Alonso back for Liverpool

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez will recall Xabi Alonso for tomorrow’s trip to Reading - the Spanish midfielder having missed Tuesday’s win over Inter Milan to be at the bedside of his girlfriend for the birth of their son.

Javier Mascherano is also in contention, after shaking off a knock.

Liverpool’s Danish defender Daniel Agger has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a metatarsal injury that will require a third operation on Monday.

The match will be followed by a hugely demanding schedule that sees the Anfield club playing Manchester United, Everton and Arsenal - the latter on three occasions in a week including both legs of a Champions League quarter-final.

Team (from): Reina, Arbeloa, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Skrtel, Riise, Aurelio, Benayoun, Gerrard, Mascherano, Alonso, Lucas, Babel, Kuyt, Torres, Crouch, Voronin, Itandje.