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Key duo back to boost Reds

24 Oct 2008 - 15:20:24

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Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has received a double boost in the build-up to Sunday's crunch meeting with Chelsea after Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso were both passed fit for the trip to Stamford Bridge.

The key pair were withdrawn before the end of Wednesday's 1-1 Champions League stalemate with Atletico Madrid, with skipper Gerrard fatigued and Alonso troubled by a knee knock.

Both midfielders have now been passed fit, but Robbie Keane, who also failed to finish the game in Madrid because of a groin injury, is considered a major doubt for the top-of-the-table clash.

Elsewhere, Fernando Torres once again misses out with the hamstring injury he picked up while on international duty with Spain earlier in the month.

"Xabi and Steven both trained today and should be okay," Benitez told the club's official website.

"It wasn't a hard (training) session but I am confident they can play at Chelsea.

"We're still not sure about Robbie. He didn't train today and we will have to see how he is tomorrow. We will make a late decision.

"Fernando won't be involved. He is recovering well and should be fit again soon, but we have to be careful with the player."