Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt have both added two years on to their existing contracts at Liverpool.
It appears that Rafa’s desire to sort out contracts more quickly is already bearing fruit before the end of the summer.
Dirk Kuyt’s contract now runs till 2012 with Steven Gerrard’s going through to 2013.
Benitez was pleased with both players increasing their terms at Anfield.
“This is fantastic news for the club.
“Steven has once again shown his commitment and it was an easy deal to agree. As soon as we offered him the option he said yes. There were no problems at all. He wants to stay for life.
“This deal sends out another clear message that we are moving forward as a club. To know we have a player of Steven’s quality with us for many more years is a great boost for the club and the fans.
“He is clearly a player who inspires those around him and even though he is playing very well at the moment, I still think his best years are ahead of him.”
Later, when Kuyt agreed his extension.
“This is another great piece of news for the club.
“Dirk had one year left on his contract and we were keen for him to stay. He is a player with great quality who has a big part to play in our future. We are delighted to have reached an agreement.
“To have announced new deals for Steven and Dirk on the same day shows how hard everyone is working and that we are moving forward quickly as a club. These are very positive messages and I am very happy.”