Flying Florent given first start

The 19-year-old starlet took the Premiership by storm when he claimed his first goal for the club against Leeds on Saturday with a breathtaking Cameo full of the pace, trickey and skill that first persuaded Gerard Houllier to bring the precocious youngster to Anfield alongside Anthony Le Tallec.

"I can confirm Florent will start this game. It will be his first start for Liverpool and he deserves it. It's a good opportunity for him and he's ready," said Houllier, who also confirmed the involvement of Chris Kirkland for tonight's Ewoood Park match.

"Chris Kirkland will also play tonight. We will be playing a strong team and I hope we play to the same standard as we did against Leeds."