Benitez refutes claim Mascherano will leave Liverpool

Liverpool's midfield enforcer, Javier Mascherano, made a declaration earlier today indicating that he was happy at Anfield, although he had no problems about moving on in the summer should the club decide to cash in on his services.

Speaking to journalists assembled at a pre-match press conference, Rafael Benitez clarified the situation, declaring that he is considered too much of an asset to be sold.

"I was talking to him this morning for 15 minutes more or less," Benitez began.

"He is pleased [to be at Liverpool]. He knows this is a massive club. The top sides are asking, maybe. He is a key player for me, and for the team, so for me it is okay."

He continued by making a nondescript comment on the rumours surrounding his interest in Carlos Tevez, who is fast approaching the conclusion of his two year loan spell at league leaders Manchester United. "Mascherano is happy now, that is enough for me," 'Rafa' stated. "I will not talk about other players."

Liverpool host Newcastle United at the weekend in a must-win fixture for both sides. If the Reds drop points then they will effectively hand United the league crown, while any further losses from Alan Shearer's men could doom them to the Championship.