Carling Cup preview: Liverpool v Cardiff CIty

Liverpool will be searching for their first piece of silverware since 2006 when they take on Cardiff City in the Carling Cup final.

The 18-time English league champions, whose last trophies were six years ago with victories in the FA Cup and Community Shield, will enter Sunday’s clash at Wembley Stadium as heavy favourites.

Kenny Dalglish’s men enter the encounter on the back of a 6-1 thrashing of Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup fifth round.

Captain Steven Gerrard said it had been too long since Liverpool had added to their trophy cabinet.

“Six years without a trophy for this football club isn’t good enough. It’s been too long and everyone knows that. It’s time we delivered a trophy,” the England midfielder said.

“Everyone knows the club has been through some tough times but we’re moving forward now. We’re all desperate to bring success back. It’s what we’re working so hard to achieve.”

Liverpool have overcome the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City to reach the final, while Championship side Cardiff have had a much easier run.

Malky Mackay’s side have beaten Oxford United, Huddersfield Town, Leicester City, Burnley, Blackburn and Crystal Palace on the way to the decider.

The promotion contenders and 2008 FA Cup runners-up have won just one of their last five outings, and were thrashed 3-0 by Ipswich Town in the league on February 18.

Journeyman striker Robert Earnshaw is hopeful of a start in Mackay’s team, who will be missing the on-loan Haris Vuckic because the Newcastle United midfielder is cup-tied.

Midfielder Don Cowie has netted three times in the Carling Cup this season, while former Rangers star Kenny Miller is sure to pose a threat.

For Liverpool, Craig Bellamy could earn a start against his former club, although Dalglish may stick with the combination of Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll up front.

Stewart Downing is likely to be persisted with on the left after the former Aston Villa winger was handed a surprise England call-up on Thursday.

Liverpool are aiming for a record eighth Carling Cup crown as they look to end a six-year wait for a trophy.