Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is ready to take a "calculated risk" and play Steven Gerrard against Champions League opponents Chelsea tonight. He said: "Our tactical approach depends on whether Stevie is fit, and it is clear he wants to play.

"He has played with this sort of problem before, and it is a good sign that he is feeling better in himself.

"Maybe we can take a calculated risk. He was on the bench on Saturday, and we could have used him, but the warm-up routine is different coming off the bench, and I would like to play him from the beginning.

"Clearly we need him, because he is a key player for us. Everything can change when he is out there playing well. I don't think it would be a massive risk.

"It would be good to show the same spirit as in Istanbul. Our fans will be right behind us, as ever, and if we can give them something to cheer early on, it could make all the difference."