Preview: Liverpool vs Man Utd

Xabi Alonso is set to return to the Liverpool squad for Sunday’s visit of Manchester United after a two-month absence with a metatarsal injury. Alonso, 26, could face the Premier League champions at Anfield following a frustrating start to the season.

The Spain midfielder has featured in only six top-flight games and been out of action since the Arsenal match in October.Steve Finnan is doubtful because of a calf problem while Daniel Agger remains sidelined with a foot injury.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is reporting a clean bill of health for the blockbuster showdown at Anfield. The United manager’s decision to leave most of his senior stars at home this week has paid dividends, with Owen Hargreaves now recovered from the calf injury he sustained in the warm-up prior to last Saturday’s 4-1 Premier League win over Derby at Old Trafford.

The only minor doubt from Wednesday’s draw in Rome is John O’Shea but Ferguson is confident last season’s Anfield matchwinner will recover from an abductor strain.

Registered members can visit our stream section for all the latest stream links for this game.