ALEX McLEISH is content with the contribution made by Birmingham striker Christian Benitez even though he is still awaiting his first goal for the midlands club.

But the City manager admits the Ecuador international needs to break his scoring duck to take the pressure off himself ahead of tonight’s Barclays Premier League clash with Liverpool at Anfield.

McLeish said: “Is Benitez becoming frustrated? I am hoping it is going to be like waiting for a bus. Once one comes, we get a barrel-load of goals and that tends to happen when you are waiting for a bus.

“I think Benitez has brought something extra to the team. There is no doubt that he upsets defences and I am delighted with his performances.

“To take the pressure off himself, he needs a goal.

“He will be craving that goal but he doesn’t need to worry about his performances. I am very pleased with him.”

Birmingham midfielder Barry Ferguson is suspended for the clash with Liverpool.

The former Scotland international was sent off for two bookable offences against Manchester City and could be replaced by ex-Everton midfielder Lee Carsley.

On-loan Manchester City keeper Joe Hart is available after being ineligible to face his parent club although his deputy, Maik Taylor, impressed against Mark Hughes’ side.

Winger Keith Fahey is hoping to overcome a knock to his knee suffered in training but striker Garry O’Connor is still troubled by a groin problem.