"I think they are a very good team," said Rafa Benitez.
"They have spent a lot of money to try and get in the top four and last season Martin Jol did a very good job. But now they are under a bit of pressure. They have very good players, and while they are scoring goals they are also conceding them.
"Sometimes the bad luck in two or three games sees the players lose confidence but last season they showed that they were progressing and I think that they will be nearer the top of the table in time.
"They will improve but hopefully it will be after Sunday."