Nine days ago, Benitez signed until 2014 following weeks of speculation over his demands and vision for the best way forward after a couple of turbulent seasons on Merseyside.

The Spaniard's lead has now been followed by assistant manager Sammy Lee, first-team coach Mauricio Pellegrino, goalkeeping coach Xavi Valero, fitness coach Paco de Miguel and chief scout Eduardo Macia - all of whom have agreed contract extensions of at least two years.

"I said when I signed my own deal recently that it was a priority to sort out the future of the technical staff," said Benitez.

"We work extremely well as a team, and continuity is essential if we are to build on the progress we have made this season and move the club further forward.

"I'm delighted we have been able to sort out the contracts."

The news caps a miraculous March for Liverpool, who have thrashed Manchester United and Aston Villa to re-enter the Barclays Premier League title race and also battered Real Madrid 5-0 on aggregate in the Champions League.

Benitez's new deal appeared to reinvigorate everyone at Anfield and today's developments will only add to the belief that Liverpool are building towards a successful future - whether the title is secured this season or not.

One man who looks unlikely to be part of the club's plans, however, is Valencia star David Silva - whom Benitez distanced himself from this afternoon.

Reports this week suggested the Reds, led by Macia, were preparing a bid for the highly-rated playmaker - whose current employers are struggling under the weight of their massive debt.

Silva, 23 - who can operate as a winger, attacking midfielder or second striker - appears certain to leave the Spanish club this summer.

But it will not be to join the Reds, according to Benitez, who revealed his club had been put off by Valencia when they made a tentative approach.

"It is true that we were asking about the situation with him but we are not happy with the situation now and he will not be a target for us," he told the Echo.

Benitez added: "We will not be signing him.

"We are working hard, talking with the scouting department and looking at names and options for next season.

"It's still too soon (to identify definite targets)."

Liverpool could go top of the Premier League in eight days' time if they manage to avoid defeat at Fulham.

But Benitez has called for focus from players and supporters, who would be forgiven for dreaming of a first title in 19 years after recent performances.

"Football can change very quickly, and that is why we say it is important to just take one game at a time," he told www.liverpoolfc.tv.

"Everything can change each week, and maybe next week we can be at the top again.

"My message to the fans is to keep calm. I can see the people have a lot of confidence at the moment, and that is good.

"We have to stay positive and see what happens."