Momo out for Midlands match

The Mali international's strain is not thought to be a long term concern, but Reds boss, Rafa Benitez, is taking no chances with the player, who has impressed since signing for the Reds earlier thi season.

Benitez said, "Momo has a slight muscle problem and won't play against Birmingham. It's not serious but we don't want to take any risks with him."

And Rafa has said that the decision over the return of striker Nando Morientes will be made after todays training session.