Ryan Babel will be hauled in front of the Liverpool manager today to explain his comments in Dutch magazine Sportweek.
The magazine published an interview with Ryan, which the player had approved, only hours before Liverpool’s Champions League clash in Hungary.
The Dutch 23 year old who has made 105 Liverpool appearances since he arrived for £11.5M two seasons ago, has bemoaned a lack of opportunities in the side, complained about not being able to wear blue boots, and had a general bicker about the boss.
Benitez simply stated that he would be asking Babel to explain his actions.
In what can be considered a tongue-in-cheek retaliation at Babel, Rafa praised David N’gog – a 21 year old who HAS been taking his opportunities. The young Frenchman now has 5 goals in 12 appearances for Liverpool this season.
“David is doing well and he has deserved his starts because you can see that he is working really hard all the time in training.
“When you do that, one thing is always true and that is you will get a chance. When (young players) are working hard, you always have to look to do that.
“If that is what happens, it is then up to the player to perform. So David has done well over the last month and has scored some important goals.
“We are much happier with him but we have some other players who are like that. Lucas is one who is showing great character and commitment every single day.
“The most important thing, though, is that they keep going. They have to keep working hard all the time, otherwise it will be difficult for them to get those chances.”
Well put Rafa.