“Bolton win massive confidence boost” says Rafa

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is confident his side can build upon their victory over Bolton at the Reebok Stadium two weeks ago when the Premier League resumes this weekend.

After the international break, the Reds return to action on Saturday as they face league newcomers Burnley at Anfield.

And after a rocky start to the season, Benitez believes the 3-2 win at Bolton will help boost his team to gain valuable points in the race for the Premier League title.

He says, “The team as a team has not played at the level we can, but hopefully the win against Bolton will be a lift for us,” the boss told his weekly press conference at Melwood.

“When you are not doing well you always need character – and the players showed character against Bolton.

“We controlled the game and although we conceded two goals, we scored three and came from behind to win. That is very positive and hopefully it will be a different situation for us now.”

The Spanish manager continued to criticize those who have ruled the Reds out of the title race after just four games, of which Liverpool have won two and lost two.

He added, “You cannot win titles in September, so you have to go to January and see where you are, and then April and May is when you will fight.

“The other thing was that pre-season was difficult with a lot of players returning at different times.

“We tried to manage the situation and then we had another international break, so we didn’t have too much time. Then we started against Tottenham, who are doing well, so it was difficult.”

Liverpool vs Burnley kicks off at 3pm on Saturday, 12th September and you can read a full in-depth preview here.