Balague on Benayoun

Liverpool take on Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final tonight and for one man the return to the Spanish capital holds fantastic memories.

Yossi Benayoun scored a priceless winner at the Bernabeu stadium during the Reds' Champions League victory over Real Madrid last season, and in the absence of the injured Fernando Torres, respected Spanish football correspondent Guillem Balague believes the Israeli international is set to take on a leading role once again.

"Benayoun is the key man for Liverpool as he is a player that can make things happen and that is priceless, especially in Europe," Balague told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"It's a great shame Torres is out but Liverpool still have quality that can trouble Atletico. In these kind of games the away goal is always so important and Benayoun could be the man to play a big part in that.

"Steven Gerrard is always key and I think he will raise his level as he does in these big games. Mascherano is also another important figure, but I just think Benayoun is a special player.

"He seems to be back on form and that is just what Liverpool need. He knows all about facing Spanish teams having played in La Liga for three years.

"All Liverpool fans remember his goal at the Bernabeu. He is a player that understands his role and is someone that never lets Liverpool down when it matters."

Balague also gave us his thoughts on the travel chaos and the expert lowdown on what to expect at the Vicente Calderon.

How much will the long journey for Liverpool to Madrid by train, coach and plane affect the squad - will this give Atletico an advantage?

Obviously it's not the ideal preparation but it could also be good for team spirit because the lads will be together on a long journey. It might work in Liverpool's favour because they can think of other things apart from football and that might actually be a good thing.

What sort of test do Atletico pose to Liverpool?

Atletico Madrid are a talented side but they are in poor form in La Liga. They have used different players in the league and played their strongest team in the Europa League. They basically gave up on the league when they got to 40 points - the fact they recently lost at the Vicente Calderon to the bottom side Xerez told us that. In saying that, they have improved a lot under Quique Sanchez Flores and he is a good coach.

They have had quite a long season haven't they?

They seem to be running out of gas after a tough season. Don't forget they had to play Champions League qualifiers at the start of the season, then they changed their manager when Quique Sanchez Flores came in.

Sergio Aguero is suspended for the first leg. How big a loss is that for Atletico?

Massive. Aguero is the man who makes Atletico play. I interviewed Steven Gerrard recently and when I told him Aguero couldn't play in the first leg he gave a smile, which told its own story. He is Atletico's special talent.

Besides the loss of the Argentine ace, what else do you think Rafa's men can take heart from ahead of this game?

There are two things that Liverpool can take advantage of. For a start Atletico make a lot of mistakes at the back - individual mistakes. Collectively they look better because they work hard for each other but it's the individuals that make the mistakes. Sometimes it's a lack of focus and Liverpool can certainly take advantage of this. Then of course, depending on how the game goes, gaps usually start appearing especially between their midfield and attack. I think if Liverpool can score an away goal then for me they will be the favourites to get to Hamburg.

In the absence of their star player who are their man threats?

Forlan is always dangerous and Liverpool fans will remember Jose Antonio Reyes from his Arsenal days. He is revitalised at Atletico and even better than he was at Arsenal. He feels loved at Atletico and is a player that can do special things out of nothing. He has still got that pace and he is more intelligent tactically. He links up well with Forlan so they will be key for the home side. Atletico also have two attacking full-backs and they still have Simao, who Benitez tried to sign for Liverpool. He has had a disappointing season but can still be a threat. 

How big a game is this for Atletico and their supporters?

It's a club that feeds from glory and that comes from playing in cup finals and in Europe. It's not about money for Atletico - they want to play good football and achieve success. This is a massive game for them, as well as Liverpool, and the atmosphere will be electric.

How must Fernando Torres be feeling about missing out again on a return to Atletico for the second season in succession?

It's such an incredible shame for Fernando and the Atletico fans who would have welcomed him back with open arms. Fernando was looking forward to this game so much because he wanted to come back and show how much the fans at the Vicente Calderon still mean to him. It would have been very emotional for him, but it's just not meant to be. Hopefully in the future, Liverpool will meet Atletico again and Fernando can come back.

Okay Guillem, time to get your prediction hat on. Who do you see coming out on top over the two legs?

I'm going for Liverpool to win it after the second leg at Anfield. I do fancy them to get the away goal on Thursday night and then finish the tie off in front of the Kop.