Steven Gerrard was labelled a “model professional” by Liverpool assistant manager Sammy Lee after capping a troubled week off the pitch by inspiring the Reds to a 2-0 FA Cup win over Preston. The Liverpool captain, charged by police with assault and affray over an. . . .

LONDON - Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been charged with assault and affray by police early today over a brawl outside a bar that left a disk jockey hospitalised with facial injuries. Merseyside police officers took the decision 24 hours after the England midfielder was. . . .

LONDON - Liverpool will finish 2008 on top of the Premier League if they beat Newcastle on Sunday. But they know any slip-ups could be punished by second-placed Chelsea, just a point off the lead, who face Fulham. On Friday, Chelsea had the chance to apply some pressure by. . . .

Broad shoulders: But Steven Gerrard will need more support from teammates today. Picture: Gallo/GettyPremier League log leaders Liverpool visit Arsenal today in a clash that will measure their resolve and capacity to break an 18-year title drought this season. What’s at stake? An inspirational suite of victories over the rest of the big four. Liverpool and Arsenal have. . . .

Twice a hero: Steven Gerrard celebrates after scoring one of his two goals against Hull last night to salvage a face-saving draw for Liverpool. More soccer: Picture: AP photoTwo-goal hero Gerrard gives Liverpool vital point and lowly Spurs frustrate Man United. Steven Gerrard performed yet another rescue act for Liverpool by twice equalising for the Premier League leaders against surprise package Hull City in a 2-2 draw at Anfield yesterday.. . . .

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has backed Robbie Keane to come good despite his latest flop against West Ham. Keane was substituted for the 15th time since his 20 million pounds move from Tottenham in pre-season as Liverpool were held to a goalless draw at Anfield on. . . .

Rafael Benitez told disgruntled Liverpool fans to enjoy their side sitting on top of the Premier League table despite the frustration of a goalless draw at home to West Ham. The point was enough for Liverpool to leapfrog Chelsea at the summit but Liverpool’s players were. . . .

The worst fears of Fernando Torres and Liverpool were confirmed this week when the Spanish forward was ruled out of action for at least a fortnight with a recurrence of a hamstring injury. Torres has only recently returned to action after missing six matches with a hamstring. . . .

Go-to guy: Steven Gerrard appears to defy reality when in a Liverpool shirt. Picture: AP photoThere was Boggo, Bavo, Greggo, Wrighty, Cass and, last but not least, Stevie G. To the coaching staff at Liverpool’s centre of excellence, they were among the rowdiest bunch of wannabes they had come across. Even some of the first-team players had to tread carefully around. . . .

Pirates 2 - Chiefs 0 Pirates beat chiefs in the Soweto derby played at Mmabatho Stadium in Mafikeng with goals from from Gilbert Mushangazike and Lucas. . . .