Reds pair 'could soon commit'

Benitez believes Crouch and Hyypia will commit

Last updated: 4th March 2008

Football Chelsea Liverpool Peter Crouch

Crouch: Happy

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Liverpool pair Peter Crouch and Sami Hyypia could soon commit their futures to the club.

That is the view of Reds boss Rafa Benitez after speculation that both could leave in the summer, particularly Crouch, who has often been used as substitute and has been targeted by Manchester City and Portsmouth.

But Benitez believes the striker will soon commit to a new long-term contract, while veteran Hyypia wants to complete 10 years at Anfield and will agree a one-year extension.

"I have talked to both at different times. You never know, but I think they could be done soon," said Benitez.

"Rick Parry (chief executive) told me Peter's agent wanted to talk to him about a new contract. This was one month ago or more.

Happy

"So I talked with Peter and explained my ideas, because he's aware that top sides sometimes change players. But now he is happy and Rick is talking with the agent.

"Every top side needs good players. Crouch is a different kind of striker to Fernando Torres, Andriy Voronin and Dirk Kuyt. It is really important for us to have other options, to have a player who we can use in different games."

Speaking of the situation with Hyypia, who is 35 later this year, Benitez added: "I spoke with Sami and showed him our interest. He is a very, very good professional.

"It is not just about his experience, it is about him being a good player. He has played a lot of games this season, and the idea for next season is that he can play and fight for his place in the team.

"This will be good for us. One of the positive things is that, because he is a good professional and has a lot of experience, he can give the other players advice.

Amazing servant

"But I also think he can fight for a position against the younger players. He has been an amazing servant for this club.

"When you see a foreign player playing for the same team for 10 years, everyone must be really pleased."