Parry is relieved there's no derby
Jul 30 2005
By Martyn Ziegler In Nyon, Daily Post
LIVERPOOL chief executive Rick Parry has spoken of his relief after the holders avoided Everton in the draw for the third qualifying round of the Champions League.
The reigning champions will play east European opposition once they finish off FBK Kaunas of Lithuania in next week's second round, second leg at Anfield.
They lead 3-1 after the first leg and will next play either KF Tirana of Albania or CSKA Sofia of Bulgaria if they progress, with the first leg at home.
CSKA are 2-0 ahead after the first leg of their second round tie.
Either club would present another long trip abroad for Liverpool's much-travelled fans but at least they avoided a Merseyside derby against Everton.
Parry said: "Clearly when you are not given country protection the conspiracy theorists buttume what is going to happen."
Parry added: "I don't think either club would have relished it."
However, Parry warned his club would not be taking anything for granted in the second leg against Kaunas.
"We have still got a job to do so we will think about the draw after Tuesday," he said.. "We will gather information and we are taking each game as it comes, we are professional - we are used to it. We treat everyone with respect but not fear."
Liverpool only won the competition two months ago and Parry admitted the defence of the trophy had started early.
"It is a long season but that is the price of success," he said.. "We would rather be playing a lot of games so that's not a complaint from us.
"It's better to have played a team who have come through the rounds than one who's just come in but when you see what happened to Celtic in midweek you can't take anything for granted."
Meanwhile Spanish defender Josemi, linked with a move away from Anfield this week, has pledged his future to Liverpool.
Sevilla and Villareal have both been monitoring the future of the right-back, who has revealed that manager Rafa Benitez has convinced him to remain on Merseyside.
"I had a bad summer with so many rumours about my departure, but after returning to work I have spoken in depth with Rafa Benitez and I am clear," he said.. "I am not leaving Liverpool. Last year injuries prevented me from being a success - it is not going to be like that this time.
"This new season is a personal challenge and I'm going to give everything on the field. They will see the best possible Josemi.
"It's nice that big teams in the Spanish leagues are interested in me, but I came to England to be successful in the Premier League and this will be my objective this season."
Meanwhile Schalke are likely to be deterred from making a formal bid for Milan Baros by Liverpool's £7million asking price.
