Rafa set to name unchanged side

Benitez could name the same side that started against Chelsea to face Newcastle at Anfield tonight. It would be the first time in a season and a half that the Reds' boss has named the same team for successive games.

With Dirk Kuyt hoping for that first Liverpool goal, the Dutch striker is likely to get the nod ahead of Peter Crouch. Steven Gerrard could again start on the left wing after Benitez defended his decision to play his captain there against Chelsea.

Daniel Agger's impressive performances means he is likely to keep Sami Hyypia out again while Stephen Warnock will get the nod ahead of Fabio Aurelio at left-back.