Rafael Benitez has insisted he was always confident Xabi Alonso would resist offers from the continent and continue his Anfield career.
Alonso today signed a new five year deal with the Reds, bringing to an end speculation that he could be swapping the Premiership for a move abroad with a number of top clubs reportedly interested in his services.
"We knew Xabi wanted to stay and he knew we wanted to keep him," Benitez said today.
"Some other top clubs were interested in doing something or at least wanting to know what the situation was but we were always clear that we wanted to build a strong team for the future and Xabi is part of that future.
"He has had some fantastic years with us and he will be just as good in the future. When you know you are settled and that the team is ready for another challenge then you can work with total focus.
"From my point of view I know I have a lot of options all over the pitch now, and especially in the centre. Xabi is a key player but he will need to fight to compete for his position and that can only be good for the team."
I agree.
This is mere speculation and reading between lines, but I think the highlighted text is a mention to his not that good games in some parts of the season. A bit of criticism from Rafa there in my view, (fair one), and praises aswell.
Not at you, at what you said!
