Benitez is set to be busy in the summer transfer window

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez says he will not be used as a pawn in the battle between feuding co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

Benitez has met twice with Hicks this week, but the Spaniard insists he will not be favouring either camp.

"I have not spoken to them about the ongoing situation, only how to improve and how to progress," said Benitez.

"We need to work together, and he (Hicks) agreed with me that we must talk together. Everything is positive."

Benitez spoke with Hicks about possible transfer targets but says Gillett has also been made aware of his plans to strengthen the squad.

"George knows about what was said, everybody knows. Everyone has the same information," said Benitez.

Gillett and Hicks are in the middle of a bitter power struggle.

The American duo took control of Liverpool in a deal worth �218.9m in February 2007 but the relationship between the two men broke down some time ago, with the pair no longer on speaking terms.

Their falling-out has led to a war of words breaking out and, in a television interview last week, Hicks defiantly outlined his own plans for the future of the club as well again calling for the resignation of chief executive Rick Parry.

Benitez is aware of the boardroom unrest but says his only concern is the team, adding he is happy to work with Parry as he looks to bring in fresh faces.

"If we want to go forward and sign players, we have to all work together," he said.

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"Rick Parry will be working, too, and if everyone works hard and we work together, it will be easier."

Liverpool have already been linked with Aston Villa captain Gareth Barry, Manchester City midfielder Michael Johnson and Blackburn's David Bentley.

"We have talked about targets to sign," said Benitez.

"I do not doubt we will achieve those targets. I have a scouting department that is working and progressing. Now I have told the owners how we need to progress.

"Clearly, I expect agreement on recruiting players for the summer. We are ready now for going forward.

"Now we have had a meeting, we are in a better position. We need to think about our games at Birmingham and Chelsea, but we must also think about improving the squad."