Liverpool have received a triple boost for their UEFA Champions League clash with Bayer Leverkusen, with the news that Jerzy Dudek, Dietmar Hamann and Harry Kewell will be fit to play.
Dudek and midfielders Hamann and Kewell picked up injuries in last weekend’s League Cup final defeat by Chelsea, but all are ready to return as Liverpool seek to defend their 3-1 first leg lead.
“We knew they needed rest to recover but the problem that gave us was they were all missing the Newcastle game,” coach Rafa Benitez told the club’s website.
“We had a lot of injuries so we decided to change the formation so we were stronger in defence, and I think we controlled their attack well.
“In the Champions League game against Leverkusen, if we defend well then we will go through. But we will still be going forward and trying to score, because an away goal would be important.
Benitez will also welcome back captain Steven Gerrard, who returns after missing the first leg through suspension.
