London, Nov 25: Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has raised questions about the club's American owners' knowledge of the European transfer system.

The Spaniard's relationship with Tom Hicks and George Gillett has reportedly come under strain because of Benitez's desire to strengthen the team.

''It's clear Mr Hicks wants the best for the club. So do I,'' Benitez was quoted as saying in the News of the World.

''We have been here for a long time and we know what the passion of football means and what the transfer market in Europe means.'' Benitez, whose side beat Newcastle United 3-0 yesterday to re-ignite their Premier League challenge, said he was not asking for big money.

''It's not a draft system. We have free players available now,'' he said. ''I'm not talking about players that cost money.

''We need to talk to the agents now, if not we will lose targets.

In the summer, the players will be more expensive. I have not been talking about spending but doing the opposite.

''We have brought money back. We brought in 26 million this year and you can see the value of the squad.

''We had a meeting on the day of the Arsenal game which was really positive. After this, something changed.

''They told me to be focused on coaching and training because Rick Parry will be looking after signing players.''

UNI