Benitez focuses on Liverpool, not Real Madrid

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez fended off questions about the vacant Real Madrid coach's job yesterday, saying he was determined to focus on today's Champions League trip to Chelsea.

Media reports have linked the Spaniard with the post after Brazilian Vanderlei Luxemburgo was sacked by Real on Sunday but Benitez told reporters: "I am happy here. I am Liverpool FC's manager and I need to think about my team.

"That's the most important thing at this moment and I want to focus on our game with Chelsea."

Benitez has hinted at fielding an under-strength side for the holders' Group G tie at Stamford Bridge where there will be little at stake with both teams already qualified for the knockout phase.

The only issue outstanding is who will finish top of the group, which will affect whom they play in the next round. Chelsea must win to leapfrog Liverpool.

Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso is being rested and other first-choice players may also be given a break as Benitez juggles his squad to keep players fresh for the World Club Championship in Japan this month.

"We have games in Japan and I will try to use the best team I can to manage with the squad," Benitez said. "They will use the best team they can because they want to win. We want to win but I have to think about the future."

Chelsea beat Liverpool 4-1 in the Premier League at Anfield in October but were knocked out of the competition by Benitez's men last season. The September Group G clash at Anfield was a 0-0 draw.

"Apart from the Premier League game, we have a good record against Chelsea and are not a long way behind them," Benitez remarked.

Today On Tv (8.45 p.m.)
Chelsea vs Liverpool (Rete 4); Milan vs Schalke (Channel 22).