Hard work pays off for Liverpool

Liverpool’s success this season has been built on a foundation of hard work and a strong team spirit, according to boss Kenny Dalglish.

The Anfield giants can move up to fifth in the Premier League with a convincing victory over Fulham on Monday night, and are unbeaten in five matches against Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea so far this term.

But in spite of this good form, Dalglish believes there is more to come from his team and hopes their formidable work ethic is once again in evidence at Craven Cottage.

“We’ve beaten some good teams and we’ve deserved it on the day, but we are still a work in progress,” he said.

“We are plodding on, and how the players go about their work and their quality will give them their reward.”

“The fact is, even though they have gone about things the same way away as they have at home, we haven’t got the results our performances have deserved at Anfield.”

“But away from home, maybe we’ve had that little bit of luck that helps you go over the line.”

“So we’ll continue to work, and remember how we got those rewards – by working for each other and playing for each other.”

One player Dalglish feels embodies the attitude he is looking for is winger Maxi Rodriguez, who has scored 10 goals in his past nine appearances despite failing to command a regular first-team place.

“Maxi is someone you admire,” the Scot said. “A lot of people can look and learn from him, and believe me, I’m tempted to play him in every game.”

“He has a fantastic recent goalscoring record, he’s an intelligent footballer who must have been some player five years ago when he was in his prime.”

“He might be getting a bit towards my age now, but he is still a clever, intelligent footballer. He knows how to play and he knows how to finish.”

“Maxi and (Craig) Bellamy, along with (Jamie) Carragher, are the elder statesmen and the way they look after themselves, the way they train and the way they prepare is a great example to everybody.”