Degen ruled out, Darby could profit

Full back Phillip Degen has firmly taken Harry Kewell‘s place on the Liverpool physio’s table after picking up a second injury on his second appearance for the club.

The Swiss international made his debut in the League Cup against Crewe last month but broke two ribs that night, and made his second appearance on Wednesday at Spurs but has picked up a foot injury which will keep him out for another month.

The Bosman free transfer was brought down by Gareth Bale for what should have been a penalty and was replaced by youngster Stephen Darby following the collision.

It is reserve team captain Darby who is now likely to profit from the injury with Alvaro Arbeloa suspended and Degen ruled out, Darby is the only recognised right back in Benitez’s squad.

Darby made his full debut at White Hart Lane in the closing minutes and in doing so became the first member of the 2006/07 youth cup winning side to play for the first team.

Benitez will decide whether to blood Darby against Bolton on Saturday or play Jamie Carragher at right back and Hyypia in the middle alongside Agger.