by News of the World

Liverpool will delay talks about Jamie Carragher's future until next season.

The Anfield stalwart has just over a year left on his current deal, but he has agreed with manager Rafa Benitez to postpone a decision on a new contract.



Benitez has moved to tie down the heartbeat of his side in recent months, with keeper Pepe Reina this week joining Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres and Dirk Kuyt in committing himself to a lengthy term at Anfield.

But veteran defender Carragher is keen to wait and see if he's still considered a first choice next season.

Although Liverpool will keep the door open if Carragher, 34, wants the security of a longer deal, they're respecting his wishes and won't ask him to commit himself beyond 2011.

Benitez said: "There are no talks planned with Carra. We're very comfortable with the situation and this is how he would prefer it. We're happy to wait.

"When you talk about players over 30 it's not the same as those who are 25 or goalkeepers, who have a long-term contract.

"With Carra, we will wait and see.

"Jamie has been very clear he wants to focus for now on doing his job."

Carragher recently told Sport of the World he'll consider a move to the American MLS when his Liverpool career ends.

Much will depend on how regularly he's playing at Anfield, and whether he feels he can still do himself justice at the highest level.

Meanwhile, Fabio Aurelio is unlikely to extend his Liverpool stay following his latest injury setback.

The Brazilian is sidelined with a thigh problem and is out of contract in the summer.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez admits he is concerned by the fitness issues that have dogged the defender as recurring problems make it difficult for him to justify sanctioning a new deal.



"We have to analyse the situation because he's had too many injuries," said Benitez.

"If he comes back early we can look at it again."

However, Pepe Reina and Javier Mascherano are both on the brink of signing new contracts.

"Mascherano realises the club is going forward. With Daniel Agger, Dirk Kuyt, Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard also committed here, the future is good," added Benitez.