McAllister sets his mind to Treble

13 April 2012

Gary McAllister is being primed to mastermind Liverpool's historic quest for a trophy hat-trick in Dortmund tomorrow.

The 36-year-old former Scotland skipper looks certain to bounce back from being left out of the starting line-up in their FA Cup Final triumph over Arsenal on Saturday when Gerard Houllier's side bid for a first European title in 17 years against Alaves.

Manager Houllier refused to divulge his UEFA Cup Final plans but is believed to have decided that McAllister's experience and influence will be crucial.

After losing his starting place to Danny Murphy against Arsenal, McAllister is eager to return to the fray tomorrow and in Saturday's Premiership match against Charlton that could secure a Champions League place.

He said: 'Naturally, I was disappointed not to start at Cardiff but that has happened to a few people this season and the manager looks to see how you respond.

'We are close to making this an incredible season and a lot of the belief in the side has stemmed from the outstanding results we have achieved at places like Barcelona, Roma, Porto and Olympiakos.

'I can hardly believe what is happening. If we go on now and make the most of the next few days, it can end up being an unbelievable season.'

McAllister's midfield craft was sorely missed for most of Saturday's 2-1 win and he is likely to take over from Murphy, while Patrik Berger is also set for promotion from the bench after making an immediate impact as a late replacement for Vladimir Smicer.

Houllier is expected to stick with a strike partnership of Michael Owen and Emile Heskey. Liverpool face a reunion tomorrow with French referee Gilles Veissiere, who sent off Steve McManaman and Paul Ince near the end of a UEFA Cup-tie in Valencia two years ago.

Houllier said: 'He's an experienced official who is hard but fair. I do know that he is regarded as one of the best officials in France.'

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McAllister sets his mind to Treble

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