Gerrard on bench for Liverpool
Steven Gerrard has been named on the Liverpool bench for tonight’s Champions League last-16 first leg against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.
The Reds captain has been struggling with a hamstring injury picked up against Everton three weeks ago and Liverpool coach Rafael Benitez has decided not to risk him from the start tonight.
Yossi Benayoun continues to deputise for the England midfielder while Xabi Alonso returns to the starting XI after being suspended for the weekend game against Manchester City.
Real Madrid: Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Cannavaro, Heinze, Robben, Gago, Lassana Diarra, Marcelo, Higuain, Raul.
Subs: Dudek, Saviola, Sneijder, Guti, Metzelder, Miguel Torres, Van der Vaart.
Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Skrtel, Carragher, Aurelio, Benayoun, Alonso, Mascherano, Riera, Torres, Kuyt.
Subs: Cavalieri, Dossena, Hyypia, Gerrard, Babel, Lucas, Ngog.
Referee: Roberto Rosetti (Italy).
