Former Coventry stopper Chris Kirkland is back in training after a back injury sustained in the derby defeat against Everton forced him to miss the drawn game against Portsmouth in midweek.

Pole Jerzy Dudek came in for that game, but he appeard to be at fault with Pompey's last-minute equaliser.

The Anfield side have looked vulnerable at the back and it is nine games since they last achieved a clean sheet.

Historically, games between the teams have been exciting at Anfield with plenty of goals. That, however, is the last thing Benitez wants.

"I hope to see a good game but I do not want to see a lot of goals," he said.

"Something like that is good for supporters but bad for managers, as you want to keep a clean sheet if possible.''

Even though his team are some way off the top of the Premiership table, Benitez is quietly pleased with the club's progress going into a crucial period.