Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez insists his team's sudden slump has nothing to do with the departure of former right-hand man Pako Ayesteran.

Ayesteran was in charge of players' fitness and conditioning at Melwood and Benitez said: "We were analysing the data today and the game in which we ran the most this season was the last one.

"We ran more kilometres and at a higher intensity than any other game. The physical condition of the players was fantastic.

"In terms of coaching, I was coaching, as always.

"I am not a traditional English manager always in my office. I like to be on the pitch.

"I was always on the pitch before, I was on the pitch today and I will be on the pitch tomorrow."