Liverpool chief Rick Parry says a new deal for Rafa Benitez is "nearly there".

Parry told BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek programme: "He is nearly there.

"The owners have made a commitment and said they wanted to extend and keep him. Clearly he wants to stay, so yes it will be done.

"We have had a few hold-ups this week with his unfortunate illness.

"That has slightly got in the way, but it won't be very long now. I cannot be specific, but it is very close now."