Kewell Final?

Soccernet reports..

The door has been opened for Harry Kewell to make a remarkable comeback in the Champions League final due to an unlucky training ground injury to Bolo Zenden.

Kewell has only just returned to action after a year out recovering from groin operations and boss Rafael Benitez - although happy with the Australian's progress - was sceptical that he would have enough match fitness under his belt to play the whole 90 minutes of the final.

But with Zenden's injury, the Spanish coach may have to seriously consider Kewell, or move full-back John Arne Riise into a midfield role with Alvaro Arbeloa coming in at left-back.

Benitez says: 'Bolo has injured his ankle. He's been treated by the doctor and the good news is the swelling is not that bad. We will need to see how it is after more checks. 'It will be difficult to say he will be fit for the final now, but I won't say no yet. He is strong and determined and it may recover quickly. I still hope he will be okay.

'It will be a big disappointment for him and for us if it's not possible. Bolo can bring character, experience and tactical knowledge to the team. 'He is one of the good options for the left side, but now we must see how he recovers and decide what to do.'


It's bad news for us as Zenden at this moiment s an important player for us. His experience can prove crucial at this stage of football. Nevertheless, I do hope that Rafa would pick the best team and would not make the same mistakes again in the first half of Istanbul. Everyone knows that Milan outplayed Liverpool during the first half before Rafa decides to change things in bringing Dietmar Hamman.

It's also a good chance for Kewell, Gonzalaez, Riise to work harder as they know the position is all up for grabs. Kewell is the best candidate at this moment with Riise playing behind him. However, he lack the fitness and he has not been playing competitive football for the past 11 months. Will it too much for him to take to play a Champions League final?

We'll wait and see..

You'll Never Walk Alone..