YOU could almost hear the hands rubbing with glee and the knives being sharpened from Liverpool's critics after Albert Riera lost his rag in spectacular fashion this week.

The winger's outburst against Rafael Benitez was taken as further confirmation the "sinking ship" at Anfield was on the verge of being submerged completely.

With the ongoing uncertainty behind the scenes now echoed on the pitch with Liverpool struggling desperately to salvage a tortuous campaign, many expect Riera to merely be the first of many to bail out should Champions League qualification prove elusive.

Not necessarily, however. Because while one Spaniard rocks the boat, another has underlined his loyalty to the cause.

As one of the leading players in Benitez's squad, Pepe Reina's decision agree a six-year contract is a hugely symbolic act of faith and loyalty given the doubts that persist over the immediate future of a club that seems constantly on the verge of change.

And Liverpool's concerned supporters will be heartened by the goalkeeper's reasoning that one bad season won't lessen the prestige of the club.

"Why commit? Because I am happy here and I think the club is happy too," says Reina. "We have been talking lately especially my wife and myself and we don't see any better place to go. It is personal and professional, the education of my child, it is a bit of everything.

"I don't know how to explain it really, but it is a feeling. I felt wanted from the beginning here. It is not always about being competitive or to be in the biggest club, but being at the right club.

"It is not a sacrifice. I am really proud and lucky to be here. Why? It is about principles at the club. I think Liverpool is the right club for me.

"I want my children to speak English. If it is Scouse I will still be proud of them! It is a good education for them to speak two languages at the same time. It is priceless.

"Listen, Liverpool is one of the best clubs in the world. Whatever happens, whether we are in the Champions League or the Europa League, it is still Liverpool no matter what.

"It will always be like this. I see no reason to leave."