Gerrard sickness adds to Rafa's pain ahead of Chelsea clash

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• More Premier League news club by club

The Liverpool manager is still reeling from the weekend home defeat by Manchester United and suggestions that the club's board will sanction little or no spending during the transfer window.

Benitez, who will call on Xavi Alonso in place of Gerrard, admitted it has been a "difficult week" week for his club.

Sick with defeat: Gerrard holds his head after defeat by Manchester United but he has been ruled out of the Chelsea match with a stomach bug

Benitez said: "It will be a difficult game because we know Chelsea are a good team.

"We also have Portsmouth at the weekend so it is a difficult week for us. Hopefully we can perform and get the right results."

Alonso is set for a return after a 10-week absence with a metatarsal injury but Steve Finnan remains doubtful because of a calf problem and Daniel Agger remains sidelined with a foot injury.

Benitez was full of praise for the work of his managerial counterpart Avram Grant, who has been rewarded with a new contract after taking over from Jose Mourinho.

"He is doing a good job," said the Liverpool boss. "I remember, when he arrived, people were saying he won't be around for too long. They are more or less the same side, they're very strong and create chances while not conceding too many goals."