Soccer/English Premiership news: The repercussions of a furious ly contested Merseyside derby hit hard at Anfield last night when the Liverpool striker Fernando Morientes was ruled out for up to three weeks with a torn thigh muscle.

Morientes underwent a scan on his left thigh yesterday which revealed the tear that forced him off before half-time in the 2-1 victory over Everton. The striker is now ruled out of the Premiership game against Bolton, emerging from the pack as genuine contenders for the fourth Champions League place, next month and the trip to Manchester City.

His loss will be keener given the absence of Milan Baros, the only fit recognised striker at the club and who begins a three-match ban against Bolton for his ugly foul on Alan Stubbs.

Thimothee Atouba, meanwhile, has been charged with violent conduct following an incident with Manchester City's Joey Barton on Saturday. Unless the Tottenham defender denies the charge the case will be heard on Thursday.

Dean Richards (30), has retired after suffering with an ear infection and dizzy spells for most of the season. Medical advice suggested the health of Tottenham's defender would suffer if he continued playing.

Harry Redknapp said yesterday that he feels relaxed about the expected recruitment of Clive Woodward to the Southampton coaching staff and board.

Redknapp said that Woodward would complement his own role as manager and he does not feel threatened by the new man. "Not at all; he wouldn't be coming in as a director of football," said Redknapp.