Steven Gerrard is in the Liverpool squad to face Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carling Cup this evening, but has only made the bench after six months out with a groin injury.

Andy Carroll joins Gerrard among the substitutes, while Craig Bellamy makes his first start for the Reds since returning to the club.

Brighton boss Gustavo Poyet has chosen to play Craig Makail-Smith up front on his own, with Craig Noone and Will Buckley on either wing.

Brighton: Ankergen; Calderon, Greer, Cook, Vincelot; Buckley, Bridcutt, Navarro, Sparrow, Noone; Mackail-Smith

Liverpool: Reina; Kelly, Carra, Coates, Robinson; Maxi, Lucas, Spearing, Bellamy; Kuyt, Suarez