Liverpool confirmed today they would not be signing on-loan striker Nicolas Anelka from Paris St Germain.
"After a lot of thought we've decided not to make Nicolas Anelka's move from Paris St Germain a permanent one," said a Liverpool statement.
"This was a difficult decision and we know that Nicolas will be very disappointed, but the manager [Gerard Houllier] has always had to do what he thinks is best for the club and the development of the team.
"We finished the season as runners-up and want to pay tribute to the part Nicolas played in that achievement during his loan spell at Anfield. Everyone at the club now wishes him well for the future".
Anelka joined Liverpool in December following Robbie Fowler's departure to Leeds. He was not named in the France World Cup squad.