The Dutchman, who maintains he is set to return to his sole job as Russia boss at the end of the season, also highlighted the Champions League as the most likely possibility of silverware after replacing the sacked Luiz Felipe Scolari in February.

Hiddink will be boosted by the news that crucial Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano is suspended, but the announcement that Gerrard has been passed fit will come as a bitter blow.

The Liverpool captain was substituted in the closing stages of Saturday's Premier League victory at Fulham after complaining of a tight groin, however, he is set to resume his potent attacking partnership with Fernando Torres.

Chelsea have declared striker Didier Drogba fit following concerns of an ankle injury, and the West London outfit will be hoping for a similar performance to the one-man army that the Ivory Coast international produced in last season's semi-final second leg at Stamford Bridge, which came after personal criticism from Benitez.

But Portugal full-back Jose Bosingwa will miss out as the defender has yet to recover from a hamstring complaint sustained on international duty.


Liverpool
vs
Chelsea

* Live Scorecentre

* UEFA Champions League
* Quarter Final
* 8th Apr 2009
* KO 19:45
* Ground: Anfield

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