Former Toon boss Graeme Souness added fuel to the fire on Merseyside saying Rafael Benitez could be on his 'last legs' following Liverpool's exit from the Champions League.
Talking on Sky Sports he said: "I can see star players leaving Anfield.
"And if Liverpool fail to qualify for the Champions League this season, I can see the big big players going ... and that means the likes of Torres.
"These are difficult times for Rafa, no mistake".
He was joined by former Liverpool winger Patrik Berger, who insists "time is up" for Rafael Benitez as Liverpool manager.
The Spaniard has come under pressure for much of this season, with the team 13 points adrift of Premier League leaders Chelsea and in severe danger of failing to progress from Champions League Group E.
Benitez's transfer policy has also frequently raised eyebrows, with Berger alluding to a lack of quality throughout the squad.
And the former Czech Republic international told BBC Radio 5 live: "He did ever so well for Liverpool but in my opinion, for him time is up and they should change their manager as soon as possible.
"He has spent so much money over the years - he did have success a few years ago but right now, for me, Liverpool do not look a side who can win competitions."
Talking on Sky Sports he said: "I can see star players leaving Anfield.
"And if Liverpool fail to qualify for the Champions League this season, I can see the big big players going ... and that means the likes of Torres.
"These are difficult times for Rafa, no mistake".
He was joined by former Liverpool winger Patrik Berger, who insists "time is up" for Rafael Benitez as Liverpool manager.
The Spaniard has come under pressure for much of this season, with the team 13 points adrift of Premier League leaders Chelsea and in severe danger of failing to progress from Champions League Group E.
Benitez's transfer policy has also frequently raised eyebrows, with Berger alluding to a lack of quality throughout the squad.
And the former Czech Republic international told BBC Radio 5 live: "He did ever so well for Liverpool but in my opinion, for him time is up and they should change their manager as soon as possible.
"He has spent so much money over the years - he did have success a few years ago but right now, for me, Liverpool do not look a side who can win competitions."


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