Rafael Benitez today thanked Paco Herrera for all his hard work at Liverpool as the Spaniard finally left Melwood to take up the role of Technical Director at Espanyol.

Herrera joined Liverpool in 2004 as part of Rafa's new coaching contingent and served as the club's Head Scout and coach of the reserve team. He leaves the club to return to Spain to be closer to his family.

It is reported that Valencia coach Eduardo Macia is set to replace Paco Herrera on Rafael Benitez's back room staff. Rafa Benitez admits Eduardo Macia, who he worked with at Valencia is an option.

"We have a number of options and he is one. But Paco is working with us until July 1 and we won't be making an appointment until after this. It's too early to say who'll be replacing him," said Benitez.

Macia last week rejected a new contract to stay at Valencia.