http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0500liverpoolfc/0100news/tm_headline=alonso-boost-but-benitez-frustrated%26method=full%26objectid=18184155%26siteid=50061-name_page.html
Alonso boost but Benitez frustratedNov 30 2006
By Chris Beesley, Daily Post
RAFAEL BENITEZ revealed that Xabi Alonso could be back in the heart of Liverpool's midfield at Wigan on Saturday after he was forced to move Jamie Carragher alongside Steven Gerrard in last night's frustrating 0-0 draw at home to Portsmouth.
Liverpool could have leapfrogged their fourth-placed opponents with a victory but were forced to settle for stalemate despite dominating a one-sided contest from start to finish.
Alonso's creativity in the centre of midfield could prove invaluable in breaking down another set of stern opponents in the shape of Paul Jewell's side at the JJB Stadium and Benitez hopes to have his fellow Spaniard back in contention.
He said after the game: "Maybe Xabi (Alonso) will be available but also we have to check if we have any new injuries today."
Carragher got the nod ahead of Sami Hyypia and Daniel Agger to be the centre-back pushed forward into midfield against Portsmouth and Benitez was relatively pleased with the player's contribution in difficult circumstances in a role he has also occupied for England.
Benitez said: "It's a difficult game for a holding midfielder when the opposition are always behind the ball.
"The idea was for Jamie to keep the ball and move the ball and he was doing his job well.
"I felt we had more problems in the wide areas and we needed to get in the box."
The Spaniard also offered some words of encouragement for winger Jermaine Pennant on what was a frustrating night.
He said: "Jermaine must try to beat players and cross the ball.
"I think he was trying but when you cannot do it then you must play it simple. He continued trying which gives us an option in the wide areas.
"If he is afraid and does not try again then we will not improve. He must keep going and trying to do the right things."
Just what we need, we have got to start picking up points away from home hopefully it will be against Wigan on saturday.
They are playing well at home, but we have to go at them none of this negitive defensive mentality.