Owen on the bench for Reds

Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier sprung a surprise by leaving Michael Owen on the bench for the Anfield club’s opening Champions League Group B clash.

Owen was rested on Saturday at Bolton, seemingly with the intent of playing him against the Spanish champions.

But Houllier clearly believes that the European Footballer of the Year is in need of further nursing after a spell of only one goal - from the penalty spot - this season.

Liverpool were also without Stephane Henchoz, with a calf problem, so Senegal star Salif Diao continued in his role alongside Sami Hyypia in the centre of defence.

John Arne Riise returned, with Emile Heskey likely to be partnered by El Hadji Diouf up front.

Valencia, who have never lost a Champions League game at home, employed Norwegian John Carew in attack while Argentina midfielder Pablo Aimar had recovered from a minor injury to play.