Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez insists tonight's clash with Real Madrid is no audition for the club's coaching job. Benitez's future has been a subject for discussion over the weeks of contract wrangling, and there are even murmurings that the American owners may lose patience.

That would open the way for a possible move from Madrid for his services, with current coach Juande Ramos only on a short-term contract.

Much will depend on the club's forthcoming presidential elections, but Benitez said: "I am only concerned by Real's 11 players on the pitch, nothing else concerns me.

"It is more important to concentrate on that than the other things."

Benitez clearly has fond memories of the club he has always supported.

He said: "This is a big game, but not just because I used to play and work here. I am a professional, so I want to win with my team, that is the only motivation for me.

"I cannot think about the past, I cannot change anything, all I can do is try to win this game now. I have memories here. I have met many friends today. It's a pleasure to come back and see so many faces that I remember."

But he acknowledged that former Spurs boss Ramos has done a fine job in such a short space of time to turn around Real's fortress.

He said: "Ramos has done very well here, Real are winning many games in a row. But it is not about managers and coaches, it is only about what the players do on the pitch. This is not a personal thing.

"He has said, though, that big games are decided by small details. And he is a professional and I agree with that. Maybe he should have a talk with his chairman (who has said Real will hammer Liverpool) and decide what should be said.

"But they are winning games in a row and so have more confidence. Defensively they have improved. Some players who were injured are back.

"And signing Lassana Diarra means they have two midfielders who can defend more, so they are more solid."