Liverpool Football Club News

• Nickname:Reds
• Founded:1892
• Manager:Kenny Dalglish

• Ground:Anfield
• Capacity:45,362

Rafa quashes Carra exit talk

21 Dec 2009 - 11:37:01

Click To Enlarge

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has no doubt that Jamie Carragher will sign a new contract with the club.

The Reds stalwart played his 600th game for the club against Portsmouth at the weekend but has been criticised for some below-par displays this term.

However, Benitez has poured scorn on reports suggesting the 31-year-old will not be offered a new deal, saying: "I read an interview with him and I was surprised because he didn't ask for a new contract.

"He has 18 months still on his contract. He is clever and knows we analyse things differently when players are over 30 years old. But we are really pleased with him. I don't see any problem if he continues to play at the same level.

"He is someone who trains at 100 per cent. That is very good for the mentality of the team. He is also someone who can set an example.

"I have a fantastic relationship with him and his agent. Everything is okay so we don't have any problems.

"It's amazing that in modern football you can play 600 games for the same team. He is a local player and it's amazing. He is a good example for the younger players and gives 100 per cent in every training session. He is a fantastic figure."

Meanwhile, the knee ligament injury midfielder Javier Mascherano picked up when he was sent off at Fratton Park will keep him sidelined for between two and three weeks."