Of Hazard’s goal, Benitez said: “The ref was giving too many fouls (against us) and it wasn’t easy. The pitch wasn’t the best and the ball bounced in front of the keeper and was really difficult.

“But the team was much more concentrated during the whole game.”

One significant positive from the evening was the performance of Fernando Torres, who demonstrated flashes of regaining his pace and sharpness.

And Benitez said: “There were signs Torres is coming back. He was working hard today and maybe his pace is coming back.

“There were still a lot of positives. The main thing for me was the team, but there were some individuals that were playing at the level that is expected of them.”

Benitez refused to be drawn into a war of words with Sam Allardyce after the Blackburn Rovers manager attempted to reignite the feud between the pair yesterday.

“No comment,” said the Spaniard. “I don’t want to give him any publicity.”

Meanwhile, Stephen Darby is poised to join Coca-Cola League One outfit Swindon Town on loan until the end of the season.

The 21-year-old right-back has made three appearances for the Liverpool first-team this season, most recently as a late substitute in the 2-0 Anfield win over Tottenham Hotspur in January.