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Benitez banking on Anfield victory

01/11/2005

Liverpool play Anderlecht tonight with coach Rafa Benitez targeting all three points that would seal qualification to the next round for the Merseysiders.

After an impressive start to their Champions' League defence, completely at odds with the Reds' patchy league form, Liverpool welcome an Anderlecht side that has lost a record ten consecutive games in the competition.

Benitez feels that the opportunity to continue their European form and the chance to conclude matters ahead of the knockout stages next year, means Liverpool have a valuable chance at Anfield tonight to shape their season.

"The important thing is to win and then concentrate on other things," he commented.

"If we get there earlier, we'll have done a good job when you consider when we began this competition," he added, alluding to Liverpool's entrance in the competition at the first round of qualifying.

The former Valencia coach also sought to emphasise the role fellow Spaniard Fernando Morientes could have in turning the Reds' season around.

"He is an intelligent player and, when he is fit, Fernando can play to a very good level," he said.

"Sometimes it is difficult to see the confidence in a player, but I know that he is trying to impress."

Underlining his compatriot's "hunger" to succeed – something said to be missing from many of Liverpool's insipid league efforts – Benitez said the side would go all out for victory in tonight's group G match.

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