Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel says it was the right time for Rafa Benitez to leave.

Skrtel revealed that Benitez texted each of his players individually, in Skrtel's case thanking him for his contribution and wishing him the best for the future.

"I texted him back to say 'thank you boss and good luck for you'," said Skrtel. But he accepts that the Liverpool board wanted Benitez out and views the £6m compensation deal as a dismissal, rather than a compromise arrangement.

"The management needed to make some changes and they sacked Rafa, and what can we do?" the 25-year-old said. "Nothing. We are only players and we have to wait for the new management."