Rafa A Win Away From Shanks Record

As Rafael Benitez prepares for his 100th league match in charge of the Reds he can justifiably look back with pride on a record that is superior to almost all of his recent predecessors in the Anfield hot-seat.

Rafa's first 99 Prem games
Won: 55
Drew: 18
Lost: 26

With 55 wins already under his belt, Benitez boasts a better record than that achieved by Bob Paisley (54), Gerard Houllier (49), Roy Evans (48) and Graeme Souness (40) over the same period, while victory over the Champions at Anfield tomorrow will see the Spaniard equal the tally of legendary Scot Bill Shankly (56).

By contrast Arsene Wenger won 54 at Arsenal and Alex Ferguson 45 at Manchester United.

Drogballs: It's hard to imagine a man so often criticised by the press is nearing a record which will make many managers proud. Comparing his record to Shankly's one is pretty one off especially in modern times, football have evolved and I believe it has became more competitive than in the past. But take nothing away from our great Bill Shankly. He's still by far our best manager in terms of impact made on the club. Forever our hero.

Wenger took over Arsenal with some pretty good players while Fergie's United isn't the best back in the 80s when he took over. Therefore comparing manager's record might not the a way to judge his ability but rather, I'll look at the trophies that the manager has brought back and by looking at Rafa, 3 cups in 2 seasons isn't too shabby although the Premiership title continues to elude us.

If Rafa's men manage to beat Chelsea (very BIG IF), then Rafa should be proud. Recently, Rick Parry mentioned how Real Madrid, as sly and scheming as ever, tried to head hunt Rafa back in the summer but he chose to stay behind.

Now say, we love Rafa, together with me now!