Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez hailed the performance of Dirk Kuyt after the Dutchman’s double helped keep the pressure on Manchester United today.

REPUBLIC of Ireland B manager Pat Devlin has paid a glowing tribute to Steve Staunton, describing him as a “fantastic professional” who will learn from his bruising experience as Irish manager and has a “great future” in the game.

Left-back Leighton Baines is a major doubt for Wigan’s make-or-break relegation-decider against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane in Sunday’s final Barclays Premiership match of the season.

Dirk Kuyt scored a goal in each half as Liverpool strolled to victory and sent Wigan closer to the relegation zone.