Sunday 9th October 2005
ANFIELD ONLINE NEWS

RAFA INSISTS PLAYERS PUT CLUB FIRST

Rafael Benitez has reiterated the importance of squad rotation and warned that all the players in his squad must be prepared to accept this if they want to play for a club as big as Liverpool.

With the Reds aiming for glory on five fronts this season a heavy schedule looms and Benitez is aware that he must be well equipped in terms of playing personnel to confront this.

It means not every player will be used on a regular basis but the manager is keen to stress that everyone will be given a chance at some point.

"I've spoken to all of the players, some who are used a lot and some who are used differently. They all know there are a lot of games to play," he says.

"At one point around Christmas I expect to play about three games in eight days. There is also the Champions League and Carling Cup to think about.

"This is a big club, so every player here must be ready. Maybe you will be used in a week, maybe it will be in three weeks.

"If the player isn't ready when he's needed it means he hasn't the right mentality and attitude for a big club.

"You have to manage with the players you have. The players understand. They may want to play every week and every game, but it's impossible to play the same level all the time. They must be ready to rest too."

Benitez also added that Dietmar Hamann still has a vital role to play for the Reds. The German midfielder penned a new deal at Anfield during the summer but the subsequent arrival of Momo Sissoko raised doubts his future at the club.

The boss, however, has no intention of letting a player of Hamann's talent leave and believes the 32-year old still has a vital role to play: "Didi is a player with experience and you need that in a squad," commented Benitez.

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News report filed by The Editor