Mascherano misses Rovers clash

Javier Mascherano will complete a three-match suspension for his red card against Manchester United as Liverpool tackle Blackburn at Anfield on Sunday.

Mascherano tried to have an extra two-match ban cut on appeal but the Football Association rejected the plea in London yesterday.

Liverpool still have Daniel Agger (knee), Harry Kewell (hamstring) and Jermaine Pennant (hamstring) sidelined but boss Rafael Benitez will have the rest of his squad available for a match the Anfield men must win to keep a grip on fourth spot.

Provisional squad: Reina, Arbeloa, Finnan, Carragher, Skrtel, Hyypia, Riise, Aurelio, Babel, Benayoun, Alonso, Gerrard, Lucas, Crouch, Torres, Voronin, Kuyt, Itandje.