Liverpool's Rafael Benitez remains wary of Arsenal ahead of their third clash in a week

Dirk Kuyt's away goal in the first leg 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium last week means Liverpool will advance as long as they prevent Arsenal from scoring at Anfield on Tuesday.

However Benitez, who is aiming to take Liverpool to the Champions League semi-finals for the third time in his four seasons in charge, believes it would be dangerous to play defensively in a match that will define both clubs' seasons.

"We have confidence, but we know they have quality, that they can play well away and are dangerous on the counter-attack," Benitez said.

Having also battled to a 1-1 stalemate in their league match on Saturday, both sides will be feeling the effects of fatigue as a tough season enters its critical phase.

Benitez rested eight of his starting XI from the first leg for Saturday's match but the Spaniard believes the damage Liverpool did to Arsenal's Premier League title hopes may provide additional motivation for the London club.

"Maybe the only option now for them is the Champions League, which means they will be more dangerous for us," Benitez said.

Double advantage

The Liverpool manager believes his side should be capable of exploiting the twin advantages of playing at home against opponents who will need to commit men forward in pursuit of a goal.

"I think the hard part has been done, but also we know we have to respect Arsenal," he said.

"They showed in the last round, when they drew at home against AC Milan and won 2-0 in the San Siro, that they can win at difficult places. Our fans have a big role to play for us.

"It is natural for them to want us to attack because we are at home, but we will also have to be careful because of the way Arsenal play.

"We need the fans to make it a great atmosphere, but we also need them to be patient."

Recommend this article...

Did you enjoy this article? Please bookmark it onto: