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Skrtel cools Zenit return talk

20 Nov 2008 - 14:38:40

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Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez and defender Martin Skrtel have moved quickly to deny reports linking the Slovakia international with a return to the club he left in January.

Reports in Russia suggested Skrtel had spoken to one of his former Zenit St Petersburg team-mates about moving back to last season's UEFA Cup winners.

However, Skrtel, who has been sidelined since early October when he damaged a posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during the 3-2 win at Manchester City, insists the story has been fabricated.

He told the Reds' official website: "I am very happy here at Anfield. It was always my dream to play here in England and I'm with one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"I spoke to my friend in Russia and we talked about Zenit. I have great friends there but I never said I am not happy here, and I never said I didn't like the city.

"I didn't say the city is boring. That's just not true and I'd like to repeat I am very happy here. This is a special club and a city with a lot of history. I have been made to feel very welcome here at Liverpool."

Benitez added: "These sorts of stories always tend to come out during an international week.

"I was talking with Martin at Melwood yesterday and it was clear that he is very happy and just wants to get back playing.

"He is working very hard to get himself fit again and he is very settled at Liverpool - both in the city and at the club."