Benitez uncertainty overshadows derbies

Liverpool’s players face going into the most crucial point of their season so far with uncertainty surrounding the long-term future of manager Rafael Benitez.

The Spaniard has turned down a new contract after the owners refused his demands for complete control of transfers.

Co-owner Tom Hicks is trying to smooth over the cracks, but the timing of the row could not be worse – Liverpool face two derby matches with Everton, in the league on Monday and then in the FA Cup next weekend.

The results could determine the success or failure of their season, with Manchester United poised to take over at the top of the Premier League.

Hicks however has promised the Spaniard would be with the club for years to come.

He said: “I will be working with Rafa to get this resolved – and I am just not worried about it at all.

“Rafa is going to be coach of Liverpool for the next five years, and we will work through all this.”