標題: RAFA PLEASED TO WELCOME BABEL BACK [打印本頁] 作者: puma8811 時間: 2008-8-21 08:27 AM 標題: RAFA PLEASED TO WELCOME BABEL BACK
Rafael Benitez hopes to have Ryan Babel available for selection for this weekend's Anfield clash with Middlesbrough.
The Dutch winger is due back at Melwood after Holland's elimination from the Olympic football competition and could earn an instant recall to the Reds side for their first home match of the new campaign
"It's bad news for Holland that they went out but it means we get a player back," said the Liverpool manager.
"Hopefully he can be here either today or tomorrow to train with the rest of his team-mates.
"He has been playing important games so I don't think there will be any problems with his fitness, but our doctor and fitness coaches will check with him and then we will see about the weekend. I am sure he will be okay. If he trains normally then he can be available for Middlesbrough."
Having spent a season acclimatising to life in English football, Benitez feels Babel can have a big part to play in Liverpool's quest for honours this year.
"He's one year older and more experienced now," he added. "He knows the club, he knows his team-mates and so I'm sure this could be a big season for him."
