Liverpool travel to the Midlands to face Premier League newboys Wolves at Molineux on Tuesday evening (7:45pm kick off).
Rafa Benitez’s side weren’t in action over the weekend after their third round FA Cup exit to Reading two weeks ago. Their last outing saw them overcome Tottenham at Anfield last Wednesday.
Dirk Kuyt was the matchwinner then, scoring both goals in a 2-0 win, and is expected to lead the Liverpool attack again against Mick McCarthy’s side. He could be joined by returning captain Steven Gerrard in attack. The Reds’ skipper has missed the last two matches (Stoke and Tottenham) since picking up a hamstring injury in the home defeat to Reading.
A late decision will be made on Gerrard’s fitness, who has taken part in full training for the last 3 days, Rafa Benitez said “Normally he’s someone who, if available, can play. We’ll decide later but I think he can be available”
The manager understands the importance of his captain being involved, “Having Gerrard back is always important for us because he can change games. He is training now with the team and has had problems during the season, so it’s really good for us he is back.”
If Gerrard does start, Benitez must choose between Javier Mascherano, Lucas Leiva and Alberto Aquilani for whose place the captain takes after all 3 started the Spurs match.
Fernando Torres (knee) and Yossi Benayoun (rib) remain sidelined though. Albert Riera could continue on the left side of midfield.
Fabio Aurelio and Daniel Agger remain doubtful with slight knocks, while Nabil El Zhar and Martin Kelly are definitely out with ankle injuries.
For Wolves, they are without David Edwards, Andrew Keogh and Michael Kightly. New signing Geoffrey Mujangi Bia could make his debut for the Wanderers.
Mick McCarthy’s side sit precariously above the drop-zone, level with third bottom Hull but with this their game in hand. Liverpool meanwhile are within striking distance of fourth place after last week’s crucial win. Another three points here and Benitez’s side will go above Spurs and Man City into fourth, although will have played one more than Spurs and two more than City.
City are in action in the return leg of their League Cup semi-final with Man United at Old Trafford tomorrow night.
The two sides met in the corresponding fixture at Anfield a month ago, on Boxing Day. Gerrard and Benayoun scored the goals to give the Reds a 2-0 win.
The last time the two sides met at Molinuex, back in January 2004, the score finished 1-1. Bruno Cheyrou with Liverpool’s goal!
Kick-off at Molineux is 7.45pm, streams will be available via our forums.
