Babel defied Van Basten

Ryan Babel defied a request from Holland boss Marco van Basten to sign for Liverpool.

Van Basten told Holland's Under 21s that in order to bolster their chances of making his Euro 2008 squad then they should remain in the Eredivisie.

However, the 20-year-old ignored Van Basten's words of wisdom this summer after securing his £11.5million switch to Anfield.

Babel believes he will play enough football under manager Rafa Benitez to maintain his form and impress Van Basten sufficiently to make his squad.

"Van Basten spoke to the squad before the Under 21 Championships and said it would be best for players to stay in Holland if they wanted to go to Euro 2008," stated Babel.

"But, if I'm honest, his words did not even enter my mind when Liverpool said they wanted to sign me.

"I spoke to Rafa Benitez and I have enough confidence in my own ability to believe I will play enough games for Liverpool to convince Van Basten and go to the finals."