Liverpool v Wolves
Thursday, 24 December 2009 14:41Javier Mascherano starts a four-match suspension when Liverpool face Wolves at Anfield on St Stephen's Day although the midfielder would have been out anyway for three weeks as he recovers from a knee problem.
Manager Rafael Benitez is considering bringing in Alberto Aquilani for his first start in the Barclays Premier League, the Italian having recovered from a calf injury.
Liverpool's other injury problems are all long term, with Albert Riera, Martin Kelly and Nabil El Zhar all still sidelined.
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy is poised to name an unchanged side for.
With the exception of Michael Kightly, Dave Edwards and Andy Keogh who all have ankle problems, McCarthy has no other injury worries to contend with.
McCarthy is poised to retain the side that started last weekend's 2-0 win against Burnley - a result which moved Wolves out of the relegation zone and into 12th place.
Wolves follow the game against Liverpool with another tough clash against Manchester City on Monday.
McCarthy said: 'I will have to assess everyone after the Liverpool game. If I have to make changes to the side for the following game then I will.'
Liverpool squad: Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Agger, Skrtel, Insua, Aurelio, Benayoun, Babel, Gerrard, Lucas, Aquilani, Kuyt, Torres, Kyrgiakos, Ngog, Spearing, Dossena, Cavalieri.
Wolves squad: Hahnemann, Stearman, Craddock, Berra, Ward, Foley, Henry, Milijas, Jarvis, Doyle, Ebanks-Blake, Surman, Mancienne, Zubar, Iwelumo, Hill, Jones, Maierhofer, Castillo, Elokobi, Halford, Friend, Hennessey.
