Reina sets double target

(GSM) – Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina is not only aiming sixth place but also targeting Barclays Golden Glove award.

The Reds can clinch a sixth-place finish in the Barclays Premier League with three points at the KC Stadium, should Aston Villa fail to defeat Blackburn Rovers.

And a clean sheet for Rafael Benitez’s side against the relegated Tigers will see Reina scoop the prestigious Barclays Golden Glove award for most shut outs in the division.

The Liverpool custodian is currently level with Chelsea’s Petr Cech in the race for the accolade (16 clean sheets), and will win it outright if Hull fail to breach the Reds’ rearguard and Wigan manage a goal at Stamford Bridge.

“We have to try for sixth place – that’s another target,” Reina told club’s website.

“If Villa don’t win and we do, then we will be there so it has to be something to look at and try to do.

“We all want to give a good performance. We know we are playing for sixth place and also the Golden Glove, so we will try to keep a clean sheet and win.

“It’s always good to finish with a win. For the fans and everybody, it’s better to end the season with a win in your pocket.

“It’s going to be the same for Hull. Although they’ve been relegated, they still have to play the game in front of their crowd. They will really want to win and deliver three points to their fans.

“But we have to just focus on ourselves and try to produce a good performance,” Reds stopper said.

Should Reina manage to keep the Tigers at bay, it will be the fourth time the 27-year-old has clinched the Golden Glove since arriving in the Barclays Premier League in 2005.

However, the Spaniard insists the gong is not solely a reward for goalkeepers.

“It’s not just an award for a goalkeeper, it’s for the whole team and defensive system. It’s down to all the lads because, without them, it’s not possible.

“Hopefully we can keep that clean sheet. Of course, I fancy Wigan to score one at Stamford Bridge as well!

“But we have to do our job and try to win – clean sheet or not. We just have to get the three points and finish in a positive way,” Spanish said.

Reina recently committed his long-term future to Liverpool by signing a new six-year deal.

“I am confident we will bounce back, otherwise I wouldn’t have signed. I’ve always said Liverpool is a big club no matter what and I am happy here.

“Let’s hope next year I am even happier and we win some trophies,” he stated.