Former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez believes he has the experience to manage England

Nov 15 2011 by Luke Reddy, Liverpool Echo

RAFA BENITEZ believes his managerial experience could stand him in good stead for a crack at the England job.

The Spaniard has been linked with a number of roles throughout Europe since leaving Inter in December of last year, but with Fabio Capello set to depart the England hot seat after next summer’s European Championships, former Liverpool boss Benitez believes his own experience could suit any opening with the national side.

“We have to wait,” said Benitez. “I prefer not to say too much but obviously I have some experience and I’m still around in England. So I think I have some knowledge of the league and players, and that is good obviously.

“I think the big jobs and options are a challenge for any manager.

“I don’t want to say too much because the day after you will see the headlines.”

Benitez watched from the stands as Frank Lampard’s goal sunk Spain at Wembley on Saturday, but the Champions League winner is prepared to wait for the right opportunity to return to a seat in the dug out.

Asked if there were offers on the table, Benitez added: “At the beginning there was something, now everything is calm. I was watching England and Spain the other day and everybody was asking about other teams but I think now is the time to be calm, wait, and we will see.

“Normally January is a little bit more controversial.

“We have had some offers from different countries, normally big money, but the priority is to stay in the Premier League.

“We don’t have the right club or right opportunity right now, so maybe we have to go to another country and show we can stay at the top.”