Carra: Give us credit for Euro success

May 22 2007 by Carl Markham, Liverpool Daily Post

LIVERPOOL defender Jamie Carragher has defended the team’s playing style, claiming their recent record speaks for itself.

Manager Rafael Benitez has come under fire for the unadventurous way his side sometimes play.

However, Carragher felt that criticism devalued the club’s recent achievements.

“People still say we’re not a great side but we’ve done something very special,” said Carragher.

“It’s an unbelievable opportunity to get to two European Cup finals in three years and we intend to make the most of it.”

Much has been made of Milan looking for revenge having been beaten on penalties in 2005 but Liverpool’s 29-year-old centre-back said they were not paying much attention to their previous encounter.

“We’ve a lot of great memories of playing them but we’ve a lot of respect for them as well,” Carragher said.

“They’re a great team and they showed that in the European Cup final last time.

“They played a great game and we just nicked it in the end, so we know it’ll be difficult but we’re hoping for the same result.”

Meanwhile, England coach Steve McClaren has praised the roles of Liverpool’s homegrown stars Carragher and Gerrard.

He said: “I think they are the most influential players on the field and they epitomise what Liverpool is all about and how the manager goes about his business.

“Jamie Carragher has always been a terrific leader and great character but he’s really shone through this season.”