Tory leader joins masses

Conservative Party leader Michael Howard has called on Liverpool to sack manager Gerard Houllier and bring in Celtic boss Martin O'Neill, it emerged yesterday.

The Tory leader, an ardent Liverpool supporter, was overheard saying: "We need O'Neill, but the end of the season is not soon enough. We need him now."

A Tory spokesman confirmed Howard had aired his views about the team. "He was involved in a discussion with other Liverpool fans," he said. "He is passionate in his support and like any football fan he will discuss the fortunes of his team."

Meanwhile, Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has urged Michael Owen to follow his example by committing his future to Anfield.

Gerrard signed a new four-year contract before Christmas and now he is placing his trust in Owen doing the same. He declared: "I play with Michael all the time and train with him every day. I know he's our main man and we need to keep hold of him.

"It is an important decision for him. I would love Michael to stay, obviously. I have committed myself for another four years and I am sure Michael will too."

Houllier said yesterday that he may sign a goalkeeper as a solution to the club's lack of cover in that position. With Jerzy Dudek and Chris Kirkland injured, 23-year-old Patrice Luzi is now set to face Aston Villa tomorrow.

Houllier said: "We only have him (Luzi) available now so we might have to look at someone for the short-term."

Midfielder Bruno Cheyrou admitted yesterday that Houllier was right to brand him a transfer flop this week - but has vowed to now prove his worth to the club.

Houllier admitted at the club's a.g.m. that his summer 2002 signings had not yet worked out, with Cheyrou, Salif Diao and El Hadji Diouf still struggling at Anfield.

Cheyrou is hoping that his winner at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday is the start of a transformation in his fortunes.

The midfielder, who signed for £3.7 million from Lille, said: "I know the manager made comments at the meeting on Monday, but I think what he said was fair.

"Now I will try to do my best to do something about that. For me, it feels like I have paid something back by scoring against Chelsea, but I want to do a lot more."