I will survive: Liverpool boss Benitez comes out fighting

The 46-year old Spaniard's hold on power looked more precarious than ever after Liverpool's shortcomings in the Barclays Premier League were compounded by an embarrassing home defeat by Barnsley in the FA Cup fifth round on Saturday.

Last night, though, he came across as anything but a manager on the brink. He vowed to ride out the storm ahead of tonight's Champions League meeting with runaway Serie A leaders Inter Milan and launch an era of success to rival the halcyon days under Bob Paisley.

Benitez admitted he had held an emergency meeting with his players but claimed they could emulate the way Arsenal emerged from a lean spell to become one of Europe's most vibrant young teams.

There is a growing feeling that Benitez needs to win the Champions League to survive. But he would have none of it as he spelled out why owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett would be wrong to end his four-year reign.

"I am surprised I keep being asked the same question about whether I have to win the Champions League to save my job," said Benitez. "How many managers have won it even once? How many have reached two finals in three years?"

Atletico Madrid are keen to recruit him for the start of next season but Benitez was adamant he is staying put, regardless of whether his side can defy the odds against in-form Inter.

Smiling and looking relaxed, he added: "I understand why people are talking about my position and saying I'm under pressure, but I have a lot of confidence I will be here for a long time.

"My commitment is 100 per cent with this club, and I know we can improve. I also believe the club are 100 per cent committed to me.

"I have had no indication to the contrary and I can honestly say my relationship with Mr Hicks has been really good since our meeting in December.

"He has been really supportive of me. It is clear we have to progress and finish in the top four and we have to increase our level from Saturday.

"I had a meeting with the players because I had to talk about the situation and impress my ideas on them. But the atmosphere is not bad. I am trying to be positive with them, as that's the only way we'll change things.

"It gives me a good pointer to the future when I see how young players cope with adversity. Then you see the character coming through. It's a bit like Arsenal a couple of years ago when they missed out on the Champions League then saw a young team begin to develop.

"I have two years left on my contract and I'm sure I'll be around for a while. I have confidence I will be here, winning titles and trophies for a long time to come."