Aquilani blow for Liverpool

(GSM) – Liverpool look set to miss the services of playmaker Alberto Aquilani for their Europa League round of 16 clash against Lille.

The Italian midfielder, who was the man of the match in Liverpool’s 4-1 victory over Portsmouth on Monday, looked to have proven his £20 million transfer fee after capping off a fine performance in mid-week with a goal.

However, with the Old Trafford clash against Manchester United looming at the weekend, Reds boss Rafael Benitez will be looking to protect the former Roma player who is suffering with a virus.

Liverpool will be in need of the 25-year-old’s services as they look to over turn a 1-0 deficit against Lille, in the return leg at Anfield.

But after missing training, Benitez confirmed that he will make a late decision, before the decider at Anfield, whether or not to risk Aquilani

“He has a virus and is struggling with his fitness,” said Benitez at Melwood earlier today.

“We have to take care of him and decide tomorrow. It will be a late decision.”