Rafa glad to see back of internationals

Last updated : 13 October 2006 By Al Campbell
Most of the Liverpool squad won't face European Championship qualifiers until next March, to the relief of Rafa Benitez who says his squad can now start working properly without interruption.

"It's good that we can now plan for weeks ahead and prepare what we are going to do with the players. We can start working properly," said the Reds' boss.

"It's been frustrating for all the managers that we have had so many international weekends, particularly coming straight after the World Cup.

"You want to work with your players, talk to them and show them videos. On many days this season we have only had a small number of players training and it has been difficult.

"I have said before that it won't be until November before we show our true level and I still believe that. We have a lot of work to do to improve, especially in defence, and it's important we start winning games and get our confidence high."