Benitez Confirms Keane Won't Face Former Club Spurs

LIVERPOOL manager Rafael Benitez has confirmed both Steven Gerrard and Robbie Keane will definitely be rested for tonight's Carling Cup fourth-round tie at Tottenham.

And he has intimated Jamie Carragher, Dirk Kuyt and Xabi Alonso could also be left out.

Benitez's decision means Keane will not be able to face his former club, having left Spurs for Liverpool during the summer in a £20million move.

Benitez made it clear he would rest several senior players – some of whom have played six games in 18 days.

Benitez said: "Gerrard will not be in the squad and neither will Keane. It is always difficult to play so many games in a row and you have to change some players depending on the competition. The majority of them can play games in a row but some need to be taken care of.

"Gerrard is one of them at this moment. Dirk Kuyt is another who has played almost every game. Xabi Alonso, Jamie Carragher and Robbie Keane are the same. You also have to consider that some of these players have played internationals this season too. I believe Keane has played 23 games already."

One big name not needing a rest is Fernando Torres, who requires match practice after missing six games with a hamstring tear. The Spaniard will travel to White Hart Lane and may even start against Harry Redknapp's men.

Benitez said: "He will be in the squad and hopefully he can play. He could start. It is an important competition for us. We have players who are not always involved but have enough quality. They need games for match fitness because they could be needed later in the season."