Liverpool news and rumour round-up: Monday’s biggest stories for the Reds…
Liverpool pull out of deal to cut Origi loan short
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has given up on his reported interest in re-signing teenage striker Divock Origi, who will remain with Lille for the entirety of his season-long loan deal.
The 19-year-old moved to Anfield for £10m last summer, but re-joined the French club as part of the deal, and has since scored four goals in 26 appearances in all competitions so far this season.
With the Reds struggling for goals this season, it was rumoured that Rodgers would look to cut short the loan and bring Origi back to the club this month. But the Ligue 1 side’s reluctance has led to any move being called off.
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Brendan Rodgers preparing another unlikely Karim Benzema bid
Liverpool have once again been linked with Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, with Brendan Rodgers looking to recruit more fire power, and find a potential replacement for Mario Balotelli.
Benzema has scored 14 goals so far this season, but has regularly found himself playing second fiddle to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale. The Frenchman could thrive if given the chance to be the main man.
While a move remains unlikely, it is thought that Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti could use the funds to target Edinson Cavani, who is believed to have fallen out with PSG manager Laurent Blanc.
Teddy Bishop targeted by the Reds, who are favourites for youngster
The Reds are also believed to be in pole position to land Ipswich Town’s Teddy Bishop, an 18-year-old midfielder, who is on the radar of many Premier League side’s after breaking into the first-team picture at Portman Road.
Bishop, who is valued at around £10m, has been the subject of an enquiry from Rodgers, although he has been told that the Championship side don’t wish to sell until the summer, as they aim for promotion to the Premier League.
The player has made 18-first-team appearances so far this season, helping Ipswich to second place in the division, just a point behind leaders AFC Bournemouth.
Mourinho warning to Chelsea fans over Steven Gerrard
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has urged the Blues supporters to respect Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, when the two side’s meet in the Capital One Cup semi-final on Tuesday.
He said: “Gerrard is an historical player for Liverpool, an historical player for the Premier League, an opponent I always admired and respect. Our fans have a song (about him) that I don’t like, I don’t like it at all.
“Maybe a couple of times it’s good fun, but to go on and go on, especially when a player like him deserves respect, I don’t think we need that. We have so many other songs that we don’t need that one.”
Rickie Lambert celebrates Aston Villa success
Rickie Lambert has admitted that he will never forget the celebrations that followed his goal against Aston Villa on Saturday. The England international scored only his second league goal for the Reds in the 2-0 win.
His goal proved crucial, as Villa has been pushing for an equaliser at the time of the goal. Lambert said: “You can’t beat that feeling of a scoring, especially for Liverpool.
“I love those celebrations, so to do it myself with the Liverpool fans is something I will always remember. Seeing the ball hitting the net, it’s great. It’s definitely the best moment I’ve felt since I’ve been here.”
