Ryan Babel says he's ready to play as striker for Liverpool tonight against Atletico Madrid.

The Reds face Europa League semifinal opponents Atletico needing to overcome their 1-0 lead.

Babel said: "f I have to fill in up front, I would welcome the chance because that is where I made my name at Ajax. I broke into the team as a 17-year old striker and although we struggled that season, I recall scoring several last-minute winning goals.

"They signed Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and I had to move out to the left but, in my mind, I love being a striker.

"The problem is, Liverpool haven't used me there. It isn't always easy to switch to a new position without any preparation but I am ready for the challenge. Maybe my versatility has counted against me a bit. But this is a semi-final and I will give it everything."