'I'm going nowhere': Rafa

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has dismissed speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid, insisting he is “completely committed” to the Anfield club.

Benitez, who joined Liverpool from Valencia in 2004, was born in Madrid and represented the club as a player.

With current manager Fabio Capello enduring a difficult season at the Bernabeu, there have been numerous reports of Real bosses preparing to offer Benitez the manager’s job next season.

But he has ruled out any such move, telling Liverpool’s official website, www.liverpoolfc.tv: “I think it’s important the fans know I am completely committed to Liverpool Football Club and I’m going nowhere.

“I know there’s been a lot of speculation in the Spanish media linking me with Real Madrid.

“Any manager would be honoured to be associated with such a famous club, especially as Madrid is my home city and also my former club.

“However, I want to make it clear I am very happy at Anfield and very happy in England and I’m genuinely excited by what the future holds for Liverpool.”