Warning: Liverpool Manager Rafael Benitez
Rafael Benitez has warned Manchester City and Tottenham that the
pressure is on them to stop Liverpool from winning the race for
fourth.
Benitez's side host Fulham tomorrow in what may prove to be a
dress rehearsal for the Europa League Final.
Although they will have played more games, victory would put
them level with Tottenham and one point behind City, who kick off
an hour later at home to Birmingham.
Liverpool remain outsiders to claim the fourth place Benitez
guaranteed earlier in the season, but he hopes the pressure will
tell on his rivals if they can win their remaining five games.
City boss Roberto Mancini was at Anfield on Thursday night to
see Liverpool beat Benfica 4-1 and Benitez said: 'He will see our
team is strong and he knows that they have to win their games.
'You never know what they think, but they are in a good position
and, if they lose, it will be more through their fault so they will
be more under pressure - especially if they make a mistake in their
next one or two games.'
Meanwhile, it is believed that owners Tom Hicks and George
Gillett may stand aside and appoint an independent chairman in a
bid to attract investment. The duo's refusal to listen to a £110m
offer from the Rhone Group for a 40 per cent stake sparked an
outspoken response from Benitez this week.
It came as Hicks and Gillett held talks with their advisors in
London ahead of a summer deadline to reduce the club's £237m
debts.
The unpopular owners could stand aside even if they do not
decide to sell a stake, with British Airways chairman Martin
Broughton one of the business heads being considered.
