LIVERPOOL will be getting a better boss than Jose Mourinho if they land Rafael Benitez.
That is the verdict of former Anfield striker Michael Robinson, who has tracked Benitez’ career while working as Spain’s No 1 football pundit.
Benitez, 44, led Valencia to the La Liga title and UEFA Cup this season and is the front-runner to replace sacked Gerard Houllier at Liverpool.
Robinson said: “Liverpool have lost all style of play and are unrecognisable from the traditional style of football played over decades at Anfield.
“Benitez could be the man to change that if he decides to go. Valencia attack and then kill off their opponents.
“He is similar to Jose Mourinho but I think Valencia have got more flair than Porto. Mourinho is a brilliant manager but I prefer Benitez. He lives, eats and sleeps the game and is a brilliant manager — extremely studious and very modern.”
Valencia will fight to keep Benitez. They are prepared to match Liverpool’s £8million contract offer and provide cash for new players.
Kop chief executive Rick Parry was confident he had secured his man after meeting Benitez’ agent in Spain last week but it no longer looks a done deal.
Parry is now on holiday in Barbados and not due back until the end of next week.