Rafa defends City's Samba stars

22 February 2009 10:22
iverpool manager Rafa Benitez has defended Manchester City's Brazilian stars ahead of meeting Mark Hughes' side on Sunday.[LNB] City, who travel to Anfield, are hoping to emerge as footballing heavyweights following the summer arrival of billionaire owners the Abu Dhabi United Group.[LNB]But the club have endured a difficult season, recording only one win on their travels, and the likes of Samba duo Robinho and Elano have come in for criticism.[LNB]But Benitez, who is desperate to defeat City in order to close the eight-point gap to Premier League leaders Manchester United, has offered his backing.[LNB]"It is more difficult for the Brazilian players because the style of football is so different," Benitez said in the Daily Star on Sunday.[LNB]Ability"In England it's more physical. But Robinho is scoring goals. He's is playing well. He has ability and is showing that ability on the pitch.[LNB]"Sometimes he can play badly but that's the same for all the players."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports