Carra - Reds boosted by break

Carragher: In buoyant mood

Hopefully we can get everyone back and raring to go ahead of the Man City game

Jamie Carragher
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Jamie Carragher is hopeful the current international break can act as a blessing in disguise for Liverpool as they prepare for a 'massive test' of their top-four credentials.

The Reds have suffered injuries to key players in previous World Cup qualifying fixtures - most notably the losses of star-duo Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard after call-ups for Spain and England respectively.

But defensive talisman Carragher reckons the current round of international ties allows the Reds to lick their wounds before a crucial clash with top-four rivals Manchester City next weekend.

The 31-year-old centre-back, who is set to return to the starting line-up following a one-match suspension, knows he and his team-mates are in for a tough time when the affluent City visit Anfield.

But Carragher claims next Saturday's game is the perfect opportunity for Liverpool to re-establish themselves after a disappointing series of results which has seen them win once in nine games.

Good timing

"We haven't had that many players training due to the international break, plus the injuries at the club, but everyone's in good spirits," he told Liverpool's official website.

"From a club point of view, if you're going to get injured the best time is maybe during an international break.

"At least it gives the medical staff time to work with the players and try and get them ready for the next match.

"Hopefully we can get everyone back and raring to go ahead of the Man City game.

"It is a massive test. They're probably looking at us and thinking they can maybe take our place in the top four because of the way we've started this season.

"It's up to us to show some fight and character to make sure that doesn't happen."

Liverpool will be without wingers Yossi Benayoun and Albert Riera for the City clash after the pair suffered hamstring tears in the 2-2 draw with Birmingham City.

But defenders Daniel Agger (back) and Glen Johnson (hamstring) are expected to shrug off their injury problems while striker Torres looks certain to miss out as he undergoes extensive treatment on his troublesome hernia.