Smicer backs Baros to rival Rooney

Last updated : 23 June 2004 By Chris Maxwell
Rooney is already top scorer in the tournament with an impressive four goals in just three games but, after netting twice in his opening two games, Smicer feels Baros still has many mote goals to score in Portugal.

Smicer said: Milan is in fantastic form. I think he could battle with Wayne Rooney to be the player of the tournament and the top goalscorer.

"I think Rooney will have the advantage of playing an extra game because Milan will be rested against Germany tonight because we are already through and don't have to risk our best players.

"We might even make 11 changes to prepare for the quarter-finals, so Milan may have to wait for his next chance. But on the form he's shown so far he will definitely score again.

"It's great news for us and great news for Liverpool the way Milan is playing. It shows how good he is. When we were going into the tournament I could see his confidence was there and I knew he'd have a huge impact.

"He's now scored five goals in his last four games and he seems to score at will when he plays for the national team. I think he enjoys our style of play."

While Baros is set to make a huge impact at Anfield under the guidance of new manager Rafael Benitez, Smicer is intent on proving he deserves a chance to showcase his talents to the Spaniard.

Smicer added: "I hope Rafael Benitez knows us. I'm not sure if he's seen us play much, but the better we do for the Czechs the more he will see of us.

"He didn't come to talk to me and Milan and I know he went to visit the England players, but I'm sure that's because he's worried about Steven Gerrard being linked with Chelsea.

"Next season could be a fresh start for a lot of us. I hope he wants me at the club. If he tells me I'm not in his plans, then I will have to think about the future but I want to stay at Liverpool.

"I don't know where the stories about Lens have come from. Definitely not from me.

"I will go back to Liverpool after the tournament and talk to the manager. I'm looking forward to working with him and hope he wants to work with me."