Liverpool coach Rafael Benitez has revealed Harry Kewell was so concerned about his loss of form that he pleaded for help.

Kewell has hit form just at the right time ahead of four games in nine days, starting with matches at West Brom on Boxing Day and at home to Southampton two days later.

The Australian was outstanding in the 3-1 victory over Newcastle on Sunday - his defence splitting through-ball for Milan Baros to score the crucial third goal was the highlight of the game.

Benitez claims Kewell is becoming the "complete" player after an erratic season and said: "I have a lot of confidence in him and he is now playing well, training well and has a good approach to things. He has played well now for the last half dozen games.

"He is close to being the complete player now. He came to me earlier in the season and said 'I want to improve, what can I do.'

"Since then we have worked with him on physical work, particularly with my coach Pako Ayesteran and with the club doctor.

"At the end of that period he has now shown his skill and he is playing better, I hope he will continue to improve.

"I did not feel the need to take him aside to re-assure him, it was Harry who came to me for help."

Benitez has stuck by Kewell, remembering his first impressions of the former Leeds man terrorising Jaap Stam in a league match at Manchester United a couple of years ago.

Benitez said: "You need to know your players. I remember seeing Harry play for Leeds against Manchester United when I was still manager at Valencia, and what I saw then has stayed with me.

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