Liverpool 2-0 Wolves
26th December 2009, Barclays Premier League

Reds secure Wolves triumph

Steven Gerrard and Yossi Benayoun hit second-half goals as Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory over 10-man Wolves on Boxing Day.

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The inspirational number eight capped his 200th Barclays Premier League match as skipper with a 62nd minute opener before the Israeli wrapped up the points courtesy of a deflected effort eight minutes later.

It means Rafael Benitez's men are now five points behind fourth placed Aston Villa, although the Villans could extend that advantage when they lock horns with Arsenal on Sunday.

In his pre-match press conference Benitez had identified the encounter with the Wanderers as 'must-win', and with Javier Mascherano suspended, he handed a first Barclays Premier League start to Alberto Aquilani.

The Reds were looking to improve upon a run of just three victories in 12 matches and they made a bright start, with Fabio Aurelio's 25 yard free-kick testing Marcus Hahnemann inside the opening 40 seconds.

The Anfield faithful had arrived anticipating a late Christmas gift from the men in red and they must have been pleased with Liverpool's attacking attitude in the opening exchanges.

Gerrard's guided shot from distance once again forced Hahnemann into action before the former Reading stopper showed superb agility to tip over Fernando Torres' piledriver, after the Spaniard had made space for the shot with a series of twists and turns.

But if those around L4 thought Wolves were going to lie down for the remainder of the game, then they were sadly mistaken, as first Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and then Nenad Milijas brought the best out of Pepe Reina before Kevin Doyle contrived to head a corner well wide from inside the six yard box.

A familiar air of anxiety was beginning to creep into the Merseyside air and Milijas almost had the visiting fans dreaming of an upset on 25 minutes, but he got his shot all wrong after being given the space to let fly from the edge of the area.

It had now transformed from a one-sided clash that had fans wondering how many Liverpool would score, into an evenly contested midfield battle.

In fact, it wasn't until the 44thminute that Hahnemann was forced to produce another outstanding save to deny Johnson, leaving Mick McCarthy delighted to see his side go in all-square at the break after weathering an early storm.

However, the second-half began similar to the first and after Gerrard had once again stung Hahnemann's fingertips, the visitors were reduced to 10 men.

Stephen Ward brought down Lucas Leiva just outside the area, leading to a second yellow card inside six minutes of the restart.

It was a moment that changed the complexion of the game and on 62 minutes a spell of reds pressure finally paid dividends.

Emiliano Insua drove down the left flank before delivering an inch perfect cross for Gerrard to guide home at the far post.

It was the skipper's fifth of the season and immediately changed the mood within the ground.

There was an extra spring in Liverpool's step and a fresh crispness to their passing. It was only a matter of time until the second goal followed and on 70 minutes the Reds gave themselves some breathing space.

Aurelio's fierce cross from the left skimmed off the head of a Wolves defender and fell kindly for Benayoun at the far post. The Israeli jinked inside before hitting a shot that deflected off Karl Henry into the roof of the Kop end net.

With the game won, Benitez opted to give a league bow to Daniel Pacheco and although no further goals were to follow, the Reds can now turn their attention to the crucial clash with Aston Villa on Tuesday night with renewed confidence.

Rafa Hails Record Breaker
26th December 2009

Rafa Benitez claimed an in-form Steven Gerrard can transform Liverpool's season after the skipper fired himself into the history books with a goal in the 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Boxing Day.

The Reds got back to winning ways with second-half strikes from Gerrard and Yossi Benayoun.

It was Gerrard's 75th league goal of the decade - lifting him above Michael Owen on 74 to become Liverpool's top scorer in the Noughties.

Benitez is hopeful his No.8 will now embark on a purple patch to get his tally for the next decade up and running.

He said: "It was very important for us and for him. If he can score goals again he will have more confidence and that will be really good for the team."

The result gives Liverpool some momentum heading into a crunch clash at Villa Park on December 29.

Benitez added: "We have to win, we won. We kept a clean sheet, scored two goals and created chances. We have to go forward now.

"The main thing was to get three points and now we have to be ready. The fans can enjoy three or four days and we can see if we can beat Aston Villa. Then we'll be closer.

"The second half we started really well, pressing and some corners. We were doing the right things, especially at the beginning of the second half.

"We know it's a long race but we have to start winning games in a row. We have won today and hopefully we can win the next one, then it'll be easy to keep the confidence high."

Alberto Aquilani started his first Premier League game, spraying some lovely passes around the Anfield turf before being substituted with 10 minutes to go.

Benitez said: "Aquilani was okay. He was trying to be involved, trying to receive the ball and pass the ball.

"The match fitness is something that will improve with games and the Premier League is also difficult so he'll settle down little by little."

The Italian is likely to be given more pitch time thanks to Javier Mascherano's suspension.

And Benitez is now assessing his midfield line-up for Villa, with Lucas playing on Boxing Day despite a slight knock.

"We had some problems before," said the gaffer. "We will see because some of them were a little bit tired. We have three days - sometimes that's enough, but when people are tired you have to manage carefully.

"Mascherano is not available for three or four games so maybe Aquilani will have more time."

Lucas: Villa Clash Crucial
27th December 2009

Lucas Leiva is hoping Liverpool can end 2009 on a high by claiming a victory over fourth-placed Aston Villa.

The Reds closed to within five points of the Villans with a 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Boxing Day - although Martin O'Neill's men could restore their advantage with victory against Arsenal.

Lucas accepts Tuesday's clash at Villa Park will be a difficult one, but the Brazilian is eager for Liverpool to continue to build momentum in their quest for a top four finish.

"We are happy because we really needed the three points," he told Liverpoolfc.tv. "I think we played well and deserved to win. Now we have to build some momentum. We have an important game with Villa and we know that if we beat them we will be closer.

"Like I have said before, every game is like a cup final for us and we must keep working hard to try and win some matches in a row.

"Villa will be a really difficult game and we don't have too much time to recover, but we will make sure we are ready and try to get the three points."

Second-half goals from Steven Gerrard and Yossi Benayoun clinched three much-needed points against Wolves after the visitors' Stephen Ward was dismissed following two quick-fire yellow cards.

Lucas admits the sending off changed the game and feels Liverpool can now shake off recent criticism by rekindling their winning mentality in the second-half of the season.

"When you have one player more it is easier," he said. "They were then forced to play with one striker. That worked in our favour and I think it was the right decision.

"After that we kept the ball better, created more chances and scored the two goals."

He added: "When you aren't winning or playing as well as you can then you are going to get criticism, that's normal.

"We know we have a good squad and a good team. The key is to get our confidence back for the rest of the season."

Gerrard Pleased With Attitude
27th December 2009

Steven Gerrard believes Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers will help reinvigorate the Reds' quest for a top four finish.

The captain opened the scoring with a powerful header against the Midlanders on Boxing Day, before Yossi Benayoun's strike secured the three points for Rafa Benitez's side.

Gerrard is confident Liverpool will continue to ascend the Barclays Premier League table if they display a similar mentality and determination over the coming weeks.

"Wolves came here organised, they were always going to be difficult to beat," he said.

"It was just all about waiting for that breakthrough. But we knew if we had the belief it would come, and it did. When you're not getting the results you expect it's always going to affect confidence.

"But we want to put it right. The players are hurting at the moment. If we keep showing the attitude we did against Wolves we'll move up to where we want to be."

Meanwhile, Jamie Carragher feels the dismissal of Wolves' Stephen Ward was a key moment in the game after the Irish defender was sent off for a second bookable offence early in the second-half.

He added: "Wolves played very well first-half, were very well organised and caught us on the counter-attack a couple of times. The sending-off obviously gave us a helping hand.

"Once you get the first (goal) it settles people down but I think the second one killed the game, especially when they had 10 men. That's what we needed because we're not fully confident at the moment so it certainly settled the nerves."

LFC TV On The Noughties
28th December 2009

It's been a decade of highs, lows and near-misses.

A decade which saw us land our fifth European Cup, a memorable treble and smash our transfer record and also a decade in which we lost a European final and unbelievably only managed second in the league despite clocking up a record 86 points.

This week on Liverpoolfc.tv we'll be looking back over the last ten years in the life of Liverpool Football Club.

In the club's digital media department a number of staff members have travelled all over the world with the team over the past decade, reported on matches home and away and generally followed the day to day news and action from Anfield.

Here Paul Rogers (Head of Content), Paul Eaton (Website Editor), Mark Platt (Senior LFC TV Producer) and Steve Hunter (Website Commentator) - along with Claire Rourke, the female face of LFC TV - share their highlights from the noughties.

PAUL ROGERS:

Highlight of the decade

Holding the European Cup aloft on the team flight home from Istanbul. Less than 24 hours earlier we'd witnessed the greatest football match ever, stayed up all night drinking and celebrating with friends (and Gary Gillespie!) and now we were sat on the plane with a glass of champagne in front of us and Jerzy Dudek in the row behind. As moments go, it wasn't bad.

Hero of the decade

Steven Gerrard. I don't think any player has had a bigger influence on Liverpool Football Club than Steven Gerrard has had during the last decade - and that includes Kenny Dalglish. Dortmund, Cardiff, Istanbul, Cardiff (again) - he's turned it on in so many big, big games and if any player deserves to win a league title, it's Steven Gerrard.

Unsung hero of the decade

Jamie Carragher. Left-back, right-back, centre half and emergency midfielder, Jamie Carragher has rarely grabbed the headlines over the past 10 years but he's always been there when Liverpool have needed him. One journalist once said that if Steven Gerrard is the 'heart' of Liverpool Football Club, then Jamie Carragher is its 'soul' and I'd go along with that. The medals and the money haven't changed him one bit and you can't say that about many footballers in this day and age. People talk about his 100% commitment to the cause - citing his heroic performance in Istanbul as a classic example of his never-say-die attitude - but his game has always been about far more than just effort and he's probably never had the praise he's been rightly due for how good a defender he actually is.

Best signing of the decade

In pure footballing terms, it has to be Fernando Torres - an amazing bargain even at the price we paid for him - but the transfer that actually excited me the most was the re-signing of Robbie Fowler in January 2006. There's very little room for sentiment in football these days but Rafa still took the brave decision to sign an ageing striker who we all deep down knew was well past his best and the Liverpool fans loved him for it. Rafa's smart like that. Fowler's exit from the club under Gerard Houllier back in 2001 was particularly untidy and meant the player never really got to say a proper goodbye to the fans. Re-signing him allowed him to say that goodbye properly and even a ridiculously ill-advised and frankly ludicrous mosaic on the day of his last ever Liverpool game couldn't spoil the end of the second-coming.

Most enjoyable league win

It should be beating Manchester United 4-1 at Old Trafford but even though that was an absolute annihilation of our greatest rivals, for sheer drama, twists and turns, I haven't enjoyed a league win this decade more than our 3-2 victory at Goodison on Easter Monday 2001 that got the Treble season back on track after losing at home to Leeds on Good Friday. Five goals (including that Gary McAllister free-kick), two penalties, one sending off and some of the best celebrations ever - the game had it all. I don't think Everton Football Club were too impressed by mine and commentator Steve Hunter's celebrations in the Press Box which just added to the fun.

Favourite goal

There's been so many - Michael Owen (twice) against Arsenal in Cardiff, Robbie Fowler against Alaves in Dortmund, Gary Mac versus Everton, Neil Mellor versus Arsenal, Luis Garcia versus Juventus and Chelsea, Steven Gerrard, Vladimir Smicer and Xabi Alonso in Istanbul were all amazing for different reasons but it's Steven Gerrard's strike against Olympiacos that changed the course of football history and Liverpool's in particular. If Gerrard hadn't scored that goal, there would have been no Istanbul, potentially no Champions League football the following season and possibly no Steven Gerrard at Liverpool Football Club. And what a goal it was too. Get in you beauty!

MARK PLATT:

Highlight of the decade

Can't look any further than the obvious. Istanbul '05. Everything about it. The build-up, the game and the homecoming. Unbelievable.

Hero of the decade

Steven Gerrard. The amount of times he's pulled us through games is too many to mention. Doesn't bare thinking about where we'd be without him.

Unsung hero of the decade

Jamie Carragher. The best English defender of the past decade without doubt. Probably won't be fully appreciated until he's hung up his boots.

Best signing of the decade

Torres. Cost a lot but worth every penny.

Most enjoyable league win

Old Trafford last season. It had been a long time coming that one but well worth the wait.

Favourite goal

For what it meant - Garcia's 'ghost' goal v Chelsea in the 2005 Champions League semi.

CLAIRE ROURKE:

Highlight of the decade

Istanbul. I would have to say the Champions League final in 2005. For years I had listened to my dad talk about the great Liverpool European Cup winning teams so it was so special that a new generation of fans were able to witness it for ourselves.

Hero of the decade

Steven Gerrard. It's impossible to look beyond Steven for this one. He's been the standard bearer of this club for so long and his ability to single-handedly turn a game on its head with an individual flash of brilliance is like no other.

Unsung hero of the decade

Jamie Carragher. Although Carra's ability and influence receives the highest praise from Reds fans, he has never been awarded the acclaim of those outside of this club. He has been consistently solid and has produced some of the most heroic displays I have ever seen in a Liverpool shirt.

Best signing of the decade

I am torn between Fernando Torres and Pepe Reina. Torres for the incredible impact he had on his arrival to the Club and the way he immediately adapted his game to suite the Premier League like no other foreign striker has. And Reina because he's provided the reliability that Liverpool had searched for between the posts since perhaps the days of Bruce Grobbelaar. He's definitely the best goalkeeper in the Premier League and is a great character as well. I think Pepe just edges it.

Most enjoyable league win

It has to be the 4-1 victory at Old Trafford last season, not only to beat one of your greatest of rivals, but to do so with such an outstanding and convincing performance was incredible. Gerrard kissing the camera was a nice touch and seeing the United fans leave the ground early was the icing on the cake!

Favourite goal

My favourite goal from the last decade is Stevie's against Olympiacos. When Liverpool needed him most, he not only provided them with the most vital of goals, but it was an absolute screamer.

STEVE HUNTER:

Highlight of the decade

Istanbul. Has to be really. The final that had everything, don't think we will see anything quite like that in decades to come.

Hero of the decade

Steven Gerrard. So many fantastic moments to choose from, Stevie G has given us some wonderful times. It seems almost unthinkable that he came close to leaving this club.

Unsung hero of the decade

Dietmar Hamann. Made a massive contribution coming off the bench in Istanbul and also Cardiff against West Ham. Didi's appearances in both finals gave Stevie G the space he needed to produce his superman act.

Best signing of the decade

Fernando Torres. El Nino has made a stunning impact at Anfield and Rushy and Robbie Fowler's old shirt is certainly in safe hands. Xabi Alonso and Pepe Reina both come a close second for me.

Most enjoyable league win

Arsenal 2-1 when Neil Mellor netted a last gasp winner. I had watched Mellor score goals galore at youth level and for the reserves, and I knew what it meant to him to score the winner in front of the Kop.

Favourite goal

Gary McAllister v Everton. To win any derby is sweet but this one was just incredible in the 94th minute. Don't forget it was an unlikely source that won us the free-kick as whatever Gregory Vignal does in his football career he will be forever remembered by Kopites as the man who won the free-kick for Gary Mac's goal. A sensational goal by a fantastic player.

PAUL EATON:

Highlight of the decade

Istanbul. There's nothing to say that hasn't already been said a hundred times. The atmosphere in Taksim Square, the surreal journey to the Ataturk, the half-time desolation, the full-time euphoria and the realisation that we were once again champions of Europe. From heartbreak to unbridled joy in the space of a couple of hours in the Turkish capital, it was a night we'll never, ever forget. Even several hours spent in a tent outside the airport waiting for a flight home couldn't dampen the mood. It's those memories, as well as that of Steven Gerrard lifting the trophy aloft, which ensure Istanbul tops this vote.

Hero of the decade

Steven Gerrard. There's nobody to rival the contribution he has made to our football club over the past ten years. From his goal in the UEFA Cup final at the beginning of the decade to his heroics in Istanbul and Cardiff and his countless match-winning or match-saving performances, he has been by far and away the best player in a red shirt during the noughties. And those who suggest he is now deserving of the title of being our best ever player are gathering more and more support. In years to come we'll be able to tell our children and grandchildren that we were privileged to watch Steven Gerrard at his peak.

Unsung hero of the decade

It's a tough call between Jamie Carragher and Sami Hyypia - two defensive rocks who have acted as a brick wall to opposing defences for years. In the end, though, Carragher's performance on our most important night of the decade - May 25 2005 - just wins my vote. His heroic display to keep out AC Milan almost single-handedly as extra time drifted into its latter stages should never be forgotten as we continue to talk about our magical memories from that incredible night.

Best signing of the decade

Gary McAllister on a free or Fernando Torres for millions? McAllister's influence in our treble triumph can never be questioned, hence why he is still revered by Kopites today. But Torres is the best striker in world football and for him to be at our club has to make him our best signing of the decade. He may not have appeared in a trophy-winning Liverpool team yet - but hopefully that's just a matter of time.

Most enjoyable league win

The 4-1 at Old Trafford obviously springs to mind because it was such an emphatic thrashing of our fierce rivals on their own pitch. But, as good a day as it was, the end result only served to give us a glimmer of hope in the title race. Fast forward three weeks to the away game at Fulham when Yossi Benayoun scored a late, late winner - and that was the moment we genuinely thought the title could be coming back to Anfield. It wasn't our greatest performance or our most emphatic result of the decade, but the atmosphere in the away end after the game suggested we had just witnessed our most important scoreline in many seasons. In the end, though, sadly, it wasn't to be.

Favourite goal

There are so many 'great' goals to discuss over the past decade, most of which have been talked about ever since they crashed into the back of the net. But in terms of a favourite goal I can't think of a better, more exquisite finish than the one provided by Fernando Torres against Newcastle in 2008. Steven Gerrard's low ball into the area was superbly left by Torres as he completely wrong-footed the out-rushing Shay Given, allowing the ball to go one side of the 'keeper as he went the other before slotting into the open goal. It was a real 'how did he do that?' moment. Total genius.

Rafa: Let's End 2009 On A High
28th December 2009

Rafael Benitez has told his players to end 2009 in the best possible way - by taking three points against Aston Villa.

The Reds finish the calendar year with a tricky test against a top-four rival on Tuesday, and the boss admits a win would send out a message for the rest of the season.

"I think it's always important to win and if we can do that against Aston Villa it would be fantastic," Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"Villa are doing really well so it's an important game for us.

"Always when you go to Villa Park you know it will be difficult so we have to be ready and we will have to perform well."

Villa beat Liverpool 3-1 at Anfield in August and Benitez has told his defenders to be on their toes as Martin O'Neill's side carry a real threat from set pieces.

"Losing 3-1 was a harsh scoreline because we were much better in the second half before we gave a penalty away," he added.

"We know they are dangerous from set pieces. They have some big players and we will have to be careful.

"They have some good players like Ashley Young, Gabriel Agbonlahor, James Milner who is playing really well and John Carew. They are very dangerous in attack.

"They have spent some money this season and they are a good team. They have some good players with pace but so do we."

Aquilani Pleased With Wolves Start
28th December 2009

Alberto Aquilani today spoke of his delight at making his first league start for Liverpool in Saturday's victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers - but insisted collecting a much-needed win was what mattered most.

The Italy midfielder played for 85 minutes on Boxing Day at Anfield before exiting the field to a standing ovation as he made way for Dani Pacheco.

However, while pleased to have a league start under his belt, Aquilani admits the most important aspect of the afternoon was ensuring the Reds picked up the three points and boosted their quest for a top four finish.

"I really enjoyed the game as it was important for me; I want to improve my fitness," he said.

"It was so different to anything I have experienced, as it was so quick and you never really had much time. The football we played was so fast.

"The most important thing, however, was that we won. We need to improve our confidence and we need to keep winning games to move up the table.

"It is crucial to take things step by step but our aim is now to win three, four and five games in a row. If we can do that, we will see where that takes us.

"Now we have to face Aston Villa and it is a very important game for our season but we are feeling good and it is important that we try to win."

Youngster Earns Boss Praise
28th December 2009

Rafa Benitez believes Dani Pacheco's Barclays Premier League debut is a 'real positive' for Liverpool.

The 18-year-old Spaniard made his domestic bow for the Reds with a late cameo in the Boxing Day triumph against Wolves, and the boss was encouraged by his display.

"Dani is a player with quality who has played really well for the reserves," said Benitez.

"He was going forward and is not scared to go against the defenders. It was a real positive because he has shown he has quality."

Pacheco made his first-team debut earlier this month as a substitute in the Champions League encounter with Fiorentina at Anfield.

Rafa Targets Villa Victory
28th December 2009

Rafael Benitez today called on his players to build on their Boxing Day victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers by denting Aston Villa's top four ambitions.

Liverpool head to Villa Park on Tuesday boosted by the 2-0 success against Wolves, and the boss is eager for his side to maintain their increased confidence by claiming another three points in the Midlands.

"After the win over Wolves, we will now have more confidence and that will be very good for the whole team," he said.

"But we know we have to keep winning to get fourth place. We need clean sheets and we now have to be ready for Aston Villa.

"We must discover if we have the confidence now to win there and to get closer to the top of the table.

"But we know Villa are a very good team who are ahead of us, and one we must beat.

"To get back to where we want to be we must start winning games in a row. If we do that at Villa it will be easier for us to keep our confidence higher."

Villa go into the game on the back of a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, but Martin O'Neill's fifth-placed charges are currently five points ahead of Liverpool in the Barclays Premier League.

"If we can win at Villa we will gain more confidence for the future," continued Benitez.

"Villa, Spurs and Manchester City are all doing well and we know we must compete with them for fourth place.

"We know, though, that this time it is more difficult. Previously Villa have done well in the first half of a season and then lost games.

"But they have spent some money, they have good players, and we accept that they will make it difficult for us."

Villa v LFC: Stat Attack
29th December 2009

Here are all the relevant facts and stats ahead of tonight's trip to Aston Villa.

At Villa Park: Liverpool 26 wins, Aston Villa 37 wins, 21 Draws.

Overall Record (League): Liverpool 79 wins, Aston Villa 52 wins, 38 Draws.

This will be Liverpool's 575th and final game of the decade. In that time they have won 317, drawn 131 and lost 126.

Another milestone for Steven Gerrard who could make his 350th league appearance for the club and in doing so will be the 21st player to achieve the feat for Liverpool.

Fernando Torres needs one goal to record 50 in the league for the Reds. If he scores it in the next eight games it will be faster than any other player in Liverpool's history.

A draw would be the 50th under Rafa in league games.

A win for Liverpool will close the gap on Villa to just two points.

Earlier this season Villa ended Liverpool's 31 game unbeaten home league record with a 3-1 win. They took the lead via a Lucas deflection and made it two in first half added time through Curtis Davies. Fernando Torres pulled one back with 18 minutes to go but Villa clinched the points almost immediately with an Ashley Young penalty.

Since the inception of the Premier League, Liverpool have won 18, Villa nine with eight being drawn.

Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 11 League visits to Villa Park. Their last defeat here came in February 1998 when, despite Michael Owen scoring an early penalty, they lost 2-1 with ex-Red Stan Collymore scoring twice.

That is the last time Villa scored more than once against the Reds at Villa Park.

The Reds defeat back in August was their first in 16 league meetings between the clubs since 2001. The Reds have lost only two of 22 clashes in all competitions.

Fernando Torres, Andriy Voronin and Ryan Babel made their Liverpool debuts at Villa Park in August 2007.

David Ngog played his first game for the Reds in last season's goalless draw against tonight's opponents.

Martin Skrtel made his Liverpool debut against Villa at Anfield in January 2008.

Liverpool's biggest ever win at Villa Park came in January 1925 when they won 4-1. They have won 3-0 on four occasions since - all since March 1966.

Seven years later they suffered their heaviest loss when they were beaten 6-1. They have also lost 5-0 four times.

Only two Liverpool players have scored a League hat-trick at Villa Park-Ian Rush in January 1984 and Robbie Fowler in November 1998.

Three others have achieved the feat at Anfield-Bobby Graham (1964), Michael Owen in 2000 and Steven Gerrard last season.

Liverpool have won one of their last six away games in the league (at Everton).

Liverpool haven't scored more than twice in any of the last 18 games.

Yossi Benayoun has scored seven goals for the Reds this season with all of them coming at Anfield.

The last Villa player to score a hat-trick against the Reds was George Brown in January 1932 when he scored four in his side's 6-1 win.

A victory today will bring Liverpool's points total against Villa to 65 in the Premier League - their best haul against any team in the modern era. Newcastle is currently the most rewarding for the Reds with 63 points having been won.

The Reds have won seven of the Premiership meetings on this ground. Only at Goodison Park (eight) have they won more.

If Liverpool score once they will record 300 goals in league games against Villa.

Jamie Carragher's first goal for Liverpool was scored against Villa at Anfield in January 1997. It came just ten days short of his 19th birthday.

Albert Riera's last goal for Liverpool came against Villa back in March.

Nigel Reo-Coker made his Villa debut against Liverpool two years ago at Villa Park.

Villa have scored only three goals at Villa Park in the last 10 meetings between the teams.

Villa will be looking to record only their second Premier League 'double' over Liverpool - the last was in 1992-93 - and only the third in the last 57 years.

John Carew has scored in each of the last two home games.

Villa's defeat at Arsenal on Sunday came after four successive league wins.

They had kept clean sheets in each of those four victories.

At Villa Park they are unbeaten in eight league games having won six and drawing two.

They have beaten Chelsea at home and Liverpool and Manchester United away while also drawing with Tottenham and Manchester City.

They have lost four times in the league - at home to Wigan on the opening day, and also at Blackburn, West Ham and Arsenal.

Arsenal's 3-0 win over Villa at the weekend was the first time they had conceded more than twice in a game this season.

They failed to score at Arsenal for the first time in a league game since the opening day of the season.

Villa have conceded six goals at home this season - only Chelsea and Birmingham, with five, have let in fewer on their own ground.

Scorers this season (league in brackets):-

Liverpool: Torres 11 (11), Benayoun 7 (5), Kuyt 6 (5), Ngog 6 (4), Gerrard 5 (5), Babel 3 (2), Johnson 2 (2), Insua 1 (0), Mascherano 1 (1), Skrtel 1 (1).

Villa: Agbonlahor 9 (8), Milner 6 (4), Carew 5 (4), A. Young 4 (3), Dunne 3 (3), Heskey 3 (2), Collins 1 (1), Cuellar 1 (1), Davies 1 (1), Downing 1 (0), own goals 2 (2).

The Press On The Noughties
29th December 2009

We asked five members of Her Majesty's Press for their LFC moments of the decade.

A decade which saw us land our fifth European Cup, a memorable treble and smash our transfer record and also a decade in which we lost a European final and unbelievably only managed second in the league despite clocking up a record 86 points.

This week on Liverpoolfc.tv we are looking back over the last ten years in the life of Liverpool Football Club. Today it's the turn of the press.

Paul Joyce - Daily Express

Highlight of the decade: In any other decade, the drama of the FA Cup Final against West Ham or the UEFA Cup win over Alaves would have been vying for the accolade.

But it obviously has to be Istanbul for the sheer rollercoaster of emotions you felt. From being totally depressed at half-time, thinking Milan could score five or six, to be level soon after and then winning on penalties was amazing. What was so remarkable about the game was that there were so many sub-plots and highlights in it that contributed to the overall story: Jerzy's save from Shevchenko in extra time, Jamie Carragher's Herculean performance. Even now when I watch the game back it's emotional.

Hero of the decade: If you analyse who has made the greatest impact on Liverpool's fortunes over the last 10 years then it has to be Steven Gerrard. He scored in the UEFA Cup Final, the League Cup Final against United, twice (and made Cisse's goal) in the FA Cup Final and launched the comeback in Istanbul with that header before winning the penalty. The decade hasn't all been about high points for him, but it is a sign of a great player that he came back from the disappointments so strongly.

Unsung hero of the decade: I still think it was a shame that the impact Neil Mellor and Florent Sinama-Pongolle had in the Olympiacos game in 2004 wasn't recognised properly at the time of Istanbul. But looking back at the decade, I would go for Sami Hyypia. I don't think you could call Jamie Carragher unsung because everyone recognises he has been one of Europe's best defenders, but Sami never really got the credit he deserved. He passed the captaincy to Steven which must have been a blow to his pride, but he just got on with it. Liverpool could have done with him this season.

Best signing of the decade: Undoubtedly Fernando Torres. Liverpool's problems over the last 20 years stem from being too hit and miss in the transfer market, but Torres is sheer class. Just think, Sir Alex Ferguson didn't think he would cut it in England.

Most enjoyable league win: Rubbing United's noses in it last season in the 4-1 win at Old Trafford was great, but Gary McAllister's last minute free-kick which sealed the derby win over Everton at Goodison in 2001 in many ways topped that.

Favourite goal: Steven Gerrard's header against AC Milan was arguably the most important, but his second in the Cup Final against West Ham was breathtaking. I once asked him how he had managed it and he said, "I don't know really, I just hit it." That's genius for you. If it had been earlier in the game he probably would have taken a touch and drove forward, but because he was shattered he just leathered it.

Dominic King - Liverpool Echo

Highlight of the decade: The obvious answer would be to say Istanbul and it's unlikely that anyone who was in the Ataturk that evening will ever experience anything like it again. However, from a personal point of view, the semi-final against Chelsea to get the Reds to the Champions League final was extraordinary. Just thinking about Luis Garcia scoring now, Eidur Gudjohnsen missing and the noise inside Anfield that night makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. Unforgettable.

Hero of the decade: Steven Gerrard by a country mile. Scored decisive goals in four major Cup finals, produced match winning performances on countless occasions. The tag 'Captain Marvel' fits the bill.

Unsung hero of the decade: This may surprise some but how about Vladimir Smicer? Played his part in the cup treble winning squad of 2001, chipping in with some vital goals on the way. But in Istanbul, he came off the bench, just like Didi Hamann, crashed in the 25-yarder that really fired belief and smashed in the clinching penalty.

Best signing of the decade: I would like to choose to two but, when push comes to shove, I'd have to pick Gary McAllister over Fernando Torres. El Nino is truly a Liverpool Number Nine but he hasn't played in a trophy-winning squad yet. Gary Mac was a huge influence in the treble winning side and didn't cost a penny. If only he'd been signed 10 years earlier.

Most enjoyable league win: Everton away, April 2001. It was the derby match that had everything. Had Liverpool not won that night, the treble might not have materialised nor a place in the Champions League. However to come back from missing a penalty and having a man sent-off to win by the odd goal in five was truly memorable.

Favourite goal: Gary McAllister at Goodison Park. See above. 40-yards from goal in injury time? That will do nicely.

Henry Winter - The Telegraph

Highlight of the decade: Those magical six minutes against AC Milan in Istanbul. I give a lot of talks in schools and always use that example of never giving up in life, however dark the clouds overhead.

Hero of the decade: Soldiers and firemen are heroes but my best player of the decade has to be Gerrard for Istanbul, for Olympiacos, for the FA Cup and for never giving up.

Unsung hero of the decade: For one performance only, I'd go for Jerzy Dudek. That double save from Sheva and then the penalties in Istanbul were incredible.

Best signing of the decade: Fernando Torres, Liverpool's No 9.

Most enjoyable league win: Torres' destruction of Vidic must rank up with the best for Liverpool fans

Favourite goal: Gerrard v Olympiacos. Technique, importance, at the Kop end - had it all really.

David Maddock - The Mirror

Highlight of the decade: Sorry to be obvious about this, but it has to be from the Champions' League final in 2005, and - for all the genius shown by the players in clawing three goals back in that magnificent second half - the highlight was probably Jerzy Dudek's save to deny Andreiy Shevchenko and break Milan hearts.

Hero of the decade: The two players who have been ever-present throughout the decade are Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher, and it is hard to separate them. Stevie has scored some incredible goals, while Jamie has shown remarkable resilence. In the most important game of the decade, in Istanbul, they were both equally influential, so I'm going to cheat and give it to the pair of them.

Unsung hero of the decade: Gary McAllister deserves a mention, as does Vladi Smicer, Steve Finnan and Didi Hamann, but in the end, even though he didn't survive the full 10 years, I'm going for Danny Murphy. His contribution during the treble-winning season was immense, and yet he never even gets a mention. He's still going strong in the Premier League.

Best signing of the decade: Well, it's hard to argue with Fernando Torres, isn't it, given that he's now probably the best striker in the world (if you don't count poncey wingers who happen to score bagloads of goals). But he hasn't won anything for Liverpool yet, and has only been at Anfield for three years, so I'll have to look elsewhere. And I'm going to cheat again. I know he wasn't signed during this decade, but he was RE-SIGNED several times, so it has to be Sami Hyypia, who is one of the greatest servants Liverpool has ever seen, ranking alongside the likes of Cally, Ron Yeats and even the Anfield Iron.

Most enjoyable league win: Blimey, that's impossible, but I think it has to be over Manchester United, doesn't it? And what better win that 4-1 at Old Trafford last season? Any win over United on their own turf is special, but to destroy them, when the title is still at stake, is incredible, magnificent and any other adjective you care to use.

Favourite goal: Again, quite a few, and Steven Gerrard seems to have most of them, but for me, it's Robbie Fowler in the League Cup final in 2001. It was a quite spectacular, special goal in its own right, but when you take the politics into account, it was impossible. He was slowly being undermined and forced out of the club, so to respond with a goal like that was just unbelievable. And we all miss the Growler, still, don't we?!

Paul Walker - Press Association

Highlight of the decade: Can only be Istanbul, forever etched on my mind.

Hero of the decade: Steven Gerrard.

Unsung hero of the decade: Sami Hyypia. A tremendous centre-back, still going strong.

Best signing of the decade: Pepe Reina, a steal at £6 million for top quality.

Most enjoyable league win: Any against Manchester United, the 4-1 probably at Old Trafford.

Favourite goal: Luis Garcia's semi-final winner against Chelsea, because some people say it wasn't over the line and that just annoys Chelsea even more.

Rafa On Gerrard, Torres And Villa
29th December 2009

Rafael Benitez took a couple of minutes out of his preparations for tonight's clash with Aston Villa to speak to radio journalists. Here's what the boss had to say.

On protecting Gerrard and Torres...

We were talking about the reasons why we are in this position. One of the main ones is because key players have been injured or not fully fit. We have to manage with Gerrard and Torres and it depends on how they feel, so we have to decide before every game. At the moment we have to give them a chance to improve their match fitness because they are key players for us. We have to check how they feel after each game and during training sessions and then decide.

On Fabio Aurelio...

Fabio played two or three games in a row recently after three weeks without training, so he was a little bit tired, had some problems and we had to rest him. We have to manage with Fabio in a different way because maybe he can't play 90 minutes for two or three games in a row.

On Aston Villa...

They have spent some money in the last few years, they have a good team and last season they did well until the end. This year they are also in a very good position, so it will be a tough and difficult game for us. Because they are in this position now, they will have more confidence, so it will be a good battle for fourth place.

On Villa's impressive away form...

If they can organise well in defence and play counter-attack, they are really dangerous because they have two or three players with real pace and ability. For them maybe it is easier to play away because the other team is higher up the field and they can use the quality they have.

On the fight for fourth...

We have to think about City, Tottenham and Aston Villa because they are all doing well, but the main problem will be our own team. We have to improve and if we can, I am sure we will finish in the top four.

Rush: Why Torres Will Improve
29th December 2009

Liverpool's record goalscorer Ian Rush today paid tribute to heir to the throne Fernando Torres and insisted the Spanish striker will get even better with age.

El Nino has netted an astonishing 61 goals in just 102 appearances for the Reds since arriving at Anfield in the summer of 2007.

The 25-year-old is currently on the verge of setting another club record and requires just one more strike in his next eight league games to become the fastest Liverpool striker in history to reach the landmark of 50 league goals.

Naturally Rush, who bagged 346 for the Reds, is impressed by such statistics and believes Torres has all the right attributes in his locker to etch his name into Kop folklore as one of the all-time greats.

The Welshman said: "He's a good finisher. It doesn't matter if it's on his right or his left foot and he's also decent in the air. And, like all great strikers when he misses one, he's not afraid to get in that same position again.

"Mentally, that's what it's all about. I remember when I used to coach Michael Owen, he could have five chances and miss all of them but it didn't worry him because he knew another time he'd take them all.

"I had that myself. I wasn't worried about missing them because, if you're missing chances, you're still doing something right by being in the right place. Torres isn't scared to get chances and, if he misses them, it doesn't worry him.

"His finishing is quality but I think Robbie Fowler, for instance, was a more natural finisher. If you took his left foot and Owen's right foot, you would have the perfect finisher. But I think Torres has the potential to become that. He's only 25.

"Torres is not weak in the air at all. Look at how many flick-ons he wins. He has scored some fantastic goals with his head.

"People ask if Torres is quick enough but look back again at that first goal against Chelsea.

"He stopped, had a burst of pace for 10 yards and Tal Ben-Haim couldn't catch him.

"He's clever. He slows the game down and then goes past the defender. He doesn't look quick - it's very deceptive really - but he is very quick.

"He just glides. It's not like Thierry Henry or Owen, where you could see how fast they were. But just ask any defender."

Torres required little time to adjust to the rigours and demands of English football following his acquisition from Atletico Madrid.

His debut season on Merseyside yielded 33 goals - and Rush feels the Spaniard's desire to succeed and work-rate were key in helping him settle so swiftly.

"The thing that impressed me most about him when he arrived at the club was that he would not let anyone bully him," he said.

"The time that stands out for me is when they played Chelsea. John Terry gave him a hard time. He booted him early on to say 'Welcome to the English game' but he handled it, overcame it and scored a fantastic goal.

"There was also a time at Reading in the Carling Cup when he got clattered early on and scored three.

"In England, where it's the hardest and toughest league in the world to play in, that matters as much as your skill. All the greats have the same mentality.

"If someone tries to bully you, you stand up to them. They're kicking you because they don't want you on the pitch and, if you go off, that means the defender has won.

"He plays for the team and works hard. He has to in the team he's in. He's improved on that.

"He wasn't as good when he first came over but there have been times this season when the opposition keeper has rolled the ball out to the defender and Torres has chased him down.

"That's what I used to do too. That's been a big improvement in his game this year. He's still learning but he is going to get better."

Torres has struck up a prolific partnership with Steven Gerrard over the last three seasons - a pairing Rush reckons can stand alongside some of the greatest strike duos in Liverpool's history.

He said: "Fernando is very intelligent. He reads the game. When he plays alongside Steven Gerrard, they read the game brilliantly.

"Torres won't make a run for the sake of it. He'll do it when the time is right or he'll drop off.

"A lot of fast players are like headless chickens, getting offside the whole time. It's very annoying.

"Torres is a very good reader of the game. I wouldn't say he is the best because he is still improving. John Aldridge knew that, when John Barnes had the ball, everyone else would go to the near post and he would go to the back post.

"When I played with Kenny Dalglish, I wouldn't go offside because I knew Kenny would put the ball between the defender and the goalkeeper.

"It's all about partnerships. And the Gerrard and Torres partnership will keep getting better."

In his two and a half years on Merseyside, El Nino has established himself as something of an honorary Scouser.

Rush believes Torres willingness to indulge himself in the history and culture of not only Liverpool the club, but also the city, is what has helped make him so revered on the Kop.

"I think the Kop have taken him into their hearts in the same way as some of the other greats," said Rush.

"Liverpool have very intelligent supporters and they love him because they know the ability he's got and the work he puts in too.

"They've been looking for a striking hero ever since Robbie Fowler left the club. We hadn't had a proper striker since Robbie left. It helps Torres, too. He knows that they love him and he loves being there.

"When you look at what he says about his baby being born in Liverpool and becoming a fan, you can see he is beginning to understand what the club is all about. That's what the supporters like."

Rush added: "He'll keep getting better and grow in confidence. When I was 21 in the first team, I wasn't as good a player as I was at 25.

"Experience helps. He's only 25 and I reckon playing in the World Cup this summer will make him even better. When he comes back, we might see the best of him then.

"I don't think he'll leave if Liverpool don't make the Champions League. I think he wants to be a red through and through, like Gerrard.

"He likes the atmosphere at Liverpool and the fans are giving him that."

Preview: Aston Villa v Reds
29th December 2009

Liverpool are back on the road again tonight as the Reds take a trip to the Midlands to do battle with Aston Villa.

Rafa Benitez's side will be eager to build on the Boxing Day win over Wolverhampton Wanderers - and Villa Park is a ground they've enjoyed much success at in recent years.

In fact, Liverpool have not lost at the stadium since February 1998 and have won seven of the last 12 meetings in all competitions there - though last season Villa held the Reds to a goalless draw.

Martin O'Neill's side have already beaten Benitez's charges this campaign, when they claimed a 3-1 success at Anfield in August.

The opposition

Villa have made a flying start to 2009-10 and head into tonight's clash in fifth position in the Barclays Premier League table, albeit on the back of a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday.

The Villans have lost just four of their opening 19 matches in the league, with only one of those reversals coming on home soil.

However, Villa will be without Ashley Young for the encounter with the Reds as the flying winger serves a suspension.

The boss

Martin O'Neill has revitalised Villa's fortunes since arriving in the Midlands in August 2006, although the Irishman made his name as a midfielder before turning his hand to management.

After starting out in his native Ireland, O'Neill was snapped-up by Nottingham Forest, but his career did not take off until the arrival of legendary manager Brian Clough at the City Ground in 1975.

Over a five-year period, O'Neill helped Forest to two League Cups, the league title and two European Cups.

O'Neill was also a regular for Northern Ireland - winning 62 caps and scoring eight goals - and captained his country at the 1982 World Cup Finals in Spain.

After leaving Forest, stints with Manchester City, Norwich City and Notts County followed before he retired from playing in 1985.

His break in management came two years later with non-league club Grantham Town. A spell with Shepshed Charterhouse came next before he took up the reins at Wycombe Wanderers, where he led the 'Chairboys' into the Football League for the first time in their history.

Having took Wycombe into the old second division two years later, O'Neill joined Norwich in 1995.

However, his time at Carrow Road lasted less than six months. Differences with the club chairman were cited as the reason for his swift departure.

Immediately after leaving his post at Norwich, he moved to Leicester City, where he would achieve huge success - guiding the Foxes into the Premier League in his first season at the club.

Under the leadership of O'Neill, Leicester lifted the League Cup in both 1997 and 2000. He also navigated them to top-half finishes in the table in each of his seasons in charge at Filbert Street.

His success alerted several high-profile clubs and Celtic staved off stiff competition to lure the Irishman to Scotland in June 2000. In his debut season, the Bhoys won the domestic treble.

With O'Neill firmly established at the helm, Celtic were to lift a further seven trophies over the course of the next five years.

The Irishman also took Celtic to the UEFA Cup final in 2003, only to be narrowly beaten in extra-time by Jose Mourinho's FC Porto, before stepping down from his post at Celtic Park in 2005.

The 57-year-old was unveiled as Villa boss just over a year later, when around 1,000 fans turned up at Villa Park to celebrate his much vaunted arrival.

Villa were highly impressive last season and claimed a sixth place finish in the Barclays Premier League - form they have carried with them into 2009-10.

The danger man

Gabriel Agbonlahor is Villa's top goal getter so far this season having bagged nine goals, with all but one coming in the Barclays Premier League.

The striker is in his fifth season in the Villans' first-team after coming through the youth ranks at Villa Park.

Agbonlahor netted the only goal of the game as Martin O'Neill's side claimed a 1-0 win against Manchester United at Old Trafford earlier this month.

The 23-year-old has three caps for England and blistering pace makes him a real handful for defenders.

The legend

Known as 'God' by the Holte End, Paul McGrath is regarded as one of the finest players to ever pull on the Villa jersey.

Signed from Manchester United for a bargain £400,000 in 1989, the centre-back was an instant hit at Villa Park, helping the club to a second place finish in the league in his first season, behind Liverpool.

McGrath was named PFA Footballer of the Year in 1993 and lifted the League Cup a year later - his first honour with the Villans.

The defender won 83 caps for the Republic of Ireland during the course of his career and featured at the 1990 and 1994 World Cup Finals.

McGrath left Villa in 1996, having made 322 appearances in Claret and Blue.

Aston Villa fact file

Villa were formed in 1874 and are nicknamed 'The Villans' or 'The Lions'.

The Football League was actually founded by Villa director William McGregor in 1888.

Since 1897 they have played at Villa Park, which has a capacity of 42,640.

It's the most-used stadium for FA Cup semi-finals and also hosted the 1981 League Cup final replay, in which Liverpool beat West Ham 2-1.

The Villans have won seven league titles, their last came in 1981.

Villa lifted the European Cup in 1982, courtesy of a 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich in Rotterdam.

Ex-Red Steve Staunton is Villa's most capped player, having made 64 appearances for the Republic of Ireland while at Villa Park.

Birkenhead-born Tom 'Pongo' Waring is Villa's record goalscorer in a single season, netting 50 times in 1930-31. All but one of those goals came in the league.

Charlie Aitken holds the record for most appearances for Villa. Over the course of 17 seasons at the club, the Scotsman chalked up 656 run outs.

Players who have turned out for both Liverpool and Villa during the Premier League era include Steve Staunton, Brad Friedel, Emile Heskey and Dean Saunders.

Match stats
By Ged Rea

This will be Liverpool's 575th and final game of the decade. In that time they have won 317, drawn 131 and lost 126.

Another milestone for Steven Gerrard who could make his 350th league appearance for the club and in doing so will be the 21st player to achieve the feat for Liverpool.

Fernando Torres needs one goal to record 50 in the league for the Reds. If he scores it in the next eight games it will be faster than any other player in Liverpool's history.

A draw would be the 50th under Rafa in league games.

Since the inception of the Premier League, Liverpool have won 18, Villa nine with eight being drawn.

Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 11 League visits to Villa Park. Their last defeat here came in February 1998 when, despite Michael Owen scoring an early penalty, they lost 2-1 with ex-Red Stan Collymore scoring twice.

The Reds defeat back in August was their first in 16 league meetings between the clubs since 2001. The Reds have lost only two of 22 clashes in all competitions.

Only two Liverpool players have scored a League hat-trick at Villa Park-Ian Rush in January 1984 and Robbie Fowler in November 1998.

A victory today will bring Liverpool's points total against Villa to 65 in the Premier League - their best haul against any team in the modern era. Newcastle is currently the most rewarding for the Reds with 63 points having been won.

The Reds have won seven of the Premiership meetings on this ground. Only at Goodison Park (8) have they won more.

Boss: Experience Can Be Key
29th December 2009

Rafael Benitez admits the strength of the Barclays Premier League means this season's fight for Champions League football is perhaps the toughest of his Anfield tenure - but he remains confident Liverpool will clinch a place in the top four.

With the likes of Aston Villa, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur all vying for a top four berth, the boss accepts the task of finishing in the leading quartet is perhaps more challenging than before.

However, Benitez believes the Reds' experience can be a key factor in ensuring a successful conclusion to the campaign for his side.

"You never know what is going to happen," he said. "But, at this moment, yes, this is the biggest fight we have had; there are three other teams trying to get into fourth place and in the past maybe it was only one.

"But we have to be calm. We have some players with a lot of experience and the staff have been through this kind of fight before, so we will just continue to do our job and see where that can take us."

Liverpool take on top four hopefuls Aston Villa this evening, with the Reds aiming to make up ground on the fifth-placed side.

Tottenham are also due to travel to Anfield on January 10, but though optimistic his charges will enjoy an improved second half of the season, Benitez insists he is refusing to look any further ahead than the next game.

"My idea is to approach things just one game at a time," he explained.

"Our experience is that we have won a lot of games in a row in the second half of the season for the last three years; it hasn't only happened once.

"We have to have the confidence that we are going to do the same again and be ready for what happens in the New Year because I'm sure that we are going to improve; we just have to be more consistent.

"Villa have been doing well this season and for the past couple of years. They have spent some money, they have got a good team and they have some confidence now, so we know it is going to be tough for us.

"The competition for fourth place is going to be really difficult because we have got Villa, Tottenham and Manchester City all doing well, trying to get in there and you never know what might happen. We just have to keep going.

"The season race is a long one and we will just have to keep going. We have been good in second half in past seasons and we will have to be confident."

Villa have already recorded victory over Liverpool this season when Martin O'Neill's side claimed a 3-1 win at Anfield in August - a result the Reds will be eager to avenge.

"If you analyse the game, you will see we conceded a goal two minutes into injury time in the first half when there should only have been one minute then we gave a penalty away just after we looked as if we were going to get back into it," recalled Benitez.

"They played very well on the counter-attack but they played us when we had some problems; it was the right time for them but, clearly, it was the wrong time for us. Now we have to see if we can improve."

Liverpool head to Villa Park after returning to winning ways in the Barclays Premier League with the Boxing Day victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.

And Benitez is urging his team to build on that morale-boosting performance by embarking on an unbeaten run of form and, in the process, continue to rise up the table.

"We know we need to improve," added the Spaniard. "I have been a manager for 23 years and I know that during a season there will always be good moments and bad moments.

"The only way to change things is to keep working hard. We know the areas that we need to improve and that we have to stop making some mistakes.

"We are training well, working hard and have more confidence (after beating Wolves). But we have to win more games now. If we do that, the confidence will come back.

"The most important thing was to beat Wolves. We did that, got two goals and kept a clean sheet so there were a lot of positives from a difficult game.

"We know Aston Villa are in a very good position. They have belief and confidence, but we must try to win and reduce the gap."