Saturday, March 28, 2009

Liverpool Manager Rafael Benitez Strengthens Backroom Spine


Rafael Benitez has moved quickly to assert his enhanced authority at Liverpool by launching a strategic review of the club's academy and securing two-year contract extensions for five members of his backroom team.

Assistant manager Sammy Lee, first team coach Mauricio Pellegrino, goalkeeping coach Xavi Valero, fitness coach Paco de Miguel and chief scout Eduardo Macia have all been secured to new contracts.

Benitez, who committed himself to a new five-year deal last week, has also appointed former Anfield chief scout Frank McParland to undertake a root-and-branch review of the club's Kirkby-based academy.

Benitez said: "When I signed my new contract, it was agreed I'd have a more significant influence at the academy and this is an important step in assessing the future direction we will need to take.

"I value Frank's opinions. He will liaise closely with the staff at the academy to produce a comprehensive analysis of the operation there before reporting back."

Benitez added: "I said when I signed my own deal that it was a priority to sort out the future of the technical staff. Continuity is essential if we are to build on the progress we have made this season and move the club forward."

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