Europa League preview: Steau Bucharest v Liverpool

Group K leaders Liverpool need just a draw against Steaua Bucharest on Thursday to sew up their spot in the final 32 of the Europa League.

Despite a stuttering domestic campaign that sees them sit mid-table in the English Premier League, Roy Hodgson’s side are unbeaten in Europe this season and have shown promising signs of a return to form in recent weeks.

David Ngog snatched a double the last time these two teams met in Liverpool’s 4-1 win at Anfield, and the French striker could yet again play a key role as the Reds embark on a tricky trip to Romania.

Striker Fernando Torres has been back to his mercurial best in recent weeks after a slow start to the season, but will have to do without the supply of Steven Gerrard, who is sidelined with a recurring hamstring injury.

Defender Jamie Carragher will also miss the tie after suffering a dislocated shoulder during Sunday’s 2-1 league loss to Tottenham at White Hart Lane.

Steaua Bucharest are sixth in their domestic league, and will head into the match at the Stadionul Ghencea on the back of a 2-2 draw against fellow Europa League outfit CFR Cluj.

Liverpool top the Group K standings on eight points, three clear of second-placed Steaua and a further two ahead of Napoli and Utrecht.