Benitez tells big name stars: 'Be like Reina'
Published 23:00 17/03/10 By David Maddock
Rafa Benitez has urged his big name stars to follow the example of Pepe Reina.
The Spanish keeper is prepared to commit himself long-term to Liverpool, despite fears over the future.
Reina confirmed yesterday that he is close to agreeing an extension to his contract which will tie one of the world’s top keepers to Anfield for the best years of his career.
That is in stark contrast to the uncertainty surrounding other Liverpool stars, with fears growing over the future of the likes of Fernando Torres should the club fail to reach the Champions League next season.
The Spanish striker has hinted strongly that he may consider leaving unless several high-profile players are recruited in the summer.
But Benitez has insisted that one season of relative failure should not destroy everything he has built at Anfield, and instead he has urged Torres and other stars to follow the massive example of Reina.
“It is important to show the commitment that Pepe has, and it's an example for everyone. Maybe it will be an example for the rest of the players for the future,” Benitez said.
“You can see every day how much he loves being here. Pepe's very happy, his family is very happy and he is settled. He's a great character, loves the fans, they love him, so everything's good for him.
“That is an important example for everyone. One good or bad year doesn't make the difference, you have to see the big picture, and the big picture is the future of Liverpool still being positive.”
Benitez leads his side into tonight’s Europa League tie against Lille knowing that the last chance of honours this season will be gone, unless they can overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg.
And he has a major selection headache, because Alberto Aquilani – who was seen as an attacking key to the game - is likely to miss out after picking up a virus.
Maxi Rodriguez is cup-tied, but the manager has promised his side will go all out for victory. “We know we have to win, nothing else will do, and that is what we will aim for from the first whistle,” he said.
