Rafa: Let's end 2009 on a high

2nd Feb 2010 - Latest News

Rafael Benitez has told his players to end 2009 in the best possible way - by taking three points against Aston Villa.

The Reds finish the calendar year with a tricky test against a top-four rival on Tuesday, and the boss admits a win would send out a message for the rest of the season.

"I think it's always important to win and if we can do that against Aston Villa it would be fantastic," Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"Villa are doing really well so it's an important game for us.

"Always when you go to Villa Park you know it will be difficult so we have to be ready and we will have to perform well."

Villa beat Liverpool 3-1 at Anfield in August and Benitez has told his defenders to be on their toes as Martin O'Neill's side carry a real threat from set pieces.

"Losing 3-1 was a harsh scoreline because we were much better in the second-half before we gave a penalty away," he added.

"We know they are dangerous from set pieces. They have some big players and we will have to be careful.

"They have some good players like Ashley Young, Gabriel Agbonlahor, James Milner, who is playing really well, and John Carew. They are very dangerous in attack.

"They have spent some money this season and they are a good team. They have some good players with pace but so do we."

Author: Steve Hunter
Tagged: aston villa , benitez , rafa benitez , rafael benitez , villa , villa park



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Ashley Young is suspended picked up 5yh booking of season in last game. We must attack them and win this game.
shosaone
28th Dec 2009 10:28
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