Liverpool FC: Kenny Dalglish keen to secure Jamie Carragher’s long-term future at Anfield

Jan 14 2012 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo

KENNY DALGLISH believes it’s vital that Liverpool retain the services of vice-captain Jamie Carragher in the long term.

Skipper Steven Gerrard penned a contract extension on Thursday and agreed to take up an ambassadorial role when he finally hangs up his boots.

The Reds boss is hoping long-serving defender Carragher, whose current deal expires at the end of next season, will also stay at Anfield beyond his playing days.

Carragher, who is second in the club’s all-time appearance list on 683 games, turns 34 later this month and has been out of the side in recent months following his recovery from a calf injury.

However, Dalglish says the centre back’s experience and knowledge will be crucial to the Reds’ hopes of success in the future.

“We’ll have the same conversations with Carra to see what his plans and ambitions are and to see what he would like to do,” Dalglish said.

“We want to try and keep him involved at the football club for as long as we can.

“It’s hugely important for us to keep people who have been great servants like Stevie and Carra have been.

“If they want to be here, we should do what we can to try to accommodate them.

“They are a fantastic asset to the football club both on and off the pitch, and that’s something we should be looking to develop.”

Dalglish is delighted that Gerrard has agreed to take up a role with the Reds beyond his playing days but he says that remains a long way off.

The midfielder has made a big impression since returning to action last month, scoring three goals in his last four appearances.

And the manager believes Gerrard, who is expected to start against Stoke at Anfield today, could keep on playing until his late 30s.

“The other role is a reflection of what he’s done for the football club and his status here but I don’t think there’s a rush to take that up,” he added.

“The most important thing is Steven’s football career and he’s got a lot more to offer.

“(Ryan) Giggs is 38, isn’t he? That’s seven years down the line – that’s a long time. But if he’s fit and well, there’s no reason why not.

“I’ve not got a crystal ball. I’m just delighted Steven's done what he’s done and we have got him here.”

Jose Enrique is set to return to the starting line up against Stoke today after being rested against Manchester City in midweek but Jay Spearing is unlikely to feature due to a hamstring injury.

Dalglish expects Spearing to be fit for the trip to Bolton next Saturday.