Rafa talks up value of ‘crucial’ period

LIVERPOOL manager Rafael Benitez begins what he believes is a “crucial” period for his side with the 213th Merseyside derby at home to Everton today.

With a midweek visit to Arsenal and then a trip to Manchester City a fortnight tomorrow those results will go a long way to defining their season.

However, first up is the visit of Liverpool’s neighbours where a win would lift Benitez’s side into the top four with current incumbents Tottenham kicking off in the evening.