Mascherano
should show some loyalty, claims Liverpool boss
Benitez
World in motion: Argentina skipper Javier
Mascherano is fretting almost as much as Diego Maradona about the
threat to his country's qualification
Liverpool's manager Rafa Benitez has bluntly warned his
Argentine midfielder Javier Mascherano to put any distractions to
one side and recapture his best form for Liverpool, if he wants to
extend his Anfield stay.
Benitez revealed yesterday there had been initial discussions
about Mascherano's future but made it clear conditions were
attached to any promise about renewing a contract that has just
over two years to run.
The main one concerns snapping out of his downbeat mood
over Argentina's faltering World Cup campaign and forgetting about
Barcelona's ongoing campaign to entice him to the Nou Camp.
Mindful that the current European champions have yet to abandon
a pursuit that began months ago, Benitez admitted he had personally
warned one of their top officials to call off the hunt.
He sees Mascherano as a key presence in Liverpool's midfield but
is ready to get tough with the Argentina skipper after sensing he
is fretting almost as much as Diego Maradona about the threat to
his country's qualification.
Lucas has increasingly been held up as a prime example of the
commitment and dedication Benitez is looking for in midfield, and
Mascherano will have to follow suit to convince Liverpool's
demanding boss he is worth a new deal.
Benitez even suggested Liverpool are owed a debt of loyalty by
Mascherano, ahead of today's return to his former club.
He said: 'He has to forget about everything else, like other
clubs or the World Cup. It is not easy, but that is where his
professionalism has to come through. He has to come back, focus his
mind and start thinking about Liverpool.'
