Dudek back in action
Posted: Tue Dec 14, 2004 12:05 amSource:Premier League
Dudek replaces Kirkland
Goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek returns to the Liverpool side for the Barclays Premiership clash against Portsmouth after Chris Kirkland was ruled out with a back injury.
Teenager Paul Harrison will be on the bench as cover.
Manager Rafael Benitez said: “Jerzy Dudek will play for sure as Chris has a little injury. He has not trained the last two days.”
Czech Republic striker Milan Baros is set to be recalled to the team after being rested at the weekend in light of the heavy fixture programme.
Xabi Alonso could also return at the expense of Salif Diao in midfield as Liverpool aim to get back on track following their weekend defeat at Everton.
Liverpool’s home form has been impressive with 18 points gained from a possible 21.
Benitez is hoping they can continue in that winning vein against a Portsmouth side who gained a point at Newcastle United at the weekend.
He said: “We were disappointed to lose to Everton. We run and fight, we have chances.
“But that is in the past. We now must think about the next game and we know how important the three points will be for our confidence.
“It is a long race to the title and if we gain three more points it will push us nearer the top four.
“We are playing well at home but not away. We need a better mentality in those games.
“Portsmouth play a high tempo game and show good organisation. It will be difficult for us.”
Dudek replaces Kirkland
Goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek returns to the Liverpool side for the Barclays Premiership clash against Portsmouth after Chris Kirkland was ruled out with a back injury.
Teenager Paul Harrison will be on the bench as cover.
Manager Rafael Benitez said: “Jerzy Dudek will play for sure as Chris has a little injury. He has not trained the last two days.”
Czech Republic striker Milan Baros is set to be recalled to the team after being rested at the weekend in light of the heavy fixture programme.
Xabi Alonso could also return at the expense of Salif Diao in midfield as Liverpool aim to get back on track following their weekend defeat at Everton.
Liverpool’s home form has been impressive with 18 points gained from a possible 21.
Benitez is hoping they can continue in that winning vein against a Portsmouth side who gained a point at Newcastle United at the weekend.
He said: “We were disappointed to lose to Everton. We run and fight, we have chances.
“But that is in the past. We now must think about the next game and we know how important the three points will be for our confidence.
“It is a long race to the title and if we gain three more points it will push us nearer the top four.
“We are playing well at home but not away. We need a better mentality in those games.
“Portsmouth play a high tempo game and show good organisation. It will be difficult for us.”