Benitez defends wide Gerrard role

RAFAEL BENITEZ has launched a passionate defence of his handling of Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard and his own managerial record at Anfield.

The Spanish coach has been criticised for his decision to play the 26-year-old England midfielder on the right rather than in the centre of midfield and there are noises coming from the Gerrard camp that he is not happy with the situation or the role he is being asked to play.

Benitez said: “I am as happy as Steve McClaren with Steven Gerrard and where he is playing.