Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has revealed that he believes Asia is a fast emerging power in world football.

By Ian Griffiths

The Anfield supremo was speaking ahead of Sunday's clash with Singapore, Liverpool's second and final game on a tour of Asia that has already seen them earn a draw 1-1 against a resilient Thailand on Wednesday night.

With the likes of Manchester United star Park Ji-sung and new Bolton Wanderers signing Lee Chung-yong proudly flying the Asian flag in Europe, the continent's finest exports are busy making an indelible mark on world football, a state of affairs that has not taken Benitez by surprise

"I definitely think the quality of football is growing in Asia," Benitez declared.

"I know how football is in some other Asian countries as well and I can see that things are getting better and better."

Liverpool went ahead in Bangkok through Ryan Babel, only to be pegged back by Sutee Suksomkit's equaliser. The nature of Thailand's display was proof to Benitez that Asian nations should never be underestimated.

"The other day playing in Thailand you could see the good level of their team.

"We were impressed because they had very good movement. Before we arrived in Thailand we were expecting a good team but one who focused on running a lot.

"However, what we found was a team that did run a lot but which had a great purpose to it."

"It seems overall that the situation is improving across the region."

Liverpool are in Singapore as part of the 2009 ‘Kop comes to Asia' Tour.