Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez admits skipper Steven Gerrard was upset with being replaced by Lucas Leiva in the second-half of Saturday's 2-1 win at Everton.

"The idea was clear," said Benitez. "We had a player with passion when we needed to pass and control the ball. Stevie was disappointed with the decision and he wanted to play on. I tried to talk to him but it would be cleverer to analyse the reasons for the decision with him later.

"Steven was upset and I could see that he did not want to talk to me, but when we have all calmed down he will know that I have to put the club first."

Benitez also took another swipe at Everton, adding: "They were playing long ball all the time. We were trying to pass it."