Preview: Atletico Madrid (h)

With Liverpool trailing 1-0 from the first leg of this Europa League semi-final, there’s work to be done on what promises to be another special European night at Anfield on Thursday.

Diego Forlan’s 9th minute goal separated the two sides after Liverpool’s 1,200mile epic journey to the Spanish capital last Thursday.

Rafa Benitez loses Maxi Rodriguez, with the Argentine, who scored his first goal in English football on Sunday, ineligable to play in the competition. Also out are Fernando Torres, Martin Skrtel, Emiliano Insua and Fabio Aurelio.

There are massive doubts over the fitness of forwards Dirk Kuyt (calf) and David Ngog (back) meaning Benitez may be forced to play Ryan Babel as a lone forward. Kuyt will have a late fitness test after a light training session on Wednesday.

Atletico are boosted by the return of Sergio Aguero and go into the game knowing one goal will mean Liverpool will have to score three times to progress.

The Reds come off the back of a comfortable 4-0 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor, whilst Atletico Madrid are due to play Tenerife in La Liga on Sunday evening.

A place in the final awaits the winner of the tie. The winner will play either Fulham or Hamburg in the final in Hamburg next month.

Kick-off at Anfield is 8.05pm, live on five (UK).