Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez says fullback Fabio Aurelio has a key role to play for the remainder of this season.

"Fabio was one of the best players on the pitch at Portsmouth," Benitez told liverpoolfc.tv.

"He played really well. We knew he could play in central midfield from his time at Valencia and he showed on Saturday that he is a clever player with quality.

"He will be an important player for us for the rest of the season. At Anfield especially, when we want to attack we know he will always be available because he has good movement and can deliver good crosses.

"It's always important to have players who can play in different positions, especially if they understand the game."