Jovanovic deal not done as Reds wait on Carra

RAFA BENITEZ insists a deal for Standard Liege striker Milan Jovanovic is still not complete as the Liverpool boss faces an anxious wait over the fitness of Jamie Carragher.

The 28-year-old Serbia international has told Belgian newspaper Sporza he will be making the switch to Anfield on a free transfer this summer but Benitez says there is still work to be done before the switch is finalised.

Benitez said: "There have been lots of rumours but we will only say something if we finalise things. At this moment we are just talking with people and working."

Jovanovic has claimed the deal is already done, saying: "We have reached an agreement for three years, with the option to extend for another season. I have yet to undergo a medical exam, but that shouldn't be a problem.

"I opted to sign for Liverpool because they're one of the biggest teams in Europe. I'm absolutely delighted."

Carragher limped off with a groin injury early in the second half at the Emirates last night and he was sorely missed as Abou Diaby headed home the only goal of the game.

"Carra has a problem with his adductor," Benitez revealed.

"It's not serious, but we will have to see. He couldn't play on and we will see in the next few days how he feels."

The defeat ended the Reds' seven-game unbeaten league run and dented their hopes of a top four finish. They remain in fourth place but are level on points with Manchester City who now have two games in hand.

Benitez insisted his side were harshly denied a late spot-kick when Steven Gerrard's free-kick struck Cesc Fabregas on the arm.

"I'm really disappointed with the handball decision," he said.

"It was clear and it has to be a penalty. I don't know why he didn't give it.

"During the game you don't realise how clear the handball was, but the referee was there.

"We've had some decisions this year which we're not happy about. Today was another one, but we cannot waste time talking about this."

The Reds are without a game until they travel to Romania to face Unirea Urziceni in the Europa League next Thursday.

Benitez is confident there will be no hangover from their defeat in the capital.

"Always, when you lose, you're disappointed, but the team was doing well," he said.

"We defended well, had some chances, and could have scored, especially at the end when we had two or three situations.

"Their keeper was good."

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