Speculation: Rafael Benitez
Liverpool manager Rafael
Benitez last night released a statement claiming he has no
agreement with Juventus and will not be meeting the Italian club or
their representatives, or any other club.
The Italian media had claimed there was already a verbal
agreement between the Spaniard and his would-be new employers and a
meeting had taken place today with Benitez's lawyers to finalise
details of the contract.
There were even reports Benitez would make Liverpool trio Dirk
Kuyt, Martin Skrtel and, somewhat oddly considering their fractious
relationship, Ryan Babel his first signings.
However, similar sources had suggested on Thursday a Juve
delegation was in Liverpool only for that to prove to be false.
When asked about the manager's future Kuyt said he did not
believe there would be any change at the top.
'As far as I know there is no doubt,' said the Holland
international. 'I've not heard there is any trouble or indication
the manager could leave so if that is not happening we just want to
play football.'
Benitez did not help all the conjecture about his future on
Friday when he said he was proud to be linked with one of Europe's
top clubs.
But he did also say he had a job to do an Anfield and was
committed to that. Co-owner Tom Hicks' surprise visit to watch
yesterday's 2-0 victory over Bolton also posed a few questions as
to why he had attended a relatively low-key fixture when there was
a Merseyside derby next weekend.
He was not, however, bringing a last-minute transfer window war
chest for the Spaniard to spend to help Liverpool secure the
Champions League football which is so vital to their future.
'If he is around I will see him. It is good to see him here. It
is always positive,' said Benitez when asked if Hicks had come for
a meeting.