Premiership: Smicer wants trophy tonic

Liverpool’s Vladimir Smicer claims winning the Barclaycard Premiership or the Champions League would make up for missing out on this summer’s World Cup finals with the Czech Republic.

Smicer is upset by the thought that he will not be going to Japan or Korea.

The Czechs finished runners-up in their group and were beaten by Belgium in the play-offs last November.

Smicer claims lifting either the Premier League trophy or the European Cup with Liverpool would wipe away that unhappy memory.

‘‘Winning the championship would more than make up for missing out on the World Cup, which was a big disappointment for my country,’’ he said.

‘‘Either that or the Champions League, which might be more difficult.

‘‘But if we end up with something at the end of the season I will be quite happy.’’

Smicer’s last-gasp winner against Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday took Liverpool top of the league.

The Reds, who have taken 22 points from their last 24, will hold on to pole position if they can beat Charlton at Anfield tomorrow.

Smicer is upbeat about Liverpool’s prospects, although he knows Arsenal, who are two points behind the Merseysiders in third place having played two games fewer, are the favourites.

‘‘I’m playing with a lot of confidence at the moment after scoring against Chelsea at the weekend,

which was an important goal for me and for Liverpool,’’ he said.

‘‘I’m optimistic we can win the Premiership because we are top at the moment and it would be ridiculous if we didn’t believe it was possible.

‘‘Arsenal are favourites because of their games in hand, but nothing is certain.’’

Smicer could start against Charlton and England midfielder Steve Gerrard will miss out after injuring his groin against Chelsea.

John Arne Riise may be doubtful after taking a knock on his foot in the same match.