Rafa recalls the past and promises a better future

RAFAEL BENITEZ turned the clock back 28 years yesterday and insisted he was the man to lead Liverpool forward after a traumatic week which has left his team facing a must-win situation ahead of the Merseyside derby.

Lose against Everton at Goodison Park tomorrow and Benitez risks losing the fans after the club’s premature exit from the Champions League.

The Spaniard has enjoyed the backing of the majority of Liverpool’s supporters throughout his five-year Anfield tenure yet on the eve of his 13th showdown with Everton, and with his side trailing leaders Chelsea by 13 points in the title race, there are signs that his popularity with the fans is on the wane.