Gerrard was largely ineffective against Man Utd, where he played in a wide right role. The player has openly admitted that he believes he plays better when given the central midfield role.
But Benitez defended the decision, saying, "Stevie was on the right, but he was going inside a lot. I do not feel we are using him as a winger, he is not being asked to get to the line to make crosses."
He added, "He has a freedom to come inside and find space to attack. He can cause teams problems coming inside from a wider position. But we couldn't keep the ball properly for creating more space and chances. Luis Garcia and Gerrard did cause them problems."