HOULLIER APPEALS FOR UNITY

GERARD HOULLIER has appealed for unity ahead of Liverpool's pivotal FA Cup replay at Portsmouth on Sunday.

The Reds' last two home matches have been marked by frustrated fans voicing their disapproval.

But manager Houllier, (right), has made a spirited call for togetherness ahead of a tie which could secure a home quarter-final against Arsenal.

"The message I want to put across - and I do so very firmly - is that everyone on the playing and coaching staff is determined and committed to putting this proud football club where it needs to be," declared Houllier.

"Yes, through our own pride and our professionalism, we want to do it for ourselves.

"But, believe me, we also want to do it for the supporters.

"I have always said that we are in this together, and if we are to achieve our aims, that's the way it has to be.

"I had told the players that taking into consideration everything that happened to us this season - several key players out with long injuries and some contestable refereeing decisions - they deserve credit just for being able to challenge for fourth position.

"But we will give everything it takes to stay there."

Echo