Arsenal v Liverpool - pre match

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_4676741,00.html

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez will not attend Sunday afternoon's meeting with Arsenal following surgery to remove kidney stones, Sky Sports News understands.

The Spaniard has missed recent training sessions with his club as he underwent a rehabilitation period following minor surgery.

Assistant manager Sammy Lee had been in charge of the Reds as they prepared for the trip to Emirates Stadium, which can be seen live on Sky Sports 1 and HD 1, but Benitez was expected to return in time for the weekend clash.

However, those hopes have been dashed following the news that the former Valencia boss will be missing when his side take on Arsenal.

Lee will be the Reds' stand-in chief as the Anfield outfit look to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League.

No Rafa

I have a lot of faith in Sammy Lee Though.

Just heard on Radio City, Keane, Lucas and Insua will start!!

Agger is in as well.

Gerrard, Reira and Kuyt behind Keane.

Just waiting for confirmation.

Missing a party this afternoon hope its worth it got a few cans chilling ready,just hope the right lfc turn up .

So presuming Alonso is in with Lucas, the team must be:

Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Agger, Insua, Kuyt, Lucas, Alonso, Reira, Gerrard and Keane?

i would like Keane and Babel to start..

pepe

arbeloa
carra
hyypia
agger

gerrard
alonso
mascherano
kuyt

babel
keane

this would be great and would secure our win..

I'm very excited and extremely nervous about this now.

COME ON TEAM NEWS, WHERE ARE YOU?!

Just heard on Radio City, Keane, Lucas and Insua will start!!

Reminded me of a post I disagreed with yesterday that. Which one was it now...?

Why are people so certain Keane will start?

We've scored five goals in the last two Premiership games - without him.

Oh, and there's absolutely no chance Insua will play any part in this game.

That's the one! 

Cant be bothered readin through the whole thread so, any links?

does anybody know why mascherano is not on the bench,is he injured?

Reina, Arbeloa, Agger, Carragher, Insua, Riera, Kuyt, Lucas, Alonso, Gerrard, Keane. Subs: Cavalieri, Plessis, Babel, El Zhar, Hyypia, Ngog, Benayoun.

Match thread can be found by clicking image below: