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Liverpool: Alonso staying

22 February 2008 - 23:26

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has rejected rumours that Xabi Alonso is looking to leave the club. The Spanish midfielder has been linked with a return to his homeland and Barcelona and Real Zaragoza are both interested.

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"When you have a big squad, it is impossible to play every game. But Xabi is a key player for us, with quality, and he must compete for his position," Benitez added.



"I was talking with his agent this week, I have also heard the rumours about him going somewhere else. But he is a player we want for us, for our future.



"He must compete for his place. We have four midfielders and it is a position I like to be in.



"He has re-signed a new, long, contract only recently. It is a good contract and he is important for us now and for the future."

Written by majicka