Post by Taxigirl on Jul 13, 2005 7:59:31 GMT
skysports.planetfootball.com
by Peter ORourke
Liverpool begin the defence of their UEFA Champions League trophy with a clash against Welsh minnows TNS.
The Reds are back in European action just six weeks after their memorable win over Milan in Istanbul.
Liverpool were granted special dispensation by Uefa to defend their trophy despite finishing outside the top four in The Premiership and the long road on their defence begins at Anfield against Welsh champions TNS in the first qualifying round.
Reds boss Rafa Benitez is expected to field a strong line-up at Anfield as he insists he will not underestimate TNS.
It means that new signings Boudewijn Zenden and Jose Reina are expected to make their competitive debuts for Liverpool.
Fernando Morientes will also make his Champions League debut after being ineligible for last season's success.
Liverpool are without long-term absentees Harry Kewell, Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Neil Mellor as they recover from injury.
TNS have no injury worries to contend with for the daunting trip to Anfield.
TNS boss Ken McKenna is expected to field a full-strength line-up with Jamie Wood and Nicky Ward battling it out to land the lone striking role.
by Peter ORourke
Liverpool begin the defence of their UEFA Champions League trophy with a clash against Welsh minnows TNS.
The Reds are back in European action just six weeks after their memorable win over Milan in Istanbul.
Liverpool were granted special dispensation by Uefa to defend their trophy despite finishing outside the top four in The Premiership and the long road on their defence begins at Anfield against Welsh champions TNS in the first qualifying round.
Reds boss Rafa Benitez is expected to field a strong line-up at Anfield as he insists he will not underestimate TNS.
It means that new signings Boudewijn Zenden and Jose Reina are expected to make their competitive debuts for Liverpool.
Fernando Morientes will also make his Champions League debut after being ineligible for last season's success.
Liverpool are without long-term absentees Harry Kewell, Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Neil Mellor as they recover from injury.
TNS have no injury worries to contend with for the daunting trip to Anfield.
TNS boss Ken McKenna is expected to field a full-strength line-up with Jamie Wood and Nicky Ward battling it out to land the lone striking role.