Liverpool FC can thrive on pressure - Rafa Benitez

The Anfield outfit have historically performed better in the second half of a league season under Benitez, whose hand has been strengthened in the past fortnight by the return to fitness of Fernando Torres, Fabio Aurelio and Martin Skrtel.

And the Spaniard believes that with Steven Gerrard and Javier Mascherano coming back into form, Liverpool will provide a formidable challenge for their title rivals.

"I believe we can still improve," said Benitez.

"Skrtel has not been playing, Mascherano in the last few games has been playing much better but before he was not at the level we know. Gerrard now is improving. We have Torres to come back too now.

"You look at someone like Lucas who has done well. I think we will have more options in the second half of the season and more competition for each position which can be important.

"Torres just needs minutes on the pitch.

"It is a problem because the team is doing well. Some players you have to keep their momentum, but Aurelio, Skrtel, Torres need to play too.

"To keep the balance will difficult, but we will try to do that. It depends on the games."

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson claimed this week that Liverpool could "choke" on the pressure of what will be a tense run-in for the title.

And while Benitez accepts that any mistakes from his team could prove costly as Liverpool aim for their first championship since 1990.

"Clearly we are in a much better position than in the past seasons," said the Spaniard.

"We are doing what we did before and analysing all the same details, the difference is now that you know if you make a mistake it can be massive, so you have to consider everything."

Benitez has not entirely ruled out any moves during the transfer window, but added: "It is always difficult to buy in January. If you bring in new players then they need to settle down and they need time.

"If you sell players then maybe you will lose something. We don't have any clubs asking for our players. It is important to keep the squad together - you cannot guarantee that you won't sell anyone or sign anyone - we have to see how things are as we go on."

Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a possible £10million bid for Ryan Babel this month, but Liverpool have no intention of parting with the Holland international.

Meanwhile, Liverpool will wait until the end of the week before deciding if Xabi Alonso is fit to face Stoke.

The Spanish midfielder is recovering from a foot injury that forced him off at half-time during last Saturday's 2-0 FA Cup third round win at Preston North End.

"Xabi trained yesterday but the problem is he had seven stitches so clearly it depends if he can put boots on and kick the ball," said Benitez.

"For running and training I think he will be okay but we have to decide at the end of the week about his boots.

"If he can kick a ball he could be available for Stoke but we will have to wait and see."

Mascherano is expected to overcome an ankle knock, but Alvaro Arbeloa is almost certain to again be absent with a hamstring problem.

"Arbeloa is improving but I think he will need another week," added Benitez. "Hopefully next week he can train normally again."

LIVERPOOL have announced ticket details for the FA Cup fourth round tie with Everton on Sunday, January 25.

For full details and selling arrangements visit www.liverpoolfc.tv