Rafa, Fabregas pick up awards

LIVERPOOL boss Rafael Benitez has given the club’s new owners a clear indication that he’s the man to move the club forward after being named Barclays manager of the month for January.

With four wins out of four in the first month of the year, including an impressive 2-0 victory against reigning champions Chelsea, the Barclays Awards Panel clearly agree.

Liverpool started 2007 with consecutive 3-0 victories, over Bolton and Watford, and followed up their defeat of Chelsea with a win against West Ham. Jim Hytner, of the judging panel, said: “It’s been a very happy new year for the red half of Merseyside. Undefeated and just one goal conceded in the Premiership this year, Benitez has revitalised Liverpool.”

Benitez’s compatriot Cesc Fabregas has also enjoyed a fine spell and takes the player of the month award for the first time. The Arsenal midfielder helped his side to three league wins from three in a month that was dominated by cup outings for the Gunners.