Aquilani a concern for Benitez

Rafael Benitez must decide whether to continue with Alberto Aquilani in midfield as Liverpool travel to Aston Villa tomorrow.

Rafael Benitez must decide whether to continue with Alberto Aquilani in midfield as Liverpool travel to Aston Villa tomorrow.

The Italian made his first Premier League start in Saturday’s 2-0 win at Wolves but came off late in the game with a minor hamstring problem.

Benitez will also consider a recall for Holland forward Dirk Kuyt, who was rested for the St Stephen’s Day victory, while Javier Mascherano misses out for the second game of a four-match suspension, while continuing his recovery from a knee injury.

  • Listen to america 2026 our special World Cup podcast with Kevin Kilbane and Paul Howard

  • Sign up for push alerts to get the best breaking news, analysis and comment delivered to your phone

  • Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date