The Spanish coach's relationship with co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks came in for some intense scrutiny around the turn of the year as concerns over the size of the available transfer budget seemingly caused a rift.

Hicks later admitted that the Americans had held talks with former Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann - a fact which further destabilised Benitez's position and led to fan protests in defence of the manager.

"What is evident is that back at that time we were in a great position and the team was in shape to win many of the games which we we eventually drew," he told the News of the World.

"So the entire process is what allowed the gap to open between us and the leaders.

"If I wanted, I have the perfect excuse. The only solution I have is to try to bury myself in my work."

The Reds face Chelsea on Sunday with their title ambitions extinguished and a battle to retain their Champions League berth for next season now their primary focus.

Benitez added: "What is vital is that we win to enable us to fight for at least the fourth-placed spot."