Liverpool play down Van Nistelrooy speculation
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has dismissed speculation linking him with a January move to sign Real Madrid's Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.
The 33-year-old enjoyed success in England with Manchester United, but Benitez has ruled out plotting a return for the veteran frontman.
He said: "I don't want to talk about individual players or names, but we are not trying for Ruud van Nistelrooy, so that will be very difficult to bring him in.
"We are working hard on getting some players in and have had some good talks, but my priority now is talking about good things with my players."
Meanwhile, elsewhere in Spain, Barcelona head coach Pep Guardiola has warned Zlatan Ibrahimovic to watch his temper, after the striker came close to being red-carded in the 1-1 draw with Villarreal.
Ibrahimovic was booked late on in the game at the Camp Nou on Saturday evening for a rash challenge on Diego Godin, having enjoyed a fractious relationship with referee Vasquez for much of the game.
Guardiola said afterwards: “He is passionate, but he should be careful, because we may end up with ten players one day.
“Ibrahimovic needs to be strong and he is capable of doing it as he's a great player. He can't control the referee’s decisions.”
Sweden international Ibrahimovic, 28, has made a stunning start to life with Barca, following his summer arrival from Internazionale, scoring 12 goals in 20 league and European appearances for the Catalan giants.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments