ZENDEN SET TO MISS FINAL

Bolo Zenden’s Champions League dreams could be shattered after he picked up an ankle injury at Liverpool’s training camp in La Manga. The Dutch midfielder, who had been earmarked to start against AC Milan next week, was on crutches last night and was today rated very doubtful for the final.

Manager Rafa Benitez has stopped short of declaring Zenden out of the running and says he’ll give the player as much time as possible to recover. But it now looks like the boss must reassess his selection plans.

“Bolo injured his ankle in training yesterday. He’s been treated by the doctor and the good news is the swelling is not that bad. We will need to see how it is after more checks today. It will be difficult to say he will be fit for the final now, but I won’t say no yet. He is strong and determined and it may recover quickly. I still hope he will be okay. It will be a big disappointment for him and for us if it’s not possible. Bolo can bring character, experience and tactical knowledge to the team. He is one of the good options for the left side, but now we must see how he recovers and decide what to do,” said Benitez.

Zenden’s misfortune may open the door for Harry Kewell to complete an extraordinary return, although Benitez is more inclined to use the Aussie from the bench. His only other alternative is Mark Gonzalez, although he could push John Arne Riise into a more advanced role. Meanwhile, Pepe Reina has recovered from the shoulder injury he suffered recently and will be fit to start in Athens.