Chelsea boosted by Alonso absence
(soccernet365.com)
Updated: 2005-04-29 08:33

Joe Cole has admitted Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso's absence from the return leg of their Champions League semi-final at Anfield has given Chelsea a huge lift.

Liverpool's Xabi Alonso (L) reacts to receiving a yellow card from referee Alain Sars during the first leg of the Champions League semi final against Chelsea. Alonso has spoken of his anguish at being banned from the second leg at Anfield. [AFP]

The Spaniard was booked three minutes from time during the goalless first leg at Stamford Bridge, and will sit out the second match next Tuesday as both teams look to book their place in the final in Istanbul.

"You always want to see the best players out on the pitch. It is a big lift for us because he's a top-class player," said Cole.

He added: "He can pass the ball very well. It is never nice to see anyone miss big games and I am sure he is unhappy with it - especially after being out injured for so long.

"You never like to see it in football but it is a necessary evil I suppose."

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