Liverpool Football Club News

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Benitez blasts Gerrard rumours

29 Oct 2006 - 17:51:01

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Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has poured scorn on the idea that he could look to sell Steven Gerrard.

The England midfielder has struggled for form this season after finding himself being played out of position on the flanks for both club and country.

Gerrard's relationship with Benitez is rumoured to have deteriorated because of the manager's decision not to play him in the centre of midfield, prompting speculation that he could move to Real Madrid in January.

However, Benitez, who saw his side beat Aston Villa 3-1 on Saturday, insisted: "It is clear that I will not be selling my captain.

"It is always a surprise to see such things that are not true. Especially for Steven because he had played such a good game.

"Against Villa he worked really hard, so to see this the following day is a surprise. It is disappointing that this is all that people can think of.

"This week we have been talking with Steven, and last week. He was okay, we were talking about his daughter and how she is, as well as team issues and how we can give the team more confidence.

"I feel he is really focused on the club, and our idea for sure is to keep him and to see him scoring goals this season and for many years for Liverpool."