Rafa hails Sami the superman

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Approaching his 34th birthday, Hyypia rejected overtures from several clubs in the summer in the belief he could yet win a starting role at Liverpool.

Caped crusader: Sami Hyypia provides veteran leadership at Liverpool

When his chanced arrived, though, he could hardly have expected the workload to prove so strenuous.

With Daniel Agger sidelined for six weeks, the veteran centre back is facing the daunting challenge of playing three times in a week as Liverpool again chase honours on four fronts.

Benitez hinted another contract may be within Hyypia's grasp when his deal runs out at the end of the season.

He said: "It is probably early to be thinking about that, but if he comes through all the games this season and plays well, I would have no problems about it. When Daniel was injured, some wondered how we would cope. But they clearly don't know Sami.

"There was a lot of talk about other clubs being interested in him but I always wanted to keep him here. By playing the right number of games, he can go on for years. Physically, he is one of the best we have in the squad. We will give him a rest every now and then but it is clear he can play both midweek and weekends."

While other managers expressed regret over Jose Mourinho's exit from Chelsea, Benitez pointedly refused to bury the hatchet after years of bickering between the two.

"You know how my relationship was with him, so I think it might be best if I don't say anything," he smiled. "I was surprised when it happened but it is more important to think about Steve Bruce and Birmingham tomorrow."