 RAFAEL BENITEZ has rejected the chance of a return to Real Madrid because he believes Liverpool can challenge Chelsea for the Premiership title next season. The Spaniard will reaffirm his commitment to the Anfield cause by signing a new contract that ties him to the club until 2010, after being given reassurances over financial backing for squad strengthening. That has scuppered Madrid's hopes of luring Benitez back to the Bernabeu, where he learned his trade as both player and coach. Madrid made contact with Benitez's agent, Manuel Garcia Quilon, over a possible move earlier this month, while Inter Milan also signalled an interest in the Spaniard. However, Benitez yesterday admitted there was ultimately no reason for him to walk out on Liverpool after being encouraged during a series of meetings with the Anfield hierarchy earlier this week. And the Spaniard insisted continued improvement and progress could ensure he remains at the club for years to come. "I've spoken with the board and Rick Parry and they've told me they have the same idea as myself," said Benitez. "They want to progress and keep the club going forward. They want to win trophies and they are working hard to improve. For me, that is enough. "I've never talked about demands. Sure, I want to improve and I want to see the club progressing, but I think we are working in the right way. I will be here next season, for sure." Benitez added: "I am grateful with the people here - the supporters, the board, the chairman, the chief executive and also the players. If you are at a club where everything is right, the atmosphere is good, then there is no need to change. "As a manager, when people start saying that big clubs are interested in you, you have to be proud. In this case, Real Madrid and Inter Milan are fantastic clubs, but so is Liverpool. "I have a responsibility and I must continue doing my job. I cannot say, okay, I will go because I might receive a good offer. "If I am here and I want to stay here for a long time, it means I have confidence. We will have a better team next season than last season." | 
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