Liverpool assistant boss Sammy Lee hopes Rafa Benitez can soon return to the dugout.

Lee told liverpoolfc.tv: "We've said before his presence is massive. He's set up a fantastic team here with the likes of Xavi Valero, Mauricio Pellegrino, Paco De Miguel and the other lads, and they've worked hard to implement what Rafa has set up.

"But, there's no doubt about it, his presence is always missed."

Asked if Benitez would soon be back in the dugout, Lee joked: "I would hope so - it's a bit lonely in there."