by Leonmc0708 » Thu Oct 14, 2004 3:15 pm
Anyway back on topic, from Liverpoolfc.tv:
Rafael Benitez today revealed he hasn't closed the door on Alou Diarra's Liverpool career.
The 23 year old midfielder was signed on a free transfer from Bayern Munich two years ago but has never made a first team appearance for the Reds.
He's currently on a season long loan at Lens, but this week took a major step forward in his career when he made substitute appearances for the French national team in their World Cup qualifiers against Republic of Ireland and Cyprus.
Benitez says the decision to send him on loan this season was based on the fact the Reds have a number of midfielders at the club, but he says Diarra could establish himself at Liverpool if he continues to perform for Lens.
"We are watching all the players we have out on loan and checking the level they're playing," said Benitez.
"Our scouts are making sure we get reports on how they're doing. After that, we can decide on what we will do in the future. Alou Diarra was here in the summer but we thought that at this moment we have enough players who can play in his position, central midfield, which is why he's on loan.
"But he's shown he's not a bad player. He is doing very well. It's good for him and good for us he is playing well as we look to the future
"I think it's still early days for him, but it's good news for us to see a young player doing so well. If he continues to play well for his club and is in the national team, we will be reminding everyone he is our player."
JUSTICE FOR THE 96
