Benitez dismisses reports linking him with Real Madrid

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has dismissed media reports that he will take over as Real Madrid coach at the end of the season.

"I have a deal with Liverpool and I am very happy here," he said yesterday. "My aim is to be here next year and win trophies with Liverpool."

Real coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo is under pressure following the club's Champions League exit and they face a second season without silverware as they trail Primera Liga leaders Barcelona.

Benitez faces a testing Merseyside derby on Sunday with his side seven points behind fourth-placed Everton, who presently occupy the last Champions League qualifying spot.

The Spanish coach also rejected reports he had fallen out with forward Harry Kewell following the pair's public spat over the Australian international's fitness.

"My relationship with Harry is good. I don't have any problems with him," said Benitez, who is still without Kewell as the player continues to struggle with a mystery groin injury.

Benitez has criticised winger Kewell over his refusal to travel to Bayer Leverkusen for their Champions League first knockout stage second leg tie earlier this month, questioning his commitment.

The former Leeds player hit back by insisting he was injured and had not been exaggerating his problems.

"When I have said something before I have always talked with him about it," said Benitez. "With Harry I have only one idea and that is to see him playing football for us again.

"The player wants to be fit and we want him to be fit. He is seeing a doctor and maybe we will see more in ten days time."