‘I felt basically left out’ – Dutch star reveals former Liverpool manager left him feeling abandoned
Netherlands international Ryan Babel was tipped for greatness when he joined Liverpool back in 2007 from Ajax.
Things did not quite materialise for Babel and he did not reach the heights that were expected.
Babel feels that former Reds coach Rafa Benitez was partly to blame for his failings.
The experienced winger felt that the Spanish manager did not help him settle in and that he felt abandoned by his former manager.
See More: Ryan Babel enjoying best Champions League form since leaving Liverpool in 2011
“He promised me certain things at this time to help me develop which I thought was the same as Ajax but at a different pace,” Babel told the Independent.
“But from the start I felt basically left out, by myself, no help and that was of course very difficult for a 20 year old.
“I had really to become an adult very quick and adapt. It was up and down but at the same time I had a great experience there.
“I learnt a lot. When I look back I could have done things differently but at the same time I also think I could have got more guidance from the coaches.”
Babel scored 22 goals and provided 18 assists in 146 apperances for Liverpool in 146 apperances during his time at the club.
After spells at Hoffenheim, Ajax, Al Ain, Deportivo La Coruna and Kasimpasa Babel joined Besiktas last January.
Babel has hit the ground running since joining the Super Lig champions.
Babel played an important role in the Black Eagles winning the league title last season.
The 30-year-old has two goals and one assist in the Champions League for the Group G toppers.
The experienced Dutch star has been in great form this season scoring five goals and providing two assists in 14 appearances.
Babel became the first Besiktas player to score in the first two Champions League group stage games.
