," he said.

"Driving players on is winning games and at the start of the season, in any competition you participate in, you try to get as far as possible. It doesn't always go that way and that's why it's never been done in England. The quadruple has never happened.

"Obviously we're in a good situation, we have a final to play in the FA Cup, we have semi-finals against a very difficult opponent in the Champions League [against Villarreal] and we are second in the league.

"What we feel is we just have to give it a go, play the remaining games of the season with a lot of joy, work hard and give your all and we'll see where it leads to.

"It's also been part of our success that we don't get carried away or think what's in front of the next game. That's been definitely a positive key thing in our success. We keep that going and everything else around what happens, the pressure that builds on us is all from the outside and we should be able to shut that off and I'm definitely doing that.

"It's been an eventful, outstanding season with everyone being a big part of it in all competitions - younger players, players who don't play as much as they want…. It's going great. But you want rewards for it. We won rewards so far this season with the League Cup and we're trying to get rewards at the end of the whole season.

"It's been so far a very good season for us but we want to make it a special and fantastic one."

Van Dijk believes Liverpool's unity has been key to their high level this season, with everyone at the club pulling together to try to bring more silverware to Anfield.

"Over the last couple of years, we've won quite good trophies but that feeling we want to repeat and keep going," said Van Dijk, who has won a Premier League, Champions League, Club World Cup and European Super Cup with Liverpool, as well as this season's Carabao Cup.

"We work hard for this. With only working hard you have no guarantee that you get trophies. But we are in a good way, we have the quality throughout the whole squad, we're in a very good situation, the club in general has been a very good place to be, with the club above and the fans, but also the squad - everyone is one and looking in the right direction and that is key to success as well."

After Manchester United on Tuesday, Liverpool play Everton at Anfield on Sunday and then face Villarreal in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday.

Van Dijk says he is relishing Liverpool's hectic, high-pressure run-in, which sees key games coming thick and fast.

"I don't want to be in a position at this stage of the season that I'm playing for nothing," smiled Van Dijk.

"Every game is a big game. For us, Tuesday is a massive game against Man Utd then at the weekend we have Everton and then the Champions League. These games you want to play, you want to perform, you want to win and be on the success side of the story.

"I came here to play to win trophies, to develop myself and get the best out of myself and to obviously be part of this amazing club. I've no regrets about my decision, of course!"

https://www.skysports.com/football/...-same-direction-to-make-this-a-special-season
 
Conversation is certainly increasing around Liverpool's potential quadruple.

I think they will do the cup treble but will come second best in the league. It truly is a brilliant feat though to be fighting on all 4 elite fronts.
 
Following Liverpool since the late90s and arguably this is their golden period all they need is to win the League and Ucl Klopp has transformed them into a spaceship they are amazing to watch just goes to show how important is choosing the right manager from the likes of Houllier Dalglish Hodgson all the junk that came between these years they've come a long way from the times of Titi Camara El Diouf Antonio Nunez Josemi and blah blah
 
Gone were days when Reds were intimidated by the Red Devils absolutely thumped the old foe
 
Liverpool's recent run of positive results is "insane", boss Jurgen Klopp said after they made it 14 Premier League games unbeaten with victory over Everton in Sunday's Merseyside derby.

The Reds trail leaders Manchester City by a point, having dropped just four points in the league since 28 December.

They are in contention for a quadruple, with a Champions League semi-final and FA Cup final to come.

"The amount of wins we've had in recent months is insane," Klopp told the BBC.

"You have to work. The boys did that again. I'm really happy."

It is now 13 wins in 15 league games for the Reds since their loss at Leicester just after Christmas, with recent results also including them beating Pep Guardiola's City in an FA Cup semi-final and Benfica over two legs in the Champions League last eight. They also won the Carabao Cup in February.

Klopp's side were frustrated by a stubborn Everton in the first half of Sunday's game at Anfield, but a header from Andrew Robertson broke the tension before Luis Diaz set up fellow substitute Divock Origi to score his sixth Merseyside derby goal to seal the points.

"Thank God the game has two halves," German Klopp said. "We didn't play particularly well in the first half. They made it uncomfortable but we didn't get in behind the last line. We didn't have enough movement.

"We weren't quick enough. We passed the ball into the area they had nine players. Second half we were much more direct and caused them much more problems.

"We stayed really cool and calm. The changes helped, fresh players, different formation. It made it difficult for the opposition.

"We won 2-0, it's absolutely fine."

Rival bosses disagree over penalty claims

At times, emotions in the game threatened to spill over, with the players clashing en masse after Liverpool did not put the ball down with Richarlison on the ground in the first half.

Anthony Gordon twice went down in the box following home challenges, with the first prompting the referee to book him for diving.

Everton boss Frank Lampard felt both should have resulted in a penalty, which would have given the away side the chance to open the scoring.

"I think they both could have been penalties but you often don't get them at Anfield," said the Toffees boss, whose side are now in the bottom three following the defeat, coupled with Burnley's win over Wolves on Sunday.

"The fact there's contact and he gets booked is crazy. The second one was a foul [anywhere else] on the pitch. Sometimes you don't get them here."

Klopp was adamant neither were spot-kicks, saying: "It [the second] was clearly no penalty. He's really good but he's lucky not to get a second yellow. The first was not a penalty and the second wasn't."

Origi's goal on Sunday was the latest instance of the Belgian striker scoring important goals for the Reds, albeit this one more of a nerve-settler than a vital breakthrough.

He has now scored 11 goals as a substitute in the Premier League, the outright most by a Liverpool player, overtaking Daniel Sturridge's 10.

Klopp was full of praise for the 27-year-old, who is out of contract in the summer and could leave the club after eight seasons at Anfield.

"If he leaves, he will explode wherever he goes," added Klopp. "He is a world-class striker, he is a legend and will stay a legend forever.

"He doesn't always make the squad which is ridiculous, but he is there when we need him every time.

"Everything that we did in the second half, without Divock, wouldn't have happened.

"The group lives because of the boys that don't always play, they are the strongest players ever; [Alex] Oxlade-Chamberlain, [Harvey] Elliot, [Takumi] Minamino, even Rhys Williams. They are in great shape, but the way they behave is why we do these kind of things."

BBC
 
Going to be mighty tight in the last few weeks of the season. Both city and liverpool do not look like dropping points.

From a Liverpool perspective will be extremely upsetting to lose out again by just one point.
 
A repeat of 2018/19 PL. Liverpool will most likely lose again to Man City with one point, both teams don't look like they will lose any point till the end of the season.

Liverpool could have won 3 titles in the last 4 years if luck was on their side.

But most likely they will win the FA cup & CL, but I think Liverpool fans would have loved another league title over CL glory.
 
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