2008: Nov 19th: Benitez begins contract talks with owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett. “For me, it’s easy,” says the manager. “I want to stay here. It’s very simple”

Dec 21st: Liverpool’s chief executive, Rick Parry, says Benitez is “very close” to signing, after discussions about his control over transfers

Dec 22nd: Benitez makes comments some see as hinting at outside interest. “When you are coaching a great team, and this is a great team, everybody is always interested in you”

Dec 22nd: Sammy Lee, the Liverpool assistant manager, says “everyone” wants the deal done.

2009: Jan 10th: “My agent has not yet received any documents,” says Benitez. “He is disappointed.”