Gerrard out of squad to face Chelsea

Steven Gerrard has been left out of Liverpool’s squad for tonight’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Chelsea.

The Liverpool captain has been struggling with a groin injury and did not play in the 4-0 victory over Blackburn at the weekend.

Liverpool, who were looking to overturn a 3-1 first-leg deficit at Stamford Bridge tonight, has named Lucas, Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso in what looks set to be a three-man central midfield to face the Blues.

Chelsea: Cech, Ivanovic, Alex, Carvalho, Ashley Cole, Kalou, Ballack, Essien, Lampard, Malouda, Drogba.

Subs: Hilario, Di Santo, Mikel, Deco, Belletti, Anelka, Mancienne.

Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio, Lucas, Mascherano, Alonso, Kuyt, Torres, Benayoun.

Subs: Cavalieri, Dossena, Hyypia, Agger, Riera, Babel, Ngog.

Referee: Luis Medina Cantalejo (Spain).