Source: Daily_Mail
Reina has been my rock during difficult time, says Liverpool boss Benitez
Safe hands: Pepe Reina (yellow) has been Mr Reliable despite Liverpool's slump[LNB]Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has hailed goalkeeper Pepe Reina during a difficult period for the club.[LNB]Knocked out of the Champions League, off the pace in the Barclays Premier League and dismissed from the FA Cup by lower league Reading, there has been little to cheer about recently.[LNB]However, Benitez admits in the midst of all the gloom, Reina has been a shining light.[LNB]The Spanish goalkeeper's clean sheet in the draw against Wolves in midweek was his fourth in six league games and this despite a nagging back problem.[LNB]Benitez said: 'Pepe has had problems with injury but his mentality is really good.[LNB]'He is not just a good goalkeeper, I think he shows great character and is always pushing his team-mates.[LNB]'He is a leader on the pitch too. He can see the big picture, the full pitch, and then can give advice to the defenders.[LNB] 'Pepe watches the game and can then manage the defenders, especially the movement of the full-backs.[LNB]'It is part of his job and he is doing well but he can still improve in this particular area and it is something he will do in his time here.'[LNB]Liverpool are looking to chalk up their fourth successive home win when Bolton are the visitors tomorrow.[LNB]Midfielder Javier Mascherano insists winning in front of their own fans is key to clinching a place in the top four.[LNB] Home runner: Mascherano (left) hopes Anfield can become a fortress once again[LNB]He said: 'If we can be strong at Anfield, it will be good for our confidence. We need to be positive.[LNB]'Whether you are winning or losing, it is no good thinking too much about it. You must live in the present and we have to win the game against Bolton.'[LNB]Mascherano is thrilled to be back in action after his recent four-match suspension, which coincided with a medial ligament injury.[LNB]He said: 'I am pleased to be playing again and I feel good. Now I have the chance to help my team-mates, so I will try to do that.[LNB]'It is always disappointing when you miss games like I did but you cannot think about the past.'[LNB]The bonus for Liverpool at Wolves was the early return of Steven Gerrard following a hamstring problem. He did not suffer any reaction and looks certain to face Bolton.[LNB]But Fernando Torres (knee) and Yossi Benayoun (rib) will again be sidelined through injury.[LNB] Competition: Win tickets for Liverpool v Bolton - courtesy of TurespanaBolton boss Owen Coyle vows to go on the attack at Anfield Benitez wants right-back to help Reds get right back in the race for top fourWolves 0 Liverpool 0: Benitez failing to impress Old Lady as Reds are heldLiverpool set to snub £7m Dinamo offer for Yossi BenayounJuventus to name Gentile as interim boss as Rafa rumours fail to go awayLIVERPOOL FC
