FA confident after Liverpool petition

Liverpool's hopes of a place in next season's Champions League were boosted today as 3,000 messages of support from fans were handed in to the Football Association's London headquarters.

The messages - collected by the Liverpool Echo newspaper - were presented to executive director David Davies at the FA's Soho Square offices by Peter Kilfoyle, Labour MP for Walton, whose constituency includes both the Liverpool and Everton grounds.

He headed a delegation including four other Liverpool MPs - sisters Maria and Angela Eagle, Ben Chapman and Louise Ellman.

Davies told them he is hopeful of there being a favourable outcome to the problem, possibly within the next 48 hours.

"We are encouraged by the fact we feel there has been a change within UEFA. We now think there is a majority seeking to find a way to get Liverpool in. I think that will become clearer in the next 48 hours."

Members of UEFA's executive committee are currently being canvassed for their views by European soccer's ruling body and Davies added: "We have lobbied the 14 people involved in this."

MP Kilfoyle - and Everton supporter - said: "I'm very heartened by the efforts that are being made by the FA.

"Obviously we all want to see both clubs from Liverpool in there on the basis of Everton getting fourth place in the Premiership and Liverpool winning the Champions League.

"I think these are unforeseen circumstances and the FA have assured us they are doing everything possible."

Meanwhile, Spanish striker Albert Luque believes a move to European champions Liverpool would suit him.

Rafael Benitez is reportedly chasing the 27-year-old forward's signature, with Luque's club Deportivo La Coruna claiming one offer has already been rejected.

Luque, who scored for Spain in a World Cup qualifier against Lithuania on Saturday, said: "At Liverpool I have friends like Luis Garcia and goalkeeper Jose Reina, who will arrive soon.

"I want a quick decision so I can go on my holiday and know where I am playing next season. English football is excellent and I have no doubt that I could play in the Premiership. My characteristics will suit English football and the supporters will be happy with my style and the goals I would score."

Depor president Augusto Cesar Lendoiro added: "We refused the first offer [for Luque] from Liverpool because it was insufficient, but we are still open for the negotiations."