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Carragher set to pass landmark as Reds take on Inter

While Inter have been celebrating their centenary in the build up to today's crucial Champions League last 16, second leg clash against Liverpool at the San Siro, the visitors will have their own little 100 to celebrate.

Jamie Carragher will become the first Liverpool player to make 100 appearances in European soccer, should he take his usual place at the heart of the defense to help the English side defend a 2-0 lead from the first leg three weeks ago at Anfield.

While on paper Inter look to be the better side, riding high at the top of the Italian league while Liverpool face a fight with city rivals Everton just to finish fourth in the English Premier League, Carragher believes European soccer is tailor made for his team.

"It's a totally different game and we're more suited to it than the Premier League, which is more about power and pace -- and we don't have huge pace," he told the Liverpool club Web site.

"What we do have is a lot of good thinkers, players who know the game. Because it's a bit slower in Europe, it suits us," he said.

Carragher isn't just excited about his 100th appearance, it will also be the first time he runs out at the San Siro.

"I've never played at the San Siro and I am made up about it -- it may be my only chance," he said.

The former England player made his debut for Liverpool in Europe back in September 1997 against Celtic.

"To be the first Liverpool player to get to 100 European appearances is special. The most important thing is trophies but it shows you are doing something right to play that many games," Carragher said.

Inter coach Roberto Mancini admitted he is worried about Liverpool's ability from set-pieces.

Conceding a goal would be disastrous for Inter and despite the fact that the last time the two sides met in European competition Inter overturned a 2-0 first leg deficit to win 3-0 at home, Mancini is not feeling too confident.

"Tuesday will be a special night, one where everything needs to go right," he said. "We have to play with our heads without giving away too many fouls otherwise we risk the possibility of them scoring from a set-piece, which is their main strength."
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