Xabi Alonso is backing Liverpool's summer signings to make a big impact this season.
Alonso said of Benitez's buying: "The manager has bought good, new offensive players and that will be a major boost for us.
"It is up to us to produce the form needed to match those expectations."
And Alonso is raring to go, saying: "We are all now glad that pre-season is over and we are looking forward very much to the new season and the game at Aston Villa.
"We have worked very hard now for several weeks and we are in good condition.
"Everyone is ready, and everyone is available. We have no injury worries and it is all now down to the manager's selection for the match.
"I know everyone is asking us already about the title race, and I understand that. But I would prefer to just consider each game and hope that we can put together the performances we need."