Group C
Rival coaches Rafael Benítez and Ronald Koeman have vowed to go for all three points when Liverpool and Eindhoven battle for supremacy of Group C at Anfield tonight.
“It’s a good thing to have already qualified and we are approaching this game thinking about winning. Without the pressure, perhaps both teams can play some good football,” said Benitez.
Liverpool’s European form has been in stark contrast to their domestic efforts which have seen them drop to tenth place in the Premiership.
“I have a lot of confidence because we are attacking and attacking, so I am sure we will start scoring goals. At home we are playing well.”
Benítez may keep Peter Crouch on the bench with Craig Bellamy given the nod to play alongside Dirk Kuyt up front. Daniel Agger may well replace Sami Hyypiä at the back.
PSV coach Koeman spoke of his “fantastic” memories of Anfield after he led Benfica to home and away victories against Liverpool in last season’s Champions League.
“If you look at their results at home and also in the Champions League, you can see Liverpool are still a very strong team.” Koeman.
PSV are unbeaten in 17 matches, including ten straight successes in all competitions, meaning the PSV coach will not tamper too much with his starting eleven.
However, Koeman may recall Edison Méndez to the midfield after suspension with Jason Culina making way, while Mika Vayrynen and Ismaïl Aissati are both doubtful with hamstring injuries.
Probable teams
Liverpool:
Pepe Reina; Steve Finnan, Daniel Agger, Jamie Carragher, John Arne Riise; Steven Gerrard, Xabi Alonso, Luis García, Jermaine Pennant; Craig Bellamy, Dirk Kuyt.
PSV:
Heurelho Gomes; Jan Kromkamp, Alex, Manuel Da Costa, Carlos Salcido; Phillip Cocu, Timmy Simons, Ibrahim Afellay, Edison Méndez; Arouna Koné, Jefferson Farfán.
