Source: Liverpool_Echo
Stay cool, Rafa Benitez tells Liverpool FC players
RAFA BENITEZ has demanded his players detach themselves from derby day hysteria and use their heads to maintain Liverpool's momentum.[LNB]Meetings between Liverpool and Everton have been littered with a string of red cards in recent seasons, with the Blues picking up the vast majority.[LNB]But it would be wrong to say the Reds have not got caught up in the moment either, as Benitez has seen several of his squad members receive their marching orders, the most recent being Lucas at Goodison Park 12 months ago.[LNB]So while Benitez wants to see plenty of fire in Liverpool's play, he is anxious for the game not to descend into frenzy and has warned his squad to make sure they stay away from any needless skirmishes.[LNB]'It is important that we have some passion,' he said. 'But I remember the last time that I substituted Steven (Gerrard) (in the October 2007 derby) and people were criticising me.[LNB]'But I said something that was very clear. If you analyse things properly, it is fine. You have to play with passion but you also have to play with your brain.[LNB]'If you play with your brain and not just your heart, you will always be better and you will always control the game in a better way.
