Cisse cameo can prove vital, says Riise

John Arne Riise believes that the return of Djibril Cisse could make the difference for Liverpool tonight.

The French striker is close to full fitness after recovering from a broken leg but is expected to start on the bench.

Cisse made an impact when he came on as a substitute in last week's first leg and Riise is predicting a crucial cameo tonight.

He said: "Cisse is not fully fit to play a whole game but he can come on in the last half hour and put some pace up front like he did in the first leg. He can make the difference as we need to score."

Riise is also hoping that the home supporters will have a part to play.

The Anfield roar contributed to Liverpool's stirring 2-1 first leg win over Juventus in the quarter-finals and Riise believes that Chelsea could be similarly intimidated. He said: "It's going to be a great atmosphere. Our fans are going to be up for it and so are the players. It should be a great European night again."

With a score draw good enough for Chelsea to progress to their first Champions League final the onus is on Liverpool to make the running, but Riise is predicting another tight game.

He said: "Chelsea played well tactically and they know now they can come to Anfield and just score one goal and they are through. It is going to be a close game.

"Everyone knows about their record away from home. They are strong defensively, don't concede many goals and they score a lot. We are going to need mental strength because it is going to be tough.

"Chelsea are a strong team but so are we and, hopefully, we will come out on top."