Pepe Reina fuels exit rumours
After winning the all important fixture against http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Chelsea-c38786, which saw Torres line up against his former side, Pepe Reina defended his compatriot's decision to move on, and gave an indication about his own future. In an interview with Spanish media, the former Villarreal keeper has somewhat speculated that he might be well on his way out too.
Reina has long been a target of Manchester United—an even bigger rival to Liverpool, with the Old Trafford outfit looking to replace veteran Dutch keeper.
There is widespread impression at Anfield, that Torres left for money rather than for winning trophies and playing at the highest level. Liverpool is on the up and has made the necessary investment. Many would argue that http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Liverpool-c39809 is more hungry and ambitious than Chelsea, who seems to be on a downfall.
While those debates will continue to rage between the two sets of fans, we look at http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Pepe-Reina-c29672; the most influential amongst the back line for the Reds and a player in a position that seems to have no replacement at Anfield.
With Edwin van der Sar announcing his retirement, Sir Alex will be looking for the best possible replacement. However, a glimpse at Old Trafford reveals that there are few potential players who can fill the boots of the big man.
While United have brought in Andries Lindergaard, he could fall in as a backup keeper with a more experienced campaigner coming in as the No. 1.
"Yes, well Van der Sar will hang up his gloves in the summer so of course they are looking, I can't do anything. I can't say anything logically as I have a contract with Liverpool," Reina said on Spanish Radio.
But of course, as we are all well aware of the modern game, a contract is meaningless if a player wants to leave.
He continued, "Of course one likes to fight for titles and be in a team that does that. We always fought to be in the Champions League and try to win the title. But unfortunately it hasn't been the case in the last couple of years. I won't lie, I want to play in the Champions League and challenge for titles," Reina said.
Since he didn't give any direct indication he would leave, most Liverpool fans would defend Reina's argument. But if the time comes when he does decide to change clubs, his name will be taunted, his shirt will be burned and Pepe Reina will be hated at Anfield.
While Liverpool and its owners are trying to get back to their winning ways consistently, their downfall in the last two seasons seems to have jeopardized more than just their image.
A clear indication is that while recent signings could assist them in regaining some position in the league, it will take some time before they gain the confidence of the players.
So the question remains, can Kenny Dalglish keep his ship sailing strong, or will these imbalances change their direction?
No matter what the situation is, come the end of the season, Reina is a professional and will give his full dedication to the club until a time comes when he sees fit for change, but will that time come in summer 2011?
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