Source: Team_Talk
Deschamps considered Reds approach
Marseille boss Didier Deschamps admits he considered Liverpool's approach before agreeing a contract extension with the French champions.[LNB] The Reds contacted the French champions over their interest in appointing the former France World Cup-winning captain as a successor to Rafael Benitez.[LNB]But Deschamps swiftly ended speculation over his future by signing a contract extension which keeps him at Stade Velodrome until June 2012.[LNB]Fulham manager Roy Hodgson is now the hot favourite for the Anfield post with an annoucement expected in the next 24 hours.[LNB]Deschamps said: "I have been contacted by a great club, and of course it leads you to think.[LNB]"It was not a money matter. I have always favoured the sporting aspect. [LNB]"I have extended, and I am pleased with it. The chairman wanted it. I am always asking for respect from the players, I had to fulfil my commitment."[LNB]The coach also confirmed his desire to keep captain Mamadou Niang, even if the club will be forced to cut their wages to get reinforcements.[LNB]He added: "I wish him to stay. Mamade is fine here, I have no worry about that case. I know I already have a competitive team."[LNB]Deschamps added his summer recruitment campaign will be quieter than last year with four targets at most, with one of them, wing-back Cesar Azpilicueta, having already been snapped up.[LNB]He said: "The players achieved something amazing last term (the championship and league cup double), and it will be difficult this season.[LNB]"The priority will be to finish among the three top teams to get new qualification for the Champions League.[LNB]"It is essential for the club. Then, we would reach a new step by getting though the Champions League group stage."
