Roberto Mancini's focus was firmly on Liverpool at the weekend when he rested several first-team players in view of the Champions League clash.The Nerazzurri, who lead the Italian title race by eight points, beat Catania 2-0 on Sunday evening with Dejan Stankovic, Maicon, Hernan Crespo and Santiago Solari all given the day off by Mancini.

"I left out three or four important players," Mancini said. "I hope to recover those players that are injured although I'm not sure Luis Figo will be able to play against Liverpool."

Inter, who remain undefeated in the domestic competition, travel to Anfield to meet Liverpool on February 19.

Mancini has predicted a tough encounter in England.

"Liverpool is a very tough team to play against," he said. "They are difficult opponents, that don't give you many spaces. Liverpool have proved to be in good form."

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