Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez hailed the contribution of captain Steven Gerrard after he became the leading English scorer in European competition in the 3-1 victory over Unirea Urziceni.

LIVERPOOL manager Rafael Benitez was pleased with the character shown by his side in their 3-1 victory over Unirea Urziceni in Romania last night, a victory which sealed a 4-1 aggregate win and a place in the last 16 of the Europa League.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has warned the club’s Europa League campaign may be something of a war of attrition.

Unirea Urziceni coach Roni Levy hopes to expose Liverpool’s weaknesses in their Europa League last-32 tie at Anfield tomorrow.

Rafael Benitez praised match-winner Mark Gonzalez after tonight’s Champions League qualifying victory over Maccabi Haifa – then revealed he is close to signing a new striker.