Rafael Benitez agrees new contract

Last updated : 19 March 2009 By Adam Bryant
The Liverpool boss has agreed a 5-year deal with the club's owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

"My heart is with Liverpool Football Club, so I'm delighted to sign this new deal," he said. "I love the club, the fans and the city and with a club like this and supporters like this, I could never say no to staying.

"I always made clear I wanted to be here for a long time and when I complete my new contract it will mean I have spent over a decade in Liverpool.

"The club is greatly respected around the world due to its incredible history and tremendous heritage. It is my aim to uphold those values and help create a new chapter in our history.

"Throughout this process, I would like to thank the owners for their hard work in finalising the deal. All of us at the club want the same thing, which is to be successful by winning major trophies."