Torres back for Reds

Fernando Torres is expected to return to Barclays Premier League action for the first time since November when Liverpool travel to Stoke tomorrow evening.

Full-back Alvaro Arbeloa is unlikely to be involved as he recovers from a hamstring problem, but Javier Mascherano has overcome an ankle knock sustained at Preston in the FA Cup last weekend.

Fabio Aurelio is expected to return at left-back, with teenager Emiliano Insua on international duty with Argentina Under-20s.

Midfielder Xabi Alonso has been ruled out with a foot injury, while veteran defender Sami Hyypia will make the 700th appearance of his club career if he figures at the Britannia Stadium.

Provisional squad: Reina, Carragher, Agger, Hyypia, Skrtel, Aurelio, Benayoun, Lucas, Mascherano, Gerrard, Babel, Keane, Kuyt, Torres, Riera, Ngog, El Zhar, Cavalieri.