Both teams know enough of each other on the European stage, since this will a remarkable ninth meeting in the last five seasons. The only time the Blues emerged victorious over the period of two legs was when they played an exhausting semi-final that went into extra time, with the Pensioners winning 4-3 on aggregate.

One concern for the Reds is that Mascherano will be missing due to a suspension. Bosingwa will be out for the visitors, since he has not shaken off his calf injury yet. But Drogba has returned to fitness and will be a boost to Hiddink’s side.

Anfield will see a familiar setting, as one English team takes on another, only this time the stakes are much higher than the league.

Football Italiano