Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez says Xabi Alonso will be fit for tonight's Carling Cup quarterfinal against Chelsea.

The Spanish midfielder has been out since suffering a metatarsal injury in the 1-1 draw with Arsenal back in October, but after missing the last 10 matches, boss Rafa Benitez revealed he is now back in time for what promises to be a busy festive schedule.

"Xabi is training normally and should be available for the game at Chelsea," Benitez told liverpoolfc.tv.

"We are going into a busy period with lots of games so it is important to have out best players available.

"So Xabi's return is a big boost."