Benitez focuses on defence to leave Owen out in the cold
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Benitez denied suggestions that Liverpool had approached Real Madrid about a transfer that would end the player's exile in Spain and, while not entirely ruling out an approach, indicated that such a move was not imminent.
"We have not made an offer and I am looking only for a centre-back," Benitez said. "I smile when I read in the Spanish press that we have opened talks. Michael Owen is a good player, but we have six players in that position and we need a right winger and a centre-back."
Benitez is acutely aware that he has no recognised back-up for the central defenders Jamie Carragher and Sami Hyypia. "We have six trophies to play for so we need a lot of players," he added. "We have six recognised strikers at this moment, but we don't have enough defenders."
However if, as Benitez expects, Milan Baros leaves the club next week for Aston Villa and, less likely, Djibril Cissé departs for Lyon, a move for Owen could still be on the cards.
Cissé, however, is expected to partner Morientes against Sunderland today. "I have spoken to Djibril and explained we have not had offers," Benitez said. "His situation is different to Milan's. Milan wants to go. But Djibril is happy here and has a part to play."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments