The Mali international's disappointing displays have coincided with the Reds' own dismal recent performances, but Benitez is happy with the player's determination to battle back to his best.

"I see he is giving everything to play well," the former Valencia coach told Liverpool's official website.

"For our supporters that is the first thing any player must do.

"Momo was a key player when we won 82 points in the Premier League. Now we need to give him time to allow him to regain his confidence.

"I spoke to him after the Marseille game and said 'keep going.' He knows how I work because I managed him when he was 18 at Valencia, where he won the league and UEFA Cup with me.

"He knows I have a lot of confidence in him. I will push him and I will try to improve him."