Rafa: Sammy idea 'an inspiration'

Lee returns to Bolton as Liverpool assistant manager on Saturday for the first time since leaving the Reebok hotseat.

He does so with a glowing endorsement from his new boss, who told Liverpoolfc.tv that Lee had brought 'positivity and passion' to the dressing room.

One example of the Scouser's impact is the installation of iconic images from the club's past around Melwood, as well as quotes from the likes of Diego Maradona, Johan Cruyff and John Terry waxing lyrical about the Kop.

Benitez said: "This is a good message for the players - to see the legends when they are at Melwood. It can be an inspiration for them.

"Sammy has brought the spirit and mentality of the former players who know everything about the club.

"He has passion and is a very, very positive person. He's been a very good addition."

Liverpool visit the Reebok on Saturday lunchtime hoping for a repeat of the 3-1 scoreline in last season's corresponding fixture.

Benitez believes Bolton pose a different threat under Gary Megson than in previous seasons.

He said: "Clearly they have been very difficult to beat in the last few years. They try to play better football now but it is still tough. We will have to manage in a different way.

"They were really direct and they still are sometimes, but now they can also play it on the floor.

"They're a different team - maybe nicer to watch."

Liverpool go into this weekend's round of fixtures level with leaders Chelsea. Arsenal are six points off the pace, while champions Manchester United trail by eight.

However, Benitez is adamant that no one at Melwood is relaxing.

"The gap is not really important at this stage," said the Spaniard. "It's better to be ahead but it's too soon for it to be important.

"I always say the same: it's a long race."