Boss wants to keep Alonso

The Basque was almost sold in the Summer but has put that behind him to have possibly his best season yet for Liverpool, and has become a vital part of Rafa Benitez's plans.

"The first year was really good and this year he is also playing really well," said the boss.

"Xabi has been having a very good season; he has been playing well in a lot of games and is a key player for us.

"We have a lot of confidence in him because he is playing really well and he is a player we want to keep because he has the quality, and the game, that we need."