Mascherano decision imminent

Last updated : 10 February 2007 By Al Campbell
Liverpool signed the Argentinian international from West Ham during the transfer window after FIFA gave permission for the midfielder to play for three clubs in a year. However, Mascherano cannot play for the Reds until the Premier League give their consent but they are close to decision on that now.

"Mascherano is training with us because he needs to be fit. We are waiting for an answer, maybe it will come today, maybe Monday," said Rafael Benitez yesterday.

"I think this will be positive. Mascherano is a very good player, he's professional and he needs to play football.

"This is not easy for him but he is happy when he is training. He's waiting for some news and it's not easy.

"He was not playing every week so he'll need time. You can be fit but you must be fit for the tempo."