Mellor deal could be back on soon

Last updated : 20 June 2004 By Site Staff
Rafael Benitez, the successor of former manager Gerard Houllier, will meet up with Liverpool Academy Director Steve Heighway in the coming days to discuss the futures of their youngsters. The topic of conversation will be who has a chance of getting in the first team with Neil Mellor, Stephen Warnock and Jon Ostemobor high on the list.

Mellor was all set to sign for Crewe at the end of this month on a year long loan but with a new manager coming in Mellor wanted to stay to see what his chances were of first team Liverpool football and he could have his answer this week.

If Benitez and his staff don't feel Mellor is quite up to Liverpool's standard yet then it could give the green light for Mellor to sign for the Alex. Benitez told the press that it's important to look at your youngsters before going elsewhere; "Every manager wants good players in their Academy because at the end of the day it makes life easier for us if we are able to use these players.

"They know about the spirit of the club and give that something extra."