Striker Djibril Cisse has been included in Liverpool’s squad for the Champions League match against Juventus.

It is the first time Cisse has been involved since breaking his leg in OCtober. His inclusion will help offset the loss through injury of skipper Steven Gerrard who did not travel to Turin due to a groin strain.

Midfielder Xabi Alonso is expected to fill in for the Liverpool captain in his first game since 1 January.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has two huge decisions to make with Cisse and Alonso.

Cisse was expected to miss the whole of the season after breaking his leg against Blackburn last year.

Benitez said: “Cisse will not start the match, but maybe we will use him in the last 20 minutes or so if we need something different and he is quick and can score goals.

“He has been saying for a couple of weeks that he is ready, but we have wanted to be careful and make sure he is okay.”