Boss: Let's see real Reds

Rafael Benitez believes Thursday's Europa League clash with Lille presents his players with the ideal opportunity to show the 'real Liverpool' following their Wigan disappointment.

The Reds were left frustrated after a 1-0 defeat at the DW Stadium on Monday evening - and the boss knows his side must produce an improved display in France.

However, Benitez is confident his contingent can demonstrate the Wigan setback was a blip in an otherwise encouraging run that has seen them lose just three times in 15 fixtures since Christmas.

"In the last five to 10 games (before Wigan) we were showing real character and you could see everyone was working really hard, helping each other and working together to try and get results," the manager told a pre-match press conference at Melwood.

"It was a surprise the other day, but hopefully it was just a blip and we will see the real Liverpool on Thursday."

Benitez admits Liverpool's first-half performance against Wigan was below standard - but the manager is adamant his squad know what is required from them.

"In the first half I was really disappointed at the way we were managing the game without winning any second balls, without any compactness or winning any challenges - I was really surprised," he said.

"In the second half we tried, but we were too anxious and making too many mistakes. But at least we had some chances - Torres had three or four chances - without playing well. That is the only positive you could see in the game."

He added: "We could hear the fans singing in the second half. They were singing and supporting the team after the first half, so the players know it is important for a lot of people. We have fans travelling away and we are not doing well this year.

"The players know we have to improve in some specific areas. Sometimes how you play depends on the other teams, on quality, match fitness and things like this.

"But you cannot afford not to fight from the first minute until the last because it is really important for the club and all of us."

Asked what impact the Wigan reversal has had on the Reds' top four prospects, Benitez replied: "It was really difficult before and will be more difficult now, so we know we cannot make too many mistakes.

"We have to carry on and try to get three points in the next league game against Portsmouth. But first we have the Europa League."

Liverpool will head to France later today ahead of Thursday's Lille encounter less than 48 hours after their Latics disappointment.

"It is very clear this is an opportunity for us to do things right, try to get a good result and be ready for the next game," said Benitez.

"In football sometimes you prefer to have some time to rest, but now I think it is better to play games quickly."

Meanwhile, Benitez confirmed he will check on the fitness of Yossi Benayoun today before deciding whether the Israeli can face Lille after he sustained an ankle knock against Wigan and missed training on Tuesday.

Video: David Ngog's Lille preview>>