Rafa set to say yes to Yossi

Summer signing Benayoun has struck fine efforts in his side's previous two matches, including Saturday's late winner at Wigan, but he has been very much part of Benitez's rotation policy this term and has started only four matches as Liverpool have remained unbeaten in all competitions.

But with Jermaine Pennant suspended, Benayoun is expected to get the nod over Dutch youngster Ryan Babel, and Benitez said: "Benayoun has quality and he can change games for us, he has proved that already. I will decide between him and Babel for this match. But Yossi has shown how important it is to be able to bring on players with quality, and fresh legs, to win matches."

He added: "I have the option of Benayoun or Babel on the wing. One will play now Pennant is suspended."

After Liverpool's fortunate 1-1 draw in their opening match in Porto, Benitez wants to see a vastly improved display this time around.

He said: "It is important to win your home games in this competition, and in particular for us after drawing our first game.

"We know Marseille's players, their qualities and we expect our former players Djibril Cisse and Bolo Zenden to do well, but we are concerned that, although we have watched the videos of them, a new manager may well change things."

Erik Gerets, who won and lost group matches against Liverpool in the Champions League as Galatasaray boss last season, will be in charge of Marseille for the first time.

Benitez said: "Marseille have had 10 days to prepare for this, and although they have not been doing well in their league, we know they will see this game as one that is vital to them particularly because they have already got one win in the group.

"A new manager makes it more difficult. You do not know what he will do. We knew him from Galatasaray, but it is difficult for us to know how he will alter things. So we must concentrate on our own game and getting that right rather than worrying about what effect the new manager will have on Marseille."