The Independent previews Liverpool's second Champions League tie against Real Madrid after their 3-0 drubbing at Anfield a fortnight ago.
Brendan Rodgers has revealed he is prepared to rest Steven Gerrard for the game against in order to ensure that the 34-year-old is fresh for the Premier League match against Chelsea on Saturday.
Rodgers said he still believes Liverpool can get a result at the home of the European champions and also that it is time to place the responsibility on some of the squad’s new players rather than always relying on their veteran captain to lead them through big games. Daniel Sturridge has travelled to Spain but is “highly unlikely” to play any part.
On the other side, Carlo Ancelotti admitted that Gareth Bale was available again tonight but he was still not sure about whether to welcome him back into the starting line-up at the Bernabeu. "I have doubts," the manager said. "I’m not sure if he will play from the start or to bring him on and give other players who have played a lot of games recently a rest."
Since Bale picked up his injury, Ancelotti’s side have put in their best three performances of the season. They put three past Liverpool at Anfield two weeks ago, brushed Barcelona aside and beat Granada at the weekend.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies