Transfer news: Liverpool are first option for Modibo Diakite

The French centre-back has been at Lazio since 2006 but is out of contract in the summer and considering his options.

The 25-year-old's agent Ulisse Savini claims Liverpool is the most likely destination for his client but admits there is no rush to do a deal.

"Liverpool is our first option for June," Savini told tuttomercatoweb.com.

"It's in issue in progress and we have to talk yet.

"Everyone knows that the contract is expiring. Also, Lazio know there is no hurry.

"We'll see in the coming days. However, it would be hard to say no to Liverpool."

The Reds have options at the back but are believed to be looking for defensive additions in the summer with vice-captain Jamie Carragher yet to agree a new deal at Anfield.

Lucas has City in his sights

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers recalled his first-team regulars for Wednesday night's clash at Emirates Stadium, having drawn much criticism for his team selection in the FA Cup fourth-round defeat at Oldham on Sunday, when even the late introduction of Steven Gerrard could not stop last season's beaten finalists crashing out against the League One side.

For an hour, everything was going to plan as Jordan Henderson added to Luis Suarez's early goal to give the visitors a commanding 2-0 lead.

However, the Gunners suddenly kicked into life to make up for their defensive shortcomings as two quick goals saw them level through Olivier Giroud and a blistering strike by England forward Theo Walcott.

Brazilian Lucas feels even if they could not see the game through, Liverpool can now head into Sunday's showdown with City at Etihad Stadium all set to produce another determined display.

"We were responding very well from the FA Cup tie. We showed a lot o f attitude and the right mentality at Arsenal, we just have to keep going to get the points against Manchester City," the midfielder said.

"We didn't win at Arsenal, but we showed we are capable of fighting against and beating the top teams.

"For so long we did well but unfortunately in 10 minutes we conceded two goals. We have another opportunity to get a good result against a top team this weekend."

Liverpool have made steady progress under Rodgers, climbing up to seventh in the table.

However, Lucas knows if the Reds want to harbour hopes of forcing their way into the Champions League qualification shake-up, then they have to start producing big results.

"We were talking about things before the Arsenal game, and we know we have to win against the top teams if we want to be in a better league position at the end of the season," he said.

"We have to start winning against the top teams if we want to achieve a better position."

Lucas added: "City will be desperate to win the game as well after their draw at QPR.

"It will be an open game and we have dangerous players who can create chances."

Liverpool have already moved to strengthen the squad in the January transfer window, with midfielder Philippe Coutinho joining Daniel Sturridge at Anfield after completing an 8.5million move from Inter Milan.

Rodgers, though, conceded a move for Blackpool winger Tom Ince was unlikely to happen before Thursday's 11pm deadline.

Goalkeeper Alexander Doni would appear to be surplus to requirements and set for a return to Brazil, with the club said to be ready to terminate his contract.

One player very much part of Liverpool's future is Suarez.

The Uruguay forward took his goal tally to 22 for the campaign with the opener in Wednesday night's 2-2 draw at Arsenal.

The often controversial Suarez has quickly become a cult hero on The Kop since his 22.8million move from A jax on transfer deadline day two years ago.

The 26-year-old intends to continue to drive the Reds on as they look to develop into Champions League challengers once again.

"I hope [to be at Liverpool] for a very long time because it's a massive club that kids dream about playing for," Suarez told the club's official website.

"I have been very proud to be at a club like Liverpool and to have made the decision to come here.

"In two years I've lived through some spectacular and very special moments that I will never, ever forget.

"There have been a few difficult times as well, but with the support of my family, the club and the fans, things have gone well for me."

Transfer News: Liverpool goalkeeper Alexander Doni joins Botafogo

The 33-year-old's contract was due to expire this summer but the Reds have reached an agreement with him over the remaining five months on his deal so he can return to his homeland.

Doni has not figured for the Reds since the final day of last season at Swansea City.

He made just four first-team appearances for the club after moving to Anfield for around 1.3million from AS Roma in July 2011.

Botafogo SP club president Gustavo Assed told Globo Esporte: "We made an offer for him, as the player himself asked. We understand Liverpool have accepted the offer, so we are planning to officially unveil him this Friday.

"Doni wants to finish his career at Botafogo, he is a top quality national team level goalkeeper. Most importantly, he is a Botafogo fan and we wanted him".

Transfer news: Dani Pacheco leaves Liverpool on loan for SD Huesca

The Spanish forward will spend the rest of the season back home with the second division club after finding his first-team chances limited at Anfield.

The 22-year-old has made just three senior appearances this term - none of them in the Premier League.

And Brendan Rodgers has sanctioned a third loan move for Pacheco, who previously spent time at Norwich and Rayo Vallecano.

Jordan Henderson says Liverpool upbeat after Arsenal thriller

Luis Suarez and Henderson put Liverpool 2-0 up at the Emirates but Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott hit back with two quickfire second-half goals to level it up.

Henderson admitted there was some disappointment in the Liverpool changing room because they had let a two-goal lead slip - but insists that overall the mood was "positive."

"It was a good game of football. I thought we played well at times but we had a spell when they scored two goals when we were under pressure," he told Sky Sports.

"But overall I think we've got to go away positive, it's a good point - Arsenal are a good team.

"I think we've got to be happy but having gone 2-0 up, we're a little disappointed to have conceded two goals so quickly."

Henderson has now scored two in his last two games and after a difficult start to his Anfield career he admits he is finally enjoying himself.

"It's nice obviously to be getting chances and scoring as well but I think the team is helping me get in some great positions because of the movement of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge," he said.

"I think as a team we're playing quite well at the moment. We've just got to keep going and keep pushing up the league."

Brendan Rodgers proud of Liverpool after 2-2 draw at Arsenal

Luis Suarez and the outstanding Jordan Henderson put Liverpool 2-0 up with the Reds bouncing back spectacularly from their FA Cup disaster against Oldham last week.

Arsenal hit back to grab a 2-2 draw in a thrilling game, but Rodgers insisted he and his squad would be in upbeat mood on the journey back to Merseyside.

"It was a wonderful game," Rodgers said. "Normally you would be bitterly disappointed not to have won but I can only be proud of the players, I thought they were absolutely magnificent.

"We never kept the lead long enough and once they get the goal that gives them the momentum.

"We could have very easily won the game but I thought the players were outstanding and really looked a threat tonight.

"I thought Jordan Henderson was brilliant, he scored a magnificent goal tonight that was about his sheer desire.

"He will be a terrific player for Liverpool, he is learning the game tactically all the time and the last few months he has been brilliant.

"We were bitterly disappointed at the weekend but I knew I would get the reaction tonight."

Gerrard lauds Rodgers' 'bottle'

After a shaky start to his career at Anfield having taken over from Kenny Dalglish, Rodgers' new way of working has started to show signs it is clicking into gear.

He has been fully-backed by the players during the transition and Gerrard believes the Northern Irishman, who turns 40 on Saturday, represents the new breed of manager.

"Our fans demand that we are successful and that we win and if you are looking for a young manager out there who has everything going for him who can help us achieve that success I think you pick Brendan Rodgers," he said.

"He gave up a top job in a comfortable situation at Swansea, where he'd done fantastically well, and had the bottle and the character to come and take this big job on.

"Now the responsibility and the pressure is shared with the likes of myself and Jamie (Carragher) because it is a tough club as well with the demands and expectations on a daily basis."

Liverpool has been Gerrard's club si nce he was eight years old and although many have lauded his loyalty - which wavered only briefly when he was tempted by a move to Chelsea - he believes some recognition is deserved in the other direction.

"It is the club I have supported since I was a boy and I'm in such a privileged position to captain the team," said the 32-year-old.

"It (a move to Chelsea) was very close but I have no regrets and am absolutely delighted I stayed loyal to Liverpool.

"A lot of people talk about my loyalty to Liverpool but what rarely gets mentioned is Liverpool's loyalty to me.

"I've been there since I was eight and the contracts kept coming, the love kept coming, they have always supported me on and off the pitch.

"A football career is like a roller coaster, it is up and down and you learn from your mistakes on and off the pitch.

"But no matter what I have done I've always had fantastic people around me at the club.

"I think Liverpool deser ve a big thank you from myself for the loyalty they have shown to me."

Liverpool's pursuit of Inter Milan's Philippe Coutinho rests on whether the Italian side are prepared to accept what amounts to a final offer for the midfielder.

The Reds have made a bid approaching 8million for the Brazil international, who is keen on a move to Anfield despite previous comments suggesting he was happy in Italy.

Rodgers has no inclination to pay above his valuation for the 20-year-old and will not be persuaded otherwise despite reports Southampton are interested.

Transfer News: Liverpool sign Philippe Coutinho from Inter Milan

The 20-year-old becomes Liverpool's second signing of the January transfer window following the arrival of striker Daniel Sturridge at the start of the month.

Coutinho said: "I'm feeling very happy, it's a very important step in my career and I'm expecting to come here and play good football to give my contribution on the pitch.

"Liverpool is a great club with great players. We've always heard about Liverpool's history in Brazil.

"They are the club that have been interested in me and that have showed this interest so I know they believe in me and my football."

Coutinho, who has one cap for Brazil, began his career at Vasco da Gama before moving to Inter Milan in 2010 - and the player also enjoyed a loan spell at Espanyol.

Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre said: "We're always delighted when we get the players we go after.

"It has been a successful transfer window for us, coming off the back of acquiring Daniel Sturr idge from Chelsea and now Philippe from Inter Milan.

"I think that bodes well for us for the rest of the season and the future."

Brendan Rodgers plans contract talks with Liverpool's Steven Gerrard

The talismanic midfielder is out of contract at the end of the 2014 campaign and is yet to prolong his stay at Anfield, where he has spent his entire career.

Rodgers says he has spoken with the 32-year-old about an extension but nothing has been decided yet.

Gerrard continues to play a key role for Liverpool, with the midfielder impressing as a second-half substitute in the shock FA Cup fourth-round defeat to League One Oldham on Sunday.

The manager is keen to sort out the future of the England captain before the end of the current campaign.

He told the Daily Mirror: "Steven and I have spoken a number of times (about a contract), but as yet I don't believe anything has been done.

"His feeling the last time we spoke was get through this season and see how that goes.

"His focus is on really helping the group to go forward.

"There's no doubt that between now and the end of this season the contract will be looked a t."

Blackpool star Tom Ince relaxed about future as interest intensifies

Ince, who netted twice at Wolves on Saturday, had been expected to rejoin Liverpool in the January transfer window but Reading have now joined the race for the 20-year-old.

And while the England Under-21 international admits that he wants to play at the highest level, he has stressed that he is not desperate to force an immediate exit from Bloomfield Road.

"Every player wants to play top level at some stage of their career," said Ince, quoted in the Daily Mirror.

"But as far as I am concerned, if I am still a Blackpool player come Thursday then great. My attitude will never change and I won't go off the rails thinking, 'Why didn't I get this move or that move?'

"I will always work hard for this team and I am happy scoring goals for Blackpool. The club has given me the stage to express myself and the players allow me to do it.

"Players like me can be very frustrating when we are trying to do tricks and lose the ball, but the lads kno w if they can get the ball to me in the right areas I can cause problems."

He certainly succeeded in doing so at Molineux at the weekend as the Seasiders picked up a 2-1 win and Ince is backing caretaker boss Steve Thompson to get the job permanently.

He added: "Why not give Steve the job? He's been here through thick and thin and I think he deserves it. He does everything for the lads, not himself, to help this club."

Thomas Vermaelen fit for Arsenal; Liverpool have three players back

Theo Walcott, Jack Wilshere and Santi Cazorla are all also poised to return after being rested for the FA Cup.

Mikel Arteta (calf) and Francis Coquelin (hamstring) are both still injured.

Gervinho is also unavailable as he is at the Africa Cup of Nations, while Lukasz Fabianski remains dogged by a foot problem.

Liverpool will be boosted by the return of three key men in their back line: Jose Reina, Jose Enrique and Glen Johnson.

Enrique has been out for a month with a hamstring tear, Reina missed two games with face and thigh injuries, and Johnson returns after being ruled out of the FA Cup defeat against Oldham Athletic with a hamstring problem.

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is likely to revert to a more familiar line-up after heavily criticising his young players for their performance at Boundary Park on Sunday.

Royals withdraw bid for Ince

Brian McDermott confirmed on Tuesday that Reading had made an offer for Ince, who is high on Liverpool's wanted list.

The 20-year-old's performances for the Seasiders have earned him a host of admirers, with the youngster scoring 15 goals in 27 league appearances.

He has been linked with a return to boyhood club Liverpool in this month's transfer window but Reading entered the race for his signature.

It is believed that the Royals offered a fee in the region of 7million for a player who scored twice in Blackpool's win at Wolves on Saturday.

Reading have already struck three times in the transfer market this month, bringing in Daniel Carrico, Hope Akpan and Stephen Kelly as they bid to avoid relegation.

But it appears their interest in Ince is now over.

Rodgers demands Reds reaction

The Reds are back in action three days after their surprise 3-2 defeat to League One strugglers Oldham in the fourth round.

The result was even more disappointing considering Liverpool have been in decent form following their shaky start to the season, winning eight of their previous 11 games.

But Rodgers is confident there will be no cup hangover, saying: "It's quite easy (to move on). It's one of the things you have to be able to do in modern football, and especially at a club like this.

"However, disappointing the cup was, we'll get a reaction on Wednesday. Just seeing the players, the small group we had working (on Monday morning), they had a real focus and concentration.

"That hurts, and I'm glad it does, because that shows that they care. We'll enter the game with even greater motivation to win.

"We've seen over the last few weeks the quality in the group so we mustn't forget that as well, however disappointing Sunday was.

"We must really focus in on the game on Wednesday, it's an opportunity against a good opponent but an opponent that's around about us in terms of points so we have to go there with the confidence and focus that we've shown in the league of late.

"And if we do that we'll have a great chance of getting a good result."

Liverpool would join Arsenal on 37 points with victory at the Emirates, a ground where they picked up three points last season.

The Reds will take extra motivation from the result of the reverse at Anfield earlier this season, when Arsenal outplayed their hosts and came away with a 2-0 victory.

Playmaker Santi Cazorla was particularly impressive that day, and Rodgers said: "They've got some wonderfully talented players, and Cazorla's come in and done terrifically well in his first season.

"The game at Anfield was probably as poor as we've been. There were a number of reasons behind that. Psychologically we weren't in a good moment, and rightly so we lost the game.

"But this is a chance to put it right. We'll need to make sure everyone's fighting, everyone's together, and I'm sure we will be. We need to do better against the teams that are in the top half, there's no denying that."

Liverpool will welcome back fit-again trio Jose Reina, Jose Enrique and Glen Johnson for Wednesday's game.

Full-back Enrique has not played since suffering a hamstring tear against QPR a month ago while goalkeeper Reina has missed two games with nose and thigh injuries and full-back Johnson sat out the FA Cup defeat by Oldham because of a hamstring problem.

Rodgers is likely to revert to a more familiar line-up after heavily criticising his young players for their performance at Boundary Park, and the Liverpool boss hinted it may be quite a while before some of those players get another chance.

"You might not always be at your best, but you have to give your best, and maybe one or tw o of our players looked like they didn't want to be there, which is the worry," said Rodgers.

"But we'll put that right going forward. The only way you get to find out those things sometimes is by actually throwing players in so no one this season will be able to say they didn't have a chance.

"The Oldham game actually makes decisions going forward much easier for me. We've got some good young players, but they're not that good. I don't have a young player here like Steven Gerrard when he was 18 or 19, or Jamie Carragher."

Arsenal v Liverpool: Thomas Vermaelen set to return for Arsene Wenger

Theo Walcott, Jack Wilshere and Santi Cazorla are all also poised to return after being rested for the FA Cup.

Mikel Arteta (calf) and Francis Coquelin (hamstring) are both still injured.

Gervinho is also unavailable as he is at the Africa Cup of Nations, while Lukasz Fabianski remains dogged by a foot problem.

Liverpool will be boosted by the return of three key men in their back line: Jose Reina, Jose Enrique and Glen Johnson.

Enrique has been out for a month with a hamstring tear, Reina missed two games with face and thigh injuries, and Johnson returns after being ruled out of the FA Cup defeat against Oldham Athletic with a hamstring problem.

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is likely to revert to a more familiar line-up after heavily criticising his young players for their performance at Boundary Park on Sunday.

McDermott confirms bid for Ince

The 20-year-old's performances for the Seasiders in the Championship have earned him a host of admirers, with the youngster scoring 15 goals in 27 league appearances.

He has been linked with a return to boyhood club Liverpool in this month's transfer window but Reading have entered the race for his signature.

Sky Sports reported earlier this week the Royals had made a bid for the winger and McDermott has now confirmed the offer.

The manager hopes the lure of regular first-team football in the Premier League will be enough to tempt the England Under-21 star to join the club.

It is understood that the top-flight strugglers have offered a fee in the region of 7million for a player who scored twice in Blackpool's win at Wolves on Saturday.

Reading have already struck three times in the transfer market this month, bringing in Daniel Carrico, Hope Akpan and Stephen Kelly as they bid to avoid relegation.

Transfer news: Liverpool defender Sebastian Coates will not be joining Gremio

There had been suggestions that the Uruguay international could be on his way back to South America, with the Brazilian side reported to be ready to offer 7million for his services.

Coates has struggled to make any real impact at Anfield since his arrival from Nacional back in August 2011, starting just five Premier League games in that time.

He had an opportunity to impress during Sunday's FA Cup fourth round clash with Oldham at Boundary Park, but endured a miserable afternoon as the Reds were beaten 3-2 by the League One outfit.

That had led to suggestions that Brendan Rodgers could be ready to part company with the centre-back and use any funds generated to bolster his squad.

But Gremio director Rui Costa has flatly denied that they are looking to sign the 22-year-old from the Premier League club.

Costa told UOL: "You can forget that, just forget it."

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers says Steven Gerrard is perfect role model

Rodgers was unhappy with the performances of his youngsters after giving them a chance in Sunday's shock FA Cup defeat at Oldham.

Gerrard was sent on in the second half by Rodgers and the Reds captain almost inspired a fightback at Boundary Park, hitting the crossbar with a fierce strike that would have drawn Liverpool level, but the damage had already been done as they went down 3-2.

Rodgers said: "This is a harsh school. This isn't a club where a young player can come in and have lots of time to settle, this is one of the biggest clubs in the world, so you need to understand that every game you play is a cup final.

"Sunday hurt, very much so. But as the manager it gives you even greater motivation to push on. You learn things about players because if we're going to progress we need to make sure we have a group that's hungry in every game.

"It's where the admiration of the likes of a Steven Gerrard and the Jamie Carraghers of this world c omes from. You look at Steven on Sunday - take away his quality, just his sheer enthusiasm for the game.

"He absolutely flipped the game on its head. It was fantastic but he does that every day of his life, and that's why he's a world-class player.

"Our young players, they won't have a greater role model to follow, and they're in pole position to learn, because they're seeing him every single day.

"If they're bright enough, they'll learn from him, and then hopefully they can be here for a long time.

"If not, they might find themselves playing in League One later on in their life, and they'll regret the opportunity they had of looking at a world-class player every day and learning."

You can only watch the best Barclays Premier League coverage here on Sky Sports. Watch Arsenal v Liverpool exclusively live on Sky Sports HD2, 3D and Sky Go from 7.00pm on Wednesday 30th January. Click here for more details

Rodgers warns Reds youngsters

The Reds boss gave a number of fringe players the chance to impress in Sunday's FA Cup fourth-round trip to Oldham but they were out-fought and slumped to an embarrassing 3-2 defeat.

Rodgers sent Gerrard on in the second half and the captain almost inspired a fightback at Boundary Park, hitting the bar with a fierce strike that would have drawn Liverpool level, but the damage had already been done.

Only three of the players Rodgers picked were older than 23 - Martin Skrtel, Luis Suarez and goalkeeper Brad Jones - and the Liverpool boss gave his young players a stark warning.

He said: "This is a harsh school. This isn't a club where a young player can come in and have lots of time to settle, this is one of the biggest clubs in the world, so you need to understand that every game you play is a cup final.

"And yesterday we had one or two that were too soft, simple as that. If you want to have a career at a club like this, you've got to be tou gher than yesterday.

"It was only when Steven Gerrard and Stewart Downing came on that we played anywhere near the intensity and tempo that we would expect. When you get the opportunity, you have to take it. If not then it can be very difficult for you.

"Yesterday hurt, very much so. But as the manager it gives you even greater motivation to push on. You learn things about players because if we're going to progress we need to make sure we have a group that's hungry in every game.

"It's where the admiration of the likes of a Steven Gerrard and the Jamie Carraghers of this world comes from. You look at Steven yesterday - take away his quality, just his sheer enthusiasm for the game.

"He absolutely flipped the game on its head. It was fantastic but he does that every day of his life, and that's why he's a world-class player.

"Our young players, they won't have a greater role model to follow, and they're in pole position to learn, because they' re seeing him every single day.

"If they're bright enough, they'll learn from him, and then hopefully they can be here for a long time.

"If not, they might find themselves playing in League One later on in their life, and they'll regret the opportunity they had of looking at a world-class player every day and learning."

Rodgers has boosted his squad already in the transfer window with the signing of striker Daniel Sturridge from Chelsea and Inter Milan playmaker Philippe Coutinho is expected to complete a move shortly.

The two clubs are understood to have agreed an 8.5million fee and Coutinho is expected to undergo a medical on Tuesday, although the biggest hurdle for the Reds may be obtaining a work permit for the 20-year-old.

Rodgers was again reluctant to discuss the deal, and he acknowledged Liverpool's weaknesses will take a number of transfer windows to address.

He described Sunday's loss as a "growing pain" and said: "We know in this window it was never going to be fulfilled but I think yesterday probably highlighted that, when we do change the team around, that we don't quite have that bit of depth yet.

"It was another marker in the fact that we want to improve the group and that's something I'm sure we'll do over the coming windows.

"If we can add another player in this window, if not more, then great. If not then we'll look in the summer to keep the building process going."

Rodgers wants more from squad

The England midfielder came off the bench just before the hour with his side trailing 3-1 at Oldham and although it prompted an improved display it could not stop a shock FA Cup fourth-round exit.

Rodgers rested the 32-year-old, who has played every minute of every league game this season, along with the likes of Jamie Carragher and Stewart Downing but found their replacements wanting.

"I can't rely on Steven for 70 games. He has been absolutely incredible," said the Reds boss.

"He shouldn't be expected to come and win games on his own. He came on and gave a real impetus to the team and his quality was there to be seen.

"Steven Gerrard and Stewart Downing come on and it is a different game and for 35 minutes we were terrific but it is too late then because we are 3-1 down then. It wasn't good enough."

Rodgers criticised his younger players - only Martin Skrtel, Luis Suarez and goalkeeper Brad Jones were aged over 23 - for lacking th e appetite for a fight against the npower League One side.

Latics frontman Matt Smith scored either side of Suarez's 21st goal of the season before Reece Wabara made it 3-1 just after half-time, leaving Joe Allen's first goal for the club little more than a consolation.

"The big guy Smith did well but it is not as if we have not played against that type before," Rodgers added.

"I was disappointed with the young players, I've got to be honest. It is not just about playing for Liverpool, you have to be competitive and be part of a group that is going to challenge for trophies.

"It is not enough to play for Liverpool and get up for the Arsenal and Manchester City games (later this week) because if we are going to win trophies you need to be able to come to places like Oldham and win and we weren't good enough for that.

"These games are a different type of football (to the Premier League), you have to roll your sleeves up be strong and aggressi ve and unfortunately for us there were too many who were.

"It is great to put young players in but you have to have personality and the young players disappointed."

Asked whether younger players were too cocooned in a Premier League environment Rodgers replied: "They will never get comfortable, you can't be comfortable at Liverpool and they are never allowed to be."

Rodgers rejected suggestions his team selection, making six changes and leaving Gerrard on the bench, was an error.

"It is not complacency. We haven't enough depth," he added. "We have three tough games this week and we put out a team we thought could get the result.

"This is a trophy we really put our focus on to hopefully go far in and it is a competition we are out of so we are all disappointed."

Oldham v Liverpool FA Cup preview: Premier League giants visit Boundary Park

Oldham welcomed back James Wesolowski from suspension in their midweek defeat by Notts County and the midfielder is likely to keep his starting place against Liverpool.

Captain Dean Furman is still absent on international duty with South Africa at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Former West Ham United midfielder Cristian Montano missed the game against Notts County with his ongoing thigh injury.

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is expected to use the game at Oldham to rotate and rest his squad with an eye on Wednesday's Premier League trip to Arsenal.

Glen Johnson has a tight hamstring and is not likely to be risked, while Pepe Reina (nose & thigh) will sit out again in the hope of returning against the Gunners.

Rodgers must decide whether he wants to stick with the blossoming attacking partnership of Luis Suarez and 12million January signing Daniel Sturridge.

But Jonjo Shelvey and Suso are in line to return to the starting line-up for the first time since the third round win at Mansfield.

Jose Enrique and Martin Kelly remain absent through injury, but Brendan Rodgers has revealed that the former - absent since the end of December with a torn hamstring - could also be back next week.

Oldham spring FA Cup shock as Liverpool lose Boundary Park thriller

Matt Smith's early opener was cancelled out by Luis Suarez but a howler by Reds goalkeeper Brad Jones allowed Smith to restore Oldham's lead on the stroke of half-time.

Reece Wabara powerfully headed in a third for the League One club and, even though Joe Allen reduced Liverpool's arrears with a deflected volley, Oldham clung on to seal a famous win.

Smith gave indication of his threat in just the third minute with the sort of goal you associate with a player of his physical stature. Youssouf M'Changama swung over a cross from the left and the 23-year-old used every inch of his 6ft 6in frame to out-muscle Sebastian Coates and head past Jones.

The first half had an edge to it as Raheem Sterling was booked for challenge on M'Changama which ultimately forced the Oldham midfielder off after just 10 minutes.

Robbie Simpson, a scorer at Anfield in Oldham's 5-1 third-round defeat last season, was also cautioned for going in on Jones after the goa lkeeper had failed to hold the ball - which turned out to be a pre-cursor of what was to come.

Suarez, captaining on the day, brought Liverpool level in the 17th minute when he set off on a driving run from deep and looked to pass but got a lucky rebound off defender Cliff Byrne and reacted quickly to hammer the ball inside Dean Bouzanis' left-hand post.

The Uruguayan's touch to Jordan Henderson's inswinging free-kick then diverted the ball into the net only to be denied by an offside flag, while Sterling should have scored after Suarez's pass was backheeled into his path by Fabio Borini but he shot straight at the keeper.

But Oldham remained unbowed as they took great heart from the physical battles they were winning and were rewarded with a second goal moments before the interval.

Smith, who had already had a header tipped over by Jones in added time, converted the simplest of chances after a howler by the Liverpool goalkeeper who fumbled Wabara 's cross to allow Lee Croft to square a pass for the striker to poke home.

Borini had the chance to equalise from Jack Robinson's cross with the second half less than a minute old but he side-footed over and it proved costly.

The visitors' defensive fallibility in the air was exposed again on 48 minutes as Carl Winchester swung a cross to the far post and Wabara rose above Robinson to head over Jones into the far corner.

Steven Gerrard's introduction from the bench was not long in coming and the England captain soon had a shot blocked from which Daniel Sturridge blazed over.

Allen pulled one back with 11 minutes to go to with a shot which deflected in off Joe Baxter but Oldham held on to reach the fifth round for the first time in 19 years.

Oldham Athletic	Team Statistics	Liverpool
3	Goals	2
2	1st Half Goals	1
7	Shots on Target	7
7	Shots off Target	7
0	Blocked Shots	10
2	Corners	13
8	Fouls	10
3	Offsides	4
3	Yellow Cards	1
0	Red Cards	0
60.7	Passing Success	75
21	Tackles	15
76.2	Tackles Success	86.7
37.6	Possession	62.4
52.8	Territorial Advantage	47.2
290	Total Passes	488
15	Total Crosses	20
181	Lost Balls	195
57	Recoveries	60
49.9	1st Half Poss.	50.1
25.6	2nd Half Poss.	74.4

Liverpool's young players face the wrath of boss Brendan Rodgers

Rodgers was left bemused by a below-par effort from a mixed Liverpool side in the 3-2 fourth-round defeat at Boundary Park as they were hardly in the game in the first half.

Things improved a little when he brought on added experience in the second period, but Joe Allen's 80th minute goal came too late to turn around a Sunday afternoon the red-faced Liverpool manager would rather forget.

"We are bitterly disappointed. We started the first half poorly and we started the second half and got punished," Rodgers said. "We've got a big week of games but our mentality in that opening period was poor and it ended up costing us.

"I was disappointed with the young players today I've got to be honest.

"We are trying to give them experience and let them see what it was like to play for Liverpool. It is not just about playing for Liverpool, you have to be competitive and be part of a group that is going to challenge for trophies.

"I thou ght how we reacted to that and how we performed, knowing that is what we are looking for, was disappointing.

"It is not enough to play for Liverpool and get up for the Arsenal and Manchester City games (later this week) because if we are going to win trophies you need to be able to come to places like Oldham and win and we weren't good enough for that.

"We were just too much on the back foot early on, you really have to be aggressive. These are different games to the Premier League: Premier League games are nice, you go in and teams will pass the ball and give you time to get your shape.

"These games are a different type of football, you have to roll your sleeves up be strong and aggressive and unfortunately for us there were too many who weren't.

"It is just a different type of football where you have to stand up and be counted. It is great to put young players in but you have to have personality and the young players disappointed."

Transfer news: Inter Milan ready for Philippe Coutinho to exit for Liverpool

It emerged earlier this week that the Reds were closing in on a move for the winger after agreeing a fee with the Serie A club.

And it appears Inter are already planning for the future without Coutinho after Moratti confirmed that they would look to use the money from his sale to strengthen the squad.

He told Sky Italia: "The deal for Coutinho to Liverpool is an opportunity both for Inter and both for the player.

"We could be happy with the economic proposal and Coutinho could find the space he hasn't here. And then we'll have the opportunity to reinforce the team".

If the deal is completed, Coutinho would become the club's second signing of this transfer window following the 12million capture of Daniel Sturridge from Chelsea.

Coutinho came through the youth system at Vasco da Gama before joining Inter at the age of 18.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at Espanyol, where he worked with new Southampton manager M auricio Pochettino.

Pochettino's recent appointment at Saints led to speculation linking Coutinho with the South Coast club but it is understand he has expressed a preference for Anfield.

Transfer News: Reading make bid for Blackpool winger Tom Ince

Ince has been strongly linked with a return to his former club Liverpool, who have previously seen an offer for the player rejected by Blackpool.

Swansea City have also been mooted as admirers of the England Under-21 international, but now Reading are hoping to steal a march on their rivals.

It is understood that the Premier League strugglers have offered a fee in the region of 7million-8million for a player who scored twice in Blackpool's win at Wolves on Saturday.

Speaking after the game at Molineux, Blackpool's caretaker manager Steve Thompson confirmed that Ince would not be allowed to leave the club on the cheap.

Thompson said: "I have heard the speculation but everything has a price. You see certain players going for big money and he is just as good as them.

"So if he is going to go, he is not going to go cheap. He is a special talent. If Tom goes, he goes, and he has earned it because he has been fantastic.

"He is stil l a little baby really and still has a lot to learn. But he has an end product and goals. If someone comes in they will get a special player but we are not going to give special players away for cheap at Blackpool."

Rodgers confident over Suarez

The Uruguay international is enjoying an outstanding season having scored 20 goals for the Anfield outfit.

That has led to speculation that other clubs could move in for the 40million-rated forward if the Reds' absence from the Champions League continues.

Liverpool are currently seventh in the Premier League and facing a battle to regain a place in Europe's elite competition.

But Rodgers is confident Suarez shares his vision for the club and does not believe the 26-year-old's future on Merseyside depends on whether they qualify or not.

Rodgers said: "Luis had a terrific season last season and he had an opportunity to leave in the summer, and probably would have had a ready-made excuse with a new manager coming in, but he never did.

"He committed to the club. He sees the vision going forward, and he believes in that.

"He knows it won't happen overnight. He has had a brilliant season with 20 goals until now, and hopefully there are many more to come."

Suarez signed a long-term contract at Anfield in August.

Liverpool face a big week with an FA Cup fourth-round tie at Oldham followed by Premier League away trips to Arsenal and Manchester City.

Rodgers is determined to keep firing on all fronts.

He said: "When you are a club like this you are judged on your trophies, and we want to improve in the league as well."

Steven Gerrard lauds manager Brendan Rodgers' mettle

Rodgers took over at Anfield eight months ago, following two years of success as Swansea boss, that saw him lead the Welsh club into the Premier League and receive plaudits for their possession-based style of play.

It was this that prompted Reds owners John Henry and Tom Werner to make their move for the 39-year-old Northern Irishman and Gerrard believes they will ultimately be rewarded with success.

"He gave up a top job in a comfortable situation at Swansea, where he'd done fantastically well, and had the bottle and the character to come and take this big job on," said Gerrard.

"Our fans demand that we are successful and that we win and if you are looking for a young manager out there who has everything going for him who can help us achieve that success I think you pick Brendan Rodgers.

"Now the responsibility and the pressure is shared with the likes of myself and Jamie (Carragher) because it is a tough club as well with the demands and expectations on a daily basis."

The Reds have been inconsistent so far this season and currently lie seventh in the Premier League table, but beat Norwich 5-0 in their last match and this weekend take on Oldham in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

You can only watch the best Barclays Premier League coverage here on Sky Sports. Watch Arsenal v Liverpool exclusively live on Sky Sports HD2, 3D and Sky Go from 7.00pm on Wednesday 30th January. Click here for more details

Reds close on Coutinho swoop

The Merseyside club are thought to be prepared to pay 8.5million for the 20-year-old, who was also reported to have attracted interest from Southampton.

Manager Brendan Rodgers had said on Friday he was still looking to add to his squad with one or two new players before Thursday's transfer deadline.

Rodgers was unwilling to comment on speculation linking the club with Coutinho but it is now understand the club have succeeded with an approach after previous advances were rejected.

Coutinho is now expected to travel to Liverpool early next week for a medical and to complete other formalities.

Liverpool will also need to apply for a work permit for the player.

If the deal is completed, Coutinho would become the club's second signing of this transfer window following the 12million capture of Daniel Sturridge from Chelsea.

Rodgers, at his press conference to preview this weekend's FA Cup tie at Oldham, said: "We hope to do some b usiness between now and the end of the month.

"The owners have been brilliant in supporting (me), we knew we were maybe a little bit short in the summer.

"We all agreed this was a month we would try to reinforce, if we could."

Coutinho came through the youth system at Vasco da Gama before joining Inter at the age of 16.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at Espanyol, where he worked with new Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Pochettino's recent appointment at Saints led to speculation linking him with the south coast club but it is understand Coutinho has expressed a preference for Anfield.

Brendan Rodgers says Daniel Sturridge has already made positive Liverpool impact

The striker joined the Reds from Premier League rivals Chelsea for 12million early in the January transfer window and has found the back of the net in all three matches he has played.

And the Liverpool boss believes he has slotted in seamlessly, saying: "We've actually played exactly the same system we've played before but good players make that system richer.

"Good players can read each other, players with intelligence can move and play with each other.

"Daniel has got great presence in the team and it gives any team confidence when you know you've got goalscorers in your group - you've got a chance to win games.

"The flexibility and cohesiveness last week was impressive and it is only early days.

"Good players want to play with other good players and we've brought in an exceptional player. I think he's given them a lift.

"The reason I brought him in is because he is a goalscorer and a box player. It is exciting to see and h e will only get better."

You can only watch the best Barclays Premier League coverage here on Sky Sports. Watch Arsenal v Liverpool exclusively live on Sky Sports HD2, 3D and Sky Go from 7.00pm on Wednesday 30th January. Click here for more details

Simpson looking for Reds scalp

Simpson gave Latics a 1-0 lead courtesy of a spectacular long-range effort when the two sides met in last season's third round at Anfield, but the Reds were in front by half-time and a pair of late goals added considerable gloss to a 5-1 scoreline.

A brace from Simpson inspired Paul Dickov's men to the shock comeback win over Nottingham Forest that set up Sunday's Boundary Park clash one step further along the road to Wembley, and the versatile former Coventry and Huddersfield forward feels Oldham's status as the home side may change the complexion of the contest.

He said: "Last season it was kind of seen as a day out at Anfield, whereas this season we've got them at home and we know how we have done against them in the past.

"It's kind of like 'can we beat them?' rather than 'let's have a day out'. It's a different mentality, I guess."

Simpson admits he regularly watches his moment of magic in front of the Kop but ultimately feels Oldham were short-changed for their efforts on Merseyside.

"It definitely was an unfair reflection," he said. "We went in at half-time 2-1 down, looking at each other saying 'how are we 2-1 down?'.

"We played some really good stuff and if we'd gone in 1-0 it would have been deserved. They got a lucky deflection for their equaliser just after I scored and then they got given a penalty which was a little dubious.

"In the second half we came out in the first 10 or 20 minutes and had a couple of opportunities. It was the last 20 minutes of the game where they scored three goals in quick succession. It didn't reflect the game."

Liverpool won the previous encounter under Kenny Dalglish's management and Brendan Rodgers' meticulous passing approach is likely to present different problems this time around.

The Premier League outfit have won eight of their past 11 games in all competitions, a run very much at odds with Oldham's dismal recent slump that has returned a solitary point from eight npower League One matches.

Nevertheless, Simpson takes encouragement from the manner of non-league Mansfield's 2-1 defeat to Liverpool in the previous round, along with Latics' superb City Ground triumph.

"All of us watched the Mansfield-Liverpool game and it just showed that Mansfield gave them a right good go and stopped them playing at times," he said.

"When Liverpool did have good possession they let them have it but as soon as a pass went astray they were right on it and pressing in their faces.

"Forest were similar, the way they shaped up. They had a deep-lying midfielder who always got on the ball and were quite methodical in their passing.

"In the first half of that game we let that dictate us but second half we got in their faces and stopped them doing that.

"We can take heart from that and we can maybe do the same against Liverpool."

Sturridge arrival is fab for Borini

The Italian has only just returned from a three-month absence with a broken foot which could not have come at a worse time for him.

Having joined from Roma for 10million in the summer the 21-year-old was just starting to find his feet with his new team when the injury put him back to square one.

By the time he had recovered manager Brendan Rodgers had signed Sturridge for 12million and the striker has responded with three goals in as many games.

Seeing Sturridge ahead of him is a familiar sight for Borini as the 23-year-old edged in front of him in terms of first-team recognition when the pair were at Chelsea together.

Now they are back on the same side again the Italian, who has made two substitute appearances since his return to fitness, is ready to battle for his chance.

"Competition in positions is good because everyone is fighting for their place," said Borini.

"Daniel and I were together in the reserves, going backwards and forward from the first team, as we were the same position.

"Then I had a problem with my contract and I was back with the reserves.

"There was some rivalry for the position, like every team has, but we are good friends too.

"You have to fight for your place all the time, even in life.

"It is a big chance for us (him and Sturridge) because we always waited for this chance to be part of a big project at a big club.

"We both know Brendan and the way he thinks and works so that is helping us but we have to do our job as well."

Borini's quality has been prematurely questioned by critics in the first few months of his Liverpool career but the player is able to rise above it.

He may be on his fourth professional club - the other being Swansea where he spent two months on loan under Rodgers in their promotion-winning season - but that has not dented his self-belief.

The support of personal mental coach Roberto Civitarese h as helped Borini, an intelligent young man with a deep interest in interior design, through most of his career lows over the last five years.

And it was he to whom he turned after his latest setback having briefly spoken to Dr Steve Peters, the sports psychologist brought in by Rodgers after his successful work with many of Great Britain's Olympians.

"I think it is a thing that, in modern football, can be really helpful," Borini said.

"I really appreciate talking to psychologists and I will talk to them again.

"I opted for it to make something change in what I was doing: I was at Chelsea at the time and I worked with him for almost one year to get the mentality right.

"After getting all the mental things right I got my debut in the Premier League.

"On the pitch I've had really good results from what I did and it is a special thanks to him because he really helped me in a difficult moment.

"It has really helped me because I cou ld see the results. You can control yourself better under pressure when you have big games coming up or a bad situation like an injury and you deal with problems better.

"I stopped (consulting Civitarese) for one year because I chose to see if I could do it on my own but after my (latest) injury I decided I needed to work with him again."

Borini is in line for his first start since October 4 in Sunday's FA Cup fourth-round tie at League One Oldham.

He admits his spell on the sidelines was tough and he chose to return to his homeland to do much of his rehabilitation in order to be more comfortable.

"It has been difficult because I got an injury when I wanted to be fit," he added.

"It was a complicated injury on my foot, it was very delicate and it wasn't easy to get back as soon as possible.

"I chose to go back to Italy to do some of my rehab there because mentally it was easier as I was close to home and I could see my family more.

"Also not seeing my team-mates playing outside every day made me a little bit more confident when I got back because it is very difficult watching my team playing every week and not being involved.

"Now I am back and feel good and fit, thanks to the staff here at Liverpool."

Liverpool striker Michael Ngoo has completed his loan move to Hearts

The England Under-20 striker goes straight into the squad to face Inverness in Saturday's Scottish Communities League Cup semi-final at Easter Road.

Ngoo, who Liverpool bought from Southend in 2009, follows Anfield team-mate Danny Wilson in signing for Hearts since their Scottish Premier League transfer embargo was lifted under continuing restrictions.

The 20-year-old told Hearts TV: "I'm very honoured to be here. I want to give it my all and hopefully the fans will be on my side and we can all be together.

"I had a few offers to go on loan in England but I spoke to Danny and he said it was a good club and the level was very, very good.

"The club is big, they played against Liverpool and they had passion so it was a no-brainer for me.

"I was at the game at Anfield and I thought the passion of the boys was fantastic, and to be part of that will be very good."

Hearts boss John McGlynn has declared Ngoo a potential secret weapon against in-form Caley Thistle.

"He'll definitely be in the squad for tomorrow," McGlynn said. "He could be something that Inverness hasn't bargained for. He could be a surprise package.

"He's very similar to Danny in that he's been playing regularly. The English Under-21 teams didn't have much of a break over Christmas and new year so he's been playing and he's match-fit and raring to go.

"I don't want to put too much pressure on him, it's not fair to think that he's going to batter every ball that comes into the box into the back of the net.

"However, we hope that he's going to improve our goalscoring tally."

McGlynn added: "He's come from a big football club. Liverpool signed him from Southend and paid a bit of money for him so they have high hopes for him.

"It was the priority position for us. I said last week that when there's a player like Danny Wilson, you can never have enough good players about. You take good players any tim e.

"It probably helped that Danny is now here as he obviously knows the lad, he spoke to Michael and gave good him a good report on the football club."(re-opens) Hearts manager John McGlynn believes Ngoo could be a secret weapon against Caley Thistle.

"He'll definitely be in the squad for tomorrow," McGlynn said. "He could be something that Inverness hasn't bargained for. He could be a surprise package.

"He's very similar to Danny in that he's been playing regularly. The English Under-21 teams didn't have much of a break over Christmas and new year so he's been playing and he's match-fit and raring to go.

"I don't want to put too much pressure on him, it's not fair to think that he's going to batter every ball that comes into the box into the back of the net.

"However, we hope that he's going to improve our goal scoring tally."

McGlynn added: "He's come from a big football club. Liverpool signed him from Southend and paid a bit of mo ney for him so they have high hopes for him.

"It was the priority position for us. I said last week that when there's a player like Danny Wilson, you can never have enough good players about. You take good players any time.

"It probably helped that Danny is now here as he obviously knows the lad, he spoke to Michael and gave good him a good report on the football club."

Rodgers 'hopes to do business'

The Reds, who have already signed striker Daniel Sturridge this month, have been heavily linked with Inter Milan playmaker Philippe Coutinho but no deal has yet materialised.

Wales captain Ashley Williams, of Rodgers' former club Swansea, has also been mentioned as a potential target while Blackpool winger Tom Ince has long been the subject of rumours suggesting he could return to Anfield.

Rodgers said: "We hope to do some business between now and the end of the month.

"The owners have been brilliant in supporting (me), we knew we were maybe a little bit short in the summer.

"We all agreed this was a month we would try to reinforce, if we could.

"Very quickly we got Daniel Sturridge in and he has made a big impact, proving the owners were right to fund the money for him.

"With respect, 12million for a player like Daniel Sturridge is a real bargain and I think he will prove that over the next couple of seasons.

"We know we still need one or two additions more and the club are doing everything they can to assist me in that.

"If we can then great, if not we will have review it again in the summer."

Rodgers, speaking at a press conference to preview this weekend's FA Cup fourth-round tie at Oldham, would not give any names.

He said: "It is all speculation and I would only comment once we get a player in the door."

Liverpool were frustrated during the summer transfer window, most notably as they allowed striker Andy Carroll to join West Ham on loan and then failed to secure a replacement.

The Merseysiders were thought to be keen to sign Clint Dempsey from Fulham but a potential deal collapsed on deadline day and the American joined Tottenham instead.

Rodgers, who only took charge last summer, believes the situation at the club is different now.

He said: "It was difficult all-round in the summer. A new manager with no recruitment staff, the lines of communication - it was difficult. We were so busy in pre-season.

"But I have got to say from that moment on - we got the recruitment team in, the lines are very clear and everyone has an understanding of where we are at. It is working how we envisaged it to work.

"There is a small group who'll look at the players we want to bring in and that relationship will only get better as go on. We're all happy and comfortable."

Rodgers is likely to make changes for the trip to Boundary Park on Sunday as he keeps an eye on the midweek game at Arsenal and next weekend's visit to Manchester City.

Yet Rodgers will not be taking the tie lightly as he recognises how important it is to bring silverware to the club.

He said: "We want to do well in the cup. This is a club that has got a real proud tradition in this competition.

"We want to go as far as we possibly can, without taking away from the two very important league games coming up.

" It is a chance for me to look at the squad and games like this, the squad really comes to the fore.

"I have great trust in the players, they been absolutely brilliant in my time here.

"I know whichever team I put out, Sunday, Wednesday and the following week - they will be strong teams able to get a result.

"But we'll be taking a strong squad because we don't want to hold back. It is a tournament we want to do well in."

Premier League champions Manchester City move up Deloitte Money League

Premier League champions City, who are owned by Abu Dhabi-based Sheikh Mansour, saw revenues rise by 51% last year as they climbed five places to seventh on the list, just behind London duo Arsenal and Chelsea.

Real Madrid continue to top the league ahead of Barcelona, while Manchester United stay in third ahead of Bayern Munich despite a small fall in revenue last season.

Austin Houlihan, senior manager in the sports business group at Deloitte, said that City's growth - thanks to Champions League income and the huge new deal with Etihad - was a significant change to the European football landscape.

"Manchester City's Premier League title-winning season combined with participation in the UEFA Champions League, helped drive 51% revenue growth to 231.1m, the largest absolute and relative growth of any Money League club," Houlihan said.

"The club's progress to the top of the English and European game means that they are set to remain a top-10 Money League club for the foreseeable future, and will look to push on ahead of the two English clubs immediately above them, Arsenal and Chelsea, for a top-five ranking."

Arsenal's revenue last season was 235m, only 4m more than City's, but they have a bumper new 150m sponsorship deal with Emirates on the horizon, plus an expected new kit deal with Nike.

European champions Chelsea's revenue may well fall this season following their record high in 2012 after they failed to make the Champions League knockout stages this campaign.

Deloitte's report added: "Chelsea's feat in becoming the first London club to win the UEFA Champions League allowed it to claim fifth place.

"However, an early exit from European competition this year and capacity constraints of their Stamford Bridge home could see them slip down the Money League next year."

Although Barcelona and Real Madrid have seen revenues increase when calculated in euros, when converted to p ounds sterling both have experienced a drop.

Deloitte Money League, revenues in 2011/12:

1 Real Madrid 414.7m (433m in 2010/11)

2 Barcelona 390.8m (407m)

3 Manchester United 320.3m (331.4m)

4 Bayern Munich 298.1m (290.3m)

5 Chelsea 261m (228.6m)

6 Arsenal 234.9m (226.8m)

7 Manchester City 231.1m (153.2m)

8 AC Milan 207.9m (212m)

9 Liverpool 188.7m (183.6m)

10 Juventus 158.1m (139m)

Hearts are set to sign Liverpool striker Michael Ngoo on loan until the end of the season.

SPL outfit Hearts are under transfer restrictions that stipulate they can only register under-21 players and they have targeted a move for 20-year-old Ngoo.

Hearts boss John McGlynn has already brought in Danny Wilson on a loan from Liverpool and he has raided Anfield again for Ngoo.

Ngoo has yet to make a first-team appearance for Liverpool, but is a regular in the Under 21 side.

Liverpool chief Brendan Rodgers is happy to loan out Ngoo so that he can gain some valuable first-team experience.

Ngoo is expected to go straight into the squad for Saturday's Scottish Communities League Cup semi-final against Inverness.

Liverpool's Stewart Downing delighted at new levels of consistency

The England international was earlier this season told by boss Brendan Rodgers he could leave in the current transfer window.

However, Downing, a 20million summer 2011 signing under the reign of Kenny Dalglish from Aston Villa, has since turned his Liverpool career around.

He told Liverpool's official website when asked if he was now performing at his highest level since joining the club: "I'd probably say so.

"The first season was patchy, I was in and out. But this year, since I came back into the side, it's been consistently quite good.

"As I said, it's probably because the team is playing quite well that it's all come together."

Downing has made 27 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring three times and he has featured in Liverpool's last successive 10 games.

Suarez 'instinctive' - Rodgers

Rodgers had cause to speak to the Uruguay international on Thursday to reprimand him over an admission he dived in an attempt to win a penalty earlier this season.

That confession, in which the 25-year-old said "I was accused of falling inside the box in a match, and it's true I did it that time", brought words of censure from Rodgers.

"It is unacceptable. It is not something we advocate here. Our ethics are correct," he said. "I've spoken to Luis and it will be dealt with internally."

Rodgers has staunchly backed his star striker since taking over from predecessor Kenny Dalglish, who did exactly the same last season.

And while he accepts the player has been - and most probably will always be - dogged by controversy that is not the full picture.

"He has been a topic for people, particular for the media, because of his great moments of football and things which have happened off the pitch," he added.

"The majority of this seas on has been based around his performances on the field, in which he has shown the true top player he is.

"In fairness to Luis he has knocked on my door and actually apologised as well.

"He got booked in a game (against Southampton) where he instinctively handled the ball and the very next day he came in and apologised for it.

"It is instinctive with him, that is the type of player he is.

"He is not malicious, it is just his nature. He is a sensitive boy as well and he seems to cope remarkably well with everything.

"He will always be a topic for conversation but that's because he's a top player."

In his interview with Argentinian television, Suarez also claimed South American players get a rougher ride from the media than their British counterparts.

It was not an area in which Rodgers wanted to venture but he did have sympathy with the argument.

"I don't really want to go into that too much but it is obviously something he feels," he said.

"But I understand the point: sometimes issues which will get laughed off if it is a British player will be deemed more cynical if it is a European or South American player."

Wilshere out to emulate Gerrard

Wilshere goes from strength to strength with every game as he looks to put a frustrating spell on the sidelines with ankle and knee injuries firmly behind him - crashing in a superb late winner against Swansea on Wednesday night to fire the Gunners into the fourth round of the FA Cup.

While not wanting to add to the pressure already on Wilshere's young shoulders from an expectant nation, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is in no doubt there is plenty more to come.

The 21-year-old's energy and dynamism has drawn comparisons with Liverpool skipper Gerrard, whose determination helped the Reds win the 2005 Champions League final and saw him tasked with leading the national side into the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign under Roy Hodgson.

"I remember Steven Gerrard scoring a similar goal to mine in the FA Cup final against West Ham and also the Champions League game against Olympiacos. He is a great player, but I think I am a bit different - his long pass ing is better than mine," Wilshere said.

"He has been the heartbeat of Liverpool for years. He has also been the stand-out performer for England as well.

"He is a great role model for me. If I can get anywhere near as good as him and drive the team forward like he does, then I will be happy.

"He was someone I looked up to when I was younger. He has 100 caps for England. For any young midfielder he is someone to base your game on and try to be like him."

Despite the clamour surrounding his all-action displays, Wilshere is determined to let his game develop naturally and will not get swept up in all the hype.

"I have got a great family around me who keep me grounded. I don't see myself different to anyone else. I have to work hard," he said.

"I missed a year of football which is tough, particularly because I am a young player who was breaking through, but I am not where I want to be yet.

"I just want to work hard on my right foo t, on my long passing, things like that and just get better and better."

FA to take no action on Suarez

Suarez, speaking to a TV station in Argentina, appeared to suggest that he deliberately dived against Stoke City in the game at Anfield earlier this season in a bid to win a penalty.

The player's interview incurred the wrath of his manager Brendan Rodgers, who has said he will be taking internal disciplinary action against the player, but the governing body will not be getting involved.

Suarez was quoted as saying: "I was accused of falling inside the box in a match, and it's true I did it that time, because we were drawing against Stoke at home and we needed anything to win it.

"But after that everybody jumped out to talk - the Stoke coach and the Everton coach - but the name Suarez sells papers."

In response to the comments, Rodgers said: "I think it's wrong. It's unacceptable. I've spoken to Luis and it will be dealt with internally.

"Diving is not something we advocate. Our ethics are correct. He has been totally understanding on where I am coming from as manager of the club.

"This is a big club and, whatever people do say goes around the world, and what was said was wrong and not acceptable. There is no-one bigger than the club or the club's image."

Bolton 'braced for Lee bids'

Chung-yong is back to fitness for Bolton this season after being restricted to just two appearances last term due to a broken leg.

The South Korean had been one of Bolton's most consistent performers after arriving at the Reebok Stadium in 2009 and he has regularly been linked with other clubs.

It is understood that manager Dougie Freedman's resolve to keep the 24-year-old could be tested before next Thursday's transfer deadline.

Liverpool and Stoke City have long been mooted as admirers of Chung-yong and Sky Sports are reporting that the Premier League duo retain an interest in the wideman.

And there is every expectation that one of those clubs will make a bid for Chung-yong in the final week of the January window.

Sky Sports wins new three-year deal to show comprehensive Premier League highlights

The three-year agreement means that each season, Sky Sports viewers can enjoy extended highlights of all 226 Premier League matches not shown live on television, plus goals and key moments for other programming such as Sky Sports News HDand magazine shows including Goals on Sunday and Soccer Saturday.

From August, Sky Sports will offer:

GAME OF THE DAY: Full 90-minute replay of the best Saturday 3pm match from 8pm that evening

MATCH CHOICE: A choice of 45-minute highlights from all Saturday 3pm fixtures, available via Sky's interactive red button service at 10pm

KEY MOMENTS: All the goals and talking points from all Premier League matches shown throughout the week across Sky Sports and on Sky Sports News HD

Barney Francis, managing director of Sky Sports, said: "This is fantastic news for Sky Sports viewers who will continue to enjoy unrivalled coverage of the Barclays Premier Leagu e on TV and wherever they are with Sky Go.

"We'll give fans the first chance to see extended highlights of all the matches every Saturday, as well as the key moments throughout the week.

"Add these rights to our 116 live matches from next season, which include MNF and Super Sunday double-headers, and Sky Sports truly remains the home of the Barclays Premier League."

He continued: "This is the latest in a series of rights agreements that has seen us secure an unrivalled offering of sports across the UK and Ireland. In 2013 alone, our viewers can enjoy live Barclays Premier League and UEFA Champions League football, Ashes cricket home and away, British & Irish Lions tour, three of golf's Majors, F1 and the Solheim Cup."

Sky Sports viewers can enjoy over 500 live football matches a season from international, European and domestic competitions. This line-up includes UEFA Champions League, Barclays Premier League, npower Football League, Capital One Cu p, Scottish Premier League and La Liga.

The coverage is available across TV, mobile, online and tablet devices through Sky Go, while the Sky Sports app for ipad was recently upgraded, providing users with access to technology used by Gary Neville for analysis during MNF.

Sky Sports News HD is Europe's leading 24 hour sports news channel and skysports.com is the UK's leading commercial sports website.

Merseyside great Payne dies

The boyhood Everton fan joined Liverpool as a teenager and made his debut in 1948 before going on to play in another 242 games for the Reds, scoring 43 goals.

Dubbed 'the Merseyside Matthews' in reference to legendary England and Blackpool winger Stanley Matthews, Payne was the only surviving member of the Liverpool side that reached the 1950 FA Cup final, the club's first Wembley appearance.

In 1956 Payne crossed Stanley Park to sign for Everton but only made a handful of appearances because of injury and later became a newsagent.

A statement on the Liverpool website read: "Everybody at Liverpool Football Club would like to pass on their condolences to Jimmy's family and friends."

Rodgers: Sturridge criticism 'unfair'

The 23-year-old is at his third big club in less than four years after leaving Manchester City in 2009 to play only 96 matches, almost half as substitute, for Chelsea.

Rumours persisted about Sturridge's personality and suitability for the Premier League - indeed Rodgers was interested in signing him in August but reportedly wanted to take him on loan first.

But his 12million move to Merseyside could not have got off to a better start with goals in his first two appearances, one in the FA Cup victory at Mansfield and the other in the defeat to Manchester United last weekend.

He has certainly made an impact early, scoring seven minutes into the cup tie and 12 minutes after coming on at half-time at Old Trafford.

And Rodgers was keen to defend his new signing against the whispering campaign which has accompanied his short career so far.

"It has been very unfair, I have to say" said the Reds boss.

"I remember being at Chelsea an d I'd heard all these things about Nicolas Anelka being an awkward player and I found him one of the nicest guys I ever met in football.

"Sometimes when you are quiet and you focus on yourself you can be criticised for being awkward, but I don't think that is the case with Daniel at all.

"I was aware of him beforehand and I think any frustrations and disappointments he's had were purely down to the basis he wasn't playing or getting an opportunity.

"I can understand that. He went (to Chelsea) as a 20-year-old and it was always going to be difficult for him to play.

"But he has mixed well here and is very hungry to learn. It is going to take time for him to feel at ease and comfortable.

"This will be his first time playing at Anfield and that is a real special feeling."

Much has been made of how Sturridge will fit into a formation which has had Luis Suarez as its spearhead and has brought the Uruguay international 19 goals this season .

But the pair linked well, along with Fabio Borini when he came on last weekend, in a fluid forward line.

And Rodgers has no doubts of Sturridge's ability to continue banging in the goals or his success in partnering Suarez.

"Top players can play with each other and I'm really confident Daniel will flourish in his time here," he added.

"That relationship will take a bit of time to be totally co-ordinated but I've seen in training, with them working together and with other players, the balance is right.

"Daniel came in here and the spotlight was on him because everyone knew we needed someone up there to help Luis and get goals.

"With his pace and power you have a real feeling he can get a goal.

"It's been difficult and perhaps frustrating for him because he hasn't been at the top level of his fitness yet, which is why we had to put him on the bench and bring him into the game (against United).

"At Old Trafford, his perf ormance typified the reason we brought him in.

"It was a terrific shot by Steven Gerrard, a good save by David de Gea and he's in there, in the box looking for a goal.

"There are not many players who would have got to that loose ball. He's very close [to full fitness] and working very hard.

"When you have good players like Daniel, Luis and Steven and the other players around them, it makes things really exciting."

Norwich, having been on the end of back-to-back Suarez hat-tricks in successive league games, are Saturday's visitors as Liverpool look to continue their improving home form.

Rodgers' side have scored seven goals and kept two clean sheets against Fulham and Sunderland at Anfield.

And after defeat at United, the manager is keen for them to return to winning ways.

"We've had some terrific performances so far this season but consistency has been our biggest downfall," he said.

"I believe the group will be as good as any team in this league but we have to be consistent and be able to not play well and win.

"This season we've normally played well and won games; we've also performed well and not got something from the games.

"At times, we're going to have to not play well and be able to win."

Gerrard Liverpool's 'best ever'

The 32-year-old midfielder collected the prestigious accolade from Football Writers' chairman Andy Dunn, of the Sunday Mirror, at a gala dinner in London on Sunday.

Tributes were paid by former manager Gerard Houllier, who brought Gerrard into the Liverpool first team as a raw youngster, and his long-serving team-mate Carragher, while former Reds boss Kenny Dalglish also passed on his congratulations as he was unable to attend.

Carragher is in no doubt of Gerrard's place among Anfield legends.

"I think we are in the presence of the greatest player ever to play for Liverpool," said Carragher.

"People will say I am biased because we are good friends and because of the trophies we have won together, but it is a fair accolade to give him.

"There are guys like Kenny [Dalglish], Graeme Souness, Ian Rush, all world-class players, but the difference was they were in a world-class team - and Stevie has not played in a world-class team."

Carragher added: "Stevie's one strength is he has no weakness, he can run, tackle pass and score goals.

"Football is a team game, but special players do special things at special times, and that is Steven Gerrard."

Former Liverpool striker Rush and England manager Roy Hodgson were among the guests at The Savoy, along with current Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers.

Gerrard, 32, was voted FWA Footballer of the Year in 2009 and was touched to have been recognised for his achievements once again.

"Tonight's award means a lot because these guys have followed me throughout my career, written about me whenever I have played," he said. "To receive this award from the Football Writers' Association is a very proud night for myself and my family. I feel very flattered and humbled to receive it.

"I have always looked at personal awards a bit of a bonus really. I always try to achieve things with Liverpool or fight to do well for England.

"But when you talk about awards of people like the supporters or people in the press who watch you week in and week out, scrutinise your performances, these mean an awful lot because these guys know their football."

Gerrard has played in every minute of all of Liverpool's Barclays Premier League matches this season, scoring in yesterday's 5-0 demolition of Norwich at Anfield, which saw the Reds move a small step closer to the top four.

The veteran midfielder has also now chalked up 100 international caps as he looks to lead Hodgson's team on through to qualification for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

"It is a special year - the 150th anniversary for the FA as well, so there are some really big fixtures to look forwards to," Gerrard added.

"We are halfway through a World Cup qualifying campaign, so hopefully at the end of the season it can be a success for Liverpool to achieve something, and also make it through to the finals in Brazil with England."

Steven Gerrard praised by Roy Hodgson and Ian Rush after receiving FWA award

The Liverpool skipper has scored 94 goals in 428 Premier League appearances for Liverpool and won his 100th England cap in the 4-2 friendly defeat to Sweden in November.

He earned the FWA Tribute Award for making an outstanding contribution to the national game, with Hodgson and Rush keen to offer their praise.

"Since I have taken over the national team he has been outstanding, not only as captain but as a player," said Hodgson.

"For someone who has had such a good career, such a long career, to win 100 caps and play so many games for Liverpool, his only club where he was born and raised as a footballer, is a fantastic achievement.

"We see less and less of that type of player these days and I think Steven has all the attributes of a top-class footballer but also a top-class professional and a top-class person.

"It is an honour really to work with him."

Rush, who scored 229 goals in 469 appearances during two spells at Anfield, is equally enamoured with Gerrard's contribution to football.

He highlighted Gerrard's pivotal role in Liverpool's Champions League final victory over AC Milan in Istanbul in 2005, when, inspired by Gerrard, they came back from 3-0 down at half-time to draw 3-3 before claiming the trophy after a penalty shootout.

"It's been absolutely fantastic. It is a joy to watch someone like Steven play," said Rush.

"Going back to the Champions League Final in Istanbul, he was the main man that orchestrated that.

"He scored the first goal and gave everyone belief they could do that. He also scored important goals in FA Cup finals.

"People say who would get into the (Liverpool) team of the 80s that won everything and for me, scoring goals like that, Gerrard would walk into any Liverpool side of any era."

Steven Gerrard wants Liverpool to finish in top four to convince Luis Suarez

Despite sticking by Suarez through some difficult times, Liverpool risk losing the Uruguayan in the summer if they cannot deliver UEFA Champions League football.

And the Reds skipper is urging his team-mates to meet the ambitions of their star striker by fighting their way up the table.

"Hopefully, we can put a fight on for him between now and the end of the season to finish fourth and we make a decision for him," said Gerrard.

"Only he knows what his ambitions and dreams are. Luis deserves to be in the Champions League - everyone has to admit that.

"Outside of Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, I'll argue he's as good as anyone else.

"He's probably the best player I've played with and I've played with some top players in my career."

Gerrard himself has been receiving plenty of plaudits after being heralded as Liverpool's "greatest player ever" by team-mate Jamie Carragher when honoured by the Football Writers' Association at a g ala tribute dinner.

Carragher is in no doubt of Gerrard's place among Anfield legends.

"I think we are in the presence of the greatest player ever to play for Liverpool," said Carragher.

"People will say I am biased because we are good friends and because of the trophies we have won together, but it is a fair accolade to give him.

"There are guys like Kenny [Dalglish], Graeme Souness, Ian Rush, all world-class players, but the difference was they were in a world-class team - and Stevie has not played in a world-class team."

Carragher added: "Stevie's one strength is he has no weakness, he can run, tackle pass and score goals.

"Football is a team game, but special players do special things at special times, and that is Steven Gerrard."

England captain Steven Gerrard sets sights on David Beckham's caps record

The 32-year-old midfielder, who made his international debut against Ukraine in 2000, earned his 100th international cap in the friendly defeat by Sweden in November but is still 15 short of Beckham's high for an outfield player.

"My personal ambitions are to get as many caps as I can - I have got David Beckham's record in my sights, so I am going to try to beat that because he is a special player," said Gerrard.

If he remains fit, Gerrard could close in on Beckham's tally at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

The Three Lions currently sit second in qualifying Group H, two points behind Montenegro, who they face in March shortly after a trip to San Marino.

Gerrard feels Hodgson's squad should not only be confident of qualifying but making a major impact at the tournament.

"I don't want to raise expectations, I am sure it will probably go through the roof if and when we get there, so I don't really want to talk about the World Cup until w e actually get there, we still have some important games to play, but I am confident we can achieve it (qualification)," Gerrard said.

"As I always say going into a major tournament, you need to get that bit of luck and when the ball drops your way, I think you can achieve the impossible - I have done it before with Liverpool, and we have seen Chelsea do it last year (in the Champions League).

"It is not necessarily all the time that the best teams win these competitions, so we can go into there with hope and belief."

Carra considering Reds future

The veteran centre-back turns 35 next Monday and his existing deal only runs until June.

He made only his second Premier League start of the season in Saturday's 5-0 win over Norwich as manager Brendan Rodgers dropped Martin Skrtel, although he has played regularly in Europe.

It has been difficult for Carragher to watch from the bench for most of the season but he is determined to make the most of any opportunity.

Asked whether he could play on beyond this season, Carragher said: "That's up to the manager and the club will make decisions like that.

"I will just chat to the manager. I am open-minded and I am sure the club are as well.

"The most important thing is about the club getting results, not what I am going to do. That is something we can sort out one way or another."

Rodgers restored Carragher to the heart of his defence as he was concerned about the lack of leadership in the side after watching an insipid 45 minutes i n the defeat by Manchester United.

The Reds boss has spoken of the significant contribution the defender has made during the early stages of his first season at Anfield having taken over from Kenny Dalglish in the summer.

"The manager has been great with me and has tried to keep me involved, even though it has been difficult for me to start games," added Carragher.

"I've played a lot in Europe, the FA Cup and Capital One Cup but the Premier League is the most important thing for the club and the players - we all want to play in that and I'm no different.

"The manager has always kept me involved, bringing me off the bench in different situations but I want to start.

"I am just pleased he gave me the nod against Norwich and it went well. I am just pleased I got a game and hopefully I can get a few more.

"That is only my second (league) start of the season, which is disappointing from my point of view but I won't complain.

"I wil l try to get as many more games as I can and try to stay involved from now to the end of the season."

Coutinho 'hopes to stay at Inter'

The Premier League side are in talks with Inter over a deal for the playmaker, having already seen one bid rejected.

It was fully expected that an 8million deal would be agreed between the two clubs - but the player has cast some doubt of whether he wants to actually make the move to Anfield.

Coutinho says he is happy with the young squad at Inter and wants to impress coach Andrea Stramaccioni.

"The Liverpool offer? I'm happy with these offers, because it means I am doing my job well," he told Sky Italia.

"But I think Inter have faith in me and I want to show my value here. I don't feel that I'm on my way out. I hope to stay at Inter

"The young players, feel the faith of the coach and of the club: me, Juan Jesus, Benassi, Bessa and the others."

Pepe Reina's father keen for his son to trade Liverpool for Barcelona

The goalkeeper's father, Miguel, was a Spain international who played more than 100 games for Barca - and he has suggested that the 30-year-old's time at Anfield could be coming to an end.

He told Spanish radio station La Xerxa: "I am absolutely convinced that Pepe would be more than delighted to return to his Barcelona, where they made him into an upstanding man from the time he arrived at the age of 12 until he left.

"I say it publicly: I would be delighted to see Pepe back at Barca, of course I would. What father would not like to see his son at Barca?

"He has already been there but to return would be extraordinary.

"Pepe has shown sufficient proof of the calibre of goalkeeper he is and right now - and sorry for the lack of modesty - he would be up to the task and the ideal keeper for FC Barcelona."

The Catalan giants are looking for a new goalkeeper after Victor Valdes revealed he would not be signing a new contract beyond next season.

Oldham handed pitch boost

Boundary Park was covered by several inches of snow over the weekend and with temperatures predicted to be sub-zero all week the game may have been placed in doubt.

However, the Football Association have provided a 'bubble' which will cover the playing surface and be filled with hot air to ensure the pitch is protected from the extremes of the weather.

It should have been put down on Monday but because of the amount of snow groundstaff have had to clear the pitch first.

Oldham are confident though that, at this stage, their efforts will mean the match goes ahead without any problems.

With the match sold out and television revenue bringing in 135,850 the tie is big money-spinner for the League One side.

Now the pitch has been taken care of, the club are concentrating on making sure the surrounding areas are clear from snow and safe for spectators.

Groundstaff have begun that clear-up operation but the club have appealed for he lp from the general public to provide assistance if possible.

"Latics are looking for volunteers to help ensure Sunday's FA Cup with Budweiser, fourth-round tie against Liverpool goes ahead," said a statement.

"They need help throughout the week to clear snow from inside Boundary Park and also the approaches to the ground. If you have free time, simply turn up at the ground."

Gerrard: Suarez changes on pitch

The Uruguay international scored his 20th goal of the season - the first Reds player to do so since Fernando Torres in 2009-10 - in the weekend's 5-0 win over Norwich.

Suarez, who turns 26 on Thursday, has become a talisman for the side, easing the burden on Gerrard who has carried the club for the best part of a decade.

Suarez has attracted his fair share of criticism after a race row with Patrice Evra and admitting diving to try to win a penalty.

But Gerrard believes the general portrayal of his team-mate is often inaccurate, although he accepts when it comes to playing football Suarez has only one aim and that is to win.

"He is very quiet in the dressing room and around the place," said the England captain. "He is a family man: every time you ask him what he is doing he is with his family.

"When he comes onto the pitch, he turns into a fighter, he turns into a winner."

Gerrard said on Sunday that Suarez deserved to play in the Champions League but could not say whether not qualifying would result in the Uruguayan being lured away by other clubs.

With Liverpool seven points adrift of fourth place their chances of re-joining Europe's elite club competition may have to wait until at least next season.

But the Reds captain was in no doubt Suarez was integral to the Merseysiders' chances of success in the future.

"I think he is world class. He has everything and we are very lucky to have him in our team and at our club," said the midfielder, speaking at a Football Writers' Association gala tribute dinner in his honour.

"We want him to stay for a long time. If Liverpool are going to be successful in years to come Luis Suarez will be a big part of that.

"When you are trying to achieve these big prizes against top players and top sides in the league Luis Suarez is someone you want in your team."

Suarez is only two goals behind Manchester United striker Robin van Persie (18) in the running for the Premier League top scorer and Gerrard believes he should also be in contention for the player of the year award.

"I certainly hope so, he deserves that accolade," said the 32-year-old. "I'd go as far as to say he's probably the best player I've played with, which is some accolade considering the players I've played with - some fantastic players.

"I've played with world-class players - Fernando Torres, Jamie Carragher, Gary McAllister - but Luis Suarez is probably top of that pile."

Manager Brendan Rodgers is looking to bolster his squad before the end of the transfer window, although he does not have the finances to bring in anyone who could remotely be regarded as world-class.

He is interested Inter Milan midfielder Philippe Coutinho, a 20-year-old Brazil international, and discussions have taken place with the Serie A club.

Rodgers has also been linked with a bid for Ajaccio's Mexican goalkeeper Guil lermo Ochoa as speculation over the future of Jose Reina - currently sidelined with a thigh injury - continues.

With Barcelona's Victor Valdes saying he will not sign a new contract with the Catalans when his current deal expires next year Reina is being linked with a return to his former club.

Reina's father Miguel was also played in goal for Barcelona before moving to Atletico Madrid and he said the 30-year-old would be an ideal replacement for Valdes.

"Pepe has sufficiently shown his standing as a goalkeeper and I would even say I think he would be the ideal goalkeeper for Barcelona without a doubt," Miguel Reina, who himself was a former goalkeeper with Barca, Atletico Madrid and Spain, was quoted as telling Catalan broadcasters La Xarxa.

"I'm absolutely convinced that Pepe would be more than happy to return to Barcelona.

"For me I would love to see Pepe at Barca again. What father wouldn't like to see his son playing at Barca? He's alr eady done that but to return would be extraordinary. "