Yossi Benayoun: I don't want to leave Liverpool

Jul 26 2008 by Tony Barrett, Liverpool Echo

YOSSI BENAYOUN believes Liverpool are heading in the right direction as the new season approaches and insists he in intent on sticking around to play a big part in the 2007/08 campaign.

The Israeli international has been the subject of constant speculation about his future during the summer amid suggestions he could be sacrificed by Rafa Benitez as the Reds boss looks to reshape his squad.

But Benayoun – who has been linked with Man City, Spurs and former club West Ham among others – remains adamant that a move is not on the agenda and insists he will stay with Liverpool for as long as the club is happy to have him.

He said: "I'm feeling good at the moment. Like everyone, I'm working hard during pre-season and trying to improve so that I'm ready when the new season starts.

"The friendly games are getting tougher as we go along. Wisla Krakow were a difficult team to play against and so were Hertha Berlin on Wednesday night.

"But that is exactly what we need because when the opposition is better it means you have to work harder and that is what we are all looking for.

"The game against Hertha Berlin was similar to the kind of games we have in the Premier League because they were physically strong and did a lot of pressing so it was a good test for us.

"We still have a lot of things to work on and improve but I am sure we will be ready for our first game.

"We are now at the stage when we are all looking forward to the season starting and obviously we are hoping that we can win some trophies this time.