Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez admits they needed "Steven Gerrard's inspiration" to see off Derby County yesterday.

The Reds appeared to be heading for a 1-1 draw with Derby at Pride Park after Fernando Torres' opener was cancelled out by James McEveley. However, Liverpool captain Gerrard was on hand to strike a 90th minute winner.

"We conceded in the second half from a mistake and from then on it was really difficult," said Benitez. "At the end, Gerrard's inspiration was the key.

"We have three points, we have to think about City and see where we are after this period.

"We know they (Man City) will be difficult but we have confidence. They have a very good record at home but we will try to change that."