Cisse future still in doubt despite Super Cup heroics

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez admitted that Djibril Cisse may have put himself into the shop window after his two goals secured the UEFA Super Cup for the European champions.

The 24-year-old French striker has been the subject of intense speculation that Liverpool would have to sell him in order to fund Michael Owen’s return from Real Madrid.

Cisse scored twice against CSKA Moscow and made the third goal for Luis Garcia after Daniel Carvalho’s opener had given the lead to the UEFA Cup holders.

But Benitez would not guarantee Cisse’s future at Liverpool despite suggestions he would have to be sold to fund Owen’s return.

The Liverpool manager said: “We have met and talked about the rumours but we have not had offers. After this game and his goals maybe we will have a lot of offers. We must enjoy this trophy and we have five more days for talking about these other things.”

Cisse himself spelled out his determination to remain as Liverpool’s number one striker – whether or not Owen returns to Anfield.

He said: “There’s no question of me leaving the team. I have been here for two years and I think I will stay another three years at the club. I hope I will fulfil the contract I signed with Liverpool.”

Cisse admitted that the uncertainty about his future had been difficult.

He added: “There was a lot of speculation about me and my position at the club so it’s clear that it was important for me to score two goals in the Super Cup. It was a good match for me so I am happy."