Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez admits Michael Essien was key to Chelsea's victory in the first-leg of their Champions League clash.

He said: "They did not do things in the game that they had done before. Essien was a big difference, not just because he marked Steven well but because he is an excellent player.

"He is strong, and he is like a new signing for them. He had been out for a long time so when that happens a player usually returns with plenty of energy and desire.

"If we can give our fans something from the start, that could be very important because they will really get behind us."