Dirk hails record breaker

Dirk Kuyt hailed the impact of Fernando Torres after Liverpool’s number nine became the first player in the club's illustrious history to net four successive double strikes at Anfield during the 4-1 victory over Benfica.

El Nino helped the Reds set up a Europa League semi-final tie with Atletico Madrid with two goals to take his tally to 22 goals for the season and Kuyt admitted it was another special European night at Anfield.

"It was a great home performance and a massive result for us against a very good side," our No.18 told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"Almost every goal was of the highest quality. Fernando's first goal was absolutely superb and for me one of the best goals of the season. We had a corner against us which ended with a great counter attack.

"It was a good pass from Yossi and I was able to cross the ball for Fernando to score as he does always. I was happy to play a part in the goal and it gave me almost the same feeling as if I'd scored the goal myself.

"When we play well as a team and work hard for each other you can see we are a very good team and a tough side to beat.

"When they scored we knew they would have to push hard so there would be a lot of space for us to try and take advantage of, so we tried to stay focus, but when you've got Fernando in your side you don't worry because you know he will always do something special.

"He is just a a very special player and this was a great night for us."

Watch our exclusive chat with Dirk>>

Kuyt netted the opening goal of the night with his 11^th goal of the campaign but it was almost disallowed after the assistant referee wrongly claimed his header from a corner was off-side.

"There was confusion as the assistant referee thought a Liverpool player touched the ball before I touched it so he gave off-side," he said.

"That wasn't the case so it was a misunderstanding but I think it was strong for the referee to realise the situation."

Reflecting on the semi-final clash with Atletico with the first leg taking place at the Vicente Calderon Stadium in Madrid on Thursday, April 22, Kuyt added: "Atletico Madrid are a very good side and it will be a very special match for Fernando to go back to his former club.

"We know they will be another tough two games to play but we are looking forward to it.

"I always say you have to take it as it is so with the first leg being away we have to do the same as we did in Benfica by trying to score an away goal. We always try to win every game we play and we will go to Madrid with the intention of winning."

Watch Fernando finish off a magnificent move>>