Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has raised questions about the club's American owners' knowledge of the European transfer system.

The Spaniard's relationship with Tom Hicks and George Gillett has reportedly come under strain because of Benitez's desire to strengthen the team.

"It's clear Mr Hicks wants the best for the club. So do I," Benitez told News of the World.

"We have been here for a long time and we know what the passion of football means and what the transfer market in Europe means."

Benitez, whose side beat Newcastle United 3-0 on Saturday to re-ignite their Premier League challenge, said he was not asking for big money.

"It's not a draft system. We have free players available now," he said. "I'm not talking about players that cost money.

"We need to talk to the agents now, if not we will lose targets. In the summer, the players will be more expensive. I have not been talking about spending but doing the opposite.

"We have brought money back. We brought in 26 million this year and you can see the value of the squad.

"We had a meeting on the day of the Arsenal game which was really positive. After this, something changed.

"They told me to be focused on coaching and training because Rick Parry will be looking after signing players."

In a statement from George Gillett and Tom Hicks later in the day, they attempted to smooth the waters.

"Despite speculation in today's newspapers, there is nothing new to say," the statement said.

"We had a good win yesterday and have got some very important games coming up starting with Porto on Wednesday, followed by Bolton and Reading, before Marseille and Manchester United in a few weeks.

"Both of us, together with chief executive Rick Parry, plan to meet with Rafa when we come over mid December to make decisions on the team's requirements at that time."

Reuters