Dalglish has faith on quality Doni

Kenny Dalglish has admitted Pepe Reina's ban could not be worse timed even though he has faith in the unknown quantity who will replace him.



Alexander Doni has not played a single minute for Liverpool this season since he arrived from Roma last summer but will be thrust into the spotlight today against Aston Villa, as Spanish goalkeeper Reina starts a three-match ban for the red card he received at Newcastle last week.







There are concerns Doni, 32, will become a weak link and that his presence will compromise Liverpool's chances in next week's FA Cup semi-final against Everton, given Reina has such an understanding with his defenders.

Dalglish is not worried about the Brazilian's qualities; but he is anxious over what kind of impact introducing a new face into such a key position will cause, as Liverpool attempt to end their worst run of defeats for 59 years.

'He (Doni) has started really well in training,' said Dalglish.

'His attitude has been brilliant but he has only been playing pre-season games. He has an opportunity to play now and he looks really sharp.



'Since he has come he has got better and better but you need to see it translated (into games). It's unfortunate circumstances but I am sure he will be looking forward to the game.

'Somebody said it's easier for a goalkeeper than an outfield player but I don't quite see that one. I know where I'd rather play. He played in Serie A so I'd say he was a quietly confident boy.'

Having only taken eight points from the last 36 available, Dalglish accepts confidence is an issue but believes his players have the strength of character to arrest the slide.

'They've had a few defeats but I think the reaction from the lads when they come in for training has been excellent,' he said.

'They have worked as hard when they have won a game as when they have lost a game. We have now got to transmit our beliefs onto the pitch and get results.'