Yossi confident ahead of Benfica clash

(GSM) – Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun is confident Liverpool can put their Birmingham City frustration behind them by reaching the semi-finals of the Europa League at the expense of Benfica on Thursday.

While the Israeli international admits there was a lot of disappointment in the dressing room following the 1-1 draw at St Andrews, he claims the Reds will now give everything they have got in front of an expectant Kop to overturn the 2-1 first-leg defecit.

“We are very disappointed with the draw, especially as we went 1-0 up and conceded a bad goal,” said Benayoun.

“We missed a few good chances and on another day we could have scored three or four, but all we can do now is think about the next game which is a very important one against Benfica.”

“We have to play much better and have the belief we can do it. We are only 2-1 down and we have the away goal which could be crucial. I’m sure we can beat them.”

“European nights are always great at Anfield in front of our supporters and we hope to give them another special night.”

Meanwhile, Benayoun insists the Reds won’t be giving up on their fight for the top-four, adding: “We have made it harder for ourselves now but all we can do is win the five games and hopefully the other teams will drop points.”

“Birmingham are a hard team to play against and they work very hard. They are having a good season. We knew we needed to win but we have to keep going.”

“We won’t give up and we will keep trying to make the top-four.”