21/09/2011
Gerrard declares his ready for Premier League action
Steven Gerrard has declared himself ready for a return to Premier League action after ending his six-month injury lay-off in Liverpool's 2-1 League Cup third round victory over Brighton.
Gerrard had been sidelined with a groin problem since facing Manchester United in March, but the England midfielder returned on Wednesday with a 17-minute appearance at the Amex Stadium as the Reds secured a place in the fourth round draw.
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish insisted after the game that Gerrard would not be rushed back into action, but the Anfield captain made it clear he is desperate to be involved in his side's next league clash against Wolves.
"It is down to the manager now," he said. "I have been out for six months so it is about getting training sessions under my belt and match time. Hopefully I will be selected... against Wolves."
Dalglish is anxious to manage Gerrard's return carefully but the Scot admitted that the England midfielder's return strengthens his squad significantly.
"It was fantastic for everyone connected to the club to see Steven back, but we're more pleased for Steven than anything else," he said.
"He's had a few disappointments along the way to coming back, so just to get 20 minutes will have given him a lift.
"We'll manage the situation as diligently as we have done so far. We need to be careful and we won't be carried away.
"It makes our squad an awful lot stronger. Getting Steven back will be a like a new signing for us. To get your talisman back on the right road to fitness is selfishly great for us, but is fantastic for Steven as well."
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