Fan loyalty is saving Benitez – Liverpool great Souness

Liverpool legend Graeme Souness believes the loyalty of the clubs fanbase is the only thing saving manager Rafael Benitez.

The Spanish tactician is under fire for the Reds performances so far this season and Souness believes that if he had been in charge of any other of the top clubs, he would no longer be in a job.

“My criticism is what I've mentioned before. I think he's been there five years, and spent more money than anybody else other than Chelsea," Souness told Sky Sports.

"What I can tell you is that if Rafa had been at any other club, any other big club, whether it be Arsenal, Man United or Chelsea, he wouldn't be there because I don't think the supporters at those clubs are like Liverpool supporters.

"I think Liverpool fans will be a bit more patient and give a manager a bit more time."

Benitez has blamed a spate of injuries to his key players as the major factor for Liverpool’s poor showing in the early stages of this campaign but Souness sees that as a copout.

"Injuries are part of the game, especially when you get to November time. That's when they kick in generally,” he added.

"I think what's behind the first XI isn't good enough to go and win games like that in Lyon.

"Lyon aren't a great team. Lyon won at Anfield then lost 4-1 at Nice in the next game they played."