GERRARD RETURNS BUT NO TORRES V MAGPIES
Paul Hassall at Anfield 03 May 2009
Steven Gerrard returns to the starting line-up as Liverpool bid to close the gap at the top with victory over Newcastle this afternoon. Listen live from 1pm BST.
The Reds skipper has missed the last four matches through injury but has been passed fit for the visit of the Magpies and replaces Lucas Leiva as Rafael Benitez makes four changes from the side that beat Hull City.
Fabio Aurelio also returns in place of Emiliano Insua with Daniel Agger, who last night agreed a contract extension, coming in for Martin Skrtel.
Albert Riera is the other change, replacing Fernando Torres who does not make the bench.
The Liverpool team in full: Reina, Arbeloa, Aurelio, Carragher, Agger, Mascherano, Alonso, Kuyt, Benayoun, Gerrard, Riera. Subs: Cavalieri, Skrtel, Ngog, Dossena, Babel, Lucas, El Zhar