MASCA STILL WANTS OUT OF POOL
The bad news for Liverpool is that, in the words of the Mail on Sunday, 'Javier Mascherano appears determined to leave Liverpool at the end of the season, further adding to the woes of Rafa Benitez, with Barcelona still his preferred destination.'
'Mascherano understood he was close to a move to the European champions in the summer and his loyalty to Liverpool now seems to be purely professional rather than emotional, it adds.
The People also claims that Mascreherano wants out and quotes him saying: "I've heard that I've been asking for a new contract but that's not true.
"I have not been asking for a new contract and I have never asked for a new contract. I don't play for the money. I play to win things."
(Liverpool fans look away now because the boot is just about to go in)
'That last sentence will disturb boss Rafa Benitez as Liverpool will be out of the title race if they lose to Manchester United today and their Champions League hopes have been hit by two defeats in three fixtures. If he is motivated by medals then Barca look a more attractive proposition.'
Ouch and double ouch.
AND FEARS FOR TORRES...
Nor does the backpage of The Sunday Mirror make happy reading for those of a Liverpool allegiance.
'Liverpool fear another season of failure could spark Fernando Torres' departure from Anfield,' it declares. 'There is mounting concern that another barren campaign will prompt the striker's advisers to start pressing for a move to a more successful club.'
In other words, this story is tenuous at best but Liverpool really, really do need to start turning things around rather sharpish. .