Benitez urged to resist Bernabeu temptation
Wigan Chairman Salary CapsI doubt it. If this was a decision taken only by the English clubs there is a danger that it will dilute...
Sep 21 2005
By Ian Doyle, Daily Post
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LIVERPOOL have urged Rafael Benitez to fulfil his long-term objectives at Anfield and resist the temptation of a return to Spain.
Chief executive Rick Parry moved to underline the club's intentions following renewed speculation Real Madrid could earmark the Liverpool manager should they finally lose patience with under-pressure coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo.
The Brazilian is on the brink of being sacked having overseen a poor start to the season at the Bernabeu that has included three consecutive defeats within the last 10 days.
Benitez has seen his stock rise dramatically since lifting the European Cup in Istanbul, and the Anfield hierarchy are understandably delighted with the progress the club has made under his charge.
And they have reiterated their desire for Benitez to continue bringing more silverware to the trophy cabinet in the coming seasons.
"It goes without saying that we are extremely happy with Rafa and want him to stay," said Parry.. "We are working on a shared vision of sustained success on the pitch.
"Bringing trophies back to Anfield is all we are concerned with. Without under-estimating the size of the challenge, we are very confident we can achieve that aim together. There's a tremendous opportunity facing us and a great opportunity for Rafa to fulfil his burning ambitions here."
It is no secret Benitez wants to manage Madrid at some point in his career, but is unlikely to be interested as long as president Florentino Perez remains at the helm.
In any case, the Spaniard recently dismissed the notion of realising that personal ambition in the foreseeable future and insisted he plans to remain at Liverpool for many years to come.
Meanwhile, Benitez believes the return of Djimi Traore to the Liverpool squad has been akin to welcoming a new signing.
The French defender missed the first two months of the season after suffering a thigh injury during the opening pre-season game against Bayer Leverkusen.
Traore returned for the goalless draw Tottenham Hostpur 10 days ago and made a first start against Real Betis in the Champions League the following Tuesday.
And Benitez is pleased the European Cup winner has now recovered his fitness. He explained: "It's important for us to have Djimi back because we always need to have at least two players competing for each position."
Benitez continued: "We have Djimi, Warnock and Riise now competing for the left-back slot and this can only be good for the team.
"Having him back is like having a new signing in the squad. He gives us another option and increases the competition for places.
"It was unfortunate for him to pick up the injury when he did because he'd enjoyed a very good pre-season.
"I've been pleased with his performances since coming back and his attitude has been spot on. It always is, whether in training or in games. He is a key member of our squad."
