RAFA : HARRY'S ALMOST READY

Rafael Benitez has revealed Harry Kewell is close to being available to start a Premier League game after completing 90 minutes for his country at the weekend.
Kewell - who hasn't started a club match this season since recovering from injury - was given a full run-out by Australia on Saturday afternoon as they defeated Nigeria 1-0 in a friendly at Craven Cottage.

After a series of impressive substitute appearances for the Reds over recent weeks, Benitez is delighted to see his left sided midfielder closing in on a long awaited comeback.

"It was good to see Harry get 90 minutes," said Rafa. "I was talking with him and he said it wasn't a high tempo game so he was able to get through it.

"Physically he probably still needs to improve his pace and stamina but he is getting there.

"When you talk about Harry then you talk about a player of quality and ability who can make a big difference to our team. He can give different things to us, especially against teams who play deep and compact."