‘Shocked’ Liverpool warned by manager Benitez
August 16, 2008
An underperforming and lethargic Liverpool, who were lucky to have drawn their third round UEFA qualifying away leg against Standard Liege in wake of their performance in the match, have been warned by manager Rafael Benitez, who credited their performance to a ’sloppy’ defense and a ‘lazy’ midfield.
Benitez has reportedly warned the squad of a possible bad start to the Premiership, which begins tomorrow.
Benitez said that the team was lucky not to have conceded any goals and still luckier not to have lost the match. He added that everyone in the team understood this and he believes the side will put in a better performance in the home leg at Anfield, which is only a fortnight away.
The only creditable performance from the Reds came from goalie Pepe Reina, who saved a penalty in the first half, and made another fine save when he punched the ball out from inside of the goal line.
The manager said that fitness problems are also a part of the present problem with Steven Gerrard, Xabi Alonso and Yossi Benayoun doubtful for the next tie.
Liverpool are to meet a new-look Sunderland squad in their first away match tomorrow of the Barclaycard Premier League. If the happenings occurring in this transfer season are to be noticed, Sunderland is a team to reckon with, especially under present manager Roy Keane.
With the start of Premiership only a day away, Liverpool will need to come out all guns blazing and perform the same, as they did when they won the UEFA Championships two years back.
Posted in Liverpool, Premier League
