Source: SKY_Sports
Reds receive title warning
iverpool manager Rafa Benitez has warned his players that three points at Middlesbrough on Saturday is essential in order to maintain hopes of winning the Premier League.[LNB] The second-placed Reds sit seven points adrift of defending champions Manchester United following last weekend's disappointing home draw with Manchester City.[LNB]Many have suggested that United will now not be caught, but Benitez - who is locked in a long-running contract saga at Anfield - remains keen to maintain the pressure as his club bid to end their 19-year wait for a league title.[LNB]"We have to win almost every game, and this is the first one since Manchester United went seven points clear," he said.[LNB]"We have to get three points if we want to stay close to them and put the pressure on a little bit."[LNB]ToughBenitez, though, is wary of Middlesbrough after Gareth Southgate's side, who are battling relegation, were denied by two goals in the final four minutes in a 2-1 defeat at Anfield in August.[LNB]"Middlesbrough are not doing well in the league, which for me is a surprise. They played very well at Anfield and were one of the best sides to play here this season," the Spaniard added.[LNB]"So we are anticipating a tough game at a ground where we do not have a good record. But if we want to compete for the title, then we must win there."[LNB]The former Valencia boss expects his squad, who travel to Old Trafford on 14th March, to be full of confidence following Wednesday's UEFA Champions League victory at Real Madrid.[LNB]Benitez also feels that his players will not be distracted by off-field matters, such as his contract situation and Friday's announcement that chief executive Rick Parry is to leave Merseyside at the end of the current campaign.[LNB]Confident"The confidence, the atmosphere, the mood among the players is very positive after the win in Madrid. Hopefully that will have a good impact on the club," he continued.[LNB]"Despite all the things that seem to be going on off the pitch, the behaviour of the players has been very good.[LNB]"Whatever they read or see on TV, they continue to do well and now they have won in the Bernabeu. They have shown what good professionals they are.[LNB]"We are in a very good position in the title race. Now after Madrid, hopefully everyone will be very focused.[LNB]"The players have not given up the fight, they still really believe it is possible.[LNB]"It is not a good position to be seven points behind, so we have to win to get closer. You never know then what could happen, we could then go to Old Trafford next month and win."[LNB]
