Source: Team_Talk
Benitez aiming to buy British
iverpool manager Rafael Benitez has insisted the Reds' transfer philosophies have "always centred" around buying British talent.[LNB] England's top clubs have built up a reputation for overlooking home-grown potential over the years, with ready-made stars often drafted in from abroad.[LNB]However, with many clubs looking to tighten their belts in the wake of ongoing financial troubles, more and more are turning their attention to those closer to home.[LNB]Liverpool are one of the clubs to have bought into the belief that British players are imperative in a British team.[LNB]The likes of Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher have become Anfield stalwarts, while Glen Johnson was snapped up for big money last summer.[LNB]Kop boss Benitez has stuck with the British theme this year, with his first piece of transfer business seeing Charlton rookie Jonjo Shelvey snapped up for £1.7million.[LNB]The Reds are keen to continue that trend in the future, with Bolton's Gary Cahill and Rangers starlet Danny Wilson reported to be on their summer shopping list.[LNB]"Buying British players is something we have always tried to do," said Benitez.[LNB]"We tried to sign Gareth Barry and did the same with Glen Johnson.[LNB]"That was always the idea. We have tried to bring in British players with the right mentality and the passion for the club.[LNB]"We want them to know what it means to play for Liverpool Football Club.[LNB]"Shelvey is an addition like that. We are trying to do what is best for the club, we have a long-term plan in place and we try to follow that."
