LIVERPOOL forward Ryan Babel impressed for the second time in five days in Monday night’s 3-0 win over Aston Villa but he was keen to stress the importance of the team effort.

Having done well in the Europa League against Steaua Bucharest last Thursday the Dutchman was given another chance after striker Fernando Torres’ late withdrawal to be at the birth of his second child.

Babel took his chance with a well-taken second goal just two minutes after David Ngog had given his side a 14th-minute lead, with Maxi Rodriguez securing a fourth successive Barclays Premier League home win.

It made light of the absence of Torres, as well as those of the injured Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher.

“Fernando’s circumstances were clear to the team at that point, so the question was who the boss was going to replace him with,” said Babel.

“He chose me and I was very pleased with that. It was good to play the full 90 minutes and to get involved with the team.

“Of course I was happy to score. Scoring a goal is always wonderful and gives any player confidence.