Gerrard dropped for Black Cats battle

England midfielder Steven Gerrard had to settle for a place on the Liverpool bench today.

Gerrard was publicly criticised by manager Gerard Houllier for his performance in the Champions League draw with Basle last week.

He was replaced in Switzerland by Salif Diao, who got his reward by returning to the starting line-up.

John Arne Riise was also banished to the bench as Liverpool aimed to regain top spot from Arsenal.

Markus Babbel made his first Premiership start for the club in 15 months after recovering from a serious illness.

Sunderland were hoping to make it five games unbeaten under new manager Howard Wilkinson.

Joachim Bjorklund returned to the defence in place of right-back Stephen Wright, who missed the game against his former team through suspension.