LONDON:Liverpool and Ireland legend Ronnie Whelan believes the end of Rafael Benitez's reign at Anfield is in sight after the club's stuttering start to the season.

Whelan, who won six English titles in his playing days at Anfield, has accused Benitez of putting success in Europe before the club's quest for Premier League glory. And he believes Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Fulham, which left Liverpool nine points adrift of league leaders Chelsea, could signal the beginning of the end for the Spaniard.

"It's all gone wrong with the manager and he's shown exactly where his priorities lie," Whelan said. "He wants to win the European Cup so he can get a job in Europe." Whelan's criticism was sparked by Benitez's decision to substitute Fernando Torres at Craven Cottage because of concern over the groin injury the Spanish striker is carrying.

Benitez desperately needs Torres to be fit for Wednesday's Champions League trip to Lyon, where a defeat would probably end Liverpool's chances of progressing to the group stages.

Benitez defended his decision to withdraw Torres, pointing out that there had been a major doubt over whether the striker would play any role in the match.