Henchoz never had a chance

Stephane Henchoz says he never had enough chances under Rafa Benitez.

The Swiss stopper was a mainstay of the Liverpool defence under Gerard Houllier, but saw himself slip down the pecking order under Benitez.

Jamie Carragher had been preferred at centre half, while Mauricio Pellegrino arrived in January as the main cover.

Henchoz says that he does not mind fighting for his place, but thought that he was never going to get a chance under Benitez.

"I have never been afraid of competition as long as I have some opportunities," said Henchoz.

"But at Liverpool, since the departure of Gerard Houllier, it was not the case anymore.

"I have been impressed by the atmosphere at Celtic Park when I came to play with Liverpool in Uefa Cup.

"I am really in a hurry to play in that shirt. I hope we will win the double. I have left a great club for another great club. I am very happy with that.

"I had other propositions, but I made my choice as soon as I met Martin O'Neill. It is true I had contact with Rangers. I had a phone call with the coach, but I didn't talk to the chairman."