Juventus, however, are unlikely to be deterred by that declaration – sources in Italy have revealed they are ready to draw up a contract offer – and chances are they will come calling again in the summer if, as expected, Zaccheroni proves to be a stop gap.

“Juventus is a big club and we have played against them in the Champions League (in 2005),” said Benitez. “They know Liverpool and they know we are a top side. They know it is not always easy to do well in the top sides.

“They know the market, they know the managers and they want to find someone that is good enough for them. Again I will say I am proud (to have been linked with them) but I am also proud to be here.”

It has been the most testing season of Benitez’s five-and-a-half year reign at Liverpool and there has been intense scrutiny on his position ever since the Reds were sent tumbling out of the Champions League and failed to mount a title challenge before Christmas.

“You cannot stop speculation,” said Benitez. “Three months ago, people are talking and saying ‘Rafa will be fired or Rafa will be sacked’. I then have people at the gate (at Melwood) telling me to be strong and not to give up.

“Now I have people saying I will leave. I cannot stop this. All I can do is my job properly, to analyse things and find solutions for the problems that we have. We are not losing games now and doing a little better. We have to keep doing the same.”