Dirk Kuyt has seen new contract talks at Liverpool delayed.

The News of the World says Anfield boss Rafa Benitez has been forced to delay talks due to the uncertainty surrounding his own future.

Kuyt's deal ends in July, 2010 and, in normal circumstances Benitez would already have asked the Dutchman, 28, to commit his future.

But Benitez is nearing the last 18 months of his deal and feels he no longer has authority to sanction talks.