Johny Vaughan recounts a chance encounter with Rafa Benitez during a family holiday in Sardinia. While Benitez was trying to sign Gareth Barry, he became involved in childcare matters, offering to take Vaughan's children to the beach. Vaughan's ex-wife expressed concern upon learning that their daughter was being looked after by a three-year-old, not realizing it was the football manager. Benitez, engaged on the phone, still managed to ensure the children's safety, illustrating his capable, fun-loving personality beyond football management.
'I heard him trying to sign Gareth Barry. Our daughters became really friendly and my son is called Raf. They wanted to go down to the beach, and Rafa said he'd take them.'
'My ex-wife later asked where our daughter Tabitha was and I said she was on the beach. She goes, Well, who's looking after her? to which I said, Raf. She screamed, He's three years old! Then I explained it was Rafa Benitez and they were in great hands.'
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