"For us it is really important to have Harry. We were talking about the need for quality in the wider areas and Harry brings that. He can shoot and score goals," said Benitez.
"He has had injuries and problems and we were disappointed. But we supported him and give him confidence and he has given to us crosses, dribbles and a lot of things.
"It is good now to see him working hard. The supporters are clever. They recognise that he is working hard and trying to do his best. That is important. We need to see him playing at this level all the time now.
"But I would like to see him playing better. We need to know him and understand him and what he wants.
"I have said many times that the first time I ever saw Harry play was for Leeds against Manchester United and a fit Jaap Stam a few years ago. He played really and I thought then that as a manager he is the kind of player I would like to sign.
"Sometimes you don't know how difficult it is for a player. Sometimes if he is injured but wants to play then he cannot play at 100 per cent.
"I had confidence in him, I had problems sometimes when people around him were talking, but I talked with him and the Australian manager. I have confidence in him because he is working hard.
"We are trying to use Harry and protect him also. Every week you can see him progressing."