The Holland and Liverpool striker Ryan Babel has been interviewed in Holland while with the Dutch team, and has told them of his frustration at not being given the chance to play for Liverpool from the start of games.

He has been used as a sub nine times so far this season, and has scored three goals, but is desperate to be named in the starting line-up on a regular basis.

“To be a supersub is mentally hard,” Babel said. “It is clear I have enough qualities to be in the starting XI of Liverpool. But when you never get a real chance, it’s difficult.

“The Liverpool fans are happy with me as a substitute, but I didn’t get a chance yet as starter. I have never played three matches in a row from the start.”

“I’m not the type of player who gives up,” Babel continued. “Benitez told me he sees me as a starter in the Liverpool XI in the future. At this time I still believe him. To be underestimated is my biggest motivation. I will take revenge in different ways.”

That last statement sounds a bit strange! Let us hope that something was lost in the translation. But he doesn’t sound like he will be happy with the situation for much longer.