Benitez urges Reds focus

21 March 2009 10:43
Rafa Benitez has told his Liverpool players to use the victory over Manchester United as a springboard for success.[LNB] The Reds came from behind to record a stunning 4-1 win at Old Trafford and Benitez recognises how significant the result was for everyone at the club.[LNB]However, he does not want his men to waste the momentum and hopes Liverpool will be fully focused when they face Aston Villa on Sunday.[LNB]"I know how much winning at Manchester United means to our fans. You only had to be on the motorway coming home with them last weekend to realise that," said Benitez.[LNB]"But we must put that result behind us now and concentrate on winning against Villa.[LNB]"We are four points behind Manchester United and they have a game in hand, so only by winning every game we have left can we have a say in the title race."[LNB]Difficult Aston Villa have mounted a strong challenge for UEFA Champions League qualification this season and Benitez has been impressed by Martin O'Neill's side.[LNB]But the Spaniard has not been too surprised by their recent wobble and hopes to pile on more pressure at Anfield.[LNB]He said: "It is very difficult for them to continue to play at the same high level for a long time.[LNB]"The other teams are top sides and very strong. Villa have had a fantastic season and they are in a very good position, and they must try to stay in contention until the end.[LNB]"But Arsenal are playing better and the situation will become difficult for Villa. But it is still a good season for them."[LNB]Benitez added: "The players know they must win every game, that is the only way we can stay close to Manchester United.[LNB]"It is important to manage expectations. We must talk only of beating Aston Villa and see where that takes us."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports