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LIVERPOOL boss Rafa Benitez has hailed the performances of ever-present defender Alvaro Arbeloa.

The 24-year-old Spaniard has played a key role in guiding the Reds to the top of the Premiership and into the group stage of the Champions League.

Arbeloa is the only outfield player to play every minute of the Reds’ opening six league and cup games.

And Benitez believes there is more to come from the versatile defender who was signed for £2.5million from Deportivo La Coruna in January.

“Arbeloa has done a good job for us so far,” he said. “He is a young, fit boy and we know he is only going to get better in the future.

“He wasn't used to the left-back position at all but he has come in and performed very well.

“When you look how well he did on his debut for us up against Lionel Messi in Barcelona then you can see he is a player with ability.

“His best positions are in the centre or on the right, so it shows his quality that he can come into a new team and adapt in a different role.

“We've had international breaks and some problems with injuries this season and so we've used players who have been working with us and who are fit.

“He’s taken the chances he has been given very well.

“We’re very pleased with him but he can still improve.

“He needs to keep working hard and if he maintains his form then I'm sure he’ll play many more games for us this season.”

The Reds’ increased attacking threat has seen them net 16 goals in their opening six games but Benitez has been equally impressed by his side’s defensive qualities.

Keeper Pepe Reina has been beaten only twice and both goals were penalties, one of which was the controversial spot-kick awarded to Chelsea at Anfield.

“Over the past couple of years we have been very tight at the back and not given too much away. I’m pleased we've started the season in the same way,” Benitez said.

“It’s important when the forward players are scoring goals to make sure you're keeping them out at the back and at the moment we’re playing well as a team unit.”

Meanwhile, midfielder Anthony Le Tallec has gone on a season-long loan to French outfit Le Mans.

The 22-year-old, who was signed by Gerard Houllier in 2003, has struggled to establish himself in Benitez’s plans and spent last season with Sochaux.