Whilst the British weather is continuing to be awkward and not make it’s mind up over whether it’s gonna let you have a barbeque this August Bank Holiday weekend, This Is Anfield is here to fill you in on the latest news around Anfield’¦
Carra and Gerrard to miss CL clash
Liverpool today confirmed that both defender Jamie Carragher and captain Steven Gerrard will miss Tuesday’s Champions League qualifier at home to French side Toulouse.
Carragher sustained a broken rib during Liverpool’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday whilst Gerrard is still recovering from a broken toe, picked up in the first leg of the qualifier two weeks ago.
Manager Rafa Benitez says, “Both players will not be available for this game. It’s a shame because they are both important players for us, but we have enough players and enough competition within the squad to cope.
“Carra is improving which is good news. I need to talk to the doctor to find out more and to see how long he will be out for.
“It’s clear that with Steven we need to take care of him. He could be available for the game at the weekend but we’ll have to see. Again I will need to talk to the doctor first because I don’t want to run the risk of losing him for a long time.
Toulouse off-colour before Anfield visit
Tuesday night’s Champions League qualifier opponents Toulouse warmed up for their visit to face Liverpool with a 1-1 draw away to Nice on Saturday.
The visitors scored a 87th minute equaliser through Andre-Pierre Gignac to rescue their fourth point of the season ‘“ from their opening four games.
Kick-off tomorrow night is at 8:05pm with the Reds leading 1-0 from the first leg thanks to an Andriy Voronin strike.
Reds in for Brazilian midfielder?
Today’s rumour sees Talking Soccer suggest that Rafael Benitez has been monitering the form of Brazilian Under-20 international Carlos Eduardo of Gremio. However with transfer window deadline is fast approaching (August 31st), will Eduardo, likened to Ronaldinho, prove to be Liverpool’s final signing of the summer?
Paletta joins Boca, Insua stays at Anfield
The departure of centre back Gabriel Paletta has been confirmed, with the Argentinian joining Boca Juniors in a deal which sees left back Emiliano Insua’s loan move become permanent.
Benitez urges McClaren to pick Pennant
And finally, Rafa has said that Jermaine Pennant’s recent form should be enough to earn the right-winger and England call-up.
He says, ‘œHe will have an opportunity to play for England this year if he keeps progressing as he has been doing – I’m sure of that.
‘œHe is gaining more experience at a high level all the time. Now I think he has shown he is good enough to be considered for the national team.
‘œThe only concern I have is from the club’s point of view, it’s always better to keep as many players as possible to work with them during the week, but I know and understand how important it is for players to play for their country.’
