Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez’s praise will allay fears of being a candidate for off-loading, as has been the talks in the summer transfer market, if any harboured by winger Jermaine Pennant, who put up an inspiring performance in their 3-2 friendly win over Wrexham.

The former Arsenal man dished out a clinical exhibition expected of a wideman in a remarkable 45-minute burst as he created three goals in 19 minutes for young Austrian striker Besian Idrizaj.

The Reds boss praised the 24-year-old pacy right-winger, saying: "Pennant produced the kind of play that I like, wingers going forward and crossing. He can do this job perfectly.

"He played really well in the Champions League final, and he has now started the pre-season really well also."

With the Reds looking for wide-men, Pennant timed his exhibition to perfection and Benitez could possibly keep faith in the former England U-21 international.

On further reinforcements that could arrive at Anfield, Benitez said: "We do not need a lot more in terms of new players for next season, maybe two new faces. We do have a lot of young players, and maybe some will go out on loan because we do not have enough games for them."