Rafael Benitez's side arrive at Eastlands on the back of an 11-match unbeaten run after defeating PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League in midweek.

It is just the start they were looking for given it is 18 years since the championship trophy found its way to Anfield.

But Hughes aims to show his side are a formidable force at home and ready to make an impact themselves this season.

While the likes of Robinho, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Jo have been basking in the spotlight, Hart has quietly gone about his business at the back.

The England Under-21 star is first pick and a regular in the Premier League at a young age, which is why Hughes is keen to tie Hart down to a new long-term contract.

Hart's presence between the posts also helped City secure a place in the group stages of the UEFA Cup after they defeated AC Omonia of Cyprus on Thursday.

Hughes said: "Joe Hart technically is as good as any keeper I have seen, but what he hasn't got at the moment is the benefit of experience and games under the belt.

"Ideally we want him to get that experience with us and make sure he is here for many years."

Fernando Torres and Robbie Keane have taken time to gel as a potential Liverpool attacking force while Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel are alternative options for Benitez.

However, former Tottenham forward Keane scored his first goal for the club in midweek and that has given Hughes slight cause for concern.

"The worry is that now Keane has broken has broken his duck in Europe he will be looking to do the same in the Premier League. We have to be mindful of that," said the City boss.

"It looks as though he is beginning to develop a good partnership with Torres and I sure they will have a greater understanding in the coming weeks."

Hughes will monitor the fitness of central defender Richard Dunne ahead of the Liverpool match as he sat out the Cup game with a hamstring problem.

Bulgaria winger Martin Petrov is aiming for a place in the starting line-up after stepping off the bench following a similar injury.