The League Cup is a competition that Gerrard has won on three previous occasions, in 2001, 2003 and 2012. PHOTO: AFP
Gerrard could yet end his final Liverpool season with three pieces of silverware, and having inspired his team to a 2-1 win at AFC Wimbledon in the FA Cup, he now turns his attention to England's other domestic cup.
The League Cup is a competition that Gerrard has won on three previous occasions, in 2001, 2003 and 2012. And with the days of his Liverpool career shortening, he is learning to pick his battles, and Mourinho is an adversary who has caused the 34-year-old more pain than most.
Today’s game will rekindle memories of the 2005 League Cup final in Cardiff, when Liverpool were leading 1-0 until a headed own goal by Gerrard allowed Chelsea to equalise in the 79th minute.
Mourinho was sent to the stands for shushing Liverpool's fans as he celebrated the goal, but Chelsea went on to win 3-2 in extra time, giving the posturing Portuguese his first trophy in English football.
It was Mourinho, meanwhile, who was to be seen striding down the Anfield touchline and punching his chest last April after the 2-0 win, founded upon Gerrard's infamous slip, which heralded Liverpool's title collapse.
While last season's heartbreak cast a shadow over the opening months of Liverpool's campaign, there have been stirrings of a revival in recent weeks as Brendan Rodgers's side have lost only once in 14 matches in all competitions, with a haul of 13 points from a possible 15 that has galvanised their bid for a Champions League place.
The return leg of the League Cup takes place on January 27, with the winner going on to play either Tottenham Hotspur or third-tier Sheffield United in the final.
Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ