Alvaro Arbeloa has warned that Liverpool would be losing an irreplaceable cog if Xabi Alonso is allowed to leave.
Rafa Benitez has been unequivocal on Alonso’s future despite continued overtures from Madrid, maintaining that the player is not up for sale.
Despite missing out on Gareth Barry, speculation persists that Benitez might yet allow Alonso to leave – a decision Arbeloa feels would be folly.
"I hope he can repeat the successes of the past," he said. "He is our key player. The whole world knows it. This year for me has been the best player for Liverpool, the most consistent.
"He is our key player, who makes us play and has improved us a lot, much more aggressive defensively. He is a very complete player."
On a personal level, Arbeloa remained adamant that he has no intentions of leaving Anfield.
"I am currently very happy at Liverpool, but it's true that I had very good years in Madrid,†added the Spain international. “At the moment I'm very happy here in England, I hope to continue there.â€
Rafa Benitez has been unequivocal on Alonso’s future despite continued overtures from Madrid, maintaining that the player is not up for sale.
Despite missing out on Gareth Barry, speculation persists that Benitez might yet allow Alonso to leave – a decision Arbeloa feels would be folly.
"I hope he can repeat the successes of the past," he said. "He is our key player. The whole world knows it. This year for me has been the best player for Liverpool, the most consistent.
"He is our key player, who makes us play and has improved us a lot, much more aggressive defensively. He is a very complete player."
On a personal level, Arbeloa remained adamant that he has no intentions of leaving Anfield.
"I am currently very happy at Liverpool, but it's true that I had very good years in Madrid,†added the Spain international. “At the moment I'm very happy here in England, I hope to continue there.â€