Wednesday, 20th January 2010

Liverpool’s co-owner George Gillett has given his backing to boss Rafael Benitez and stated he believes the team’s current woes are simply "a blip". Gillett was talking to Rogers Sportsnet’s Prime Time Sports show in a telephone interview and praised Benitez as a top coach.

"We [Liverpool] believe that if you were to put together a list of the top five coaches, managers in the world, then he [Benitez] would definitely be on that list for us. And we think he’s been tossed a curve ball by circumstance, injuries and so forth."

The comments of co-owner Gillett seem to confirm the view in the Anfield boardroom is that Benitez is the best man for the job and is doing the best that could be expected. Indeed, Gillett stated that injuries have been the main reason for the Reds finding themselves adrift of the top four in the Premier League.

"I think that’s [injuries] been a real challenge to the coach. He’s had to really make some innovations and play with some players out of position. And notwithstanding that they’ve played with a lot of passion." Gillett went on, "I really believe it’s a blip."

Liverpool face a crucial meeting with fellow top four contenders Tottenham Hotspur today and if Gillett is correct in his assessment then Benitez can be expected to turn the club’s form around soon.

 

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