Damien Plessis Rewarded With New Liverpool Contract

Liverpool midfielder Damien Plessis, who joined the Reds in 2007 but is yet to establish himself in Rafael Benitez's first team, has received a boost in the form of a new two-and-a-half year deal.

Plessis, an imposing midfielder, was bought by Benitez from Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais. Now 21, he has represented France at six different levels.

He has made intermittent appearances in the first-team, but has yet to challenge the likes of Javier Mascherano for a regular starting role.

However, he has been named among Liverpool's substitutes on a number of ocassions this season.

Plessis is said to be held in high regard by the Liverpool management, and Benitez is understood to be patient with the player. Upon signing the 21-year-old, he said to The Guardian: "He is a good player, big and strong, and we're sure he'll do well for us.

"He's only a young boy with plenty of time to work on his game but it depends on his progress how quickly he can force his way into the first team."