LIVERPOOL : Harry Kewell's time as a Liverpool player will come to an end at the end of this season, manager Rafael Benitez confirmed on Thursday.

Benitez hinted that Kewell, whose five-year stay at Anfield has been marred by recurring injury problems, had turned down an offer to stay at the club on reduced wages.

"We have tried to come to an agreement with the player and his agent, but that has not been possible," Benitez said. "Kewell will leave the club at the end of his contract."

Kewell, 29, has not played for Liverpool since the club's 2-1 FA Cup exit to Championship side Barnsley on February 16. - AFP/de