Robbie Keane has again been left out of the Liverpool squad for this afternoon’s Premier League encounter with Chelsea at Anfield.
Rafael Benitez’s decision to omit the Republic of Ireland captain will heighten speculation over his future with transfer window due to close at 5pm tomorrow.
After a faltering start to his Liverpool career, Keane has played a bit-part role of late and was absent from the squad that faced Everton in the FA Cup last week and only featured for seven minutes in the most recent league game against Wigan.
He has been linked with a move back to Tottenham after joining Liverpool for €21million just six months ago and an injury to Jermain Defoe, that looks set to keep him out for the rest of the season, may force Spurs back into the market ahead of tomorrow’s deadline.
On the pitch, Liverpool welcome back Xabi Alonso and Albert Riera ahead of the meeting with their title rivals, while Chelsea start with Nicolas Anelka up front and centre back pairing of John Terry and Alex.
Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio, Kuyt, Alonso, Mascherano, Riera, Gerrard, Torres. Subs: Cavalieri, Dossena, Agger, Benayoun, Babel, Leiva Lucas, Ngog.
Chelsea: Cech, Bosingwa, Alex, Terry, Ashley Cole, Ballack, Mikel, Lampard, Kalou, Anelka, Malouda. Subs: Hilario, Ivanovic, Drogba, Ferreira, Deco, Mancienne, Stoch.
Referee: Mike Riley (Yorkshire)
