Source: Liverpool_Echo
Rafa Benitez rallying cry as Liverpool FC go all out to avoid crisis
RAFA BENITEZ today challenged his revitalised players to deliver an emphatic performance against Lyon and nip suggestions of an Anfield crisis in the bud.
Having seen his previously free-scoring side hit a drought in the last three games, all of which have been lost, the Liverpool manager knows a positive response is required.
But rather than worry about the danger Lyon have brought with them across the Channel, Benitez feels the demands of the Champions League will bring the best out in the Reds.
He will hand a recall to skipper Steven Gerrard, who missed the loss at Sunderland with an adductor injury, and is likely to restore Javier Mascherano to his midfield.
Good news is tempered by Fernando Torres' continued absence and a hamstring problem that will rule Albert Riera out but Benitez is confident of a bold show, having overseen an enthusiastic training session at Melwood yesterday.
'The team will be fresh,' said Benitez. 'We had some players coming back from internationals (at Sunderland) and I think they were a little bit tired.
'But now everyone has to be okay and the extra motivation of the Champions League will be good. Also when the team needs something, the fans are right behind them.
