The Liverpool manager, Rafael Benítez, today ruled out a move for the Valencia midfielder David Silva, who had been heavily linked with a move to Anfield. "We will not be signing him," Benítez said of the Spanish international.

"We are working hard, talking with the scouting department, and looking at names and options for next season. It's still too soon [to identify definite targets]."

Meanwhile, the feelgood factor at Anfield increased after five members of the club's backroom staff followed Benítez in committing their long-term futures to the club.

Nine days ago, Benítez signed until 2014 following weeks of speculation over his demands and vision for the best way forward for Liverpool. The Spaniard's lead has now been followed by assistant manager Sammy Lee, first-team coach Mauricio Pellegrino, goalkeeping coach Xavi Valero, fitness coach Paco de Miguel and chief scout Eduardo Macia. They have all agreed contract extensions of at least two years.

"I said when I signed my own deal recently that it was a priority to sort out the future of the technical staff," said Benítez. "We work extremely well as a team, and continuity is essential if we are to build on the progress we have made this season and move the club further forward. I'm delighted we have been able to sort out the contracts."