The ice has been cleared from outside of a freezing Anfield ready for tonight’s F.A Cup third round replay against Championship struggler’s Reading.
Maxi Rodriguez, who is expected to sign for Liverpool within the next few days, will be present tonight to see his new side battle it out for the chance to face Burnley in the next round of England’s premier cup competition.
Javier Mascherano will serve the last game of his ban since his red card during Liverpool’s defeat to Portsmouth at Fratton Park. Glen Johnson will miss the game through injury, with Martin Kelly also not fit to play youngster Steven Darby may be picked in Rafael Benitez’ side.
With the Reds now only in contention for two trophies, The F.A Cup and the Europa League, the Liverpool manager is expected to name a strong line-up to ensure the sides progression to the next round of the competition. Both Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard are expected to be in the starting line-up for the Kop side along with creative midfielder Alberto Aquilani.
Reading will be missing a host of players going into tonight’s clash, most notably new signings Andy Griffin and Gunnar Thorvaldsson. However Marek Matejovsky could return from an abdomen injury and Brian Howard could start.
It’s certainly going to be an interesting game. Whilst on paper Liverpool are clear favourites the pressure to bring silverware to Anfield this season will increase the nerves of the Liverpool players who are already notably low on confidence.
My prediction: Liverpool win.
Michael, I was asked if you were the real Michael Owen.
My reply was of course.
You are real as far as I know :-)
-Antoine
I’m pretty sure I’m real as well. Now if you asked if I was a Judas, past it, striker then I may have a different answer!
If I ever meet said Judas, past it striker, I’ll be sure to ask him if HE is the real Michael Owen :D