Ex-Gunner: Liverpool Are 'A Million Miles' From Progressing

Former Arsenal star Paul Merson believes that Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is lucky to still be in a job at Anfield following his side’s traumatic Premier League form and early cup exits, but believes that the top job at Juventus, with whom the Spaniard has been linked, would represent a step down in his career.

Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the Merseyside derby, the player-turned-pundit made clear that Liverpool’s form had left a lot to be desired this term event though they were still in the race for fourth position.

“I think Rafa Benitez is lucky to still be the manager of Liverpool Football Club.

“It’s all about progressing and this year they've been a million miles off it.

Pinpointing the opportunity to work in Italy, the ex-Gunner made clear that life in Serie A was not what it used to be:

“He's been linked with the Juventus job, but that would be a step down in my eyes. The Premier League is the ultimate, then you go Spanish, then Italian after that.

“You've only got to look at the Champions League over the last few years to see Serie A is a million miles off England and Spain.

“Juventus is a great club, don't get me wrong, but there's only a couple of teams who can win that league, three at the most. I think that would be a bad move for Rafa, but I suppose it's up to him.”

Liverpool host Everton this Saturday at lunch-time in a match which could be integral to the club’s chances of playing Champions League football next season.