Re: Xabi Alonso will stay at Anfield, says Rafa Benitez
RAFA NOT DRAWN ON XABI SPECULATION
Paul Eaton in Bangkok 20 July 2009
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez today refused to be drawn into a debate over Xabi Alonso's future - despite repeated questions from the Thai press as the Reds officially launched their visit to the Far East.
The Reds party arrived at their Bangkok hotel at 4pm local time after a gruelling ten hour overnight flight from Vienna, where they were greeted by hundreds of press and fans, all with cameras at the ready to greet their heroes as they arrived in town.
Following a quick snack on the team floor of the hotel, manager Rafael Benitez was joined by Jamie Carragher and Ryan Babel to address the media in one of the Grand Hyatt Hotel's function suites.
It wasn't long before the tone of the press conference was set, with one question about Xabi Alonso being followed by another - and then another - until it became clear the manager wouldn't be discussing transfer speculation at this particular press conference.
"He is here with us and he will be available for the games," said Benitez. "The Spanish players and Dossena and Mascherano arrived back late because of the Confederations Cup and internationals, so they will probably not play as much as the other players."
"But are you planning to talk to him about the transfer speculation?" quizzed one local journalist. Benitez, though, familiar with not answering questions he doesn't want to, replied: "He is here with us this week, he can enjoy the games, the weather and the journalists."
Benitez, though, was far more serious in answering questions about Liverpool's trip to the Far East, with this week's game in Thailand being followed next weekend with a match in Singapore.
"For us this is a really important stage of the season," he commented. "Everything we do during pre-season is about planning for the first game. We will continue to prepare the players well this week and look to play well in the games.
"It was disappointing to lose in Vienna because you always want to win games, but there were lots of positives to take from the game. Hopefully we can keep working well, and keep working hard, over here."
Jamie Carragher also joined Benitez at the top table and insisted he already has his sights set firmly on title glory next season.
"There's going to be a lot of competition this year but if we can improve one or two per cent on what we did last season then we have a chance," he said.
"I think Chelsea will be back this year, Man City obviously are spending money, so it's important we use this time well to make sure we're ready for that first afternoon at Tottenham."
Next up for the Reds on their itinerary is a visit to a local sports club before a reception takes place at the hotel later tonight as their hosts officially welcome Liverpool FC to Bangkok.
Stay tuned to Liverpoolfc.tv for all the latest news direct from the Thai capital.
http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N165117090720-1308.htm
