Faz I don't know the details like you but I think you may be right something was going on there betwen Benetiz and Alonso. But of course we don't know Benitez side of the story. I do know though he won the european cup and those days are a long long way away with the current encumbent.
It's tiresome. People have very short memories. When Alonso first signed for us, he said he would like to return to Spain one day. His own words. Now whether he wanted to go then or Benitez hurried him along a bit, he was going anyway. I think he went when he wanted to go. It was clear he would only be here 5 or 6 years max from when he signed if he planned to return to Spain.
Alonso had one absolutely great season. One good season, two average and one poor from memory. Unfortunately for those fans who as above have such poor memories, he left on a high, and those fans can only remember the great.
It's worth noting that there has been a study into when players have good seasons. It turns out they have a much better season than usual when they are looking for a new contract (I doubt that surprises many). I suppose this would also apply if you're looking for a move, as Alonso was. I would have liked him to stay, but it was his choice.
Skrtel has just had one of his best seasons. New contract or transfer? If he wants to go, then sell him for a high fee.