RAFA: IT'S BEEN A GREAT WEEK

Steve Hunter 24 February 2007 Rafael Benitez was full of praise for his squad after the 4-0 win over Sheffield United and said it has been a great week for Liverpool Football Club.

After the midweek win in Barcelona Benitez made seven changes to his team against the Blades and admitted he was very pleased with the performances of the players who came in and took their chance. "It has been a great week for the club and for the supporters and we are really happy," commented Benitez. "Playing in a match like this is always difficult on the back of a Champions League match but my players' did very well and the understanding was good between them. "We knew we would have to be patient today and pass the ball quickly, and I said to them that it might take a set piece or a penalty for us to open the scoring. Robbie Fowler did well and for me he is one of the best penalty takers around." Benitez was also pleased with the debut of Javier Mascherano and believes he will be a good player for the club. "Mascherano was really good and after having some problems at the start he showed his qualities and everyone could see his commitment," added Benitez. The Liverpool manager also revealed Pepe Reina wasn't involved because he had been up half of the previous night because his wife is expecting a baby.