Benitez urges Gerrard to stay

STUNNED Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez pointed to the Champions League trophy and four new signings — then told Steven Gerrard to keep his side of their bargain by committing his future to Anfield.

Reds officials have been amazed by selectively-leaked reports highlighting the strength of Gerrard’s resentment over the current contract impasse, claiming they have no idea what has triggered their captain’s anger.

After learning Gerrard’s agent Struan Marshall had publicly confirmed contract negotiations had stalled and were “unlikely to re-open”, Benitez, backed by chief executive Rick Parry, went on the counter-offensive.