Voronin aiming for first team place
Liverpool’s new Ukrainian striker Andriy Voronin has warned that he is coming to Anfield to fight for a place in the first team and not just to be used as back-up.

The 27-year-old will complete his free transfer from Bayer Leverkusen shortly and yesterday revealed his ambitions for next season.

He said, “I haven’t made this decision to just sit on the bench. I will be coming to get into the team and form a partnership with someone.”

Gerrard relieved to have a break

Skipper Steven Gerrard says he is ready to put his feet up after two years of hard work on the pitch with little break.

England’s 3-0 victory away to Estonia last week signalled the end of a long season for Liverpool’s players and Gerrard is relishing the period of rest before pre-season begins as much as anybody.

“I desperately need a rest, it’s as simple as that. I’m worn out,” he said. “Two and a half weeks off after the World Cup wasn’t enough to prepare for a hectic season which included going all the way in the Champions League final and playing for England.

“It’s been a difficult season for me, but I’m getting married next week and I’ve got four weeks to try and put my feet up.”

Alonso the latest to sign new deal
Following the news that Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher extended their contracts at Anfield to 2011 last week, and Pepe Reina to 2012, midfielder Xabi Alonso has become the latest Red to commit their future to the club.

Alonso, 25, has signed a new five-year deal, reportedly turning down offers to move back home to Spain and to Catalan giants Barcelona.

“I knew there was interest from other clubs but it was always my idea to stay here. It’s a special club and I just didn’t want to leave,” said Alonso.

Despite being linked with a summer move to Juventus, Momo Sissoko is expected to sign a new deal at Liverpool this week.

O’Donnell makes Crewe switch permanent
Crewe are expected to complete the signing of young Liverpool defender Danny O’Donnell this week.

O’Donnell had been on loan at Crewe last season and is now set to sign a deal to make the move permanent.

Good luck Danny with the rest of your career.