Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has issued a thinly veiled broadside at striker Djibril Cisse.

Cisse, who has been linked with a move to Marseille, admitted last week that he was prepared to leave the club in January unless he was given more first team opportunities.

“I’ve spoken to all of the players, some who are used a lot and some who are used differently,” said Benitez.

“They all know there are a lot of games to play.

“At one point around Christmas, I expect to play about three games in eight days. There is also the Champions League and Carling Cup to think about.

“This is a big club, so every player here must be ready. Maybe you will be used in a week, maybe it will be in three weeks.

“If a player isn’t ready when he’s needed it means he hasn’t the mentality and attitude for a big club.”

Cisse has spent much of the season on the bench for Liverpool this season and he has talked about leaving the club as he looks to protect his place in France’s World Cup squad.