Goal hero Smicer accepts Reds exit

Midfielder Vladimir Smicer admitted that his Liverpool career is now over - even after helping to inspire the club to their remarkable Champions League final comeback.

Smicer’s contract has now expired and he is set to be released on a free transfer after six years at Anfield.

The 32-year-old Czech Republic international is not expecting a last-minute change of heart by the club’s board but insists that he at least went out on a dramatic high.

Having come off the bench in the 23rd minute to replace the injured Harry Kewell, he struck the second goal in an incredible comeback and also converted a penalty in the shoot-out.

“All I wanted to do was to go out on a high and I can’t ask for anything more than helping the team to win the Champions League,” he declared.

“Hopefully the fans will remember me for that and I’m proud of it. It was probably the greatest moment of my career – a dream.

“The club have already decided [my future] so I don’t want to go back on that. I don’t think anyone will change their mind now but that’s life.

“I’m just really proud of what we did. I’ve been here six years and I’ve won seven trophies with Liverpool.”

Smicer even endured cramp during the penalty shoot-out, but still converted his side’s crucial fourth kick to put all the pressure on Andriy Shevchenko, whose effort was saved by Jerzy Dudek.

“It was physically demanding, because I lacked the fitness from playing regularly. I couldn’t go for any sprints in extra-time,” he revealed.

“I even had cramp during the penalty shoot-out when I was taking my turn, but I still managed to score.

“I still can’t believe it. At half-time, I really didn’t believe we could come back but we did it.

“It was my last match for Liverpool and I wanted to prove to the fans, that I am still able to play well.”

Smicer, who celebrated his 32nd birthday on the eve of the final, has not yet decided on his next move but wants to continue playing at international level.

“Some people may think that I have everything behind me, but I showed them that I am able to help the national team,” he stressed.

“I would like to contribute to the World Cup qualification and get as far as possible in the World Cup.”

While Smicer looks set to leave Anfield, the futures of Milan Baros and Dietmar Hamann also look uncertain, having been linked with moves away from the club.

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry insisted: “There were some tremendous performances but it’s an answer for another day.

“There are discussions and talks still to be had, but we don’t have fixed minds on issues. It’s about getting it right.”