Rick Parry believes the Premier League title is a priority
for Liverpool.
Rick Parry has admitted Liverpool must challenge for the
Premier League next season after describing the club's elusive 19th
title as "a priority target". The Liverpool chief executive remains
at the centre of the political infighting between the owners, Tom
Hicks and George Gillett, but has called on all factions to unite
behind a bid for Manchester United's crown next term.
The Champions League again proved Rafael Benítez's salvation
last season as he reached the semi-finals for the third time in
four years. But, having failed to mount a genuine title challenge
in that time, he is acutely aware of the pressure to remain in a
title race during his fifth season in charge.
"We have to look back, learn and build for next season when the
Premier League title will again be a priority target," said Parry.
"As ever, we now begin to concentrate on further improving the
squad for next year. We have to be real contenders. We have the
nucleus of a very good team and now we must build on that during
the summer break."
Fernando Torres, meanwhile, has dismissed speculation linking
him with a move away from Liverpool this summer. "I am very happy
at Liverpool," the Spain international said. "I prefer not to think
about these stories and to focus on Euro 2008. After the Euros I
will go on holiday and then return to Liverpool."