Benitez: Star setting example

Rafael Benitez believes the sparkling form of Javier Mascherano is setting the perfect example to his teammates in Liverpool's push for a top four finish.

The Argentina captain has been at his domineering best since returning from a knee injury last month, and even turned in a sterling display as a makeshift right-back against Everton recently.

And Benitez reckons Mascherano's enthusiasm can inspire the dressing room as the Reds prepare for key fixtures with Unirea Urziceni and Manchester City this week.

"Javier is showing on the pitch why he is the captain of Argentina," said the boss. "He is someone who has a very good character, he is very positive and can inspire those around him.

"He is setting an example to the rest of the team. I am really pleased with the way all of them are playing at the minute but Javier Mascherano is a player who is doing really well for us.

"Look at the derby. He played in a different position (right-back) but he still managed to have a massive impact and everyone can see there is a big difference in what he is doing now."

He added: "At the beginning of the season it was very difficult for him. But now things have settled down and he is working very hard for the team.

"He is back to the Javier Mascherano that we signed. His commitment to the club is 100 per cent."

Meanwhile, Benitez believes Albert Riera is close to recapturing top form after impressing in training.

"Albert is an option on the left," said the manager. "It is important for us to have competition for each place.

"He will improve. He needed to train some weeks in a row but he has come on again in the last month and you can see that in his training."

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