icLiverpool
STEVE FINNAN is the latest Liverpool player to be on the verge of
an extended Anfield contract.
While all the focus remains on Anfields four big guns who are deep
in negotiations, its emerged Finnan has joined the list of those
Rafa Benitez wants to keep at the club.
It will be a just reward for the Irish international, who recovered
from an uneasy start to his Liverpool career to become an unsung
hero of the Champions League and FA Cup winning side.
The right-back has seen off the challenge of several new right
sided defenders since joining from Fulham in 2003, and is now
firmly established as the first choice full-back.
He turns 31 next week, but such has been his level of consistency
and invaluable experience, Benitez was in no doubt the defender was
worth an extension.
Its a move which is sure to delight Finnan, who spoke only last
week of his hope to extend his terms which have only a year left to
run after this season.
American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks are also keen to
reward at least four of Liverpools Academy youngsters with
contracts following their success in this years FA Youth
Cup.
The teenagers whove already made the step up to Melwood are in
line for longer deals as Gillett and Hicks look to safeguard both
senior stars and developing talent.
he certainly deserved a new contract.