Mascherano, Lucas back for Liverpool

Midfielders Javier Mascherano and Lucas are back in to Liverpool’s squad for Sunday’s trip to Aston Villa following their return from the Olympics.

Liverpool will be without skipper Steven Gerrard, who is recovering from a groin operation, and Mascherano seems a likely replacement at Villa Park.

Liverpool still have a doubt over defender Sami Hyypia, who is recovering from a hamstring problem.

Provisional squad: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio, Dossena, Benayoun, Babel, Mascherano, Lucas, Plessis, Alonso, Kuyt, Torres, Keane, El Zhar, Cavalieri, Ngog, Agger, Spearing.