Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has defended his record after the humiliating FA Cup exit against Barnsley.

The Reds were booed off after the 2-1 defeat at Anfield, with fans seeming to turn against the Spaniard following a series of disappointing results.

Benitez's side had been expected to challenge for the Premier League title after the summer of Fernando Torres, but lie fifth in the table and have only one remaining chance of silverware.

The Champions League last-16 tie against Internazionale could make or break Benitez's future at the club, but he believes he does not deserve to be under pressure.

"If you analyse the last few years since I came to the club we have won four trophies and been in seven finals, including two in the Champions League," Benitez said.

"How many other managers have done the same in their first three or four years at the club? People can talk about being successful but nobody is winning trophies every year.

"To do that is really difficult so I think we are in a really good position with a very young squad, so I have a lot of confidence in the team for the future."

Benitez's position has been further undermined by the public dispute between him and owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett, including the revelation that they approached Jurgen Klinsmann to replace him.

Although both parties claim to have put their differences behind them, Benitez admitted the conflict had not made his job easier.

"When you are trying to work hard and do your job it is hard to accept the criticism that is always following me. And, yes, it is a big surprise to see another manager in the background," he said.

Alex Chick / Eurosport