Babel: “No hints in training from Rafa”

Dutch starlet, Ryan Babel, explained Rafa’s mysterious ways to the Liverpool Echo and vented a little frustration in the lack of starting opportunities the £11million signing is getting at Anfield, but ultimately sounded happy with life in the Premier League. 

“I would obviously relish more playing time. I am ambitious and want to play. I am sometimes a bit disappointed not to play but I appreciate Benitez’s ideas, he adopts a rotation policy, I knew that beforehand. He has his own special ideas.” he said.

“He announces his starting XI one hour before kick-off. He will never give a hint at training whether you start or not.

“But I don’t think it is awkward for me not to be on the pitch for the full 90 minutes.” added Ryan, who has hit seven goals this season from 31 outings, with the majority being from the bench.

“I can’t physically cope with the terrific pace of the Premier League. I invariably face a tall task, even against the so-called small teams.

“We play compact as a team and must be on the move constantly, closing down opponents all over the park. I must provide cover for the left-back but I never shirk my duties anymore and nobody will ever catch me napping.” he added.