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| NEWS STORY |
RAFA ON THE DERBY, KEANE AND GERRARD
Steve Hunter
27 September 2008
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Rafael Benitez takes time out of his preparations for today's Merseyside derby with Everton to discuss the game with journalists at Melwood. Here's what he had to say.
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Journalist: How would you describe the overall derby day experience Rafa?
Always the derby is important. I remember in Spain there was Real Madrid v Barceloa, Real Betis v Sevilla and Real Madrid v Atletico Madrid, but this one is very special. You can always see a lot of passion and the occasion is really good. This game is totally different for me compared to Real Madrid v Barcelona. When the supporters shout at me I don't understand them so it's easier for me to concentre on my team. When I was in Spain I could understand if people were insulting me so sometimes you can lose your concentration. For the players also it is is important. Playing in a derby you can feel something different as a manager, and I'm sure it's the same for the players. You have to control your passion and you have to think about the game both physically and mentally and try to win it. At the end of the day you are talking about three points and that's what we want on Saturday.
Journalist: Do you see similarities when you play Everton compared to the atmosphere at a Liverpool v Manchester United match?
In some ways it's similar. The passion is similar in the stands but it's a different situation. When we meet United we know we are playing against one of the best teams and we are playing to get to the top of the table. Against Everton it's rivalry against our neighbours so it's not the same.
Journalist: Are you surprised that the likes of Fernando Torres, Robbie Keane and Dirk Kuyt are experiencing something of a goal drought so far this season?
They are improving and I can see that in every training session. I am really pleased with Torres who is working hard and we know he will score goals. Keane is a quality player and when you talk about Kuyt you know his work-rate is amazing. Sometimes you just need a little bit of luck in front of goal and they will score goals.
Journalist: Is Robbie Keane trying too hard to get that first goal?
It's true he is trying too hard but nobody can doubt his quality, and his first goal will come soon. Hopefully it will on Saturday!
Journalist: What did doing the double over Everton mean to you and your staff last season?
We were really happy because we were doing our job properly and we were also happy for the fans. We want to see our fans and half of the city very happy next week.
Journalist: How would you assess your team's start to the season?
I think we are improving. At the moment I would say we are playing at 60 per cent so we can improve soon then we can be closer to our possibilities.
Journalist: David Moyes added to his squad before the transfer window. How would you assess his squad at the moment?
They are a good team and have some good players like Arteta, Cahill, Yakubu, Lescott and Osman. They also have Fellaini and Saha who are good players.
Journalist: Is Fellaini a threat to you after his performance for Standard Liege in the Champions League?
We know he is good in the air so we will need to be careful. Lescott is also good in the air so we will try to control them.
Journalist: They have struggled this season so far so is this a good time to play them?
They are making some mistakes in defence so hopefully they will do the same on Saturday then after if they can be good again then that's fine. We want to be on top of them and are looking to win the game.
Journalist: Last season you took Steven Gerrard off because you said he was showing too much passion. Is it hard to control that especially in a derby?
I think the balance is the key. Last season we were playing against 10 men so we needed to keep our control and keep good positions. Lucas came on and had the shot that won us the penalty. Lucas was more calm and relaxed and he came on and played well. It was an important decision for the team.
Journalist: Is it written in the stars that maybe Steven Gerrard will score his 100th goal and Robbie Keane will get his first in a red shirt?
That would be really good for them. Everybody is talking about Keane having a good record against Everton which is very positive. It would be nice if Gerrard could score his goal at Goodison Park because it would be good for him and good for us.
Journalist: You changed your whole team against Crewe in midweek. Was there any performances in that match from anyone that gives you a selection headache on Saturday?
There were one or two players who played really well. Everybody is talking about Agger who scored a fantastic goal and Sami Hyypia played well. I have different options.
Click here to listen to the match live from 3pm BST>>
You can listen to the derby live on Liverpoolfc.tv. Click here to sign up for an e-Season Ticket>>
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