Kewell keen to reward Rafa's faith

Last updated : 14 November 2005 By Al Campbell
Kewell played the full 90 minutes for Australia in their 1-0 defeat to Uruguay and Saturday and the Liverpool midfielder is hoping his run of injuries is now over and he can repay Rafa Benitez for the faith he has shown in him.

"The lowest point was definitely May 25th. The Champions League final. Walking off the pitch. I was feeling good. I thought I was fighting fit but as soon as I stuck my leg out my whole adductor snapped. I felt it go and I looked down and I saw a big lump down there. I couldn't move," says Kewell.

"To be on the biggest stage for club football and to have to come off after 20 minutes was horrible. I couldn't really hear the booing but if people were doing that, then each to their own. If they knew the truth about the injury maybe they would think twice about it. People can say what they like about me.

"My family and friends were brilliant while I was injured. My wife has been fantastic because she has been the one who has had to deal with me for the last year and a bit.

"The manager Rafael Benitez has been brilliant too. To show confidence in me, by starting me in the Champions League final, when everyone was turning around and saying, 'What are you doing?', showed great confidence. I really respect that and I need to repay him."

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