Thursday, March 17, 2011

Europa League Preview: Liverpool vs Braga

Liverpool welcomes Braga to Anfield for the second leg of their last-16 Europa League clash aiming to overturn their first-leg defeat.

The Reds slumped to a 1-0 defeat in Portugal last week thanks to Alan's penalty and they will need a big performance to reach the quarter-finals.

Liverpool will have to do it without captain Steven Gerrard as he continues his recovery from a groin operation.

Danish defender Daniel Agger could be back in the squad after missing the last three games with a knee injury.

Midfielder Jonjo Shelvey is back in training, but the game has come too quickly for the player.

Defensive duo Martin Kelly and Fabio Aurelio remain on the sidelines with respective hamstring problems.

Striker Luis Suarez is ineligible for the hosts meaning Dirk Kuyt is likely to lead the attack.

Andy Carroll is set to have to content himself with a place on the bench again after two substitute appearances in the last two games after recovering from a long-term thigh problem.

Braga is boosted by the return of captain Vandinho after a month on the sidelines with a thigh injury.

Kaka and Alan are both expected to shake off slight knocks to take their places in the starting line-up.

Custodio and Elderson, who both missed the first meeting with Liverpool with thigh injuries, are again missing for the Portuguese side.

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