Barnes hoping for Gerrard boost

24 July 2009 09:25
Tranmere boss John Barnes is hoping that playing against Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard can inspire his side in their pre-season friendly against the Anfield club on Friday. The Reds first-team squad are currently touring Asia, but Gerrard has been unable to travel due to his ongoing trial and will play for a Liverpool XI that is visiting Prenton Park. "I want our players to believe that while Steven Gerrard is a great player, they can compete against him. There is no reason why we, as a team, can't compete against the best players and the best teams," Barnes told the Daily Post. "Playing against Steven Gerrard should give our players confidence. If they put in a good performance they will know they can compete with players at the highest level."

Source: Eurosport