in Rafa we trust

Yes, I am. I truly believe in him. One more thing that makes me so sure is the article below from www.liverpoolfc.tv (official LFC website). I really admire Rafa for backing Riise. I mean, Riise is a great player, but unfortunately he was careless and created that own goal against Chelsea in Champions League. I saw some people (who supported LFC) scolded him…I think he didn’t deserve it, because of what he’s done for the past few years in Liverpool. It must be hard for Riise, and I’m really glad Rafa backed him. I think that’s what a good leader (coach) should do.

RAFA: RIISE DESPERATE TO BOUNCE BACK Paul Eaton 26 April 2008
	Rafael Benitez has revealed John Arne Riise is desperate to make amends for his own goal howler against Chelsea in midweek.
The Norwegian full back’s injury time header into his own net has given Chelsea the advantage going into the second leg of the Champions League semi-final on Wednesday night, but Benitez has backed the 27-year-old to bounce back.”I have spoken to John and he is desperate to play,” said the Reds’ boss. “You cannot change anything just by talking. It’s best he comes straight back in. The main thing is that he scores at Stamford Bridge – in the right goal!” Riise is likely to start at St Andrews today as Liverpool go in search of the one point which will guarantee Champions League football once again next season. With Fabio Aurelio sidelined, Riise is likely to be one of a number of changes to the side which faced Chelsea as Benitez rests his key men ahead of the second leg. “I can only think about my team and their needs,” he added. “I know there has been criticism of what we did at Fulham, but that is of no concern to me. “You are responsible for your own luck, and you cannot say we must play a certain team because you are in trouble. Other sides have different situations. Those in mid-table may choose to blood young players and nobody will criticise that. “I will use the players I believe will be good enough to win. I did that at Fulham and we won. Everybody wants to play every game. I was talking with two or three big names and they said: ‘I want to play, I want to play’, but I will have to analyse each one and then decide. “The most important thing is the team and the club so I cannot say yes to everyone as it will mean I am taking risks. “There are some players who know that they need to show quality and character if they want to stay at a top club like Liverpool. “That means the last few games are a challenge for them and they need to take what opportunities come their way. “We still need a point to be fourth. I cannot see Everton winning all three of their games, but we need to make sure for ourselves as quickly as possible.” Damien Plessis is likely to be involved today after an impressive debut at Arsenal while Emiliano Insua could also taste first team action for the first time this season.

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