12.07.2004 - Reds back at Melwood as pre-season training begins

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Many of Liverpool's squad were back in training today for the start of the club's preparations for next season, while Rafael Benitez had some encouraging words for the Liverpool fans on the first day of his new job.

The likes of Owen, Gerrard, Baros and Smicer who represented their countries at Euro 2004 will all be given an extra week off, but the rest of the squad were all set to report back to the Reds' training ground this morning for the squad's first get together since the end of last season.

Included in those starting preparations today was Djibril Cisse, the club's record signing, and the Frenchman is in no doubts that Liverpool will be among the contenders for next season's Premiership.

"I do think we can win the title next season. The new boss has the experience and he has won two Spanish titles in three years," he said. "I only know Rafa Benitez by reputation but I know he is a great coach."

And Benitez himself insisted that his target is to see Liverpool challenging for the title, also saying that while the side needs a little time, they may 'have a surprise for the supporters'.

The Spaniard is expected to spend some time with his new squad of players before deciding on what changes he intends to make to the current squad, with the transfer window remaining open for another 7 weeks.