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Alonso: I'm staying at Liverpool

Last updated at 15:42 03 January 2007

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso has dismissed speculation linking him with a return to Spain.

The 25-year-old, who arrived from Real Sociedad during the summer of 2004, has instead vowed to play his part in reeling in third-placed Chelsea in the Barclays Premiership.

Alonso said: "I do not speak about the rumours of my return to Spain. I have a contract signed with the Reds and I am happy at this club.

"Now Liverpool are playing to our best level of the season. This is perfect for the beginning of the year with the next big challenges.

"To get to third place is very important for morale for us after the problems in the first months of the league. Now our objective is to consolidate the effort."