Liverpool travel to Madrid for matchday 3 of Champions League Group D. With two wins from two so far, Rafa Benitez’s side face their toughest task so far against an Atletico Madrid team including forward Sergio Aguero.
Fernando Torres is denied a dream return to the Vicente Calderon after injuring his hamstring on international duty for Spain last week, while Benitez is also without Martin Skrtel (knee ligaments) and Phillip Degen (ribs). Also doubtful are Fabio Aurelio and Ryan Babel.
Daniel Agger is certain to start alongside Carragher again with Skrtel injured and Sami Hyypia not registered in Europe. Javier Mascherano is expected to return to the side after missing the win over Wigan at the weekend, with Steven Gerrard possibly moving forward in a supporting role alongside Robbie Keane and Dirk Kuyt returning to right midfield.
Atletico have former Reds Luis Garcia and Florent Sinama Pongolle as well as danger man Aguero, the Champions League top scorer so far with 3 goals in the opening two games. Atletico enjoyed 3-0 and 2-1 wins over PSV and Marseille respectively.
