Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce admits that feud with Rafael Benitez is 'personal'

The Blackburn manager's unprompted criticism of Liverpool's style before and after his side's defeat at Anfield last week triggered a witheringly sarcastic response from his counterpart, with Benítez suggesting the former Newcastle and Bolton manager was 'a model' for 'kids, parents and even Barcelona' both on and offthe pitch.Though the spat marked a low point in their relationship, the pair have clashed ever since Benítez criticised Bolton's robust approach following his first defeat in the Premier League, at the Reebok Stadium six years ago. Related ArticlesAllardyce: Benitez attack covers Liverpool failingsRobinson to replace Villa-bound FriedelRovers set to lose FriedelMan City target Bellamy to solve striker crisisSport on televisionWhile Allardyce may have fired the first shot in the latest outbreak, he clearly is not inclined to permit a thaw in relations, blaming Benítez for taking the row beyond the professional realm.'He has got personal with it for many, many years now, and that is why I do not like him, and the feeling is probably mutual,' said the Blackburn manager, who has not recorded a win over Liverpool since 2006. 'That is not a road I go down, but I clearly get under his skin and that can be a benefit to my side when we play them.'I do criticise him personally. Yes, I get into him but that is all part of the game. The tit for tat between me and Rafa will probably go on until one of us is no longer a Premier League manager.'But it was a good cover-up by Rafa because he knows how bad his side were [against Blackburn] and that was repeated against Wigan on Monday night. 'The last time one of the 'big four' did not finish in the top four it was Liverpool, and it looks pretty difficult for them now. They are having to rely on other teams slipping up. It will be difficult for them because there are more teams involved.' Benítez did not wish to say anything about Allardyce's comments or give the Blackburn manager 'any publicity'.

Source: Telegraph