Published: Saturday March 28, 2009 MYT 1:01:00 PM
Liverpool Benitez's backroom staff awarded new contracts
LIVERPOOL, England: Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez announced Friday that key members of his technical staff have followed him by signing new deals.
The Spaniard agreed last week to stay at Anfield until 2014 after prolonged contract negotiations were successfully concluded.
Central to Benitez's long-term plans was ensuring he will have the support of assistant manager Sammy Lee, first-team coach Mauricio Pellegrino, goalkeeping coach Xavi Valero, fitness coach Paco de Miguel and chief scout Eduardo Macia.
They have all agreed contract extensions of at least two years.
"I said when I signed my own deal recently that it was a priority to sort out the future of the technical staff," Benitez said.
"We work extremely well as a team, and continuity is essential if we are to build on the progress we have made this season and move the club further forward.
"I'm delighted we have been able to sort out the contracts."
But Benitez said Valencia's David Silva is not about to sign a contract at Anfield.
The 23-year-old Spaniard, who can operate as a winger, attacking midfielder or second striker, had been linked with a move to Liverpool but Benitez said that won't happen.
"We will not be signing him," Benitez said.
"We are working hard, talking with the scouting department and looking at names and options for next season.
"It's still too soon (to identify definite targets)."
Liverpool turned its fortunes around in March.
The Reds thrashed Premier League leader Manchester United 4-1 and followed up with a 5-0 demolition of Aston Villa to move within a point of Man United, albeit having played a game more.
The five-time European champions booked their place in the Champions League quarterfinals by routing Real Madrid 5-0 on aggregate.
"Football can change very quickly, and that is why we say it is important to just take one game at a time," Benitez said.
"Everything can change each week, and maybe next week we can be at the top again.
"My message to the fans is to keep calm. I can see the people have a lot of confidence at the moment, and that is good. We have to stay positive and see what happens." - AP
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