Rafael Benitez _320

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson claimed this week that Liverpool could “choke” on the pressure of what will be a tense run-in for the title.

And while Benitez accepts that any mistakes from his team could prove costly as Liverpool aim for their first championship since 1990.

“Clearly we are in a much better position than in the past seasons,” said the Spaniard.

“We are doing what we did before and analysing all the same details, the difference is now that you know if you make a mistake it can be massive, so you have to consider everything.”

Benitez has not entirely ruled out any moves during the transfer window, but added: “It is always difficult to buy in January. If you bring in new players then they need to settle down and they need time.

“If you sell players then maybe you will lose something. We don’t have any clubs asking for our players. It is important to keep the squad together – you cannot guarantee that you won’t sell anyone or sign anyone – we have to see how things are as we go on.”

Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a possible £10million bid for Ryan Babel this month, but Liverpool have no intention of parting with the Holland international.

Meanwhile, Liverpool will wait until the end of the week before deciding if Xabi Alonso is fit to face Stoke.

The Spanish midfielder is recovering from a foot injury that forced him off at half-time during last Saturday’s 2-0 FA Cup third round win at Preston North End.

“Xabi trained yesterday but the problem is he had seven stitches so clearly it depends if he can put boots on and kick the ball,” said Benitez.