LIVERPOOL caretaker boss Phil Thompson today confirmed star duo Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard WILL be fit to be included in the squad for the trip to Ewood on Saturday.

Thompson stressed their absence from England's friendly with Sweden on Saturday was simply a precaution and praised head coach Sven-Goran Eriksson for his caution with the Reds stars.

Thompson said: "We will be nursing both of them along over the next few days but I have no doubt they will be fit for Saturday. I'm very positive on that."