Rafa points to stats in defence of Anfield reign

LIVERPOOL manager Rafael Benitez has defended his reign at Anfield by pointing out his side’s performances in the league are better than many of his recent predecessors.

The Spaniard is keen to remain on Merseyside but knows he is likely to face another summer recruitment programme hampered by financial restrictions until the club is sold by owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

But he feels constant speculation about his future – with Inter Milan the latest club he has been linked to – is part of a campaign to force him out.