Liverpool legend gives an honest verdict on Benitez’s Everton job

Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish has offered his verdict on Rafael Benitez’s new controversial job as Everton manager.

Rafael Benitez will always be accepted by Liverpool supporters despite his move to Everton, says Kenny Dalglish.

The Spaniard has signed a three-year contract at Everton to replace Carlo Ancelotti as the club’s new manager. Given his Reds past, however, the appointment hasn’t been well received.

Many Everton fans were opposed to the prospect of Benitez taking charge, especially as he once branded them as a ‘small club’ in 2007. They even made a banner that read: “We know where you live. Don’t sign.”

Liverpool fans, who had always had an affection for Benitez even years after his exit in 2010, weren’t exactly over the moon by the appointment either.

“It was going to take something special to take the headlines away from England’s bid to reach the semi-finals of the Euros,” former Reds forward and manager Dalglish wrote in his Sunday Post column.

“They maybe didn’t quite manage it, of course, but Everton’s decision to appoint Rafa Benitez as their new manager gave it a fair go.

“People are entitled to an opinion, and there has been plenty said and written about it.

“From the Red side and the Blue side of the city, some can’t believe that a former Liverpool boss has decided to make the switch to Goodison.

“My view is that what he achieved as Liverpool manager, such as the Champions League success in 2005, means he will always be an iconic figure at the club.

“Rafa will always be appreciated and accepted. He has a fine CV, and has managed other top clubs such as Inter Milan, Napoli, Chelsea and Newcastle United.

“It’s his decision to now accept the challenge at Everton.”

Benitez coached Liverpool between 2004 and 2010. He won 197 of his 350 games in charge and famously guided the Reds to the Champions League title in 2005.