Rafael Benitez has for the third time in his reign as Liverpool boss dismissed suggestions that he is on the brink of quitting to take over at Real Madrid. But significantly Benitez's words come within hours of the club's new owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett saying they plan to sit down with the Anfield chief to discuss the long-term future of the club. The two situations may well not be linked but Benitez's words could not have come at a more convenient time for the US moguls, who are very close to a 100 per cent buy-up of all the club's shares.
Benitez has been linked yet again with Madrid at a time when Fabio Capello is under increasing pressure at the club and it was suggested earlier this week that he had been put right at the top of their wanted list.
But Benitez today told the club's website www.liverpoolfc.tv: "I think it's important the fans know I am completely committed to Liverpool and I'm going nowhere. "I know there's been a lot of speculation in the Spanish media linking me with Real Madrid.
"However, I want to make it clear I am very happy at Anfield and very happy in England and I'm genuinely excited by what the future holds for Liverpool."