Fa Barclaycard Premiership News Update

Fa Barclaycard Premiership News
( 27 September 2008 )

English Premiership Football News

Gerrard 'key' to Merseyside derby
Venue: Goodison Park Date: Saturday, September 27 Kick-off: 1245 Paris
Coverage: Full commentary on BBC Radio Merseyside 95.8 FM, 1485 MW and DAB, Sport website, BBC Radio 5 Live, Final Score & Highlights on match day

Rival managers David Moyes and Rafael Benitez agreed Steven Gerrard Reds midfielder will be key to the outcome of Saturday Everton-Liverpool derby.

Goodison Park hosted the 208th clash between the clubs, with the Reds hope to extend their series only two defeats in 10 visits to Everton.

And Benitez said: "Everybody knows that Steve is a key for us in these games and more. It may be indestructible."

"They are a quality side and Steven is the heartbeat," said Moyes.

"I think I would like to emphasize Steven and Jamie Carragher, they know what it is and I do not only Derby but in general.

"They are the heart and soul of the club and because they are boys and they know what that means."

Liverpool must win the match, it will represent the club the best start ever for a campaign of Premier League after six matches.

And Benitez said: "Everybody knows that Steve is a key for us. He can change games, win games and if he does not play well I can still score and win matches for us. He mentality and passion for these games and it is important to all other players. "

Liverpool completed the double over last season, Everton, and lost two of their last 17 meetings with their neighbors.

But Benitez is seeking local beyond this skirmish, saying: "We started the season well. We are improving.

"But we are only 60% of our potential at present. If we continue to improve closer to what we want."

Referee Mike Riley in May to be a long afternoon. There were seven network cards in the last seven meetings between the clubs and 16 in 32 Premier League clashes.

And Benitez added: "There were many red cards in those games, and because the players are under pressure. But it is more, these players are mature and able to handle the situation better.

"I do not enjoy it if we win. Avance and during the match it can be very difficult."

Moyes claims Liverpool, Everton, and not, are more likely to Dole to the therapeutic, saying: "They (past Derby) were hotly contested, and I'm sure this will happen.

"I think in general, the team that won is stuck in Liverpool. They have been very aggressive, I think Alex Ferguson said last week about their style at present. They are a team very difficult. "

For their part, Everton fans will not be BUOY by Moyes' team frank admission that his suffering is a collective dip in confidence following their recent performance.

His side failed to keep a clean sheet this season - or take a single point at home in the Premier League - and they crashed out of the Carling Cup in the week following a defeat against Blackburn.

But Moyes is convinced the lack of trust is only temporary and is determined to help his team through it.

"I'd be lying if I said we were bumbling and brimming with confidence," he said. "But my job is to put this right and you should be prepared to take risks.

"My job as manager is to find solutions and results and increase confidence that this will lead to better performance."
[Source by bbcnews]