Sissoko raises hopes of swift return

LIVERPOOL midfielder Mohamed Sissoko is targeting a surprise return before the end of the season following ‘the scariest moment of his life’ when he suffered an eye injury against Benfica.

The 21-year-old’s accidental clash with Brazilian midfielder Beto led to the former Valencia player initially being ruled out for the season over fears for his sight.

Despite fearing he may not play again, the Mali international’s injury was not as bad as first feared.

Meanwhile, Sami Hyypia is set to be passed fit to play in Liverpool’s Champions League clash with Benfica on Wednesday.

The 32-year-old Finland centre-back was taken off at half-time against Charlton on Saturday after suffering a hamstring problem.

A scan at the club’s Melwood training ground has not revealed any serious damage and he will be fit to train prior to the Benifca clash. Spokesman Ian Cotton told the club’s website, liverpoolfc.tv: “Sami will be fit to train with the rest of the squad on Tuesday.”