Friday, April 03, 2009

Liverpool FC To Gamble On Javier Mascherano

Liverpool are ready to gamble on the fitness of Javier Mascherano at Fulham tomorrow – despite the midfielder having not yet returned from international duty.

Mascherano will play despite only having arrived at Melwood at lunchtime today after being on the receiving end of Argentina’s heaviest defeat in more than 60 years, losing 6-1 in Bolivia at high altitude.

In-form Liverpool will aim to pick up where they left off before the international break by moving temporarily top of the Premier League with victory at Fulham tomorrow evening.

Of Argentina’s surprise loss, Mascherano said: “For some of us, playing in the altitude was something new, for others not so much, but we can’t say that we lost because of the altitude.

“Our rivals played better and nothing turned out right for us.

“This should serve us as a lesson and it will surely consolidate the squad, who are very united and growing in every aspect.”

Liverpool are confident both Sami Hyypia and Yossi Benayoun will be available for the trip to Craven Cottage.

And with no further international breaks, Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard believes the Anfield outfit can now devote 100% of their concentration and energies on their quest for Premier League and Champions League glory.

“The good thing now is that we can put the internationals to the back of our minds now and just concentrate on the run-in,” said Gerrard.

“The last three weeks have been among the most enjoyable in my Liverpool career, and we want to keep that momentum going.

“We know that it is going to be difficult at Craven Cottage; just look at what they did to United.”

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