Gerrard out of Sunderland clash

Steven Gerrard is still sidelined for Liverpool’s trip to the Stadium of Light today as Rafael Benitez makes four changes to the side which drew with Chelsea last week.

Momo Sissoko replaces the England star in central midfield, while there were also recalls for Sami Hyypia, Ryan Babel and striker Andriy Voronin.

There is no place for new boy Andy Cole in the Sunderland line-up as boss Roy Keane makes only one change to the side beaten by Wigan last week, Liam Miller replacing Anthony Stokes.

Sunderland: Gordon, Halford, McShane, Nosworthy, Wallace, Miller, Etuhu, Yorke, Richardson, Chopra, Murphy.

Subs: Ward, Stokes, Leadbitter, Anderson, Connolly.

Liverpool: Reina, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Arbeloa, Pennant, Alonso, Sissoko, Babel, Torres, Voronin.

Subs: Itandje, Agger, Riise, Kuyt, Mascherano.

Referee: Mark Halsey.