Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is confident that
skipper Steven Gerrard will be fit to face Newcastle on Sunday
following a groin strain.
The England midfielder has returned to training after
recovering from a groin injury. It is a welcome boost for Liverpool
ahead of the match, especially as they could be six points adrift
of leaders Manchester United come kick-off.
United are in action on Saturday when they face struggling
Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium.
Benitez said: "Steven is doing well and is training with the
rest of the team. I think he will be fit and available for
Sunday.
"It is good news for the team and for him because he can be a
key player for us over the remaining games.
"Without Steven the squad has been playing well and scoring
goals, so that is positive."
Benitez insists his thoughts are only with continuing their
title bid and not potential business in the transfer market after
Xabi Alonso was linked again with a move to Juventus.
"I was reading the press and they are talking about different
players," he told the club's website.
"I can guarantee today that we are not thinking about selling
anyone. All we are thinking about is to do our job and to try and
win the Premier League title, if possible.
"After that you never know what can happen in the market.
Clearly, at this moment, we are just preparing for winning
games."