Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez admits qualifying for the Champions League will be crucial to keeping Fernando Torres happy at Anfield.

Burnley boss Brian Laws claimed Martin Olsson “conned the referee” to win the penalty that secured Blackburn a 1-0 win in the Lancashire derby.

Arsene Wenger has not forgiven Martin Taylor for the challenge which left Eduardo with a broken leg and dislocated ankle.

Liverpool and England midfielder Steven Gerrard admits he has not been at his best this season, but is unworried about his lack of consistency.

Phil Thompson wants the Liverpool players to issue Tom Hicks and George Gillett with an ultimatum to provide more funds or face a walkout.

Martin O’Neill reckons Aston Villa have as good a chance as anyone of claiming a Champions League spot despite a 1-1 home draw with Sunderland.

World Cup winner Martin Peters doubts whether England have what it takes to capture the tournament for a second time in South Africa.

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva accepts Sunday’s clash with Manchester United will be far more difficult than the Portsmouth and Lille games.

Manchester United legend Denis Irwin has hailed Patrice Evra as the club’s player of the season and the best left-back in the world.

Aston Villa boss Martin O’Neill hailed the “extraordinary performance” of James Milner as the Villans saw off Wigan 2-1 on Tuesday night.