Rafa's challenge to kids

The likes of Daniel Pacheco, Martin Kelly, Krisztian Nemeth and Peter Gulacsi have joined the first team squad for pre-season training. They are likely to see action in the Reds' upcoming friendlies and Benitez wants them to use this chance to prove to him they are capable of challenging for a place in the first team squad this season.

"We have already had conversations with the likes of Pacheco, Ayala and San Jose and we have told them that it depends on them," said the boss.

"They are now training with the first team squad and this is their chance to show what they can do ahead of the new season."