Gerrard: Let us defend title

Steven Gerrard today pleaded for Liverpool to be given the right to defend the European Cup.

Liverpool's inspirational captain is determined to lead them out if, as expected, UEFA do the right thing and let them enter next season's Champions League.

After receiving the trophy from UEFA president Lennart Johansson, Gerrard said: "I hope the people above let us defend it. It's called the Champions League and the champions should be in it."

Liverpool missed out on a berth for next season by finishing fifth in the Premiership but the irony is that by winning the Cup for the fifth time, they are allowed to keep the trophy but not defend it.

Yet UEFA's executive committee, chaired by Johansson, will meet in Manchester on 16 June and are expected to give the green light to Liverpool's participation, especially as the football world has been entranced by their dramatic triumph.

Gerrard also revealed that he is soon to start new contract talks and effectively ended rumours of a move to Chelsea by saying: "It's looking good for me to stay. How can I leave Liverpool after a night like this?"

Outclassed and three down at half-time Liverpool came back with three goals in six second-half minutes and then, with the score 3-3 after extra time, won a penalty shoot out 3-2 with two saves from the much-maligned Jerzy Dudek.

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry insisted officials would have to change the rules which currently stipulate that the club will have to settle for a UEFA Cup place. "Look at the support we brought, look at the worldwide audience. I think we have to be given a shot."