Liverpool news: Steven Gerrard says Rafa Benitez provoked him before big games

RAFA BENITEZ and Steven Gerrard brought success to Liverpool, winning four trophies between them over a three season spell.

Steven Gerrard Rafa Benitez LiverpoolGETTY

Steven Gerrard and Rafa Benitez at Melwood in 2008

And now Gerrard has lifted the lid on how Benitez inspired the midfielder to produce his best performances in the famous all-red kit.

Under the Spaniard's tenure, Gerrard put in a magnificent performance in the memorable 2005 Champions League final win over AC Milan.

But Gerrard came close to leaving Anfield in 2005 when he turned down a £100,000-per-week contract offer after the Reds rejected a £32million bid for the midfielder from Chelsea.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 live about Benitez’s man-management style, Gerrard said: “It’s a difficult one to explain – sometimes I’ve spoken about Rafa and mentioned the word ‘cold’ [to describe Benitez].

“And some people take that the wrong way and think you’ve fallen out with him and that you don’t get on with him.

“I think it’s just he’s very different in terms of style to say a Brendan Rodgers  or Gerard Houllier.

GETTY

Rafa Benitez and Steven Gerrard with the Champions League trophy in 2005

“They focused loads on the man management and got really close to the players and talk to them a lot away from the game.

“Rafa doesn’t really get involved in that sort of stuff. He’s just a different style of manager and different style of man management."

Benitez left Liverpool in 2010 after only guiding the team to seventh in the Premier League, and missing out on Champions League qualification.

Gerrard went on to say that the current Newcastle manager used to try to provoke him into big performances ahead of crucial games.

“He’d maybe have a little bit of a pop at me or be a little critical at the right times where he knew he’d get a reaction from me going into big games,” he added.

Steven Gerrard Rafa Benitez UCLGETTY

Steven Gerrard and Rafa Benitez on THAT night in Istabul

Steven Gerrard shows six-month old son how to kick football

“Or if I’d scored two goals in a game – he’d take me off knowing that I’d be upset with that and I’d be fired up to prove him wrong.

“He aLways leaves you where you’ve got to try and impress him and always leaves the relationship where you’re trying to get praise out of him – it’s like trying to get blood out of a stone.

“He always focuses on small details, a very organised coach and makes sure individuals are well-drilled in every position and then he goes through the units.”

Benitez has guided Newcastle to three wins and three defeats so far in their first season back in the Premier League. 

The Magpies meet Liverpool in their next Premier League fixture at St. James’ Park on Sunday (16:30).

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?