Henchoz backs Sami

"I have been surprised at some of the criticism directed at Sami and I really do not understand it," Henchoz told the club's official site. "I think Sami might be paying because he has set a really high standard when his performances have always been so good.

"He's been fantastic at Liverpool and he manages to do it in every game. I know how good a player Sami is and how he important he is to Liverpool. He is a very special player."