RAFA FRUSTRATED WITH FIXTURE SCHEDULE

Rafael Benitez has insisted he will seek talks with the Premier League over a fixture schedule which he feels could scupper Liverpool's title challenge.

The Liverpool manager is unhappy his side are being asked to kick off at Saturday lunchtime immediately after each of the four international breaks this season.

After facing Sunderland just three days after the last break, the Reds are now preparing for the long trip to Portsmouth for another 12.45pm kick-off this weekend.

Benitez's frustration is further fuelled by the fact his side must take on Everton and Newcastle on Saturday lunchtimes after the next two international breaks in October and Novemnber.

The Spaniard has long argued the fixture schedule is weighted against his club - and now he's ready to speak with the authorities over the issue.

He said: "I will talk with the Premier League about this. They will know my idea. The numbers are clear. We will check if someone can hear us.

"I don't know if we can change things, but we will try. We'll try and speak to them as soon as possible.

"I need to speak with Rick Parry and we will analyse how to progress with this situation. But once people see the numbers, it will be easier to explain.

"I am really disappointed with the fixtures that we have because it is more difficult in England. The players arrive back on Thursday evening and the only thing you can do with some of them is just to run a bit and send them home.

"Friday morning you will have a light training session and you will travel to Portsmouth. For me it's impossible to prepare the team properly."