Rafael Benitez admits Liverpool have underachieved this season but insists they are still in the hunt for both Europa League glory and a top four finish.
The boss accepts recent setbacks at Wigan and Lille have left the Reds with it all to do and has challenged his side to show some real fight - starting against Portsmouth on Monday night.
"I don't feel under pressure. I am disappointed for the season but we can still fight and still improve," Benitez said.
"Against Portsmouth we have to prove this determination and then afterwards against Lille.
"We know the season is not good enough. Every game will be important and the next one against Portsmouth is the most important as we try to get close to the top four.
"It is clear we cannot lose too many points so we have to start winning, beginning with this game.
"We know every game has to be like this but we have to have a good mentality to approach games in this way.
"Then we can go forward and start thinking about the Europa League when we have a 'cup final' against Lille. Every game in a knockout competition is like a final. That is the way."
Watch some great goals from past matches against Portsmouth>>
Author: Paul Hassall
Tagged:
benitez
, lille
, portsmouth
, rafa
, rafael benitez
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13th Mar 2010 15:11