Mascherano poised to start

Javier Mascherano is expected to return to the starting line-up for Liverpool at Newcastle tomorrow, having been an unused substitute for yesterday's win over Bolton.

Liverpool played 4-4-2 with Steven Gerrard in a central midfield role for that game, but it is likely their captain will revert to the support striker role at St.James’ Park.

They will still be without full-back Alvaro Arbeloa, who has a hamstring injury while Fernando Torres could return as a substitute.

Liverpool provisional squad: Reina, Carragher, Agger, Hyypia, Insua, Alonso, Mascherano, Kuyt, Gerrard, Keane, Cavalieri, Darby, Babel, Benayoun, Lucas, Ngog, El Zhar, Torres.