Wigan up next : We must win!

Rafa enters the new year knowing Liverpool's destiny, and his own, rests on the next few months. The Reds boss sends his team out to face relegation-haunted Wigan at Anfield knowing only victory will keep his side in touch with the English Premier League leaders.

Just as important for the Merseysiders is keeping themselves clear of the chasing pack of Manchester City, Everton and Aston Villa, who want to grab fourth spot. If Liverpool fail to stay in the top four, Tom Hicks and George Gillett will see their already-strained financial plans seriously damaged. And that would see Benitez under even more pressure. He is not going to be allowed to spend big this month, with the future of Javier Mascherano no nearer a conclusion, with his loan ending in the summer.

Come on Reds!