Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Liverpool v Marseille

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Uefa Champions League, Group D: Liverpool v Marseille
Venue: Anfield Date: Wednesday 26 November Kick-off: 1945 GMT

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is expected to play in Wednesday's Champions League tie against Marseille.

He has recovered from the groin injury which forced him to miss Saturday's 0-0 draw with Fulham, but boss Rafa Benitez may not play him for 90 minutes.

Striker Fernando Torres is available for action after returning last week from a hamstring problem.

A Liverpool win over the team that beat them 1-0 at Anfield last season would secure a place in the knockout stages.

Liverpool have only long-term injured duo Philipp Degen and Martin Skrtel on the sidelines while Xabi Alonso, a substitute on Saturday, is expected to return.

Benitez takes charge of his 66th European tie in charge of Liverpool, taking him past the club's previous record of 65, held by legendary Scottish manager Bill Shankly.

"I'm very proud to be in this position," said Benitez. "Hopefully I'll be in charge of Liverpool for another 65 or 66 games in Europe.

"I'm really pleased because it's a really good achievement for anyone, but especially when you talk about a top club like Liverpool.

"It means as well that the team is doing well in Europe."

Benitez is hoping that the Gerrard-Torres partnership, which produced more than 50 goals last season, will fire his side into the next round.

Injuries to both players have prevented the combination hitting top form this season but Benitez believes it will not be long before they click again.

"Last season it was clear to see that the understanding between Torres and Gerrard was really good and there have been signs this year that it is getting better," said Benitez.

"As a manager I don't like to single out players but Gerrard and Torres have scored something like 54 goals between them since they began playing together, so it is clear that they are both very important to us."

Liverpool will face former winger Boudewijn Zenden, who scored a last-minute equaliser for Marseille in their 2-2 draw with Lille on Sunday.

"You are always worried when you play Liverpool," admitted the Dutchman.

"They are a team in the top two in England. It'll be very difficult, but we are not afraid."

Liverpool (from): Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Agger, Aurelio, Benayoun, Babel, Gerrard, Alonso, Mascherano, Lucas, Torres, Kuyt, Keane, Riera, Cavalieri, El Zhar, Dossena, Spearing.

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