Liverpool have struggled this season due to the squad's lack of strength in depth, according to manager Rafael Benitez.
The Reds have struggled for much of the season in both the Premier League and European competition but, after beating Sunderland 3-0 at the week in an impressive performance from a near full-strength XI, Benitez believes injuries have taken their toll.
"Everyone knows we have a good 11. You can see some good players on the bench but also others with less experience," said Benitez ahead of their Europa League clash against Benfica on Thursday.
"When you talk about the league the depth in your squad is very important and we have had problems with injuries.
"It has been a difficult season for young players as well because they have had to perform on the pitch when the team is not doing well.
"The majority of the players have been fighting from the beginning but the problem in football is you can be working very hard but if you don't win people say you are not doing enough."
With the first leg of the quarter-final against the Portuguese league leaders taking place away from home, Benitez is reluctant to look too far ahead in a competition he believes the club can win.
"We have to have confidence that we can win but my idea is to take it one game at a time," he said.
"We have a very difficult tie and if we can progress Valencia or Atletico will be dangerous but you never know - we are in form now too so hopefully we can do well, be in the final and win.
"If we can keep this spirit and mentality we can beat anyone."
The Reds have struggled for much of the season in both the Premier League and European competition but, after beating Sunderland 3-0 at the week in an impressive performance from a near full-strength XI, Benitez believes injuries have taken their toll.
"Everyone knows we have a good 11. You can see some good players on the bench but also others with less experience," said Benitez ahead of their Europa League clash against Benfica on Thursday.
"When you talk about the league the depth in your squad is very important and we have had problems with injuries.
"It has been a difficult season for young players as well because they have had to perform on the pitch when the team is not doing well.
"The majority of the players have been fighting from the beginning but the problem in football is you can be working very hard but if you don't win people say you are not doing enough."
With the first leg of the quarter-final against the Portuguese league leaders taking place away from home, Benitez is reluctant to look too far ahead in a competition he believes the club can win.
"We have to have confidence that we can win but my idea is to take it one game at a time," he said.
"We have a very difficult tie and if we can progress Valencia or Atletico will be dangerous but you never know - we are in form now too so hopefully we can do well, be in the final and win.
"If we can keep this spirit and mentality we can beat anyone."
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