Liverpool fans will protest at tonight's game against Porto over the treatment of manager Rafa Benitez by the club's board.

The Mirror says in an outpouring of emotional support for the Liverpool manager, up to 5,000 supporters will stage a rally before the Champions League clash with Porto, protesting against Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

Benitez yesterday insisted his side would give the fans something to shout about by keeping their European hopes alive with victory. But the fans are ready to turn the heat up on the absentee Americans by showing exactly what they think of suggestions the Spanish coach's position is under threat.

The supporters are ready to help him in his ambition, by marching to Anfield in protest from the Sandon pub close by, with thousands prepared to deliver a stinging message of rebuke to Gillett and Hicks.