Rafael Benitez has defended his reign as Liverpool manager with the Anfield club facing European oblivion.If Liverpool lose their Champions League clash with Group E leaders Lyon in the Stade de Gerland today, they will be all but out of this season's competition and Benitez knows the pressure on him will reach even greater heights.Lyon, with three victories already, need one point to qualify for the last 16, while Liverpool have never lost three successive European Cup games in their history.But with a frightening injury crisis, there is a very real prospect of a side missing Steven Gerrard, Glen Johnson, Martin Skrtel, Fabio Aurelio and Albert Riera suffering that humiliation.Gerrard did not even travel to France, and Benitez insists that a decision on whether his skipper needs a groin operation will not be taken until Liverpool return to Merseyside.Italian midfielder Alberto Aquilani is on the verge of starting his first game for the club, while a late decision will be taken on Daniel Agger's back problem.The French side are considered hot favourites to complete a double over Liverpool, having won at Anfield last month.Lyon will not be fooled by Liverpool's poor form and injury crisis and for me Lyon will win here.