Boss challenge to squad players

Rafa Benitez today challenged his squad players to make a name for themselves in the absence of several injured stars.

With the likes of Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres, Glen Johnson and Yossi Benayoun all injured, Benitez is relying on fringe players to step up and lead our charge for the top four.

And the gaffer said: "We know some players have had injury problems from the beginning of the season.

"They had been in with their national team and they came back injured. But they have been so important for us that we have had to play them.

"But they cannot be here now. Others have got to come in and take their place and you never know.

"It could be a chance for somebody to really make a name. It's difficult to replace a player of Torres's quality but now we will see if they have the character."

One man hoping to profit from Torres's absence is striker David Ngog.

The France U21 international has bagged six goals already this term but is determined to keep progressing.

"I hope I can keep improving," said Ngog. "It is all to do with confidence.

"It is good for me to be here in Liverpool and I have been playing a little bit more this season but nothing changes - you have to keep working hard.

"I'm enjoying my football and believe that I can score goals for Liverpool.

"My dream was always to play for one of the best clubs in the world.

"It's fantastic to play in the Premier League but I just have to keep taking a step after a step."