Benitez calms Aurelio injury fear

Defender Fabio Aurelio could be out of action for as little as one month, Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has said.

Benitez confirmed the Brazilian had undergone cartilage surgery after damaging his knee on holiday.

"He was injured playing with his son and really disappointed because he was enjoying the summer," Benitez said.

"He had the operation - he has had a problem with his cartilage - so he will be one month, maximum two months, not six months like I see in the press."

The 29-year-old full back, who signed in July 2006 on a free transfer from Valencia, has become an established part of the Liverpool team, making 33 appearances in all competitions last season.

606: DEBATE
How big a blow will it be to lose Aurelio for even one month?

As well as brushing off speculation over the length of Aurelio's absence, Benitez dismissed rumours surrounding Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano.

The midfield duo have been linked with Real Madrid and Barcelona but Benitez said they remained Liverpool players.

"Both players are our players and we are really pleased with them," he said. "Both have two to three years on their contract so we don't need to do anything."

RELATED INTERNET LINKS:
Football on the BBC
Liverpool fans' views on 606
BBC Liverpool sport
Liverpool weather
BBC Sport Premier League
Liverpool
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites