Benitez's high hopes for Harry (Haven't we all!)
Oct 6 2005
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo
RAFA BENITEZ today gave the all-clear for Harry Kewell to play for Australia this weekend, and said he hopes to have the winger back in his senior squad within a fortnight.
The Liverpool boss has called on everyone at Anfield to give the Aussie a 'fresh start' as he bids to put his injury troubles behind him.
And he's also called on Kewell to show the 'hunger' to rebuttert his credentials on Merseyside.
Kewell has much to prove on his return, but with Benitez desperate for more options on the wing he's made it clear the left midfielder is key to his plans.
Kewell hasn't featured since breaking down during the Champions League Final. That was the climax to an 18-month battle with a groin injury which resulted in surgery over the summer.
Benitez knows he hasn't seen the best from his number seven, but he's in forgiving mood.
"Harry is a fantastic player and we need him," insisted the Anfield boss. "I want to see Harry doing what he's capable of, beating defenders and getting plenty of crosses into the box. That's what we need and that's why he could be like a new signing.
"Maybe we'll need to be a bit more patient with him when he's back into the team if he's not completely match fit, but we will give him a couple of games before he plays in the Premiership.
"He could feature in the Champions League against Anderlecht, or in the Carling Cup against Crystal Palace. We can use him then. If we use him little by little he can find his way back, but he must also be hungry to succeed. That's important, too."
Australia coach Guus Hiddink says he wants to play Kewell for part of the friendly against Jamaica on Sunday.
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Benitez says as long as the circumstances are right, he'll have no complaints.
"I've spoken to Harry and Guus Hiddink," Benitez added.
"They know Harry is not 100 per cent fit and we must be careful with the situation, but he's played 30 minutes for the reserves.
"He can play, but it depends on the intensity of the game. It shouldn't be a big risk if the game isn't so competitive and the manager is in control. The physios and the doctor will analyse him before and during the game.
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"I think he's recovered from his injury now and it's just a question of match fitness. It's a question of time."
