Source: Daily_Mail
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez denies claims over Juventus job agreement
Speculation: Rafael Benitez Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez last night released a statement claiming he hasno agreement with Juventus and will not be meeting the Italian club or theirrepresentatives, or any other club.The Italian media had claimed there was already a verbal agreement between theSpaniard and his would-be new employers and a meeting had taken place today withBenitez's lawyers to finalise details of the contract. There were even reports Benitez would make Liverpool trio Dirk Kuyt, MartinSkrtel and, somewhat oddly considering their fractious relationship, Ryan Babelhis first signings. However, similar sources had suggested on Thursday a Juve delegation was inLiverpool only for that to prove to be false. When asked about the manager's future Kuyt said he did not believe there wouldbe any change at the top. 'As far as I know there is no doubt,' said the Holland international. 'I've not heard there is any trouble or indication the manager could leave soif that is not happening we just want to play football.' Benitez did not help all the conjecture about his future on Friday when he saidhe was proud to be linked with one of Europe's top clubs. Adamant: Kuyt says Benitez will stayBut he did also say he had a job to do an Anfield and was committed to that.Co-owner Tom Hicks' surprise visit to watch yesterday's 2-0 victory over Boltonalso posed a few questions as to why he had attended a relatively low-keyfixture when there was a Merseyside derby next weekend. He was not, however, bringing a last-minute transfer window war chest for theSpaniard to spend to help Liverpool secure the Champions League football whichis so vital to their future. 'If he is around I will see him. It is good to see him here. It is alwayspositive,' said Benitez when asked if Hicks had come for a meeting. Rafa closes in on Liverpool exit as Juve officials fly in for Anfield talksLiverpool 2 Bolton 0: Reina warns it won't be pretty in the fight for fourthLiverpool fans protest after co-owner Tom Hicks' surprise visitRafa Benitez fires off a warning: Keep me happy or I'll leave Liverpool