Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez will use the Carling Cup game against Crewe to introduce his rising stars. Emiliano Insua, Damien Plessis and Daniel Pacheco are likely to be involved in the third-round clash against the Coca-Cola League One side but Benitez is wary of fielding below-strength teams in the competition.

"It's an important competition for us but it's also one which gives us the chance to use some different players," Benitez said.

"We have to be careful though. We want to win the game and go on to win the tournament so while we can use some of our youngsters, we need to make sure we get the team right for winning.

"It's a good opportunity for the youngsters who are selected. We have four or five of them training with the first team every day so they know how we work, but to be involved for a match gives them a chance to show us what they can do.

"They played well in pre-season and also in some games last year, so we know they have the quality to have a future here."