According to Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez awesome performances by liverpool players in England win over Croatia could prove just as beneficial to Liverpool.

Two goals from Steven Gerrard and another dazzling display of attacking full-back play from Glen Johnson helped England book their place in next summer’s finals with a 5-1 win over Croatia.

Benitez said: “It means so much to Stevie to be winning things for his club and country and he came back from international duty on a real high. We need him to be at his best and it is going to be very positive for his confidence to score two goals and play so well.”

“We have had some difficulties so far this season, with the level of expectations and players reporting back at different times for the build-up to the campaign and Stevie has suffered from that, just like any other player. But England have qualified, so that is one less thing for him to worry about.”

“The pressure is off. I feel sure that is going to be a positive thing for him and us.”

Benitez praised England manager Fabio Capello and believes he (Fabio Capello) has an aura about him that can take England all the way next summer.

“I remember spending some time with him when he was manager of AC Milan. I watched his methods, and it struck me he had a presence.”

Related Posts:

• Steven Gerrard: “When You are captain of Liverpool, You have got to Prove Yourself”
• Roy Hodgson called Steven Gerrard, Joe Cole into Action against FK Rabotnicki
• Rafa Benitez: I am 100 per cent that Gerrard wants to give more
• Alan Hansen: Nobody is Suffering More than Steven Gerrard
• Steven Gerrard and Rafa Benitez on being Knocked out of Champions League [Interview]