LONDON (AFP) - Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has ordered Harry Kewell to improve his fitness.
The Australian international, who can play either in midfield or up front, has failed to impress at Anfield since his move from Leeds in 2003 and came under fire for his display in the defeat by Birmingham at Anfield last Saturday.
Kewell was forced into a striking role from midfield in the absence of injured duo Djibril Cisse and Milan Baros but he faded after a bright start.
"We know he can play better because he is a good player - he is one of the best in England," Benitez said.
"Harry needs to regain confidence and to improve his physical level and once he does that he will be okay.
"The problem is when you play one month with muscle problems and then go away with the national team and lose 10 days you have problems when you come back.
"But once he has improved his physical condition, things might be different."
11/10/2004 - 12:44 GMT - AFP