Trio pushing for first team squad recall - Official Site

By Mark Platt

Anthony Le Tallec, Vladimir Smicer and Harry Kewell could make welcome returns to the Liverpool squad for Tuesday night's testing FA Barclays Premiership clash against Charlton Athletic.

Le Tallec, who last week cut short his loan spell with St Etienne, featured for the reserves on Saturday, as did Smicer, who has not figured in the first team since injuring his knee on the club's summer tour of North America.

Kewell has not played since injuring his groin against Newcastle in December but has been stepping up his bid for fitness at Melwood.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez said today: "Anthony is a very good skilful player with talent. He was not playing in France and so it's better he is here with us. He knows the club, knows this league and is like having a new face in the squad.

"Vladi has been training well with the team but is just short of match practise. With numbers being so low though there is a chance he will also be in the squad. Harry trained today and could be another option."

Benitez also confirmed that Sami Hyypia will definitely return after missing the Carling Cup tie against Watford with a hip injury, but Josemi is still not fit and won't travel.

Didi Hamann is suspended for tomorrow night's game after collecting his fifth Premiership booking of the season in last week's 2-0 defeat at Southampton.