I'm staying at Liverpool - Alonso

The 25-year-old, who signed from Real Sociedad in 2004, told the Liverpool website: "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.

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

Liverpool climbed above Bolton to third in the Premiership after an emphatic 3-0 win against Sam Allardyce's men on New Year's Day.

Alonso is hoping the team can reel in second-placed Chelsea, who are eight points ahead in the table.

"Now Liverpool are playing to our best level of the season," added Alonso, who has attracted interest from Atletico Madrid and Barcelona according to Spanish media sources.

"This is perfect for the beginning of the year with the next big challenges."

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