Former Liverpool captain Ronnie Whelan has launched an extraordinary attack on manager Rafa Benitez.

The Irishman has accused Benitez of focusing on Europe - so to look good for interested clubs on the continent.

Whelan, 48, who won 12 major trophies in a glory-filled career, said: "It's all gone wrong with the manager and he's shown exactly where his priorities lie.

"He wants to win the European Cup so he can get a job in Europe. For me, his days have got to be numbered at Liverpool.

"Why after such a great result against Manchester United, do you want to take a huge step backwards after losing to Arsenal in the Carling Cup as well? I don't see where he's coming from."

Whelan, speaking on Ireland's RTE Television, added: "He's taken players off who are the only players who are going to give you a chance of winning the game.

"And he drags them all off because he's got a game on Wednesday.

"When I saw the team I thought he's not bothered about this game. He's putting all his eggs in one basket and I can't see why he's done it."