'Rafa to partner Cisse with Kewell'
Tuesday May 24 2005
Rafa Benitez is planning to deploy Harry Kewell in a withdrawn
striker role behind Djibril Cissé in the Champions League final,
according to reports.
The Guardian claims that Liverpool have been experimenting with the
formation in training as an alternative to using a five-man
midfield with skipper Stevie Gerrard in an advanced role against AC
Milan on Wednesday night.
In view of Kewell's negligible contribution this season, compounded
by an all-too public row with Benítez over the Aussie's continued
fitness problems, the forward's inclusion would be a major
shock.
Cisse, though, appears favourite to be given the task of leading
Liverpool's attack ahead of Milan Baros in Istanbul.
The Czech forward could be dropped for the game following
revelations that his agent, Pavel Paska, has been in talks with
other clubs over a move at the end of the season.
Baros told the Daily Mirror: "I have had several offers from other
clubs and it is now the job of my agent Pavel to talk to them. We
will listen to what is offered."
He added: "I am calm about my future and I can concentrate fully on
the Champions League final. Maybe I will leave Anfield, maybe I
will stay.
"But my main aim at the moment is that I can keep my place ahead of
Cisse for the final against Milan, and I will do my best to make
that happen."
