Benitez not interested in Ruud

I've been getting a lot of emails asking about Liverpool's reported interest in Ruud Van Nistelrooy, writes Guillem Balague.

I can tell you that Rafa Benitez is not interested in signing the Dutchman from Real Madrid because - while the former United striker's quality has never been questioned - there are major doubts over his fitness.

With limited funds, the Liverpool coach would rather focus on another kind of player and there is little point over the longer term in placing obstacles in the way of Ngog's progress: particularly at a time when he is starting to  show glimpses of the player we all hoped he may become. Furthermore, Liverpool could not accommodate both Torres and Van Nistelrooy in the same starting XI and the priority is to get the most out of the Spanish striker's current form and keep him playing regularly.

In fact, Benitez is quite fed up with the stories linking Liverpool with Ruud and, despite the press speculation and despite the fact Ruud could leave Madrid for free as his contract finishes in the summer, it can be said that the target for January is quite different.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the views or position of Liverpool Football Club.