Smicer to leave Reds

Czech international Vladimir Smicer has confirmed he will leave Liverpool this summer.

The out-of-favour winger has admitted Reds boss Rafael Benitez has informed him he will not be handing him a new contract when his current deal expires this summer.

Smicer wants first team football and after failing to hold down a regular place in the Liverpool first team since his move from Lens in 1999, Benitez is willing to let the midfielder leave.

Asked by reporters in his homeland if he will leave the Champions League finalists this summer Smicer replied: “Yes. I talked with the coach recently and he told me squarely he doesn’t want me to extend my contract.

“I am used to living and playing here so I will be sad. On the other hand, after six years at one club, the change will be useful.

“The behaviour of the Liverpool management was absolutely okay. They do not count on me but they act right.

“I do not feel such worth if I play for example only one minute in the semi-final against Chelsea.”

And he also revealed the frustration felt by countryman Milan Baros, who has also been linked with a move away from Merseyside despite enjoying a good season for Liverpool.

“He told me he doesn’t remember a match in which he played the whole 90 minutes,” Smicer said.

“He doesn’t feel tired and yet Benitez takes him off. But it’s up to them, they have to clear the air. The coach has some concepts and, if Milan doesn’t fulfil them, he takes him off.

“Hopefully, he won’t be on the bench against Milan (in the Champions League final).

“Milan have rather old defenders so Baros would be useful with his speed.”