Harry Kewell has been challenged to prove he is worth
another Liverpool contract after finally making his first
appearance of the season. The 29-year-old's injury-ravaged Anfield
career appeared to be in its final few months, following disquiet
behind the scenes over a minimal return for a £70,000-a-week
contract that runs out next summer.
A series of fitness problems have restricted his availability over
the past two-and-a-half years and looked certain to lead to his
release on a free transfer next summer. But after shaking off
troublesome foot and ankle injuries and going on as a substitute in
Wednesday's 2-1 Carling Cup win over Cardiff, the £5million signing
from Leeds could yet be on course for a new deal.
Liverpool would want to safeguard themselves against any further
injury disruption, and a renewed contract could be on reduced terms
or a pay-as-you-play basis. Rafa Benitez is still prepared to offer
the Australia winger the inducement of an extended Anfield stay,
though. The manager said: "He had 45 minutes with the reserves and
has now added some time out in the middle with the first team, and
to see him playing so well was really good. "We were creating
chances when he was on the pitch and that showed how he was
contributing.
"You need to be 100 per cent every time you play and that has been
difficult for Harry when he has sometimes been out for eight or 10
months. "He is working with the physios and doing the right things.
He must try to stay as fit as possible for the next few
games.
"A new contract is a possibility and the way to make sure is by
working hard and playing well, playing games in a row and playing
at his level. "Nobody has any doubt about the quality of Harry.
He's a fantastic player. "This is a crucial stage of his career.
For his age and because he is finishing his contract. But I have
always thought of him as a very good player who gives us options.
Now it is up to him."