Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez insists the club is in better shape than five years ago when he first arrived.

The 49-year-old has come under fire this season, with his side struggling both at home and in Europe.

But Benitez has hit back at his critics - and reckons the Reds' health is as rude as ever.

He told The Sun: "There is a massive difference between five years ago and now.

"The name of the club round the world is at the same level as it was in the 1980s.

"It's a fantastic achievement. Everybody talks about Liverpool in a good way. And we will get better."