Liverpool sizing up Michael Turner

Say what you want about Spurs, but with Defoe and Crouch and Keane bearing down under the guidance of Houdini Harry Redknapp (who's already done well with Crouch and Defoe in the past), they'll be a threat to punch in some goals. So when you open up against them on the road and your top 3 central defenders are hurt, you begin seeking replacements.

Rafael Benítez has confirmed his interest in signing Michael Turner from Hull City after Liverpool's defensive problems mounted at home to Atlético Madrid yesterday.

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"It is true I was talking with Phil Brown [the Hull manager], but I won't discuss any figures," said the Liverpool manager. When asked if he would make a second inquiry, Benítez added: "Maybe."

I haven't seen Turner myself, but last season he played every single minute of every single game for Hull City, and their official supporters' club have named him the team's player of the year for 3 straight seasons. Last fall, there were even calls for him to play on the England national team. Based on what I've read, I'd love to see him come to Anfield, even if it's a fee in the £8-9m region. But if you've seen him play and want to tell me I'm crazy, please do. In the meantime, I'll go back to fretting over how easily Atletico Madrid carved us up with no Carragher, Agger, or Skrtel.

Here are the goals from that "friendly" ass-whupping: