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JAMIE CARRAGHER is confident star players Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres will be at Anfield next season.

The pair have both been the subject of speculation all summer following the Reds’ failure to qualify for the Champions League and the departure of Rafael Benitez.

Some observers believe retaining their services is one of the first tasks facing new boss Roy Hodgson but Carragher expects them both to remain at Anfield.

The 32-year-old said: “I think there is a lot of talk about this but the people who say these things, a lot of them are doing this to create a bit of pressure around the club.

“I don’t think anyone knows these people personally to come out and say that.

“I am sure they will still be involved at the club next season and if they are the aim for the club will be to get back into the Champions League once again.”

Hodgson stated at his unveiling that his goal for next season is to get Liverpool back into the elite European competition.

Carragher added: “We didn’t just miss out, we finished seventh. That is a big disappointment.

“If we could get back in there that would be a great achievement for the club and the manager.

“It is going to be a tough season but if we keep the players we have got and get back to where we were a few years ago I am sure we will give everyone a run for their money.”

Carragher is looking forward to working with veteran boss Hodgson, who led Fulham to the Europa League final last season.

“I think it is a great appointment by the club. I am sure we can move on from this and it will go well.”