Rafa Benitez admits Liverpool’s performance in the 2-0 win over Bolton was far from perfect – but he believes his side now have momentum heading into three massive encounters.

A second-half OG from Kevin Davies secured the three points after Dirk Kuyt’s opener.

It means Liverpool are now six league games unbeaten as they prepare for fixtures against Everton, Arsenal and City.

Benitez said: “I’m pleased with the result, pleased with the second half – but not too happy with the first. At the end of the day we needed to win and we won.

“The first half Bolton had some chances and we were a little bit lucky. Pepe (Reina) and Soto (Kyrgiakos) were doing well but the second half was totally different. We were more controlled and had more opportunities. We could have scored more goals.

“I am really happy because we’re six games unbeaten and have more clean sheets. Very good.

“We are improving. You can see the team is working very hard, and hopefully we can keep the momentum.”

Asked how he assessed Steven Gerrard’s performance, Benitez replied: “Stevie was a little bit better. He was trying very hard, that’s the main thing. When we scored the second goal the team played with more confidence and he was one of the players who could make a difference.”

The gaffer also had words of praise for goalscorer Kuyt, adding: “It doesn’t matter if he plays as a striker or a winger or second striker, he’s always around. He can score goals and I’m really pleased for him.”

Meanwhile, Benitez is not ruling out more transfer activity before the window closes on Monday – though Ryan Babel looks set to stay at Anfield.

He said: “We are working. We have a managing director and a chief scout.

“It’s not easy because it’s difficult to find better players than you have already in January. At least we are watching players and trying to find someone who will be good for the team.”

Quizzed about Babel’s immediate future, Benitez added: “He will stay.”

Source: Liverpoolfc.tv