Rafa Benitez has been full of praise for performances and leadership qualities shown by Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina during what’s turned out to be a disappointing season for the Reds.
Reina has been carrying a back injury in recent weeks but still managed to keep his fourth clean sheet in six games against Wolves on Wednesday and has been one of the few, perhaps only, standout performers for Liverpool during this troubled campaign.
Benitez said: “Pepe has had problems with injury but his mentality is really good.
“He is not just a good goalkeeper, I think he shows great character and is always pushing his teammates.
“He is a leader on the pitch too. He can see the big picture, the full pitch, and then can give advice to the defenders.
“Pepe watches the game and can then manage the defenders, especially the movement of the full-backs.
“It is part of his job and he is doing well but he can still improve in this particular area and it is something he will do in his time here.”
I’ve never been a big fan of goalkeepers wearing the captain’s armband but I’d make an exception for Pepe. He is definitely one of the leaders in our team and certainly seems to have the right qualities to one day skipper the side.
Fan Comments