Benítez gives up Hamann hope

Hopes dashed
The 31-year-old German international has failed to overcome a knee ligament injury sustained in the Premiership win against Everton FC last month - dashing hopes he might be available for at least the return leg at Anfield on 3 May.

Kewell out too
Manager Rafael Benítez today ruled Hamann out of the tie altogether, along with Australian winger Harry Kewell who has returning to training after four months on the sidelines with various injury niggles.

Miss both games
"Neither Hamann nor Kewell will be ready to play in either game against Chelsea," said Benítez. "Kewell is training, but it's not possible for him to recover in time. Didi won't join in with the other players until next week."

Alonso fear
Liverpool visit Chelsea for next Wednesday's first leg, and Hamann's unavailability leaves fellow midfield player Xabi Alonso treading a disciplinary tightrope at Stamford Bridge. The Spanish international is one yellow card away from a European suspension.