Former Liverpool fullback Alan Kennedy says it's time the players stood up for manager Rafa Benitez.

Former Kop favourite Stan Collymore said he wants to see Rafa sacked and Ronnie Whelan, another Anfield hero, has also declared that his days are numbered.

But Kennedy says anyone believing Rafa will be axed by American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett before the season ends should have a serious re-think - because he's in much too powerful a position to be ousted.

He said: "Rafa is the man in charge and he'll be the man in charge throughout the season. I don't think there is a threat to his job.

"If they finish off the season poorly then I think his position will be looked at. But right now we have to forget all about Rafa leaving the club.

"Benitez is in a very powerful position. He has done what I consider to be a great job taking over from Gerard Houllier. I am very pleased at the way good progress has been made under him.

"But it's his team, too, so maybe now he's got to ask more of his players who are not performing out there."