Benitez defends Ferguson rant
Rafael Benitez defended his comments
Also In The News
|
Rafael Benitez has launched an astonishing attack on rival manager Sir Alex Ferguson over his complaints about a range of issues, from refereeing to fixture lists. |  |
Saturday, 10, Jan 2009 09:02
Rafael Benitez dismissed suggestions that his outburst against Sir Alex Ferguson had a negative effect on Liverpool during their 0-0 draw at Stoke.
Liverpool were well below par as they missed the chance to go six points clear at the top of the Premier League and the dropped points – which will no doubt thrill Ferguson – now means Manchester United could go top of the league if they win their two games in hand.
Benitez had an extraordinary rant at Ferguson yesterday claiming the United manger intimidated referees and was "the only manager who will not be punished" for verbally abusing referees.
The Spaniard refuted suggestions today that his comments put extra pressure on his players against Stoke, saying: "Ferguson has been talking about Liverpool a lot, so I thought it was the right moment. I was thinking about defending my team and that is enough.
"If you are at the top of the table it is always important to win. We are still top of the table and we are in a very good position," added Benitez.
Benitez may be keeping a confident front, but he will know that the result against Stoke may back-up Ferguson's view that Liverpool could choke in the title run-in. Champions United came to the Britannia stadium on Boxing Day and grinded out a tough win.