If Liverpool are to progress past the group stages of the Champions League this season, victory is essential as they face Besiktas at Anfield on Tuesday night.

Two straight defeats in Europe have left Rafael Benitez’s men staring into the possability of an early exit from the comptition in which they’ve reached the final of twice in the last three seasons.

More frustrating football was displayed at Ewood Park on Saturday during the Reds’ 0-0 draw with Blackburn Rovers, causing fans to call for striker Dirk Kuyt to be dropped from the starting line-up and Peter Crouch to be given his moment to shine whilst Fernando Torres recovers from injury.

Xabi Alonso and Daniel Agger remain sidelined, but Fabio Aurelio could be in for a starting place after completing last Wednesday’s Carling Cup fourth round victory over Cardiff City.

More to follow…