Eriksson: Backing Benitez

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Sven-Goran Eriksson believes that Rafa Benitez has been a resounding success since arriving at Anfield.

The Manchester City manager has revealed that he travelled to England during his early coaching days to learn from the famous Liverpool boot room, at a time when Joe Fagan's side were ruling at home and in Europe.

However, the club has now gone 18 years without lifting the English league title and Benitez is the latest in a long line of managers attempting to return the club to the glory days of the 1970s and 80s.

Liverpool are still contenders for this year's crown and, despite falling nine points behind leaders Manchester United, Eriksson feels that Benitez has lifted the club back into Europe's elite.

Top achievement

"I believe Benitez is doing a good job," he said.

"Maybe it is surprising Liverpool have gone so long without winning the league but on the other hand in three years they have reached two Champions League finals, which is fantastic.

"At any level, at any other club, whether it was Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, AC Milan or Manchester United, two European Cup Finals in three years would be a top achievement."

Big squad

Eriksson is currently in the process of attempting to lift his own side into the UEFA Champions League and has been promised funds to strengthen in the January transfer window, something which the Swede feels is essential if City are to continue their fine form this season.

"We have a good squad but if you look at the big four, they have bigger squads with quality all over," said Eriksson.

"But we will have that in the future too. That is a must if you want to play European football.

"If you try another way, you might do well in Europe and badly in the league.

"But if you want to hold a certain level in both, you must have a big squad."