Cole has missed the last three matches with a hamstring problem while Johnson has been sidelined for two games with a groin injury.

However, centre-back Sotirios Kyrgiakos is set to return after missing matches against Chelsea and Wigan with tonsillitis while goalkeeper Brad Jones (shoulder) is fit to take his place on the bench. Midfielder Raul Meireles will be assessed after being forced off at half-time with sickness against Wigan in midweek.

Provisional squad: Reina, Carragher, Kyrgiakos, Skrtel, Konchesky, Lucas, Gerrard, Meireles, Kuyt, Rodriguez, Torres, Jones, Aurelio, Kelly, Poulsen, Spearing, Shelvey, Jovanovic, Ngog.