Benitez salutes 'impressive' Ngog

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has paid tribute to young striker David Ngog after he filled Fernando Torres' boots with great fortitude.

One of the few bright spots of a disappointing season for the Reds has been the form of French striker Ngog.

The 20-year-old has had to shoulder a greater burden during Torres' absence throughout November and early December.

He has scored six times this campaign, already doubling his return from last season.

Benitez accepts Ngog, an unknown £1million signing from Paris Saint-Germain in July 2008, is far from the finished article but has been pleased with his progress.

"Everyone knows now he has good movement and good quality," Benitez said.

"I think he will be better every year because he is working hard in every training session and he is important for us now and in the future.

"It is very difficult for a young French player to come here and replace Torres.

"He has done a very good job if you consider all these things together."

One of the few bright spots of a disappointing season for the Reds has been the form of French striker Ngog.

The 20-year-old has had to shoulder a greater burden during Torres' absence throughout November and early December.

He has scored six times this campaign, already doubling his return from last season.

Benitez accepts Ngog, an unknown £1million signing from Paris Saint-Germain in July 2008, is far from the finished article but has been pleased with his progress.

"Everyone knows now he has good movement and good quality," Benitez said.

"I think he will be better every year because he is working hard in every training session and he is important for us now and in the future.

"It is very difficult for a young French player to come here and replace Torres.

"He has done a very good job if you consider all these things together."

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