Gerrard Is A Doubt For England
28th August, 2007
Steven Gerrard is not certain to play against Israel or Russia in the up coming Euro 2008 matches, according to Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez.
Gerrard will miss tonight's Champions League qualifier against Toulouse after breaking his toe. There are also doubts he will face Derby at Anfield this Saturday.
Steve McClaren, the England Coach, will undoubtedly name Gerrard in his squad for the two games at Wembley, but Liverpool will not be happy if their Captain risks creating a long term injury.
Benitez said:
"I would hope Steven will be a possibility to play against Derby, but I am not sure, it is up to the doctors."
The injury was sustained in the first leg of the Champions league match in Toulouse. After a pain-killing injection, Gerrard played against Chelsea but was left out of the match last Saturday against Sunderland.
Benitez also added:
"The doctor needs to decide after talking to the player when he can be risked."
"If you push him too much it will be a risk, I want to keep him training and fit but ready. Maybe when he is not always 100% we can leave him out, that is what we will do."
