Rafa pleased with partnership

Last Updated : 10-Mar-2008 by
The duo struck up an instant understanding this season and have now scored an impressive 44 goals between them. The two players are bringing the very best out in each other says Benitez.

"With the freedom he has now and his quality going forward, he's unstoppable. Stevie now has the same freedom he had as a right winger when he came inside," said the Spaniard.

"He's enjoying it because he knows he can go forward with no problem.

"The understanding with Fernando is also very good. He knows that when he goes forward he can pick him out easily.

"It could be that they bring out the best in each other.

"Of course he still needs to help out the midfielders but it's not the same as running back 30 or 40 metres.

"He knows what we expect from him and he is playing well in virtually every game. Every manager talks to their players about what to do but he is clever enough to know that."