Alonso reveals booking agony

Xabi Alonso has revealed his agony at missing next week's clash with Chelsea.

The Spanish international picked up a costly caution two minutes from time during his side's goalless draw with Chelsea following a tussle with Eidur Gudjohnsen.

The booking was Alonso's third of the competition and means he will miss next week's return leg with Chelsea.

Replays showed Alonso committed no offence and he pleaded with referee Alain Sars to reconsider the booking.

Although Liverpool have appealed the decision Alonso is resigned to missing the game at Anfield and he admitted it was major disappointment for him.

"You can see on the replay I didn't touch the player," said Alonso.

"When I saw the yellow card I couldn't believe it because I knew what it meant. I feel so sad to be missing the second leg.

"I hoped after seeing the tackle again, maybe the referee could change his mind, but we've been told it's not possible to appeal.

"It's a big disappointment for me to miss the game at Anfield, because it will be a special night. Now I just hope we can get through to the final so I have another chance to play in the competition."

In Alonso's absence Dietmar Hamann could make a surprise return to the side after over a month out of action.

The German is back in training and Reds boss Rafa Benitez has admitted he could be thrusted back into the side for next week's crucial second leg.

"Didi is training normally and I think he will be fit for the second leg," said Benitez.