Liverpool owner gives Rafa his backing — for now

LIVERPOOL manager Rafael Benitez yesterday received the backing of the club’s multi-millionaire US co-owner Tom Hicks.

Benitez came in for criticism after a 2-1 defeat by Besiktas in Turkey left the Reds in danger of failing to qualify for the Champions League knockout stages.

Hicks admits much is expected but is confident Benitez will put things right this season.