Liverpool winger Ryan Babel has revealed he's had a heart-to-heart with gaffer Rafa Benitez about where he needs to improve.

The 22-year-old told liverpoolfc.tv: "I'm still young, but I want to play as many games as possible. We talked and the boss outlined the areas where I need to improve my game, and hopefully I can bring those areas up to the next level soon.

"My career has had a lot of ups and a few downs until this point. But I am confident it will be okay.

"When I was young I didn't get picked by Ajax after three trial games. After the third game, I thought I didn't want to play for them anymore. But when I returned to my club I did well and eventually Ajax came back for me again. I take a lot of strength and belief from that.

"I'm always confident. I know I have potential. It's up to me to work hard. Nothing good ever comes for free and I believe in my ability.

"But unfortunately only 11 players can start each week, and it's up to those who don't play as much to work even harder."