Liverpool will hope to secure top spot in Champions League Group D when they take on PSV.
Reds hope for top spot, PSV hope for Uefa Cup football
Liverpool will hope to secure top spot in UEFA Champions League Group D when they take on PSV Eindhoven at Philips Stadion on Tuesday.
The Reds travel to Holland with a place in the last 16 already assured, but manager Rafa Benitez is eager to overtake Atletico Madrid at the summit.
Liverpool sit level on points with the Primera Liga outfit, however Javier Aguirre's side enjoy an advantage on goals scored in the battle to close in first place.
Finishing at the top of the group earns a meeting with a second-placed side from a different group in the knockout stages and, often crucially, the right to a home fixture in the second leg.
PSV, though, have their own ambitions and to remain in Europe beyond Christmas, Huub Stevens' charges must record at least a draw and also better Marseille's result against Atletico to secure third place and a Uefa Cup consolation.
Keane backing
Liverpool finished second in their group last season, forcing the five-time winners to defeat Italian giants Inter Milan on their way to the semi-final, and they will likely hope to avoid such a difficult draw this term.
Benitez has highlighted the advantage of a second-leg knockout tie at Anfield, but the former Valencia chief is expected to rotate his squad against PSV.
Under-fire striker Robbie Keane is expected to return to the first XI after being axed for Saturday's Premier League victory at Blackburn.
The forward is struggling to justify his £20million summer switch from Tottenham, but Benitez insists he has faith in the Republic of Ireland international.
Team news
Definitely absent will be Spanish forward Fernando Torres, who may not return until the New Year following the reoccurrence of his troublesome hamstring injury.
Defender Fabio Aurelio (calf), Philipp Degen (foot) and Martin Skrtel (knee) are definitely out, while Dutchman Dirk Kuyt is rested and has not travelled.
PSV could hand starts to Otman Bakkal and Nordin Amrabat after impressive domestic substitute performances, but Danny Koevermans (calf) is struggling.
Ibrahim Afellay remains on the sidelines, while former Liverpool defender Jan Kromkamp will not face his old club due to an ankle complaint.
