DJIBRIL CISSE wants to stay at Liverpool - but fears he must depart to safeguard his World Cup dream.
The 24-year-old striker hinted earlier this week that he would consider leaving Anfield in the New Year if he is not given an extended run in the side.
Now Cisse has confirmed his intention to exit should his situation not improve, as he seeks regular first-team football in the hope of securing a place in the France squad for next summer's World Cup, should they qualify.
"I want to emphasise that I love being in England and at Liverpool - and I want to stay and fight for my place," said Cisse, currently preparing for France's qualifying game in Switzerland tomorrow.
"But if my situation with regard to playing for Liverpool has not evolved by January 2006, then I would consider leaving Liverpool for a club where I would be afforded more playing time with a view to the 2006 World Cup.
"Being on the bench annoys me. I know it's selfish but I have to think about my own career.
"There's a World Cup which is coming and I want to be part of it."
Marseille have already declared an interest in Cisse, although reports of a swap deal involving Real Betis winger Joaquin seem wide of the mark after Liverpool manager Benitez yesterday dismissed speculation of an imminent move for the Spain-ish international.
"These stories are false," said Benitez.
"Our position is clear. We are not interested in bringing the player to Anfield and I can only assume that people in Spain are trying to move the player out of Betis."
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