Yossi wants more minutes

Israeli midfielder unhappy at Anfield after lack of starts

By Richard Bailey   Last updated: 19th November 2008

Yossi Benayoun Liverpool 2008

Benayoun: Wants first team action

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Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun has stated that he is prepared to leave Anfield in order to find regular first team football.

Benayoun has had a frustrating time this season and has had to make do with a place on the bench, starting just two of the last ten games.

The Israeli signed from West Ham in the summer of 2007 and recorded an impressive 11 goals and ten assists in his first season at the club.

The midfielder is currently away on international duty, where he is preparing to face the Ivory Coast, but he admits he has thought about a move away from Anfield.

Frustrating

He told The Sun: "The fact that I'm not involved and always come on as a sub tells you something. Even if it's Liverpool, if I don't get to play in the next few months I will not want to be here.

"I enjoy my time in England but maybe it is time to learn a new language, maybe Italian, French or Russian.

"When I came here it wasn't so I could tell everyone, 'Hey I play for Liverpool'.

"My purpose was to prove myself, and in the first year I think I did. I understand that I am at one of the biggest clubs in the world and that this year there are better players."

One of Benayoun's rare starts came in the 2-1 win over rivals Manchester United at Anfield but the 28-year-old found himself back on the bench for the following game.

"After our win over Manchester United I lost my place. Everyone wants to play and it is no fun sitting on the bench or playing just a few minutes.

"I'm part of the rotation but I hope in the next few months it will change."