Reds and City still in the hunt for ace

After seeing Malbranque dismantle his defence at the weekend, City boss Stuart Pearce said: "I can't answer yes or no to whether I'll go back in for him.

"I wouldn't like to be associated with a headline saying 'I want Malbranque'.

"He's Fulham's player."

Nonetheless, bids are expected from both clubs come January.