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Kewell delights in Spanish influence at Liverpool
(Agencies)
Updated: 2004-09-17 10:08

Liverpool striker Harry Kewell is delighted by manager Rafael Benitez's close season Spanish signings after their contribution to the side's 2-0 Champions League win over Monaco.

 Benitez, who took over from Gerard Houllier last June, returned home to pay some 18 million pounds ($32.26 million) for midfielder Xabi Alonso, winger Luis Garcia and defender Josemi.

"All three of the Spanish lads are playing brilliantly at the moment," Kewell told reporters. "Obviously the focus has been on Luis Garcia and Xabi Alonso, but Josemi at right back has been excellent."

 Josemi set up Liverpool's second goal on Wednesday night, sending a long ball to Milan Baros who shrugged off two defenders before scoring five minutes from time. French striker Djibril Cisse had put the English side ahead in the 22nd minute.

 Alonso combined intelligently with Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard against last year's beaten finalists Monaco.

 "Alonso's partnership with Steve Gerrard is blossoming in the centre of midfield," Kewell said. "But they have to play well because they have Didi Hamann waiting to come in and he's also had a good start to the season.

 "The boss has a nice problem there now because he has three players that all deserve to start on current form," the Australian added.

 Hamann could return for Monday's Premier League game at Manchester United.

 Benitez also signed midfielder Antonio Nunez from Real Madrid, but a training ground injury on his first day has stopped him from making his debut.

 Liverpool are top of Champions League Group A after Deportivo Coruna were held to a 0-0 draw by Olympiakos.



 
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