Source: SKY_Sports
Liverpool v Blackburn preview
Liverpool aim to continue their Premier League form when they host Blackburn Rovers following a difficult midweek result in Europe. The second-placed Reds have recorded four successive league victories but they were stunned by Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night as the Blues ran out 3-1 winners at Anfield.With Rafa Benitez's men now facing a tough task in turning their quarter-final tie around, the Spaniard may now look to channel all his efforts into securing a first league title in 19 years.Captain Steven Gerrard is in the squad for the lunchtime kick-off and a late decision will be made on whether the midfielder will start after he underwent a scan on a troublesome groin problem.Javier Mascherano is likely to return to the side and there could be a place for central defender Daniel Agger, while full-back Andrea Dossena is also in line for a recall.Firepower issuesRovers promise to be tough opposition for their North West rivals, with Sam Allardyce's side still battling for survival.Blackburn are five points above the relegation zone, having managed an impressive return of 11 points from their previous six outings.Allardyce faces a headache over his forward line at Liverpool with Roque Santa Cruz (knee) a serious doubt and Jason Roberts (foot) definitely out.Centre-back Chris Samba may be called upon again to play an emergency striker's role, at least for some of the match, as Benni McCarthy is the only recognised forward available.Morten Gamst Pedersen is also struggling with a calf strain but Vince Grella is available again.Possible starting XIs:Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Agger, Aurelio, Mascherano, Alonso, Babel, Dossena, Kuyt, Torres.Blackburn: Robinson, Ooijer, Givet, Mokoena, Samba, Warnock, Nelsen, Grella, Pedersen, Diouf, McCarthy.