12.1.10  LFC vs Reading: Latest team news

Midfielder Javier Mascherano will miss the FA Cup third round replay at home to Reading as he serves the final game of his four-match ban.

Defenders Glen Johnson and Martin Kelly and midfielders Albert Riera and Nabil El Zhar all remain on the injury list.

Manager Rafael Benitez could recall Yossi Benayoun to the starting line up after the Israeli began the 1-1 draw at the Madejski Stadium - Liverpool's last fixture on January 2 - on the bench.

Reading will be without new signings Andy Griffin and Gunnar Thorvaldsson.

Full-back Griffin signed on loan from Stoke for the remainder of the season on Tuesday while Icelandic striker Thorvaldsson has received international clearance to complete his loan from Esbjerg.

However, the duo were not registered for the original 1-1 draw 10 days ago so will not be available at Anfield.

Brian McDermott's side have not played since Simon Church's goal gave them a draw against the Reds and the Royals manager is unlikely to make many changes.

Czech Republic international Marek Matejovsky could return from an abdomen injury to the scene of his stunning goal in March 2008, while the scorer of another famous Anfield goal, Brian Howard, could start.

Howard netted the winner for Barnsley in the fifth round of 2008 and has fully recovered from a broken jaw to put himself in contention. Noel Hunt and Chris Armstrong (both knee) remain sidelined.

Liverpool squad: Reina, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio, Darby, Insua, Benayoun, Gerrard, Lucas, Torres, Ngog, Aquilani, Kuyt, Kyrgiakos, Degen, Babel, Cavalieri, Spearing.