Rafa ready for battle as Reds go to Bolton

RAFAEL BENITEZ has called on his Liverpool players to show character when they face Bolton — and has appealed for protection for his skilful players from referee Phil Dowd.

The Liverpool manager makes no secret of his dislike of Bolton’s physical game and admits his teams have had enough problems already from Sam Allardyce’s men.

The Bolton boss is well aware of Liverpool’s dislike of afternoons at the Reebok and has promised more of the same tomorrow.