Craig Bellamy has done the sensible thing (albeit a bit late) and told the media his side of the story regarding his row with Riise at Liverpool’s training camp in Portugal.

It’s good to let footballers have their say in these matters and to clear things out, although Bellamy clearly refused to mention how the golf club was involved and whether he did any swinging.

Bellamy did explain his golf-swing celebrations as part of something he agreed to with Crouch – kind of ironic considering the two are considered likely to leave this summer.

Liverpool though have two big matches coming up in the next 4 days – a home clash against Manchester United and a Champions League home game to Barcelona.

Defeat to Manchester United will put a serious dent into Liverpool’s chances for 3rd spot this season, although considering Arsenal’s current form they might not be too worried. A win though, will be a morale-booster for Tuesday’s game and for next season as well.

The Barca game – despite Liverpool’s 2-1 away win – cannot be under-estimated. Rijkaard is going to throw everything he’s at Liverpool, and I expect Pool to try a smash n grab approach by playing on the counter. They’ll try to nick a goal early but if that doesn’t work it will be defend, defend, defend – till Barca open up too much and Liverpool can sneak in.

It’s not the idea strategy, but that’s Benitez for you. They could still win, and I’d bet on them winning, but it’s a risky gameplan.