Graeme Souness: Arsenal, Manchester United or Chelsea would have sacked Rafa Benitez by now

By Zack Wilson

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez would not still have a job if he had been managing another 'big four' club, according to former Anfield great Graeme Souness.

The Reds could only draw in their must-win Champions League game at Olympique Lyonnais last night, and Souness is amazed that Benitez has managed to avoid the sack after making what he feels are some fairly fundamental errors.

"My criticism is what I've mentioned before. I think he's been there five years, and spent more money than anybody else other than Chelsea," the former Scotland captain - who won three European Cups with Liverpool as a midfielder - told Sky Sports.

"Injuries are part of the game especially when you get to November time. That's when they kick in generally.

"I think what's behind the first XI isn't good enough to go and win games like that [at Lyon].

"Now Lyon aren't a great team. Lyon won at Anfield then lost 4-1 at Nice in the next game they played.

"What I can tell you is that if Rafa had been at any other club, any other big club, whether it be Arsenal, Man United or Chelsea, he wouldn't be there because I don't think the supporters at those clubs are like Liverpool supporters.

"I think they [Liverpool fans]  will be a bit more patient and give a manager a bit more time."