BERGER TO FREE UP EU PLACE

LIVERPOOL midfielder Patrik Berger is set to apply for British citizenship at the end of the season, so that it allows Gerard Houllier to sign another player from outside the European Union.

The Czech Republic star hopes that, after completing a fifth season in England he will qualify for a residential visa, which would mean he would not need a work permit.

"Because I have worked for four years in England, I have the right to ask for a residential visa," said Berger.

Houllier has targeted Croatian midfielder Igor Biscan from Dinamo Zagreb, who is expected to arrive at Anfield for £5.5 million in December.

If Berger wins his dual nationality, and with Brad Friedel's work permit not being renewed, the club's non-EU contingent would be reduced to the maximum of three allowed - Stephane Henchoz, Vladimir Smicer and Biscan.