Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is confident about the long-term prospects of fullback Stephen Darby.

Benitez believes Scouse defender Darby will come back a stronger player following the unfortunate error that resulted in Fiorentina's winning goal on Wednesday night.

"I thought his performance wasn't bad," Benitez told liverpoolfc.tv. "I have watched and analysed the game again and he was doing well. I was really disappointed for him as always for a young player to make a mistake in the last minute is bad and then to lose the game it is worse.

"He was down in the dressing room after the game but we were supporting him. This can happen sometimes in football.

"The main thing is to show character and show you want to improve and change things. To stay disappointed and be a little bit down is normal but you have to be ready for the next training session.

"He did well in training on Friday and he was working hard as always so while I think it is something that will be on his mind for a while I am sure he will progress, continue to improve and be the player that he was before."