Kuyt hails Maxi's impact

Dirk Kuyt has paid tribute to the impact Maxi Rodriguez has made since he arrived at Anfield in January.

The Argentinean international has grown in confidence since he was snapped up from Atletico Madrid on a free transfer.

Rodriguez was Liverpool's standout performer in Sunday's frustrating 1-1 draw at Birmingham City and Kuyt admits the 29-year-old has impressed his new team-mates.

"I think Maxi is doing better and better," he said.

"Maxi is definitely a quality player and one of the best things is that's he's adapted very quickly.

"He's come from another country and he speaks another language, but he's been trying to do his best for the team.

"He's been really important in the games he's played."

Kuyt admits Rodriguezs arrival has also served to keep everyone on their toes.

"Maxi joining us means the squad is a bit bigger and has definitely improved," he added.

"It means everyone has to challenge even more for their place, and that's always a good thing.

"I know the Spanish lads are helping him a lot and explaining things to him, but you can see the way he's playing he's adapting very quickly. It's clear that he's a top player."

Nobody has played more games for Liverpool than Kuyt this season.

Sunday was his 45th appearance of the campaign but the Dutchman insists he still feels fresh and is desperate to play a starring role over the final month of the season as the Reds chase fourth place in the Premier League and Europa League glory.

"I'm feeling good and hopefully Ill play a lot more games," Kuyt said.

"I like to play every game if possible. I know that's difficult when you play for Liverpool Football Club who play in four or five different competitions.

"But I try to be as fit as possible and hope every game the manager puts me in the team. It's nice to be important for the team."

Meanwhile, Benfica have confirmed that Javier Saviola will miss Thursdays Europa League quarter-final second leg against Liverpool at Anfield.

The Argentina international has a broken toe and is expected to be out for up to three weeks.

Benfica could also be without Luisao as the Brazilian centre-half is struggling with a knee problem.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.