Rafael Benitez has hit back at suggestions that fellow Spaniard Xabi Alonso is waiting patiently in the Anfield departure lounge, with La Liga giants Barcelona and Real Madrid reportedly waiting in the wings for the midfield supremo.

“When you have a big squad, it is impossible to play every game. But Xabi is a key player for us, with quality, and he must compete for his position,” said Rafa.

“I was talking with his agent this week, I have also heard the rumours about him going somewhere else. But he is a player we want for us, for our future.

“He must compete for his place. We have four midfielders and it is a position I like to be in.

“He has re-signed a new, long, contract only recently. It is a good contract and he is important for us now and for the future.” he enthused.