Source: SKY_Sports
Rafa explains Johnson absence
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has explained Glen Johnson's omission from his squad for the pre-season friendly defeat by Rapid Vienna.
The £18million summer signing from Portsmouth was not involved in Austria as the Reds were undone 1-0 thanks to Steffen Hofmann's free-kick.
England right-back Johnson was sidelined by an Achilles injury, but Benitez is confident he will be back in action soon.
The Spaniard told the club's official website: "He has a small problem with his Achilles tendon but it is not serious.
"Him not playing was a precaution."
Despite the defeat, the Anfield boss was impressed with the displays of Spanish youngsters Daniel Ayala and Daniel Pacheco.
He added: "I don't like to talk too much about individuals but both players were doing well.
"They're both young and when they come with the first team you always want to see something different.
"I am pleased for them and also with Jay Spearing because he played as a left full-back as we have some problems in this position at the moment."
