Liverpool Football Club News

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Rafa hails Mascherano form

07 Dec 2009 - 13:38:44

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Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez believes the real Javier Mascherano is beginning to re-emerge following a below-par season by his recent high standards.

On Sunday, Benitez revealed that the club had opened negotiations with Mascherano over a new long-term contract.

The Argentina international was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona during the summer transfer window.

But following confirmation of the talks, Benitez has spoken of his delight at the defensive midfielder's recent form.

"He is coming back to the level we know. He had some (injury) problems at the beginning of the season but he's now playing really well," he told the club's official website.

"We're really pleased because we have the Mascherano we signed."

Meanwhile, Benitez has urged Mascherano to add more goals to his game following his deflected effort in the recent Merseyside derby victory over Everton.

"Since the first day when we signed Javier we've talked about goals because he's not bad at shooting from outside the box," he continued.

"He can do well on this, so he has to keep trying. If he does, he'll score more goals.

"He tries in training. He doesn't score too many when you compare it to (Steven) Gerrard, but still it's a good and a different option for us."