Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez may take Xabi Alonso off the market following an injury suffered by skipper Steven Gerrard.

Xabi has been linked with Arsenal and Juventus, but Gerrards thigh injury could force a rethink from Benitez.

Benitez praised Alonso's performance agaoinst Valerenga this week, saying: "Xabi scored a good goal after scoring a penalty against Rangers on Saturday so this is very positive.

"He is showing that he is a good professional but then we already knew this and I am very pleased with his commitment on the pitch."