Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is relieved that his backroom staff have, like him, committed their long-term futures to the Anfield club. Assistant-manager Sammy Lee (pictured), first-team coach Mauricio Pellegrino, goalkeeping coach Xavi Valero, fitness coach Paco de Miguel and chief scout Eduardo Macia, have all been rewarded for their good work over recent seasons by being awarded extensions of at least two years on their current contracts.

"I said when I signed my own deal recently that it was a priority to sort out the future of the technical staff," Benitez explained on the club's website.

"We work extremely well as a team and continuity is essential if we are to build on the progress we have made this season and move the club further forward. I'm delighted we have been able to sort out the contracts."