Smicer could win Reds recall

Gerard Houllier must decide how much he tinkers with a winning side on Sunday when Liverpool face another crucial home game, this time with Carling Cup winners Middlesbrough.

At Manchester United last weekend, Houllier had full back Steve Finnan in midfield for his comeback game after nine matches out with a shoulder injury, while spot kick hero Danny Murphy returned to the side after starting just seven of the previous 20 matches.

Houllier will be expected to field a more attack minded team at home but the only likely change may be Czech midfielder Vladimir Smicer in midfield in place of Finnan.

Houllier must decide whether to stick with the out of touch Harry Kewell – 12 games without a goal – or recall either Emile Heskey or Milan Baros to give Michael Owen more support up front.

Provisional squad: Dudek, Carragher, Finnan, Henchoz, Hyypia, Riise, Murphy, Gerrard, Hamann, Smicer, Kewell, Owen, Heskey, Luzi, Cheyrou, Diouf, Baros, Diao, Le Tallec, Pongolle, Traore, Biscan.