ALONSO HANDS REDS FITNESS BOOST
Paul Eaton
13 May 2009
Rafael Benitez expects to be able to call on the services of Xabi Alonso for Liverpool's final away game of the season at West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.
The Spanish midfielder missed out on the weekend victory at West Ham with an ankle injury sustained following a wild tackle by Joey Barton in the Reds' previous game with Newcastle..
But Alonso is now back in training and should be available for the clash at The Hawthorns.
Manager Rafael Benitez confirmed: "Xabi was jogging today so if he progresses normally for the rest of the week I think he will be available for the weekend.
"Xabi is a key player for us in the middle. It could have been a lot worse so I am really pleased to see him back after just one week."
Benitez also confirmed Fernando Torres will be fit to play despite being substituted at Upton Park on Saturday.
"He was a little bit tired having not trained too much with the squad," added the boss. "He is okay and won't have any problems for the weekend."
Liverpool's Premier League dreams could be over before the game at West Brom, depending on how Manchester United fare in their next two games - against Wigan tonight and Arsenal on Saturday.
"I'll watch the game tonight if I can," he added. "Fingers crossed and we will see what happens.
"We are in a very good position and want to finish the season as high as possible. The only way to have a chance of winning the title is to win our next two games."
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