Rafa Benitez today praised the attitude his players are showing at Melwood as they prepare for a game which the manager believes could turn their seas

The Spaniard is delighted with the mood around Liverpool's training ground ahead of a sixth versus seventh clash with Manchester City after the international break.

Though he still has several injury concerns, Benitez is hopeful of having the likes of Steven Gerrard and Glen Johnson available after they withdrew from international duty.

The boss believes their presence will be key as Liverpool look to turn positive performances into tangible results.

"We had a very good training session yesterday," Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv. "The players were working so hard and we had a five-a-side competition. It was very good and the players are very positive.

"We have to look at the big picture. We know we've had some problems and we've made some mistakes, but still we are so close. If we start winning games, then everything will be different if we win two or three in a row. The confidence will be high and everything will be easier.

"Maybe we can start the season right now. Winning against City will be a big boost for everyone and if that happens I'm sure we'll see the best of the team.

"We have a better squad than people think. It's a question of getting some key players back. You could see the other day that with Glen Johnson and Steven Gerrard we were creating so many chances. The quality is there.

"I am 100 per cent sure everything will be totally different if we can win the game against City after this international break. The season can be good if we do well."

Benitez is working hard with his staff during the international break to implement some improvements he feels will improve results.

However, the Liverpool boss is confident that minor alterations only are needed.

He said: "I talk with my staff. We have to change some small things that we need to improve on. We talk about the positives and analyse the negatives.

"I was really pleased talking to some fans after the Birmingham game. The fans who were in the stadium could see the team did well. We have not had the luck with two late goals against Lyon and then on Monday against Birmingham.

"We deserved to win these games and the fans in the stadium know it's just a question of time.

"For me, if you're playing well and creating chances in every game, then it's just about getting a little bit of luck, scoring the second goal and finishing the game."