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Rafa promises Hyypia talks

27 Feb 2008 - 16:45:14

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Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has promised that he will talk to Sami Hyypia later in the season about a new contract.

The 34-year-old Finland international has enjoyed a fine season with the Reds and spoke earlier in the week of his desire to remain at Anfield for at least one more season.

Hyypia has been linked with both Fulham and Newcastle United recently, but Benitez has hinted that there could still be a role for the defender at Liverpool when his current deal expires in the summer.

The former Valencia coach said: "I was talking with him, but he knows we have to wait a little bit.

"I am really pleased with him. The question now is to see how he progresses, but he knows my thoughts.

"He doesn't have to prove anything. We know him, and he knows why we have to analyse the situation.

"Every year he has been a key player for us. He's a centre-back with experience who's good in the air and who can play the ball.

"He is playing more games than we maybe expected this season - but every game his performance is good."