Reds face battle for Chamakh

LIVERPOOL were today facing a desperate battle to get back into the race to land Marouane Chamakh.

Rafa Benitez has long been an admirer of the Bordeaux striker and made the Morocco international his number one target for the summer.

Chamakh had become the most sought after Bosman transfer in European football but the Reds had forged their way into the lead for his signature last month.

The player's advisers had indicated that they wanted Chamakh to move to Anfield ahead of Arsenal but, despite Benitez's best efforts, it appears he is now headed for the Emirates.

Though Liverpool will keep fighting until the end to convince Chamakh to have a change of heart, it is going to be need a massive turnaround for that to happen.

Having invested so much time and effort in his attempts to woo Chamakh, missing out on a player who has attracted rave reviews in Ligue 1 would leave Benitez hugely frustrated.

He was convinced at the end of the transfer window that Liverpool would soon be in a position to announce Chamakh's signing.

One report today said sources close to the 26-year-old have suggested the Reds' hierarchy had mismanaged the contractual side of the deal and been 'fussy' over contract details.

Meanwhile, Daniel Agger today claimed Liverpool must replicate the fighting spirit that lifted them to derby success if they are to enhance their top four credentials at Arsenal.

The Reds have not beaten Arsene Wenger's side away from home since a solitary strike from Titi Camara settled a typically close contest at Highbury 10 years ago.

Speaking of the derby, Agger said: "It was enjoyable but it was just three points. "It was what we needed.

"We are fighting for fourth place and we got there but we'll just keep looking at every game.

"The physical challenge was good and was what we expected.

"It's all part of derby games. It was a tough game but we did well.

"We were well organised and when that is the case, it's easier.

"Everybody in the team has got the right attitude and we want to show that every time we go on the pitch.

"Now we want to get a good result at Arsenal."

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the views or position of Liverpool Football Club.