Preston v Liverpool
Preston manager Alan Irvine has been boosted by the availability of Ross Wallace after the on-loan Sunderland winger was given permission to feature in the competition by his parent club while Eddie Nolan is also in the squad after his loan move from Blackburn was made permanent.
Irvine has a selection dilemma in attack with former Reds striker Neil Mellor vying for a place with Jon Parkin, Chris Brown and Stephen Elliott, who were all involved over the festive period.
Liverpool midfielder Steve Gerrard has been confirmed as a definite starter despite recent controversy surrounding the Anfield skipper while Fernando Torres, back from a hamstring injury, will also be involved at some stage.
Boss Rafael Benitez also has Fabio Aurelio, Martin Skrtel and Alvaro Arbeloa back in the squad following their recovery from long-term injuries.