By J Wade
February 17 2006

Rafael Benitez has ruled Xabi Alonso out of his plans for tomorrow's FA Cup showdown with Manchester United at Anfield. The Spanish midfielder was replaced during the second half of the Reds' midweek victory over Arsenal after picking up a minor injury. Benitez had hoped Alonso would recover in time to face United but he has today admitted the 24 year old won't be involved as Liverpool look to make amends for their recent league defeat at Old Trafford and book their place in the last eight of the FA Cup.
 
"Xabi is not fit and I don't think he can play against United," said Benitez today. "He is feeling something in his thigh but I think he will be okay for the Benfica game." 
  
Robbie Fowler will also be missing for the Reds but Peter Crouch is back in the squad after overcoming a heel injury which has kept him out of the last two games.
 
Benitez is yet to publicly reveal who'll start the game in goal with Pepe Reina available again after serving a three game ban.
 
"I have to decide," said the boss. "Jerzy has done well for us and it shows how important it is to have more than one quality goalkeeper at the club."