Rafael Benitez today spoke for the first time about the sad death of his father earlier this week and vowed to throw himself into his work to help him get through this difficult time.

Benitez heard of his father's death in the build-up to Thursday's World Club Championship semi-final against Deportivo Saprissa, but was unable to return in time for the funeral.

He now plans to travel to Spain to see his mother and the rest of his family upon Liverpool's return from Japan.

Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv: "I was in Madrid a couple of times because my father has been ill for the last few months.

"I was talking to my mother, sister and brother when my father died. We tried to go there but in Spain you do not have the time. They couldn't delay the funeral.

"I couldn't go so I decided to stay here. I will go and see my mother next week so for me it is perhaps better to concentrate on working. You can be very upset but if you are working sometimes you can just think about your work. My mother is there though and I will try to be with her as soon as possible.

"The only thing I can do now is try to do my best for my team and think about my father."

RIP

I wish Rafa all the best in this tough time for him