Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is confident his side can handle two crucial games in five days as they defend a 15 match unbeaten run. The Reds begin in Madrid on Wednesday and then against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

"We have the belief that we can win every game we play," the Spaniard insisted.

Benitez, whose side came from behind to beat Wigan on Saturday, said: "I am confident that my players can produce the right performances this week.

"We are showing character and the right mentality you need for a winning team. We have Atletico next, and then Chelsea, two very tough away matches.

"But with games like that to come, how can we start talking about what we can win this season?

"It is too early to be talking of titles and cups. We must just keep going the way we are.

"It has to be a case of concentrating on each game, not looking to the future. But our players are showing great character.

"We can field a team good enough to beat Atletico, then we must think about how we play at Chelsea. But I am confident in my players that they can produce the right performances.

"We have a few minor injury problems to (Yossi) Benayoun, (Steven) Gerrard and (Robbie) Keane, but I do not expect them to be serious, they should all play on Wednesday."

Benitez continued: "The team showed great character to beat Wigan on Saturday, and we are showing the belief that we can win every game.

"The Premier League is very tough. To show the mental strength we have displayed this season is very positive.

"We did that again against Wigan and we must maintain it for the next games, particularly this week.

"My priority is now Atletico, not Chelsea just yet. But the games are very close together and we will see whether we can continue to show the character we have been showing."