Benitez backs Josemi

With Steve Finnan out injured Josemi will get another first team start today, at a ground he was sent off at last season. However, the Spanish defender has shown more composure this season and has been praised by his manager.

Benitez said: "I'm happy with Josemi because he is playing well. He started last season playing really well and he was man of the match in our opening game at Tottenham. After that he was injured and continued to have problems during the second part of the season.
 
"Now he is fit again and playing well. He can play as a right back or as a centre back. For us it's another option."