Rafa happy with draw

Last updated : 02 August 2008 By Al Campbell
The Reds will face Standard Liege of Belgium in the third qualifying round of the Champions League and Rafa Benitez has declared himself happy with the draw.

"I think there are two very important things about this draw. Firstly, the second game is at home which is really, really important. Clearly that makes a massive difference to play the deciding game in front of our own fans," said the boss.

"I'm also pleased because the travelling isn't a problem. We don't have to go too far which is good news, especially when you look at some of the teams we could have drawn.

"People may say it's a kind draw for us but we will treat them with respect. We know some things about their team already but we will now watch more videos and get reports from our scouts before the first game.

"Of course we know about Oguchi Onyewu because he spent some time with Newcastle. Axel Witsel is a good young player and Wilfried Dalmat is probably the best player in their team. Alexandre Da Silva is a good defender as well, so we know they won't be easy opposition for us.

"Overall though it is a good draw and we are happy."

Dates for the games have yet to be confirmed.