Benitez added: “The problems he has are not as bad as people think. Going forward he is a threat and we have to develop his defence. He needs to improve on a little bit of everything, it is not just defence or possession but it is a bit of everything.

“In defence it is a question of mentality. There are a few things we can put together.

“When you talk with him about something, he knows and tries to do it. Sometimes though you need time, you can’t change everything in one second so he will improve, 100%.

“To have a player of this quality makes a big difference.”

Aurelio, Benayoun and Riera all have an outside chance of appearing against City tomorrow, although Fernando Torres will not be considered as he continues his rehabilitation after a groin complaint.

Johnson is one of several Liverpool players who will use the remainder of the season to improve their prospects of a place in next summer’s World Cup after the final qualifiers were determined on Wednesday night.

And that number could include David Ngog, who has been approached by Cameroon to play in the forthcoming World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations despite having played for France at Under-21 level.

Ngog, who has played for France fromUnder-16 level through to Under-21, qualifies for Cameroon through his father, with Indomitable Lions coach Paul Le Guen keen for Ngog to change his allegiance.

That, though, would leave Liverpool with problems in attack as Cameroon are involved in the African Cup of Nations in Angola in January.

“I have had contact with the Cameroonian federation,” said Ngog. “Now I need some time to think about things. I’m very flattered.”

Liverpool have confirmed their FA Youth Cup third round tie against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield will be played on Monday, November 30 with a 7pm kick-off.